15,000+ Two-Syllable Girl Names

Shaney is a feminine name that likely developed as a diminutive form of Shane or as a variation of Shaina. With Irish roots when derived from Shane (meaning 'God is gracious'), or Yiddish-Hebrew connections if related to Shaina (meaning 'beautiful'), Shaney bridges multiple cultural traditions. The name remains relatively uncommon, offering distinctiveness while maintaining a familiar sound pattern. Shaney has a contemporary feel with its trendy 'ey' ending, giving it a playful, youthful quality. The name's simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible, while its rarity ensures it stands out. Parents might choose Shaney for its modern sound with traditional underpinnings.

The name of a character in the once scandalous novel Valley of the Dolls now sounds a little more dated than the similar Arden.

Halli is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. In Norse traditions, it derives from Old Norse 'hallr' meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' suggesting strength and durability. It can also function as a diminutive of Halldora or similar Norse names. Alternatively, some view it as a variant of Hallie, which itself originated as a nickname for Harriet or other Hal- names. In Finnish, 'halli' means 'hall' or can refer to a gray color. While never widely common, the name has maintained consistent though limited usage, particularly in Scandinavian communities and among those with Nordic heritage. Halli offers a compact, bright-sounding alternative to more elaborate names, combining ancient roots with a contemporary, minimalist appeal.

Mystical overtones.

Likely inspired by Isaiah, Azariah, and similar, with a bit of Maia and Kaia thrown in too, Zaiah is a quietly used unisex option. Stevie Wonder named his daughter Zaiah in 2013.

Inès is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a variation of Agnes. The name ultimately derives from the Greek word 'hagnos,' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' This particular spelling with the accent mark is most common in French and Spanish-speaking countries, giving it an elegant, continental flair. Inès gained international recognition through notable bearers like French actress Inès de la Fressange. The name offers a sophisticated alternative to Agnes or Inez while maintaining the same historical roots. In France, it has enjoyed steady popularity for decades, appreciated for its simple elegance and classic feel. Inès combines brevity with a touch of exotic charm, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that works internationally.

Short, sweet, and sparky, Nava has been slowly climbing up the US popularity charts in recent years, owing perhaps to its similarity to Nova, Ava, Navy, and Nevaeh. Used quietly but consistently from the 80s onwards, Nava was given to nearly 80 girls in 2023.

Oceane (oh-see-EN) has been one of the chicest names in France for several years, ranking in the French Top 50. This is a sophisticated name that could easily cross the ocean, and is much more stylish than the English Ocean or Oceana.

Unisex name around for several decades for boys and now ripe for girls.

Nickname for the star Gamma Cassiopeiae given by the late astronaut Gus Grissom after his own middle name (Ivan) spelled backwards. Navi also relates to the prophets in the Hebrew Bible.

Sha name, by way of Janice.

Panya is a multicultural possibility with a sound that's pleasing to the English-speaking ear, though the Swahili translation, which might also be "rat," makes it less than savory as an African name.

This appealing Russian/Nordic name has been used a handful of times since Eowyn Ivey's novel The Snow Child was published in 2012. There, Faina is a mysterious girl who loves the cold Alaskan woods.

A medieval Cornish name which despite sounding similar to the French name Emeraude, is actually connected to the Welsh name Morfydd. Pronunciation rhymes with Herod -- and yes, the final d is pronounced.

Bronagh, along with Anglicized form Brona, is a popular name in Ireland. It's the name of a sixth century mystic as well as a modern television character on Penny Dreadful.

To the non-Scandinavian ear, a cute and unusual nickname name, used by Finnish supermodel Suvi Koponen. It has a zippy, yet sunny feel to it, and could make an interesting alternative to Susie.

Victoria's Secret model Devon Windsor welcomed a daughter named Enzo Elodie Barbara in 2021. It hasn't yet inspired many parents to use Enzo for their baby girls — there were only 6 in 2022 — but we could see this becoming as unisex as Ezra someday.

From Hebrew, Oria is a variation of Oriya, created by combining Ori meaning "light" with yah indicating God. From Italian, it is a variation of the Latin Aurea, a golden Saint name, once popular in Spain.

Freda, along with near-identical twin sisters Frida and Frieda, has not been popular in the US for decades. After the two world wars, German names fell out of favor in the US and UK. The similar-sounding but etymologically unrelated mythological name Freya is much more popular, not only in the US and the UK but throughout the English-speaking world, in Germany and Scandinavia.