Hebrew Girl Names

Tied to country singer/sitcom star Reba McEntire.

A nickname in the Siri and Suri vein, Simi seems a bit simulated but also has some charm, ala Remi and Emmy. And Simi definitely cutens up the serious sophisticated long forms Simone or Simcha.

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.

This name used for both sexes in several cultures is quite well used in Israel.

Rafia is a feminine name with multicultural origins, finding roots in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu traditions. In Arabic, the name means 'high' or 'exalted,' suggesting elevation and nobility of character. Some interpretations also connect it to 'companion' or 'friend,' emphasizing social harmony. The name shares its spelling with rafia palm fronds, creating a subtle connection to nature. With its simple two-syllable structure and flowing sound, Rafia offers an accessible pronunciation across different languages while maintaining its exotic appeal. While not among the most common names in Western countries, Rafia enjoys steady popularity in Muslim communities worldwide. The name balances cultural depth with a contemporary feel, making it increasingly attractive to parents seeking a name that bridges traditions while remaining distinctive.

Because of its meaning, this is a symbolic name given to girls born on Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights.

A rarely heard Hebrew name whose zippy first initial Z transforms it from dated Yetta-like image to more lively Catherine Zeta Jones-like appeal.

Feminine spin on Moses and European river name that's also the name of a wine.

An appealing name almost unknown in our culture but with roots in several others; worldlier than cousins Celia and Delia.

Keturah, the Old Testament name of Abraham's second wife, is a possibility for anyone seeking a truly unusual and interesting biblical name; certainly a lot more distinctive than that of Abraham's first wife, Sarah.

Feels truncated, as though a first syllable was snapped off.

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.

Gentler and much less frequently heard than Tamar.

This Hebrew name deserves consideration by parents looking for a traditional by underused girls name with a gorgeous meaning.

Although very rarely used for girls, its soft, gentle sound makes it a perfect candidate for crossing over to the female camp.

Shoshanna is a variation of one of the best-known original Hebrew baby names for girls , the original of Susanna. This is the spelling used by Shoshanna Lonstein, a designer who creates the Shoshanna clothing line and also the name of one of the four leading characters on the TV show Girls, Shoshanna Shapiro.

This name of the final service on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is sometimes given symbolically to girls born on that day.

Deriving from the Catalan title for the Virgin Mary, Nostra Senyora de Núria , meaning "Our Lady of Nuria", this distinctive name is a popular choice in Spain and Portugal.

More modern options: Shaw, Shay, or even Sean.

Abital is popular for boys as well as girls in Israel, but we rarely hear it here. In the Old Testament, Abital was one of King David's wives and the mother of his fifth son.