Hebrew Girl Names

When Deborah seemed too formal in the laid-back sixties, Debra stepped in as a pared-down alternative, but the pendulum is about to swing back.

Bell-like and original.

Unusual name with stylish, silky feel.

Roni may sound like the Doowop-era Ronnie or Ronni, often named for her dad Ron, but it's actually a freestanding Hebrew name with an uplifting meaning.

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

The name of nine minor male biblical characters, this could easily make a gender switch as a singular substitution for the popular Mariah. It has also spawned the popular gender-neutral name Amaris, used for 300 baby girls and 100 baby boys last year, along with spelling variation Amarys.

Tallie is a seldom-heard nickname name that, with the ascendance of Hallie and Callie, we might just be hearing more of.

Arda is a simple gender-neutral name with several possible origins and meanings. As a Turkish name, it's usually used for males and means scepter. There is also a river in Turkey called the Arda. The Hebrew name Arda means bronze. And Arda may also be a variation of the English Arden, the name of a magical Shakespearean forest.

Multicultural name often heard in the Near East. Also spelled Neema and Nimah.

See NECHAMA.

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

This female form of Nathan can be pronounced with three syllables or four, and could make an interesting alternative to Natalia.

Unknown but eminently usable choice, especially for Jewish parents, with lovely meaning.

Raffaella is the Italian form of the lovely name Raphaela, the female version of the angel's name Raphael, gorgeous in any spelling or international variation. Raffaella is one of the most appealing Italian baby names for girls.

An alternative to the more familiar Aviva.

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

This rarely used Old Testament name will inevitably set off a connection to thirst. Thirza was historically used as both an independent name and as a nickname for Theresa.

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.

Bizzy has a 1930s wisecracking waitress -- think Mitzi, Flossie, Fanny -- feel to it, yet at the same time feels like a fresh, modern nickname for Elizabeth. Given that any Bizzy better be, this name could be a way to make your Elizabeth stand out.

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