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Eastern European Names for Girls

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Sep 24 2019
  1. Amalia

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "work"

    • Description:

      Originally popularized in eighteenth century Europe due to the fame of Anna Amalia, a Duchess who was a great patron of the arts, Amalia is now a widely cross-cultural name, heard from Italy to Romania, Germany to Scandinavia. Popular in the Netherlands, Chile, France, and Puerto Rico, it can be pronounced as uh-MAH-lee-uh (English), a-MA-lya (Spanish), and ah-MA-lee-uh (German, Dutch), to list a few.
      amal meaning "vigorous, unceasing, work", and while it may not be quite so popular in the English speaking work as its sibling, it has been on the rise in the US since 2011, when it re-joined the Top 1000 after an 80 year absence. Given to 550 American babies in a recent year, it is considerably less popular than Amelia — 23 times less popular, in fact.
  2. Emelia

    • Origin:

      Variation of Emilia or Amelia, Latin, Germanic, "rival;work

    • Description:

      Emelia takes elements from soundalike sisters Emilia and Amelia, which actually derive from different roots and have different meanings.
  3. Daniela

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Daniel used in various languages

    • Meaning:

      "God is my judge"

    • Description:

      Used across Europe, South America, and the US, Daniela is a popular feminine form of the Hebrew name Daniel. It has ranked in the US Top 300 since the early 90s and it's currently on trend in Spain, Portugal, Chile, Mexico, and Lativia.
  4. Nichole

    • Description:

      Nichole is a feminine name, a variant spelling of Nicole, which itself is the French feminine form of Nicholas. The name derives from Greek elements 'nike' meaning 'victory' and 'laos' meaning 'people,' thus conveying 'victory of the people.' This variation with an 'h' became particularly popular in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, offering a slightly more distinctive spelling than the more traditional Nicole. The name has a soft, feminine sound while maintaining a certain strength in its meaning. Though its peak popularity has passed, Nichole remains recognizable without being overly common. The name's classic roots provide substance, while its familiar sound ensures easy pronunciation and recognition across various cultures.
  5. Danika

    • Origin:

      Eastern European

    • Meaning:

      "morning star"

    • Description:

      Spelling variation of Danica with a modern update.
  6. Gretl

    • Description:

      Gretl is a diminutive form of Margaret, used primarily in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria. The name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' with Gretl emerging as an affectionate, familiar version. Most famously associated with the younger sister in the Von Trapp family (portrayed in 'The Sound of Music'), Gretl carries folkloric charm and Alpine cultural associations. The name has a warm, endearing quality with its compact form and distinctive ending. While uncommon outside German-speaking countries, Gretl offers an appealing alternative to the more widely used Gretel or Greta. The name evokes a sense of European heritage and traditional charm, making it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural specificity and historical character.
  7. Sari

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "noble"

    • Description:

      Sari is a cute spin on Sarah, though some may hear it as "sorry," and it is also an item of clothing worn in India. These days many people will also confuse Sari with Suri, the lovely and unsual name of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' much-publicized young daughter.
  8. Zsazsa

    • Origin:

      Hungarian, , diminutive of Erzsebet

    • Meaning:

      "God is my oath"

    • Description:

      Zsa Zsa is a zippy Hungarian nickname name, sometimes used independently, linked for decades with the Hungarian-born actress Zsa Zsa Gabor--who was born Sari.
  9. Sasa

    • Origin:

      Cherokee

    • Meaning:

      "goose"
  10. Nichola

    • Description:

      Nichola is the feminine form of Nicholas, derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, combining 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people), thus meaning 'victory of the people.' While Nicholas has been consistently popular for boys, Nichola is a relatively uncommon feminine variation, offering an alternative to the more widely used Nicola, Nicole, or Nicolette. The name carries a classical elegance while still feeling accessible. Popular in parts of Europe, particularly the UK, Nichola has never reached the same level of popularity in the United States. The name maintains the strong historical connections of Nicholas, including associations with Saint Nicholas, while offering a distinctly feminine option with a softer ending.
  11. Ninotchka

    • Description:

      Ninotchka is a feminine name with Slavic roots, particularly Russian, where it serves as an affectionate diminutive form of Nina. The name gained international recognition through the 1939 film 'Ninotchka' starring Greta Garbo. Nina itself derives from names like Antonina or Giannina, ultimately connecting to roots meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The '-otchka' suffix in Russian indicates endearment and fondness. This name carries a distinctive cultural flavor and vintage Hollywood glamour. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ninotchka offers an exotic choice with recognizable cinematic associations. The name has a rhythmic, melodic quality with its three syllables and soft consonants.
  12. Jozefa

    • Description:

      Jozefa is a feminine name with Slavic origins, representing the female form of Joseph. The name Joseph comes from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God increases.' This variant spelling with 'z' instead of 's' and the feminine ending '-a' is particularly common in Polish, Czech, and other Eastern European languages. Jozefa carries the dignified history of the biblical Joseph while offering a distinctly feminine form with Slavic character. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but maintains cultural significance in Eastern Europe. For families with Slavic heritage, Jozefa offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a strong, meaningful name. Its pronunciation (yo-ZEF-ah) adds a melodic quality that distinguishes it from other Joseph derivatives.

  13. Nickoletta

    • Description:

      Nickoletta is a feminine name that serves as an elaborated variant of Nicoletta, the Italian feminine form of Nicholas. The name ultimately derives from Greek elements meaning "victory of the people." This particular spelling with 'k' instead of 'c' adds a distinctive touch to the traditional name. Nickoletta has a romantic, elaborate quality typical of Italian feminine names, with its flowing syllables and melodic ending. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it offers an exotic alternative to more familiar names like Nicole or Nikki. The name carries associations with strength and triumph through its etymological roots while maintaining a feminine, graceful sound. Nickoletta might appeal to parents seeking a name with European flair and classic origins.

  14. Jólan

    • Description:

      Jólan appears to be a variant of Yolanda or possibly related to the Hungarian name Jolán. The name has medieval origins, possibly derived from the Greek 'Iolanthe,' meaning 'violet flower.' The accented 'ó' suggests Hungarian or other Central European linguistic influences. Jólan carries an air of exotic elegance with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation, setting it apart from more common variations. This name blends historical depth with a modern, international appeal. Though relatively uncommon globally, it maintains cultural significance in certain European regions. The brevity of Jólan gives it a contemporary feel while its historical roots provide substance and meaning. Parents might choose this name for its combination of uniqueness and classical heritage, offering a distinctive identity with legitimate etymological foundations.
  15. Daneila

    • Description:

      Daneila is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Daniela, which is the feminine form of Daniel. The name has Hebrew origins, derived from Daniel meaning "God is my judge." This alternative spelling maintains the melodic quality of Daniela while offering a slightly distinctive written form. Though less common than the standard spelling, Daneila shares the same appealing qualities: a beautiful flow, international recognition, and biblical heritage. The name carries connotations of wisdom and fairness from the biblical Daniel. For parents seeking a name with timeless appeal but a slightly unique spelling, Daneila offers familiarity with a touch of individuality.
  16. Joli

    • Description:

      Joli is a delicate feminine name of French origin meaning 'pretty' or 'beautiful.' This concise name carries elegance in its simplicity, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking something short yet meaningful. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Joli has maintained a consistent quiet presence, particularly from the 1960s through the 1980s. The name evokes a sense of charm and femininity without being overly frilly. As a variation of the French word 'jolie,' it carries positive connotations across multiple cultures. The name's brevity makes it versatile as both a full name and a nickname, appealing to those who appreciate streamlined, distinctive naming options.

  17. Bernarda

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "brave as a bear"

    • Description:

      Too close in sound to the so-far-out-it-will-always-be-out Bernard.
  18. Jozsa

    • Description:

      Jozsa is a feminine name with Hungarian origins, functioning as a variant of the name József (Joseph). In Hungarian naming traditions, it carries the meaning 'God will add' from its Hebrew roots. This distinctive name is extremely rare outside of Hungary and Hungarian diaspora communities. Jozsa features a unique combination of sounds that may appear exotic to non-Hungarian speakers while maintaining a melodic, accessible quality. The name reflects Hungarian cultural heritage and naming traditions, with the 'zs' combination creating a sound similar to the 's' in 'measure.' Despite its rarity, Jozsa offers an appealing combination of brevity, distinctive pronunciation, and cultural richness, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something genuinely uncommon with authentic cultural roots.
  19. Jozsi

    • Description:

      Jozsi is a feminine variant of the Hungarian name József, which is equivalent to Joseph. With its roots in Hebrew, it carries the meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' While primarily used in Hungary and among Hungarian communities worldwide, Jozsi is less common as a female name, as it's traditionally used as a diminutive form for males. The feminine variant has a warm, endearing quality with its soft ending, making it a unique choice for parents seeking a name with Eastern European heritage. Though rare internationally, Jozsi maintains cultural significance in Hungarian families and diaspora communities.
  20. Nicolla

    • Description:

      Nicolla is a feminine name of Italian origin, a variation of Nicola, which itself is derived from the Greek name Nicholas, meaning 'victory of the people.' While less common than similar forms like Nicole or Nicola, Nicolla offers a distinctive spelling that maintains the melodic sound of its relatives. The name has appeared across various European cultures throughout history, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Nicolla carries a sense of strength and accomplishment embedded in its etymology, while its flowing sound gives it a feminine elegance. Those named Nicolla might appreciate the name's connection to the concept of victory while enjoying its unique spelling.