Fave Girl Names
- Elisabeth
Origin:
German, Dutch, Danish, English, variation of Elizabeth, HebrewMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
This spelling of the classic name is found in France, Germany, Greece, and other cultures, and is worn by such notables as Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, Elisabeth Shue, Elisabeth Moss, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. The name's pronunciation is usually just like the Z version, but some parents choose this because they want to discourage the Liz or Lizzie short forms and so pronounce it as if it has Lisa in the middle.
- Honor
Origin:
English word and virtue nameMeaning:
"honor"Description:
Honor is a somewhat more straight-laced virtue name than Hope or Grace, placing a high standard on any girl carrying it, but it's a goal worth setting. By choosing Honor for her daughter, Jessica Alba brought it very much into the modern world.
- Aislinn
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dream"Description:
Old Irish name that's taken off in its Anglicized forms, mainly Ashlyn or Ashlynn. Nonetheless, this more traditional version debuted in the US Top 1000 in 2015.
- Grier
Origin:
Scottish, spelling variation of GreerMeaning:
"alert, watchful"Description:
The more popular Greer spelling might lean feminine, however, Grier sees more even distribution between the sexes. It is given to a small handful of babies each year, but for every one Grier, there are three Greers.
- Sapphire
Origin:
Hebrew, Greek, and Latin jewel nameMeaning:
"blue"Description:
Sapphire goes waaaaay beyond Ruby and Pearl. This September birthstone, occasionally used a century ago, might be worth a reappraisal, perhaps as a Sophie/Sophia alternative. Sapphire is the pseudonym of Romona Lofton, who wrote the book Push, which was turned into the movie Precious. Sapphire entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2022, and is proving to be one of the freshest gem names for girls. Another intriguing variation is the lovely Sapphira.
- Phaedre
Description:
Phaedre is a feminine name with classical Greek origins, adapted from the Greek name Phaedra, which derives from 'phaidros' meaning 'bright' or 'radiant.' In Greek mythology, Phaedra was the daughter of King Minos and wife of Theseus, featuring prominently in tragic plays by Euripides and Seneca. This alternative spelling with the 'e' ending gives the name a slightly French inflection while maintaining its classical roots. Though rare in modern usage, Phaedre appeals to parents drawn to names with literary and mythological significance. The name carries a mysterious, elegant quality balanced by its connection to ancient storytelling traditions. Despite its relative obscurity, Phaedre offers a distinctive choice for those seeking a name with depth, classical heritage, and sophisticated sound.
- Anne-Sophie