Name options for kids
- Eli
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"ascended, uplifted, high"Description:
Eli is more often considered a Biblical classic for boys, with the name ranking in the Top 100 alongside Biblical choices for boys, like Elias, Elijah and Levi. Despite this, nearly 50 girls in the US were still called Eli last years. While some parents might have been following in the footsteps of those naming their daughters James, it could also be a spelling twist on familiar Ellie, or a short form of the Scandinavian names, Elisabet and Elin. Either way, with its similarity to Ellis, Ari, Elizabeth, Evie, Ivy, Riley, and Eden, there could be scope for Eli to be seen as a gender neutral option.
- Else
Description:
Else is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as both a standalone name and a short form of names containing the element 'Elis' such as Elisabeth or Elise. In German and Scandinavian cultures, Else has been used independently for centuries. The name carries a simple, clean elegance with its compact four-letter formation. In Danish and Norwegian, it's pronounced 'EL-seh,' while German speakers may say 'EL-zuh.' Despite its European popularity, Else remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but became less common after the 1940s. Today, it may appeal to parents seeking a minimalist yet classic name with European flair.
- Meena
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"blue semiprecious stone, bird"Description:
Interesting multi-cultural option.
- Siana
Description:
Siana is a beautiful feminine name with cross-cultural connections. It may be a variation of Siana (pronounced see-AH-na), which has Welsh origins meaning 'God is gracious.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Italian name Siena, after the Tuscan city, or could be a form of Shana, which has Hebrew roots meaning 'beautiful.' In some Polynesian languages, particularly Hawaiian, similar names can mean 'light' or 'divine.' The name features a pleasing combination of soft sounds that flow naturally together. While not among the most common names, Siana has maintained a steady presence in various cultures and has seen modest usage in English-speaking countries. Its international appeal, gentle sound, and positive meanings make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that is distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell.
- Nanou
Description:
Nanou is a delicate feminine name with French origins, often used as a nickname for names like Anne, Nanette, or Éleanor in French-speaking regions. This charming diminutive has taken on life as a given name in its own right, offering a sweet, modern sound with an international feel. The name has a melodic, sing-song quality that gives it a playful yet sophisticated character. Nanou remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice. Its brevity and easy pronunciation make it appealing to parents seeking something short yet complete. The name carries a certain joie de vivre and elegance associated with French culture.
- Melba
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Australian opera singer Nellie Melba—self-named for her hometown of Melbourne—inspired this now-dated name more associated today with a peach dessert and dietetic toast.
- Lilit
Origin:
ArmenianMeaning:
"lily"Description:
Lilit in the Top 20 girls names is Armenia. Outside of Armenia, Lilit might be confused with Lilith, but is worth considering as a name in its own right.
- Winika
Origin:
MaoriMeaning:
"Christmas orchid"Description:
With the rise of all those other popular feminine W names, like Winnie, Willa and Winona, why not consider the lovely Winika? Win and Winnie are likely nicknames and it is associated with a dainty Pacific orchid that blossoms at Christmas time. If you're looking for international names for Christmas babies, this is one for the short list.
- Fidel
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"faithful"Description:
The association with the Cuban leader Castro is still strong, but he's by no means the only Fidel. This name was in the Top 1000 for over 80 years, from 1919 to 2005. From the late Latin name Fidelis, meaning "faithful", at its heart it has an uplifting meaning.
- Yarrow
Origin:
Botanical name, EnglishMeaning:
"rough stream"Description:
Highly unusual as a baby name for either gender, Yarrow is an herb that grows wild and has long been used for its medicinal property. It's named for the mythical Achilles, who was said to carry yarrow into battle.
- Starling
Origin:
Bird nameDescription:
Unusual choice that was the original name of children's illustrator Tasha Tudor, but is an interesting elaboration of Star, taking it into avian territory.
- Taro
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"great (or eldest) son"Description:
An energetic Japanese name that would make for an on-trend choice in the English-speaking world. Especially appropriate for a first-born son.
- Lilo
Origin:
German, diminutive of Liselotte; HawaiianMeaning:
"generous one"Description:
Lilo is the name of the spunky little Hawaiian girl character in the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch-- and is also Lindsay Lohan's nickname. Multi-cultural, it can be found in Hawaiian, German and Hebrew nomenclature.
- Liese
Origin:
German and Dutch diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
A short form of Elisabeth, similar in sound to the 60s favorite Lisa.
- Melena
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of Magdalena, variation of Melaina or MelinaMeaning:
"from the high tower; black, dark; honey"Description:
A short form of Magdalena in Dutch and a variation of Melaina, Melina, Melinda, Melanie, Milena and similar, Melena is also used for a character in the novel Wicked and the subsequent Broadway musical.
- Melda
Description:
Melda is a feminine name with multicultural origins. In Turkish, Melda means 'young girl' or can refer to a graceful appearance. The name also has potential Italian roots, possibly derived from 'Imelda,' meaning 'universal battle' or 'powerful fighter.' With its simple two-syllable structure and melodic sound, Melda carries an elegant, somewhat vintage quality. Though not commonly used in English-speaking countries, the name enjoys moderate popularity in Turkey and parts of Southern Europe. Melda offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that's recognizable but uncommon, combining strength and femininity in its various cultural meanings.
- Melise
Description:
Melise is a delicate feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Melissa, which comes from Greek meaning 'honey bee,' carrying associations of industriousness and sweetness. Alternatively, it could derive from the Old German name Melisa, or be a shortened form of names containing 'mel' like Melicent. In French linguistic contexts, Melise has a particularly elegant sound. The name remains uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality while still being relatively intuitive to pronounce. Melise has a light, airy quality that evokes images of refinement and grace. It has seen very limited usage throughout history but may appeal to parents seeking something unique yet melodious with classical roots. The name's brevity and gentle sound make it versatile across different cultures.
- Ekika
Description:
Ekika is a rare feminine name with possible roots in various cultures. It may derive from African languages, particularly those in Nigeria or Uganda, though specific meanings vary by region. In some contexts, it could be related to names meaning 'treasure' or 'beloved.' Alternatively, it might be a creative modern invention based on the popular 'Ek-' sound found in names across different cultures. The name remains extremely uncommon in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Ekika has a rhythmic, melodious sound with its alternating consonants and vowels, creating a pleasant flow. Parents might choose this name for its uniqueness, cultural connections, or simply for its beautiful phonetic qualities and the individuality it would bestow.
- Minea
Origin:
Finnish feminization of Minos, GreekMeaning:
"king"Description:
The Finnish writer Mika Waltari invented the name Minea from the Greek Minos for a character in his 1945 novel The Egyptian. It's become a popular Finnish name in the 21st century.
- Melitta
Description:
Melitta is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from the word "melissa" meaning "honey bee" or "honey." The name carries connotations of sweetness, industriousness, and natural beauty. Historically, Melitta gained recognition through the Greek mythology nymph Melissa, who was said to have discovered honey. The name has moderate usage in German-speaking countries and parts of Eastern Europe. Notably, it gained some recognition through the Melitta coffee filter company, founded by German entrepreneur Melitta Bentz in the early 20th century. Despite its pleasing sound and positive associations, Melitta remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, offering a distinctive choice with classical roots and a melodic quality.
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