By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 42 pages
of 42
Hebrew
"fruit of God"
An obscure Hebrew name that would not be many parents' first choice.
"fresh, luxuriant"
This strong name and its variations are well used in Israel.
"mercy, compassion"
This name -- the basic form is Rachamim -- is especially popular among Sephardic Jews.
"my song, my joy"
Too bad everyone in this country will tend to hear Ronnie.
"a scout of Jehovah"
The "Tz" beginning of Tzofia represents the Hebrew letter tzadi, which is pronounced more like ts. So Tzofia sounds like Sofia with a light t at the beginning — intriguing, but a difficult sound for…
"lover of nature"
Hebrew name not often heard in this country, but would have no trouble fitting in.
"small village"
Tyra would be a more modern pick.
"storm"
With its appealing double-a configuration, this is the name of an Israeli kibbutz on the Galilee beach. For girls, Saar is a popular modern name in the Netherlands, a shortened form of Sarah.
Diminutive of Elizabeth
"pledged to God"
An old-fashioned nickname that hasn't been heard in ages--Cute and unusual, but lacking the legs to stand on its own. Maybe save it for your kitten.
Hebrew; diminutive of Theresa, English
"delightful; harvest"
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.
Hebrew, feminine variation of Tavor
"break, fracture"
Tavora is an attractive option, based on the name of a mountain in northern Israel. But the meaning of Tavora and brother name Tavor is less than optimal.
"innocent, honest"
Gentler and much less frequently heard than Tamar.
"hill, mound"
A not particularly happy marriage of Thelma and Alma.
"covering of dew"
Talila is a pretty and novel name, somewhere between Talia and Tallulah.
Tzophiah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, believed to be a variant of Sophia or Tzofia, meaning "watchful" or "one who observes." The initial "Tz" sound reflects the Hebrew letter צ (tzadi),…
Arabic or diminutive of Shulamit, Hebrew
"flame; peace"
Shula is a short form often used on its own in Israel. Sula is another, related, option. As an Arabic name, it has a bright, fiery meaning.
"spark, ray of light"
The viv syllable adds vitality.
"lily"
Shoushan is a romantic member of the Susan/Susannah/Shoshana family — rhythmic and melodic.
"placed, appointed"
Although very rarely used for girls, its soft, gentle sound makes it a perfect candidate for crossing over to the female camp.
"princess"
See SARAI.
