Hebrew Names
- Dayanah
Origin:
Spelling variation of Dayana
- Gavrilla
Description:
Gavrilla is a feminine variant of the Hebrew name Gabriel, meaning 'God is my strength.' While Gabriel has the more common feminine form Gabriella, Gavrilla offers a closer phonetic connection to the original Hebrew pronunciation (Gavri'el). This uncommon name carries the powerful religious associations of its root name—Gabriel being one of the archangels in Judeo-Christian and Islamic traditions. Gavrilla combines biblical gravitas with a distinctively feminine ending, creating a name that sounds both ancient and fresh. The name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries but may have more usage in Russian, Hebrew, or other Eastern European naming traditions. It appeals to parents seeking a spiritual name with strong meaning that isn't commonly heard.
- Isibeal
Description:
Isibeal is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Isabel or Elizabeth, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning 'God is my oath.' Pronounced roughly as 'ISH-beal' or 'EE-sha-byal,' this name carries the rich cultural heritage of Ireland while offering an uncommon alternative to more familiar variations. Isibeal has deep historical roots in Celtic culture but remains relatively rare even in Ireland. The name possesses a lyrical, almost musical quality characteristic of Irish names, with their distinctive combinations of consonants and vowels. Parents might choose Isibeal to honor Irish ancestry or simply for its unique, melodic sound. While it might present pronunciation challenges outside Ireland, Isibeal offers a beautiful connection to Gaelic language and tradition.
- Yehudit
Origin:
Hebrew variation of JudithDescription:
Stuck in the Old Country.
- Naarah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"girl, maiden"Description:
Another rarely heard biblical name, with some possible pronunciation confusion.
- Benjamina
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"daughter of the right hand"Description:
The kind of feminized male name that never caught on.
- Abijah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is my father"Description:
Abijah, which you might think of as Abigail with rhythm, is the name of both female and male personages in the Bible. A biblical Queen Abijah was the daughter, wife, and mother of kings. The name is pronounced with a long i, to rhyme with Elijah.
- Raanana
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"beautiful, fresh"Description:
Lovely Hebrew name with distinctive double a's, but beware of possible "banana" teasing.
- Erelah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"angel"Description:
Erelah (and Erela and Erella) are feminine forms of the Hebrew unisex name Erel, which may be derived from Ariel.
- Penina
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
A jewel-encrusted choice, far more unusual than Pearl.
- Nagida
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"prosperous, successful"Description:
Hebrew name with a bountiful meaning but a less-than-attractive sound.
- Bethesda
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"house of mercy"Description:
Unlike other place names, this one might be tied too tightly to a single locale -- the Maryland suburb of D. C. -- to work as a first name.
- Ganya
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"clever"Description:
Tanya with a G.
- Nehama
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"comfort"Description:
See NECHAMA.
- Abbigail
Origin:
Spelling variation of Abigail, HebrewMeaning:
"my father is joyful"Description:
A fast-rising variation of Abigail that was shooting up the popularity charts a few years ago, but whose star is now falling now that Abigail is not quite as hot as she once was.
- Tzophiah
Description:
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), giving the name an authentic Hebrew pronunciation. This name carries spiritual significance in Jewish tradition, potentially connecting to wisdom and watchfulness. Tzophiah is extremely rare outside of Jewish communities, making it a distinctive choice that still maintains cultural authenticity. The name has a sophisticated, lyrical quality with its three syllables (tzo-PHI-ah). Parents might choose this name to honor Jewish heritage or for its unique combination of exotic sound and meaningful etymology. Its rarity ensures individuality while its connection to the popular Sophia provides some familiarity.
- Samala
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"requested of God"Description:
Though pleasant enough, Samala is sure to require lots of explanation.
- Abiela
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is my father"Description:
More than the sum of Abby and Ella.
- Jaffa
Origin:
Hebrew place-nameMeaning:
"beautiful"Description:
A pleasant and adaptable place name for a part of Tel Aviv.
- Gabi
Origin:
Short form of GabriellaMeaning:
"God is my strength"Description:
Cute nickname but the "gabby" synonym might prove problematic, especially is your daughter is chatty....or not.
