By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 776 pages
of 776
Compound name, a blend of Lou and Ann
"strong in battle and grace"
A vowel heavy compound name with sounds that are familiar but seem unexpected and interesting when placed next to each other. Louann did feature at the latter end of the US Top 1000 between the 30s…
French diminutive of Lucy
"little light"
Popular in the 1930s in France, this is a diminutive of Lucy (or Lucie).
Lynnea is a feminine name with Scandinavian and English influences. It can be considered a variant of Linnea, which derives from the name of the twinflower plant (Linnaea borealis), named after the…
German variation of Magdalen
On "Sex and the City," Magda was the elderly nanny from the old country -- which is what this name sounds like. While Magdalene and Magdalena are enjoying fresh life, Magda still feels dated.
Irish surname
"son of the beige one"
Easy nickname Maggie makes Maguire an appealing option for girls.
Sanskrit
"necklace, garland"
Mala is one of those names that's both simple and striking, easy to pronounce yet unfamiliar to many English speakers.
Malie is a feminine name with multicultural origins. In Hawaiian tradition, it means 'calm' or 'peaceful' and also refers to a fragrant native vine, connecting the name to both tranquility and…
French, diminutive of Marie
"bitter"
Manon is an endearing French pet name for Marie or Marianne; it has the international yet straightforward feel that makes it a viable import. Manon of the Spring was a gorgeous French film, Manon…
Short form or Martina or Martha or variation of Marto, Latin, Hebrew, Javanese
"warlike; lady; soft-hearted, gentle. refreshing"
A spelling variation of Marty and Martie, this form has the retro charm of Joni, Patti, and Suki, and the contemporary feel of Remi, Romi, and Kaeli. Derived from the more classic Martin/a and…
Matea is a feminine name with multiple cultural roots. In Slavic countries, particularly Croatia, it's the feminine form of Matej or Matthew, meaning "gift of God." It also appears in Spanish and…
Diminutive of Martha or Matilda, Aramaic or "lady; battle-mighty"
"lady; battle-mighty"
Matti could be a short form of Martha, Matilda, or even Madeline. The -i ending makes it feel cute and light. With names like Teddi trending for girls, Matti makes a spunky, tomboyish option.
English and French diminutive of Matilda, German
"battle-mighty"
If Maude isn't vintage enough for you, you may try Maudie, an antique nickname for Matilda last popular at the turn of the 20th century. Actress Maude Apatow introduced her name to a new generation…
Mayble is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Mabel, which derives from the Latin 'amabilis' meaning 'lovable.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a more…
Diminutive of Melissa or Cherokee variation of Mary, Greek, Hebrew or Egyptian
"honeybee; drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"
English word name
The numerical -illion names (Billion, Trillion, etc.) are more common for boys — Million is the only one that also ranks for girls. No doubt it's because of the natural nickname, Millie.
Mithra is a feminine name with ancient Persian origins, derived from Mithra or Mithras, the deity of covenant, oath, and friendship in Zoroastrianism. The name represents concepts of light, truth,…
Mitzy is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Mitzi, which itself is a pet form of Maria or other names containing the element 'mit' or 'mitz.' With Germanic and Yiddish…
Mylia is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Mila (Slavic for 'gracious' or 'dear'), Amelia (Germanic for 'work'), or Milena (Slavic for 'love'). Alternatively,…
English
"one who lives by the alder tree"
Occasionally heard in Ireland, small chance of success here.
Hebrew
"light"
One step removed from Nora, if you're looking for something similar with stronger cultural ties.
