Three Syllable Girl Names
- Malala
Origin:
PashtoMeaning:
"sad, grieved"Description:
This name has a hauntingly appropriate meaning for its most famous bearer, Pakistani women and children's right activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Malala Yousefzai. The name itself is derived from the more traditional Malalai, which was the name of a 19th century female Afghan freedom fighter. If you're looking for a soft sounding female name that packs a punch in history and in meaning, Malala is definitely a strong contender.
- Halona
Origin:
Native AmericanMeaning:
"happy fortune"Description:
Resonant and unusual.
- Daisy-mae
Description:
Daisy Mae is a feminine compound name combining the popular flower name Daisy with the endearing middle name Mae. Daisy originates from the Old English 'dæges eage' meaning 'day's eye,' referring to how the flower opens at dawn. Mae (or May) derives from the month name, ultimately from the Roman goddess Maia. The combination gained cultural recognition through the character Daisy Mae Yokum in the comic strip 'Li'l Abner,' which influenced its perception for decades. The name evokes a sweet, rural Americana charm with nostalgic overtones. While each component name has been consistently popular, the combination Daisy Mae peaked in the mid-20th century and carries distinctive Southern or country associations, though it continues to be chosen by parents appreciating its vintage appeal and friendly, accessible sound.
- Remilia
Origin:
Variation of Emilia, LatinMeaning:
"rival"Description:
Remilia was invented for the character Remilia Scarlet of the video game series The Touhou Project.
- Iara
Origin:
Variation of Yara, Arabic, TupiMeaning:
"small butterfly; lady of the water"Description:
Iara rhymes with Yara, an Arabic name of which it can be a variation. More commonly it's associated with Iara of Brazilian myth — a water nymph, sometimes mermaid, of Tupi and Guaraní legend. In the legends, Iara seduces men to the river to accompany her in her immortal life.
- Erina
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"spring or hero"Description:
Variant of Erinna
- Hanabi
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"fireworks"Description:
Hanabi is the Japanese word for fireworks and is rarely given as a name to babies. The most famous Hanabi is Koko the Gorilla — "birth" name Hanabi-ko, or "fireworks child." Koko, known for her use of "Gorilla Sign Language," was born at the San Francisco Zoo on the 4th of July, hence the meaning of her name.
- Isolda
Description:
Isolda is a feminine name with Celtic and Germanic origins, best known from the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde (also spelled Iseult or Isolde). The name may derive from elements meaning 'ice' and 'ruler' or 'battle,' though its exact etymology remains debated among scholars. Isolda carries an air of romance, tragedy, and medieval nobility due to its legendary associations. While never extremely common, it has maintained a presence throughout European history, experiencing occasional revivals when medieval themes become popular in culture. The name offers a dramatic, romantic option with rich literary connections. Isolda appeals to parents seeking names with historical depth and a touch of mystical, legendary quality.
- Etana
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"strength of purpose"Description:
Girlish for Ethan: attractive and unusual.
- Vendetta
Origin:
Word NameDescription:
A pretty word, but laced with violent imagery.
- Oliva
Description:
Oliva is a feminine name with Latin roots, serving as a variation of Olive or Olivia. Derived from the Latin word for the olive tree, 'oliva,' it symbolizes peace, fertility, and victory in classical traditions. While less common than Olivia, which has enjoyed significant popularity in English-speaking countries, Oliva is more frequently found in Spanish, Italian, and Scandinavian regions. The name carries the same gentle, natural elegance as its variations but with a slightly more distinctive edge. Its connection to the olive branch as a symbol of peace gives it a meaningful depth beyond its pleasing sound. The name offers the cute nickname option of Liv or Livvy.
- Quintessa
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"essence"Description:
Sounds like a fictional rank of royalty.
- Zerelda
Description:
Though the etymology of this name is unclear, it had modest usage in the United States during the nineteenth century. Zerelda has a double connection to outlaw Jesse James: Zerelda James was his mother, and Zerelda Mimms was his wife and first cousin. Zerelda G. Wallace was a temperance activist and a women's suffragist during the same era. All three of these Zereldas were born in Kentucky.
- Ellisif
Origin:
Icelandic variation of Elizabeth
- Nereida
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"sea nymph"Description:
More intriguing than the more familiar form Nerida, this name is perfect for a beach baby, or a baby born under a water sign.
- Areesha
Description:
Areesha is a beautiful feminine name with Arabic and Islamic origins. It's a variant of Arisha or Aresha, derived from the name Aisha, which means "alive" or "prosperous." In Muslim tradition, Aisha was the name of one of Prophet Muhammad's wives, who was known for her intelligence and strength of character. The name Areesha has gained popularity in South Asian countries, particularly Pakistan and India, as well as in Muslim communities worldwide. With its melodic sound and meaningful heritage, Areesha offers both cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. The name has a gentle, flowing quality while still maintaining a sense of dignity and grace. Parents might choose this name for its beautiful sound, spiritual connections, or to honor their cultural heritage.
- Lysandra
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"liberator"Description:
This name is the feminization of mythological name Lysander, which is best known to English-speakers as a character in Shakespeare's comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream.
- Polina
Origin:
Russian and Basque, feminine variation of PaulDescription:
This version of the more familiar Paulina is occasionally used in the US, though some may see it as relating more to the word pole than to the classic Paul.
- Nohelia
Description:
Nohelia is a lyrical feminine name with Latin American origins, particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries. The name likely derives from a combination of "Noelia" (Christmas) and elements of "Helia" (related to the sun). This melodic five-syllable name carries a warm, sunny disposition in its sound and meaning. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Nohelia has maintained steady popularity throughout Latin America. The name conveys elegance and distinctiveness, with its flowing vowels creating a musical quality when spoken. For families with Hispanic heritage, Nohelia offers a beautiful connection to cultural roots while still being accessible to non-Spanish speakers.
- Miabella
Origin:
Combination of Mia and BellaMeaning:
"my beautiful"Description:
Two popular contemporary choices merged into one, this compound name with its hint of Italian flair was given to nearly 70 girls in the US and 3 in the UK. With Mia's entry into the US Top 10, perhaps it will be used more often in coming years.