Three Syllable Names for Girls

Only in use in the US since the late 1950s, Marivel may have originated as a creative spin on Marvel, perhaps influenced by Maribel, which has followed the same popularity trajectory (although much higher up the charts).

Marivel

Marvela is a feminine name that appears to be an elaboration of Marvel, derived from the Latin 'mirabilis' meaning 'wonderful' or 'astonishing.' This uncommon name carries connotations of wonder, amazement, and exceptional qualities. With its melodic three-syllable structure and romantic '-ela' ending, Marvela has a distinctly feminine sound while maintaining an air of strength and distinction. Though rare in usage, the name appeals to parents seeking something unusual yet intuitive in pronunciation and spelling. Marvela's meaning inherently suggests someone extraordinary or worthy of admiration, making it an aspirational choice. The name has a vintage quality while simultaneously feeling modern and distinctive.

Marvela

Marvetta appears to be a feminine variant of the name Marvin, with the feminine suffix -etta added. Marvin itself derives from Old English, meaning "famous friend" or "sea friend." The -etta ending is a diminutive form common in several European languages. Marvetta emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, with usage peaking in the 1950s and 1960s. It represents a pattern of name creation where traditional masculine names were adapted with feminine suffixes to create new feminine names. While relatively uncommon, Marvetta has maintained consistent though limited usage across various communities in the United States. The name carries a melodic quality with its three-syllable structure and may be related to other feminine forms like Marvelle or Marvina.

Marvetta

Marvelle is a feminine name with French influences, likely derived from the French word 'merveille' meaning 'wonder' or 'marvel.' The name evokes a sense of amazement and splendor, carrying connotations of something extraordinary or wonderful. Marvelle has a sophisticated, elegant quality with its French-inspired ending and melodic sound. The name enjoyed modest usage in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s when French-influenced names were fashionable in America. Today, Marvelle remains quite rare, giving it a distinctive vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with positive associations. The name's inherent meaning suggests something remarkable, potentially reflecting parents' feelings about their daughter or aspirations for her life.

Marvelle

Marvina is a feminine name that originated as the female form of Marvin, which itself derives from ancient Welsh elements meaning 'great friend' or from the Old English name Mærwine, meaning 'famous friend.' This feminine adaptation emerged in the early 20th century when creating feminine versions of masculine names was fashionable. Marvina has a vintage quality that echoes the naming styles of the 1920s-1950s. While never extremely common, Marvina enjoyed modest popularity during the mid-20th century in the United States. The name carries strength with its 'Mar-' beginning (shared with names like Margaret and Martha) while the '-vina' ending adds a softer, feminine touch. Today, Marvina maintains an uncommon status, appealing to those seeking vintage names with character.

Marvina

Marvely is an uncommon feminine name that appears to be a modern coinage, possibly derived from the word "marvelous" or constructed as a creative blend of Marvel and the feminine suffix -ly. This distinctive name has no widespread historical usage, making it a truly unique choice. Marvely carries connotations of wonder, amazement, and extraordinariness through its connection to the word "marvel." The name has a contemporary, invented quality that appeals to parents seeking something genuinely unusual with a positive meaning. With its distinctive sound and memorable quality, Marvely stands out as a name choice that balances uniqueness with a relatively intuitive pronunciation and spelling pattern.

Marvely

The meaning of Maria, from which Maryla is derived, is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Maryla

Marila

The meaning of Maria, from which Marynia is derived, is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Marynia

Massima's meaning makes it a high-pressure boastful choice, even in Italian. 

Massima

Politico Mary Matalin used her last name as her daughter's first, an idea any mom can adopt. 

Matalin

Matelda is a rare feminine name with medieval roots, derived from the Germanic elements 'maht' meaning 'might, strength' and 'hild' meaning 'battle.' Most famously associated with Matilda of Tuscany, a powerful medieval Italian noblewoman, the name appears in Dante's 'Divine Comedy' as a guide in Purgatory. Matelda represents a more distinctive variant of the more common Matilda, offering the same historical gravitas with a unique flair. While uncommon in modern usage, Matelda appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and feminine strength. The name carries an elegant, old-world charm while remaining pronounceable and accessible.

Matelda

Matusha is a feminine name with Slavic roots, primarily used in Eastern European countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. It derives from 'Matushka,' which is an affectionate term for 'mother' in Russian (similar to 'little mother' or 'dear mother'). The name carries warm, nurturing connotations associated with maternal care and familial love. While not widely used as a given name internationally, Matusha has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. The name evokes traditional values and cultural heritage, making it appealing to families with Slavic connections or those seeking a name with nurturing significance and unique cultural depth.

Matusha

Mafalda is nearly unknown in the English-speaking world, despite an appearance in Harry Potter. Indeed, it does have a witchy feel.  Matilda itself is preferable, or her French form Mathilde, Spanish Matilde, or abbreviation Maud.

Mafalda

Mahilda is a rare feminine name that appears to be a variant of Matilda, which derives from the Germanic elements 'maht' meaning 'strength' or 'might' and 'hild' meaning 'battle.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a unique twist while preserving its historical essence. Mahilda carries the same dignified character as Matilda but with a subtle difference in pronunciation and appearance. The name has medieval roots and was borne by several notable historical figures, including Empress Matilda of England. While traditional Matilda has experienced a revival in popularity, Mahilda remains very uncommon, making it an option for parents seeking a distinctive name with historical depth and feminine strength.

Mahilda

Matylda is a feminine name of Germanic origin and serves as a variant of Matilda, which means "mighty in battle" from the elements 'maht' (might, strength) and 'hild' (battle). Popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Poland and the Czech Republic, Matylda has a classic yet distinctive quality. The name carries a sense of strength and determination, while maintaining feminine charm. Though not as common in English-speaking countries as Matilda, it has seen modest usage in recent years as parents seek names with international flavor and historical depth. Matylda combines elegance with resilience, making it appealing for those wanting a name with character and substance.

Matylda

Maurita is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from 'Maurus' meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish.' It's essentially a feminine variation of Maurice or Mauricio. Maurita has never been highly common in English-speaking countries, maintaining a quiet, elegant presence throughout the 20th century without breaking into popularity charts. The name carries a sophisticated, somewhat exotic quality with its fluid sound and distinctive ending. Maurita peaked in usage in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s but remained relatively rare even then. Those named Maurita might appreciate the name's subtle uniqueness and its connection to ancient Roman naming traditions.

Maurita

Mauricette is a feminine French name derived from Maurice, which comes from the Latin name Mauritius, meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish.' The feminine suffix '-ette' adds a delicate, diminutive quality to the original masculine form. Popular primarily in France and French-speaking regions, Mauricette peaked in usage during the mid-20th century. The name carries an elegant, vintage charm that evokes the sophistication often associated with French naming traditions. While less common today, even in France, Mauricette appeals to parents seeking a distinctly French option with historical depth. The name has a melodic quality with its three-syllable structure and soft ending. Mauricette may also be given to honor a relative named Maurice, offering a feminine variation that maintains the family connection.

Mauricette

Morena is the goddess of seasonal rites and rebirth worshipped in Central Europe.

Morena

New twist to the Maur- names, a bit cosmetic sounding. 

Maurelle

 abound on Nameberry, with over 10,000 names on this list containing three syllables.

That's an overwhelming number of choices of names for baby girls with three syllables, which provide a good balance for shorter surnames.

To help narrow down your choice, see our list of The Best 

The full list of over 10,000 three syllable names for baby girls, with meanings, origins, and popularity, including top 3 syllable girl names and unique girl names with three syllables. (Page 873)

Three Syllable Girl Names