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Eastern European Names for Girls

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Sep 24 2019
  1. Amalia

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "work"

    • Description:

      Originally popularized in eighteenth century Europe due to the fame of Anna Amalia, a Duchess who was a great patron of the arts, Amalia is now a widely cross-cultural name, heard from Italy to Romania, Germany to Scandinavia. Popular in the Netherlands, Chile, France, and Puerto Rico, it can be pronounced as uh-MAH-lee-uh (English), a-MA-lya (Spanish), and ah-MA-lee-uh (German, Dutch), to list a few.
      amal meaning "vigorous, unceasing, work", and while it may not be quite so popular in the English speaking work as its sibling, it has been on the rise in the US since 2011, when it re-joined the Top 1000 after an 80 year absence. Given to 550 American babies in a recent year, it is considerably less popular than Amelia — 23 times less popular, in fact.
  2. Emelia

    • Origin:

      Variation of Emilia or Amelia, Latin, Germanic, "rival;work

    • Description:

      Emelia takes elements from soundalike sisters Emilia and Amelia, which actually derive from different roots and have different meanings.
  3. Zsazsa

    • Origin:

      Hungarian, , diminutive of Erzsebet

    • Meaning:

      "God is my oath"

    • Description:

      Zsa Zsa is a zippy Hungarian nickname name, sometimes used independently, linked for decades with the Hungarian-born actress Zsa Zsa Gabor--who was born Sari.
  4. Daniela

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Daniel used in various languages

    • Meaning:

      "God is my judge"

    • Description:

      Used across Europe, South America, and the US, Daniela is a popular feminine form of the Hebrew name Daniel. It has ranked in the US Top 300 since the early 90s and it's currently on trend in Spain, Portugal, Chile, Mexico, and Lativia.
  5. Sari

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "noble"

    • Description:

      Sari is a cute spin on Sarah, though some may hear it as "sorry," and it is also an item of clothing worn in India. These days many people will also confuse Sari with Suri, the lovely and unsual name of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' much-publicized young daughter.
  6. Danika

    • Origin:

      Eastern European

    • Meaning:

      "morning star"

    • Description:

      Spelling variation of Danica with a modern update.
  7. Nichole

    • Description:

      Nichole is a feminine name, a variant spelling of Nicole, which itself is the French feminine form of Nicholas. The name derives from Greek elements 'nike' meaning 'victory' and 'laos' meaning 'people,' thus conveying 'victory of the people.' This variation with an 'h' became particularly popular in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, offering a slightly more distinctive spelling than the more traditional Nicole. The name has a soft, feminine sound while maintaining a certain strength in its meaning. Though its peak popularity has passed, Nichole remains recognizable without being overly common. The name's classic roots provide substance, while its familiar sound ensures easy pronunciation and recognition across various cultures.
  8. Gretl

    • Description:

      Gretl is a diminutive form of Margaret, used primarily in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria. The name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' with Gretl emerging as an affectionate, familiar version. Most famously associated with the younger sister in the Von Trapp family (portrayed in 'The Sound of Music'), Gretl carries folkloric charm and Alpine cultural associations. The name has a warm, endearing quality with its compact form and distinctive ending. While uncommon outside German-speaking countries, Gretl offers an appealing alternative to the more widely used Gretel or Greta. The name evokes a sense of European heritage and traditional charm, making it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural specificity and historical character.
  9. Jozefa

    • Description:

      Jozefa is a feminine name with Slavic origins, representing the female form of Joseph. The name Joseph comes from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God increases.' This variant spelling with 'z' instead of 's' and the feminine ending '-a' is particularly common in Polish, Czech, and other Eastern European languages. Jozefa carries the dignified history of the biblical Joseph while offering a distinctly feminine form with Slavic character. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but maintains cultural significance in Eastern Europe. For families with Slavic heritage, Jozefa offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a strong, meaningful name. Its pronunciation (yo-ZEF-ah) adds a melodic quality that distinguishes it from other Joseph derivatives.

  10. Sasa

    • Origin:

      Cherokee

    • Meaning:

      "goose"
  11. Tamasa

    • Description:

      Tamasa is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots. It may be derived from Sanskrit origins, where it relates to 'tamas,' meaning darkness or night, though with different connotations than in Western contexts—representing mystery, depth, and the unknown rather than negativity. In some cultures, it could be linked to the Tamasa River mentioned in ancient Indian texts. The name has a gentle rhythm with its three syllables and soft consonants. Tamasa remains relatively rare in Western countries, giving it an exotic appeal. Parents might choose this name for its melodious quality, subtle connection to nature, and distinctive character that still feels accessible and pronounceable.
  12. Nichola

    • Description:

      Nichola is the feminine form of Nicholas, derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, combining 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people), thus meaning 'victory of the people.' While Nicholas has been consistently popular for boys, Nichola is a relatively uncommon feminine variation, offering an alternative to the more widely used Nicola, Nicole, or Nicolette. The name carries a classical elegance while still feeling accessible. Popular in parts of Europe, particularly the UK, Nichola has never reached the same level of popularity in the United States. The name maintains the strong historical connections of Nicholas, including associations with Saint Nicholas, while offering a distinctly feminine option with a softer ending.
  13. Bernarda

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "brave as a bear"

    • Description:

      Too close in sound to the so-far-out-it-will-always-be-out Bernard.
  14. Jozsefa

    • Description:

      Jozsefa is a feminine variant of the name Joseph, originating from Hungarian naming traditions. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' In Hungarian culture, Jozsefa represents the feminine counterpart to József, which is the Hungarian form of Joseph. While relatively uncommon even in Hungary, the name carries a classic, traditional quality. Jozsefa combines cultural heritage with biblical roots, offering a unique option for parents seeking a name with historical depth. Its pronunciation typically features the distinctive Hungarian phonetics, setting it apart from more common Joseph derivatives.

  15. Jozsa

    • Description:

      Jozsa is a feminine name with Hungarian origins, functioning as a variant of the name József (Joseph). In Hungarian naming traditions, it carries the meaning 'God will add' from its Hebrew roots. This distinctive name is extremely rare outside of Hungary and Hungarian diaspora communities. Jozsa features a unique combination of sounds that may appear exotic to non-Hungarian speakers while maintaining a melodic, accessible quality. The name reflects Hungarian cultural heritage and naming traditions, with the 'zs' combination creating a sound similar to the 's' in 'measure.' Despite its rarity, Jozsa offers an appealing combination of brevity, distinctive pronunciation, and cultural richness, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something genuinely uncommon with authentic cultural roots.
  16. Daneila

    • Description:

      Daneila is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Daniela, which is the feminine form of Daniel. The name has Hebrew origins, derived from Daniel meaning "God is my judge." This alternative spelling maintains the melodic quality of Daniela while offering a slightly distinctive written form. Though less common than the standard spelling, Daneila shares the same appealing qualities: a beautiful flow, international recognition, and biblical heritage. The name carries connotations of wisdom and fairness from the biblical Daniel. For parents seeking a name with timeless appeal but a slightly unique spelling, Daneila offers familiarity with a touch of individuality.
  17. Jólan

    • Description:

      Jólan appears to be a variant of Yolanda or possibly related to the Hungarian name Jolán. The name has medieval origins, possibly derived from the Greek 'Iolanthe,' meaning 'violet flower.' The accented 'ó' suggests Hungarian or other Central European linguistic influences. Jólan carries an air of exotic elegance with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation, setting it apart from more common variations. This name blends historical depth with a modern, international appeal. Though relatively uncommon globally, it maintains cultural significance in certain European regions. The brevity of Jólan gives it a contemporary feel while its historical roots provide substance and meaning. Parents might choose this name for its combination of uniqueness and classical heritage, offering a distinctive identity with legitimate etymological foundations.
  18. Edvina

    • Description:

      Edvina is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Edwina, which itself is the feminine form of Edwin. The name has Old English origins, combining the elements 'ead' meaning wealth or fortune and 'wine' meaning friend. This creates a beautiful meaning of 'wealthy friend' or 'prosperous friend.' The 'v' spelling gives the traditional name a slightly Slavic or Nordic flavor, potentially reflecting cross-cultural influences. Edvina projects an air of vintage elegance and sophistication that has never been extremely common but maintains a timeless quality. The name carries associations with nobility and dignity, having been used in aristocratic circles historically. While Edwina peaked in popularity in the early 20th century, Edvina remains a distinctive choice that balances traditional roots with a unique character.
  19. Nicolla

    • Description:

      Nicolla is a feminine name of Italian origin, a variation of Nicola, which itself is derived from the Greek name Nicholas, meaning 'victory of the people.' While less common than similar forms like Nicole or Nicola, Nicolla offers a distinctive spelling that maintains the melodic sound of its relatives. The name has appeared across various European cultures throughout history, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Nicolla carries a sense of strength and accomplishment embedded in its etymology, while its flowing sound gives it a feminine elegance. Those named Nicolla might appreciate the name's connection to the concept of victory while enjoying its unique spelling.
  20. Nickoletta

    • Description:

      Nickoletta is a feminine name that serves as an elaborated variant of Nicoletta, the Italian feminine form of Nicholas. The name ultimately derives from Greek elements meaning "victory of the people." This particular spelling with 'k' instead of 'c' adds a distinctive touch to the traditional name. Nickoletta has a romantic, elaborate quality typical of Italian feminine names, with its flowing syllables and melodic ending. While not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it offers an exotic alternative to more familiar names like Nicole or Nikki. The name carries associations with strength and triumph through its etymological roots while maintaining a feminine, graceful sound. Nickoletta might appeal to parents seeking a name with European flair and classic origins.