Animal Names for Girls

Carlisle may be a male name in Twilight (he's vampire hero Edward's adoptive father), but in the real baby naming world, it's used about a quarter of the time for girls. Unusual now, we think Carlisle (or Carlyle) has the potential to be the next Carter.

Carlisle

Carma is a feminine name that represents an alternate spelling of Karma, which derives from Sanskrit and refers to the spiritual concept of cause and effect. Some sources also suggest it could be a variant of Carmel, with Hebrew origins meaning 'garden' or 'vineyard.' The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. Carma carries spiritual connotations while maintaining a gentle, approachable sound. Its four-letter structure gives it a modern brevity, while the meaning connects to profound philosophical traditions. Parents might choose this name for its spiritual significance or simply for its melodic quality and distinctive spelling variation.

Carma

Carole is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the masculine name Charles, ultimately from Germanic roots meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' Popularized in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, Carole reached its peak popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, boosted by celebrities like Carole Lombard. The spelling with an 'e' ending gives it a distinctly French flair compared to the variant Carol. Though less common for newborns today, Carole retains a classic, elegant image. The name carries musical associations through the tradition of Christmas carols and gained recognition through famous bearers like singer-songwriter Carole King. Its timeless quality balances tradition with a warm, approachable character.

Carole

Carolena is a graceful feminine name that blends elements of Caroline and Elena/Helena. With Latin and Greek roots, it can be interpreted as meaning "strong" or "free woman" combined with "bright" or "shining light." This elegant variation emerged as a distinctive alternative to more common Caroline-family names. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Carolena has a romantic, melodic quality that appeals to parents seeking something familiar yet distinctive. The name carries associations of feminine strength, intelligence, and classic beauty. Carolena offers versatility with potential nicknames like Caro, Lena, or Carol, making it adaptable through different life stages while maintaining its sophisticated full form.

Carolena

Carolyne is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from the masculine name Charles (Karl), meaning "free man" or "strong." This elegant variation adds a sophisticated touch to the more common Caroline with its distinctive "y" spelling. Carolyne combines classical heritage with a touch of uniqueness, making it appealing to parents who want a recognizable yet slightly uncommon name. Throughout history, the name has maintained steady usage without becoming overly popular. Carolyne carries associations with grace, intelligence, and refinement. The name has royal connections through various European monarchies, lending it an air of nobility. Its multiple nickname possibilities (Caro, Carol, Lyn) offer versatility while maintaining its classic roots.

Carolyne

Casandra is a feminine name variant of Cassandra, which derives from Greek mythology. The original Cassandra was a Trojan princess blessed with the gift of prophecy but cursed so that no one would believe her predictions. The name comes from Greek elements possibly meaning 'to excel' and 'man,' though some scholars suggest it may have pre-Greek origins. This spelling variation with a single 's' offers a slight modernization of the classical name while retaining its mythological connections. Casandra has remained relatively stable in popularity, never reaching the heights of Cassandra but maintaining steady usage. The name carries an air of mystery and wisdom, influenced by its prophetic namesake, while its flowing sounds and familiar structure make it accessible.

Casandra

Cathalina is an elegant variation of Catherine/Katherine, ultimately derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, meaning "pure." This particular spelling shows Spanish and Latin American influence, offering a more elaborate alternative to the common Catalina. The name carries historical significance through associations with royalty and saints across European history. While less frequently used than Catalina or Katherine, Cathalina maintains a classic, feminine appeal with its flowing syllables and romantic sound. The name offers multiple nickname possibilities including Cat, Cathy, Lina, or Tali. Parents might choose this variation for its distinctive spelling while still connecting to the rich history of the Catherine name family. Its melodic quality and cross-cultural appeal make it attractive for families seeking something traditional yet somewhat uncommon.

Cathalina

Once seen as a dated French Claudette-Colbert feminization, along with Annette and Paulette, we can see Claudette moving into a more plausible Colette-Cosette arena. While some may be put off by the common "lame" meaning, some etymologists theorize that the name may relate to the word for enclosure or clause, an alternate meaning that may appeal to a child with a form of this otherwise-appealing name.

Claudette

Calm, composed, and chic. Often seen with an accent in France, as Clémence.

Clemence

A popular choice in Ireland, Clodagh was the name of a river and later a saint. The "cloddy" aspect of the name has prevented it from spreading beyond Ireland, but that could change with the rise of other Irish choices like Maeve and Orla.
 
The name was first used back in the 19th century, when it was chosen by the Marquess of Waterford, the County through which the river runs. The first bearer, Lady Clodagh Anson, a philanthropist and writer, also gave the name to her daughter, and hoped it would stay a rarity. 
 
It has gone on to rank in the Top 50 in Ireland and the Top 25 in Northern Ireland and in a recent year, ranked just outside the England and Wales Top 1000. Pronounced as KLAW-duh or KLO-duh depending on region, it shares similarities with Chloe, Clara, Cleo, and Clover.
 
While the exact meaning of the name is unknown, it has been suggested it means "stony river" or "muddy banks".
 
Famous namesakes are singer Clodagh Rodgers and chef Clodagh McKenna.

Clodagh

Clove is a spice name that is a tad more piquant than Saffron or Cinnamon. It might get more attention now as a member of The Hunger Games family of names.

Clove

Conner as a feminine name represents an interesting gender crossover. Traditionally a masculine Irish surname and given name meaning 'lover of hounds' or 'wise counselor,' Conner has occasionally been adopted for girls. This usage reflects the modern trend of surname-style names for females. While much more common for boys, feminine usage of Conner might be considered a variant of the unisex name Connor/Conner. Parents choosing Conner for a daughter may appreciate its strong, straightforward sound and Celtic heritage, while embracing gender-neutral naming conventions. As a girl's name, Conner carries a distinctive, somewhat unexpected quality that can project confidence and individuality.

Conner

Rising boys' name could cross the gender line. 

Corbin

Cydney

Dalena is a flowing feminine name with multiple potential origins. It likely functions as an elaboration of Dale, meaning 'valley,' with the feminine suffix '-ena' adding elegance. It may also relate to Magdalena, or derive from Slavic elements meaning 'distant' or 'far away.' This melodic name carries a gentle, romantic quality while remaining uncommon enough to feel distinctive. Despite its appealing sound and traditional structure, Dalena has maintained a relatively rare status in English-speaking countries, making it an intriguing option for parents seeking something both beautiful and unique. The name's three-syllable rhythm and soft consonants create a graceful impression, while its potential nature-based meaning adds an element of serene beauty that resonates with contemporary naming preferences.

Dalena

Dalette is a feminine name with French influences, likely derived as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'dale' (valley) or possibly as a feminine variation of Dale. The '-ette' suffix adds a distinctly French flair, giving the name a delicate, graceful quality. Extremely uncommon in mainstream usage, Dalette offers a rare alternative to more popular feminine names ending in '-ette' like Paulette or Annette. The name has a melodic two-syllable pronunciation that feels both vintage and fresh. While lacking widespread recognition, Dalette might appeal to parents seeking a unique name with a subtle French character that remains relatively straightforward to pronounce and spell.

Dalette

Dalisha appears to be a modern constructed name that follows contemporary naming patterns combining elements or sounds. It likely incorporates the prefix 'Da-' with the ending '-lisha,' possibly influenced by names like Alisha (a variant of Alicia from the Germanic name Adelaide). The 'Da-' prefix is a common element in many modern American names, sometimes used as a decorative element or to create a distinctive sound. Dalisha emerged primarily in the United States during the latter part of the 20th century (1970s-1980s) and has moderate usage, particularly in southern states. The name represents the modern trend of creative naming that combines syllables and sounds to form unique identities, rather than drawing directly from a specific linguistic or cultural tradition.

Dalisha

Daniah is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic contexts, it means 'close' or 'near,' while it can also be interpreted as 'God is my judge' when seen as a variant of Daniel/Daniela. The name appears in various cultures including Arabic, Hebrew, and Scandinavian traditions, sometimes spelled as Dania without the 'h.' With its melodic three syllables and soft ending, Daniah carries a gentle yet distinctive quality. The name has gained modest usage in recent decades, particularly in Muslim communities and among parents seeking cross-cultural names. Its international versatility and pleasant sound make it appealing, while still remaining uncommon enough to be distinctive. Daniah blends traditional roots with a contemporary feel.

Daniah

Danila is a feminine name in some cultures and masculine in others, primarily found in Slavic and Eastern European regions. As a feminine name, it's often a variation of Daniela, derived from the Hebrew name Daniel meaning 'God is my judge.' In Russian, Bulgarian, and Serbian traditions, Danila functions as a masculine form of Daniel. The name has a flowing, melodic quality with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it enjoys moderate popularity in Eastern Europe. Danila offers a distinctive alternative to more common Daniel derivatives while maintaining familiar roots. Its cross-cultural nature and gentle sound make it appealing to parents seeking a name with international flexibility and historical depth.

Danila

Delaina is a feminine name with possible roots as a variant of Delana or an elaboration of Delaine. The name likely derives from elements meaning 'from Alaine' or may be connected to the French 'de laine' (of wool). It emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century but gained more notice during the 1970s-80s when melodic, multi-syllabic feminine names were trending. Though never extremely common, Delaina possesses an elegant, romantic quality with its flowing sound and soft ending. The name has remained a consistent but uncommon choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet approachable. Its similarity to more familiar names like Elaina and Delaney gives it recognizability while maintaining its uniqueness.