Animal Names for Girls

Caitríona is a traditional Irish feminine name, the Irish Gaelic form of Katherine or Catherine. It derives ultimately from the Greek name 'Aikaterine,' though its exact original meaning remains debated, with theories including 'pure' or connections to the goddess Hecate. The name features the distinctive fada accent mark over the 'i' which indicates a long vowel sound in Irish. Pronounced approximately as 'kah-TREE-uh-nah,' it has been used in Ireland for centuries. Caitríona has moderate popularity in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities but remains uncommon elsewhere. Notable bearers include Irish actress Caitríona Balfe. The name evokes Irish cultural heritage while offering the nickname options Cait, Caitrín, or Triona.

Caitríona

Caitrìona is a feminine Scottish Gaelic form of Katherine, featuring the characteristic accent on the 'ì' that influences pronunciation. Derived ultimately from the Greek name Aikaterine, it carries meanings associated with 'pure' or 'clear.' In Scottish culture, Caitrìona has deep historical roots and remains a traditional choice that honors Gaelic heritage. The name gained some recognition through historical figures and characters in Scottish literature. While more common in Scotland and Ireland, Caitrìona remains relatively uncommon in other English-speaking countries, offering a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Celtic roots and authentic cultural significance.

Caitrìona

Caitrona is a feminine name of Irish Gaelic origin, representing a variant spelling of Caitríona, the Irish form of Katherine. The name ultimately derives from Greek 'Aikaterine', with debated meanings including 'pure' or possibly connections to the goddess Hecate. Pronounced approximately as 'kah-TREE-oh-na', it carries the rich heritage of Irish naming traditions. 

While less common than the anglicized form Catriona or the original Caitríona, this spelling variant maintains the name's Celtic roots while being slightly more approachable in international contexts. 

In the US and other Anglophone countries, however, Caitrona and its other Irish spellings will pose considerable pronunciation challenges. And the English equivalent, Katrina, has lost a lot of steam since the devastating New Orleans hurricane.

Caitrona

Caity is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Catherine or Caitlin. With Irish and English influences, this sweet, affectionate variation has gained popularity as a standalone name in recent decades. Caity carries the same ancient roots as Catherine, ultimately derived from the Greek name Aikaterine, though its exact original meaning remains debated. The name has a friendly, approachable quality that resonates with modern parents seeking names that are both traditional and casual. Caity's spelling variation distinguishes it from the more common 'Katie,' giving it a slightly more unique feel while maintaining familiar pronunciation.

Caity

A Danish variant of Kaja (Kaya) or a Cornish word name derived from kaja "daisy".

Caja

Cajsa is a feminine Scandinavian name, particularly popular in Sweden. It originated as a Nordic variant of Katarina (Katherine), developing as a distinct given name over centuries. Pronounced approximately as 'KY-sah,' the name combines traditional Northern European heritage with a distinctive spelling that reflects regional phonetic patterns. In Sweden, it has maintained steady popularity as a name that honors cultural traditions while feeling contemporary. Cajsa carries associations with Scandinavian values of independence, strength, and natural beauty. The name's unique letter combination makes it stand out visually while remaining connected to the familiar Katherine name family, giving it both uniqueness and traditional roots.

Cajsa

If Caroline is too classic and Callie too cutesy, Cal might work as a cool alternative. Well established and currently in the Top 1000 for boys, it has potential as a gender neutral option too. 
 
Yet to rank in the US stats as a stand alone girl name, that could change in the future as it has a similar feel to Scout, Kit, Tru, or Liv. 
 
If you love Cal as a nickname but would prefer a longer form that Caroline, you could consider Callista, Callahan, Calliope, Pascale, Callaway or Carmel.

Undiscovered name of picturesque northern French port. 

Calais

Although this name literally means disaster, the use of Calamity as a descriptor of Martha Jane Cannery, aka Calamity Jane, was meant to signal that she was a good person to have in troubled times. Calamity Jane was well regarded as a frontierswoman and nurse, someone who was said to be extremely generous and compassionate to the sick and troubled.. Calamity's connection to the American West gives this a roguish name a sort of windswept charm about it. Indeed, the most controversial aspect of this name is its connection to the frontier wars that led to the dispossession of Native American peoples. 
Controversy aside, you really don't want to name your daughter Calamity. There are plenty of other uncommon <a href="https://nameberry.com/search/girls-names/c">girl names starting with C</a> that don't sound like jokes.

Calamity

Calan as a feminine name is quite uncommon, as it is more frequently used as a masculine name with Welsh and Celtic origins. As a girl's name, Calan represents a modern, gender-neutral choice. The name may derive from the Welsh word 'calan,' meaning 'the first day of the month' or relating to beginnings and calendars. It could also be linked to the Irish name Callan, meaning 'powerful in battle.' With its crisp, concise sound and contemporary feel, Calan offers a strong yet accessible option for parents seeking a name that breaks traditional gender associations. The name's brevity and strong consonants give it a bold, distinctive quality that stands out while remaining easy to pronounce and spell.

Calan

Calista Flockhart opened the door to a whole flock of graceful and unusual Greek names like this, including Calantha, Calla, Carissa, and Cassia. Calandra itself is the name of a species of lark, and has the versatile nickname options of Callie, Candy, Andra, Andie and Birdie.

Calandra

Calandre is a feminine name with French influences, possibly derived from "calandre" (the French word for a type of lark bird or the grille of a car). The name has a melodic, flowing quality typical of French-inspired names. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Calandre offers an elegant alternative to more popular names like Calandra or Calandra. The natural association with the songbird gives it connotations of music, freedom, and morning brightness. The name maintains a sophisticated European flair while being relatively straightforward to pronounce. Despite its aesthetic appeal, Calandre remains a rare choice, appealing to parents seeking something distinctive with French elegance.

Calandre

Calandrea is an uncommon feminine name with a melodious quality, likely derived from Greek elements or a creative variation of names like Calandra or Andrea. The name may relate to 'kalandros,' referring to the calandra lark bird, or combine 'kalos' (beautiful) with 'andros' (man/warrior). This elaborate and graceful name has never been widely popular but appeals to parents seeking something distinctive with classical undertones. Calandrea's rhythmic, flowing sound gives it an elegant, almost musical quality. Though rare in usage, it shares phonetic elements with more common names like Cassandra and Alexandra, making it both unique and subtly familiar.

Calandrea

Calandria is a feminine name derived from the Spanish word for 'lark' (a type of songbird), ultimately from the Latin 'calandra.' The name evokes images of musicality, freedom, and natural beauty. In Hispanic cultures, the calandria bird is known for its melodious song, giving the name poetic and artistic associations. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Calandria has maintained modest usage in Spanish-speaking regions and among Hispanic communities worldwide. The name carries elegant, nature-inspired overtones while offering the familiar nicknames Cal or Callie. Its distinctive sound and meaning appeal to parents seeking names with cultural significance, natural symbolism, and a melodic quality that stands out without being difficult to pronounce.

Calandria

Another of the new Greek-accented Cal- names. 

Calantha

If you love Calliope and Callista, you'll love Calanthe, which combines the trendiness of the Greek 'cal' names with the equally fashionable "the" ending (like Xanthe and Evanthe) and a connection to the beautiful Christmas Orchid. Color Calantha one of the more unusual and captivating <a href="https://nameberry.com/list/412/christmas-baby-names">names for Christmas babies</a>.

Calanthe

One art name that sounds distinctly more masculine.  Unless you're a big mobile fan, keep thinking.

Calder

A unique Spanish nature name rarely heard. Caldera can be used for both boys and girls.

Caldera

Caldonia is a feminine name with Southern American roots, popularized by Louis Jordan's 1945 jump blues hit song 'Caldonia.' The name may be a variation of Caledonia, the ancient Roman name for Scotland, derived from the tribal name 'Caledonii.' Caldonia carries a vintage, soulful quality with its melodic sound and rhythmic cadence. Though never widely common, the name experienced brief recognition during the mid-20th century due to the song's popularity. Caldonia projects warmth, strength, and musical associations, with its flowing syllables and distinctive ending. For modern parents, it offers a unique alternative to more common vintage revivals, bringing to mind the rich cultural heritage of American blues and jazz. The name retains an air of Southern charm and musical nostalgia.

Caldonia

Caledonia is a rhythmic and alluring place name used by singer Shawn Colvin for her daughter.  It would make an interesting and apt choice for a girl with Scottish ancestry.