Animal Names for Girls

Efigenia is a feminine name with ancient Greek origins, derived from "Iphigenia" (Ἰφιγένεια), a figure in Greek mythology who was the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. The name means "strong-born" or "born to strength." Particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, Efigenia represents a Hispanic adaptation of the classical name. While not ranking highly on mainstream popularity charts, it maintains a steady presence in Latin American naming traditions. The name carries connotations of strength, sacrifice, and classical heritage. Bearers of this name might appreciate its rich mythological connections and the powerful feminine qualities it represents.

Efigenia

A popular female name in Turkey, with a lush nature meaning.

Efnan

Efrat

Efthemia is a feminine Greek name derived from the Greek word "euthymia" meaning "good spirit," "joy," or "cheerfulness." It combines the elements "eu" (good) and "thymos" (spirit or soul). This traditional Greek name has ancient origins but remains in use primarily within Greek communities and the Greek diaspora. Often shortened to the nickname Efi or Effie, Efthemia carries connotations of happiness and wellbeing. The name follows Greek naming patterns where many names express positive qualities or virtues. While uncommon outside of Greek communities, it represents a rich cultural heritage and conveys wishes for a joyful life.

Efthemia

This name for the sweetbriar shrub is a bit too reminiscent of eggplant, but it does have literary creds, having appeared in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. The French form Églantine appeared in the charts in the first half of the 20th century and again in the 2000s.

Eglantine

Eglantyne is a feminine name with medieval French origins, derived from the Old French word "aiglent" referring to the sweet briar or eglantine rose. The name evokes imagery of this delicate, fragrant wild rose that has been celebrated in poetry and literature for centuries. Eglantyne was occasionally used in medieval and Renaissance periods but remained rare throughout history. It gained some recognition through Eglantyne Jebb, the British social reformer who founded Save the Children. The name carries an undeniable romantic, literary quality with associations to nature and medieval courtly traditions. Its distinctive spelling and pronunciation make it an uncommon choice that appeals to parents drawn to vintage botanical names with literary connections and an aristocratic flair.

Eglantyne

One supermodel name--that of the Lithuanian Egle Tvirbutaite--which is far from as beautiful to American ears as she is.

Egle

Egret

A brief name from the Karen culture of Myanmar.

An appealing little time-of-day name that's used in Finland as well as its native Estonia, but is unknown to English speakers. The middle "h" sound makes it an unexpected alternative to Emma and Eva.

Ehrena is an uncommon feminine name with possible Germanic origins. It may be related to the German word 'Ehre' meaning 'honor' or 'respect', suggesting noble qualities. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive spelling. Ehrena remains quite rare in most countries, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking something unique yet pronounceable. The name carries a certain dignified elegance while its unusual nature ensures individuality. Though historical usage is limited, Ehrena has potential appeal in contemporary naming trends that favor uncommon names with meaningful origins and pleasant sounds.

Ehrena

The Irish Gaelic form of Evelyn or Aveline, this name is more authentically spelled Eibhlín. It appears in the title of a love song by 17th century composer Cearbhall Óg Ó Dálaigh, called Eibhlín a Rún. 
 
Eibhlín is possibly the source of the more familiar Eileen, which is also used as an Irish form of Helen ("bright, shining").

Eibhlin

Eidah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, derived from the word 'עֵדָה' (edah) meaning 'congregation,' 'assembly,' or 'community.' This uncommon name carries spiritual significance in Jewish tradition, where it represents the gathering of people for religious purposes or the community as a whole. The name's rarity gives it a distinctive quality while its Biblical connections provide depth and meaning. In modern usage, Eidah appeals to parents seeking a name with religious significance and a gentle, melodic sound. The name's short length and open-ended vowel sound create a soft yet memorable impression. Though not widely used in mainstream Western culture, Eidah maintains relevance in communities valuing traditional Hebrew names.

Eidah

A rare Welsh name deriving from the name of a stream in Ceredigion, plus the productive -wen suffix.

Eiddwen

Perhaps too similar to the word "idol," but Eidel is a pretty (and largely forgotten) Yiddish name.

Eidel

An eider is a sea duck with extra soft feathers as well as a Basque name with a lovely meaning. Eider is one of the fastest-rising boys' names below the Top 1000. Though theoretically unisex, no baby girls were given the name in 2024.

Eider

Eidith is a feminine name that represents an uncommon spelling variant of Edith, which comes from the Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'gyð' meaning 'war, battle,' together signifying 'prosperous in war' or 'blessed warrior.' This alternative spelling gives the traditional name a distinctive look while maintaining its historical essence. Edith was popular among Anglo-Saxons and experienced a revival in the 19th century. The Eidith variant remains quite rare, appealing to those seeking to honor the traditional name while adding a unique twist. The name carries associations with several notable historical Ediths, including Edith Wharton and St. Edith of Wilton.

Eidith

Eidra and its even sleeker sister Idra are simple-yet-unusual names -- no baby girls were given either name in the US in 2022. Eidra attracted attention as the name of a character of the Keri Russell TV show The Diplomat.

Eidra

Eidyth represents an uncommon spelling variation of Edith, an Anglo-Saxon name derived from the Old English elements "ead" (wealth, fortune) and "gyth" (war). The classical Edith was popular among medieval English nobility, including Saint Edith of Wilton. This alternative spelling with "ei" and "y" gives the name a more distinctive, perhaps Celtic or Norse-influenced appearance while maintaining its historical essence. The name carries associations of wisdom and strength, qualities attributed to its notable bearers throughout history. Though rare in contemporary use, Eidyth offers the appeal of an ancient name with a modern twist. The unusual spelling might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth but a unique presentation.

Eidyth

An interesting international choice. Most closely associated with the Parisian monument, the Eiffel Tower, Gustave Eiffel was also responsible for much of the interior of the Statue of Liberty. The name itself is German, but was not the family's original surname and was added as an homage to the family's German homeland which featured the Eifel mountains. Eiffel could be used as a boys or girls name.