Animal Names for Girls
- Amarys
Origin:
Spelling variation of Amaris, HebrewMeaning:
"God has said"Description:
Amaris and Amarys are pretty modernized versions of the ancient Hebrew Amariah. Almost 300 baby girls were named Amaris in the US last year, along with nearly 100 boys, but only seven baby girls were given the Amarys spelling.
- Baírbre
Description:
Baírbre is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Barbara, featuring the distinctive Irish accent mark (fada) over the 'i'. The name derives ultimately from Greek 'barbaros,' which referred to non-Greek speakers, though its meaning evolved over centuries. In Irish culture, Baírbre has historical significance and reflects Ireland's rich naming traditions that preserve Celtic linguistic features. Though pronounced approximately as 'BAR-bruh' (similar to Barbara), the authentic Irish pronunciation may vary slightly in different regions of Ireland. While common in traditional Irish contexts, Baírbre remains quite rare internationally and even within modern Ireland, where the anglicized Barbara is more frequently used. The name carries connections to Irish heritage and linguistic tradition, making it a meaningful choice for families with Irish roots.
- Edona
Description:
Edona is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections, primarily associated with Albanian heritage where it means 'gift' or 'donation.' The name also appears in medieval English contexts and has connections to the Old English 'Eadwynn.' With its simple yet elegant structure, Edona combines accessibility with a touch of the exotic. The name's straightforward pronunciation belies its relative rarity in most Western naming traditions. Edona projects a quiet strength through its balanced sound and meaningful etymology. Though uncommon in global statistics, the name has maintained a steady presence in Albanian communities and has potential cross-cultural appeal due to its melodic quality and intuitive spelling. Parents seeking a name that's distinctive yet approachable might be drawn to Edona's understated charm.
- Adine
Origin:
Variation of Aideen or AdinaDescription:
Spelled this way, Adine could be a relative of either the Irish Aideen, which means jealousy, or the Arabic Adina, meaning slender. We'll go with the slender.
- Edea
Description:
Edea is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Greek etymology related to 'idea' or 'thought,' or could be a variation of Edith, which comes from the Old English 'eadgyth' meaning 'prosperity in war' or 'blessed combat.' The name gained some recognition through the character Edea Kramer in the popular video game Final Fantasy VIII. Edea has an ethereal, elegant quality with its flowing vowels and soft consonants. Though uncommon in most Western countries, its brevity and melodic sound give it appeal for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. The name carries connotations of wisdom and creativity.
- Elenore
Description:
Elenore is a graceful feminine name that serves as a variant of Eleanor, which derives from the Provençal name Aliénor, introduced to England by Eleanor of Aquitaine in the 12th century. The name has roots in various ancient forms, possibly connected to the Greek 'helē' meaning 'torch' or 'bright light.' This particular spelling, with the final 'e,' gives the name a slightly more antique and romantic quality. Elenore has maintained a quiet presence throughout history, experiencing occasional revivals during periods when vintage names return to favor. Though less common than Eleanor, it carries the same sophisticated charm and historical richness, while offering a subtle distinction. The name evokes images of elegance and timeless beauty, appealing to parents drawn to classic names with a slight twist.
- Alinta
Origin:
Australian AboriginalMeaning:
"fire, flame"Description:
This Noongar girls’ name has a dainty sound that belies its fierce fire meaning and could easily cross over into the American or European context.
- Ailene
Description:
Ailene is a gentle feminine name of varied origins, primarily considered a variant spelling of Aileen or Eileen. These names derive from the Gaelic Aveline or the Norman French Evelina, ultimately meaning "light" or "bright one." In some interpretations, it connects to the Gaelic word "eibhlín" meaning "radiant" or "shining." The distinctive spelling with the 'A' beginning and 'e' ending gives it a delicate, flowing quality. While less common than Aileen or Eileen, Ailene has maintained a quiet presence throughout the 20th century, particularly in Irish-American communities. The name blends traditional Celtic heritage with an elegant, somewhat vintage feel that appeals to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon.
- Cianna
Description:
Cianna is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Gianna (Italian feminine form of John, meaning 'God is gracious'), a feminine form of Cian (an Irish name meaning 'ancient' or 'enduring'), or a creative modern formation. The name has a melodic quality with its soft 'c' sound and flowing syllables that make it appealing in contemporary naming trends. While not historically common, Cianna gained modest popularity in the United States during the early 2000s as parents sought names with traditional roots but modern flair. The name is often associated with qualities like gracefulness and creativity. Its cross-cultural appeal makes it work well in diverse communities while remaining distinctive.
- Desire
Origin:
English word nameDescription:
Believe it or not, this was a fairly common appellation in early New England, interpreted not in the sexual sense, but more in terms of desiring salvation. In modern times, the French name Desiree, pronounced dehz-ih-ray, would be more acceptable.
- Emberlee
Description:
Emberlee is a modern feminine name that combines 'Ember' (suggesting warmth and glowing embers) with the popular '-lee' suffix. This contemporary creation has roots in nature-inspired naming trends that emerged in the early 21st century. The name evokes imagery of fire, passion, and inner light. Emberlee has gained modest popularity among parents seeking unique names with a melodic quality. While not among the top-ranked names, it appeals to those looking for something distinctive yet accessible. The name carries connotations of warmth, energy, and vibrancy, making it an expressive choice for families wanting a name that symbolizes strength and spirit. Its spelling variation adds a feminine touch to the more elemental 'Ember' base.
- Banana
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Banana is one fruity name we wouldn't recommend. Pick Plum instead. There is a Japanese novelist whose pen name is Banana Yoshimoto--birth name Mahoko.
- Eimer
Description:
Eimer is an unusual feminine name with Germanic roots, though it's more widely recognized as a surname or word rather than a given name. In German, 'Eimer' literally means 'bucket' or 'pail,' deriving from Old High German 'einbar' meaning 'one-carrier.' As a personal name, it remains extremely rare. The name might have originated as an occupational surname for someone who made or sold buckets before occasionally transitioning to first-name usage. In some contexts, it could be a variant spelling of Elmer or Aymer. Its distinctive sound and uncommon nature make it a unique choice, though the everyday object association in German-speaking regions might be a consideration for parents. In English-speaking contexts, its rarity gives it a distinctive quality.
- Cataleyah
Origin:
Spelling variation of CataleyaDescription:
Cataleyah wins notice as one of the trendiest names of all time, rising quickly through the ranks inspired by the Zoe Saldana character in Colombiana and also the name of a genus of orchids.
- Conchetta
Description:
Conchetta is a feminine name of Italian origin, representing a diminutive form of Concha, which derives from the Latin word 'concha' meaning 'shell' or 'conch.' This beautiful name carries associations with the sea, pearls, and natural beauty. In Catholic tradition, the shell symbolism connects to baptism and pilgrimage, particularly relating to Saint James. Conchetta has a distinctly Italian flair with its characteristic '-etta' diminutive ending, conveying a sense of affection and delicacy. While less common than related names like Concetta (a shortened form of Concepción, referring to the Immaculate Conception), Conchetta maintains similar musical qualities with its flowing sounds. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but offers a melodic option for parents seeking a name with Mediterranean origins and elegant natural symbolism.
- China
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Long before the current place-name craze, a pair of the more daring pop singers of the Age of Aquarius picked this name for their daughters. Jefferson Airplane's Grace Slick used the conventional spelling, the Mamas and the Papas's Michelle Phillips went further afield with Chynna (of the group Wilson Phillips).
- Emily-rose
Description:
Emily Rose combines two classic feminine names, creating a beautiful double name with timeless appeal. Emily derives from the Latin 'Aemilia,' meaning 'rival' or 'emulating,' while Rose comes from the Latin 'rosa,' referring to the flower that symbolizes love and beauty. This combination gained notable popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, partly influenced by the 2005 film 'The Exorcism of Emily Rose' (though many parents chose it simply for its lovely cadence). Emily Rose offers parents a way to use the extremely popular Emily while giving their daughter a more distinctive full name. The pairing creates a name that is simultaneously sweet, elegant, and classic.
- Carsyn
Origin:
Spelling variation of Carson, English and ScottishMeaning:
"son of the marsh dwellers"Description:
A contemporary, feminized variation of Carson.
- Ambretta
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
An evergreen with yellow flowers, Ambretta works to modernize Amber.
- Arria
Origin:
Latin, thin"Description:
The name of a woman who played a dramatic role in ancient Roman legend, it seems quite slight for modern use. Variation: ARIA