Animal Names for Girls

A unisex name with lots of flair and a daring spirit, Adair was first noticed as a girl's name in the 1980's, thanks to the long-running daytime drama Search for Tomorrow, with the character Adair McCleary, who had ahead-of-their-time brothers named brothers Hogan, Cagney and Quinn. Given to just 22 girls in a recent year (along with 59 boys), it remains a familiar but quietly used choice.
 
A name with several different sources, Adair may be considered a Scottish surname, derived from the name Edgar. As such, it would mean "wealthy spearman". Other possibilities are that it derives from the place name, Adare, meaning "ford of oak trees" or from the Irish Darragh, also relating to oak. In any of these cases, it is pronounced uh-DEHR. 
Adair may also be seen in Brazil, likely used as a variation on the Portuguese name, Ademar. Pronounced with three syllables ("a-du-EER"), it would mean "wealth and fame". Adair may make an appealing alternative to Addie, Ada, Blair, or Arde.

Adair

Adhya is a feminine name with Sanskrit origins, meaning 'first power' or 'the first.' In Hindu philosophy, Adhya represents the primal energy or the original goddess, often connected to Shakti, the divine feminine cosmic energy. The name carries spiritual significance as it relates to primordial beginnings and creative force. Gaining popularity among Indian families both in India and abroad, Adhya offers spiritual depth while remaining accessible and relatively easy to pronounce in various cultural contexts. The name has a contemporary feel despite its ancient origins, appealing to parents seeking a name with philosophical meaning. Adhya strikes a beautiful balance between cultural specificity and international adaptability, embodying strength and spiritual connection.

Adhya

Adia is a feminine name with origins spanning several cultures. In Swahili, it means 'gift,' while similar variations appear in Hebrew and Arabic traditions with meanings relating to 'adornment' or 'jewel.' The name gained some recognition in Western countries after Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan released a song titled 'Adia' in 1997. Despite this brief spotlight, the name remains relatively uncommon in most Western countries. Adia appeals to parents seeking a name with multicultural roots and positive connotations. Its brevity and melodic sound make it accessible across different languages and cultures. The name's four distinct vowels create a rhythmic, musical quality when spoken. While rare, Adia provides a beautiful alternative to more common 'A' names for girls.

Adia

Aelyn

Earthier version of the name of England's first female professional writer, Aphra Behn. 

Afra

A bright-sounding name with multicultural appeal, used regularly as a first name in Japan, Scandinavia, Latvia, and Spain.
 
The Yoruba name Aina, pronounced ah-ee-NAH, is traditionally used for baby girls born with the umbilical cord around their neck.

Aina

Alari

Alexi is a feminine name with Greek roots, derived from 'Alexis' meaning 'defender' or 'helper.' While Alexis is more common and used for both genders, Alexi represents a distinctly feminine variant. It carries the same strong meaning while offering a softer sound with the 'i' ending. Popular in Slavic countries and gaining recognition in English-speaking regions, Alexi blends classic origins with contemporary appeal. The name conveys strength and protection while maintaining a melodic quality. Though less common than similar names like Alexandra or Alexia, Alexi offers a distinctive choice that balances uniqueness with familiarity.

Alexi

Alilah

Analicia is a feminine name with Spanish and Portuguese roots. It appears to be a creative variation of names like Alicia (Spanish form of Alice) combined with the prefix 'Ana,' which derives from Hannah, meaning 'grace' in Hebrew. The combination creates a melodic, flowing name with a romantic quality typical of Latin naming traditions. While not among the most common names, Analicia offers a distinctive option that balances familiarity with uniqueness. The name has grown in popularity particularly in Hispanic communities and among parents seeking a name with Latin flair but a contemporary feel.

Analicia

Anapaula is a feminine name that combines two traditional names: Ana (Anne) and Paula. This compound name is particularly popular in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries, especially Brazil and Latin American nations. Ana derives from Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor,' while Paula comes from Latin origins meaning 'small' or 'humble.' Combining these creates a melodic name with rich historical connections to both Christian saints. The compound structure without a hyphen (Anapaula rather than Ana-Paula) is a modern styling that creates a unified identity while honoring traditional naming patterns. This flowing, four-syllable name maintains popularity in Portuguese and Spanish cultural contexts but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it an international flair while still being relatively accessible in pronunciation.

Anapaula

Andersyn

Anorah is a melodious feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Honora or Nora, derived from the Latin 'honor,' meaning 'honor' or 'dignity.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Hebrew name Anora, meaning 'light.' The name has a lyrical quality with its flowing vowels and gentle consonants. While relatively uncommon, Anorah has gained modest popularity in recent years as parents seek distinctive names with traditional roots. Its similarity to more familiar names like Norah provides accessibility while its unique spelling offers individuality. The name conveys a sense of grace and brightness, making it appealing to parents drawn to names with positive connotations and elegant sounds.

Anorah

Areya

Athina is a feminine name representing the Greek spelling of Athena, the powerful goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, mathematics, strength, war strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill in ancient Greek religion. This variant spelling stays closer to the original Greek 'Αθηνά' than the more anglicized Athena. The name has remained consistently popular in Greece and among Greek diaspora communities. Beyond its mythological significance, Athina projects strength, intelligence, and cultural heritage. In recent decades, as parents increasingly seek names with historical depth and powerful feminine associations, Athina has gained modest international recognition while remaining authentically connected to its Hellenic roots.

Athina

Atiana

This golden Saint name was familiar in Spain during the first half of the 20th century, however, it fell out of favor in the 60s. Usually written as Áurea, the similar sounding Aurora is often preferred today.

Aurea

Ayan is an African name heard for both sexes.

Ayan

This variation of the up-and-coming quirky and offbeat flower name Azalea — the original spelling of which just cracked the Top 500 — adds the trendy "lei" element seen in popular names Leia and Leilani.