Three Letter Girl Names
- Zea
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"grain"Description:
An unusual possibility; Zea would fit right in with schoolmates named Tea and Leya.
- Sua
Origin:
Chinese; Korean; BasqueDescription:
Sua is a short and sweet name with many different origins, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Basque. It would make a fresh and offbeat honor name for a familial Sue.
- Mía
Description:
Mía is a feminine name of Spanish origin, though it's become popular across many cultures. The name functions as a standalone name but is also a diminutive of Maria in Spanish-speaking countries. Mía means 'mine' in Spanish, conveying a sense of preciousness and endearment. In other contexts, it relates to the Italian word 'mia' (also meaning 'mine') or may be a shortened form of names like Amelia or Emilia. The name gained significant international popularity in the early 21st century, appreciated for its brevity, melodic quality, and cross-cultural appeal. The accent mark emphasizes the second syllable, giving it a distinctive pronunciation. Mía projects sweetness and strength in equal measure, making it a favorite for parents seeking a name that works across languages and cultures.
- Ewa
Description:
Ewa is a feminine name primarily used in Polish culture as a variant of Eve or Eva. Its origins trace back to the Hebrew name Chavah, meaning 'life' or 'living one.' In Biblical tradition, Eve was the first woman created by God. This short, two-syllable name has a simple elegance with its clear vowel sounds. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ewa is well-established in Poland and some other Eastern European nations. The name combines ancient religious heritage with a clean, modern sound. Its brevity makes it practical across language barriers, though English speakers might mispronounce it as 'EE-wah' rather than the correct 'EH-vah.' Ewa offers a subtle international flair while maintaining connections to one of the most recognizable female names in Western tradition.
- Aoi
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"bluish"Description:
A very popular girls' name in Japan with an unfortunate English pronunciation: picture a toddler with a hurt knee saying "owee."
- Bri
Description:
Bri is a feminine name that originated primarily as a diminutive of longer names like Brianna, Brielle, Sabrina, or Gabrielle. This short, bright name has gained popularity as a standalone option since the early 2000s, reflecting the modern trend toward brief, unfussy names. Bri has a contemporary feel with its single syllable and straightforward pronunciation, yet it carries the warmth and familiarity of more traditional names. Its simplicity makes it versatile across various cultures and languages. While still more common as a nickname, Bri has established itself as a legitimate given name that conveys a sense of friendliness and approachability while maintaining a touch of spirited independence.
- Uli
Description:
Uli is a feminine name of German origin, derived as a diminutive of names containing the element 'ul' or 'uodal' meaning 'heritage' or 'inheritance'. It can also be considered a short form of Ulrike, the feminine version of Ulrich. In some cultures, Uli is used as a unisex name, though it's more commonly given to girls in its feminine form. The name carries connotations of ancestral strength and tradition. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Uli has maintained modest popularity in Germany and other European regions. Its simple, two-syllable structure gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.
- Fen
Origin:
English, Dutch, FrisianMeaning:
"marshland; peace"Description:
In English, a fen is a wetland fed by surface and/or groundwater. In Dutch and Frisian, it's a traditional diminutive of names containing the element frid, meaning "peace".
- Ita
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"thirst"Description:
The name of one of the most famous medieval Irish saints, who was known as "the foster-mother of the saints," and founded a nunnery in the county of Limerick. Might be of interest to someone looking for an unusual 3-letter name.
- Fio
Origin:
Italian diminutive of names that start with Fio-Meaning:
"flowering; little flower"Description:
Traditionally a short form for Italian names such as Fiorella and Fiorenza, Fio could easily be put directly on the birth certificate today.
- Dae
Description:
Dae is a concise feminine name of East Asian origin, particularly Korean, where it means 'greatness' or 'big.' In Korean contexts, it can be a standalone name or part of a compound given name. The name also appears in other cultures with varying meanings - in Welsh mythology, Dae relates to birds. As a modern given name, Dae appeals to parents seeking minimalist names with cross-cultural appeal. Its brevity makes it practical across languages, while its positive meaning and soft sound give it a gentle yet empowered quality. Though uncommon in Western countries, Dae has gained some popularity as parents increasingly look to international naming traditions.
- Non
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"nun"Description:
The legendary St. Non was the mother of St. David, the patron saint of Wales. David was raised in a convent by his mother and went on to become a great teacher and bishop. Non is also known as Nonna and Nonita, and is associated with Cornwall and Brittany along with Wales. While the name Non is well-used in Wales, it is largely unknown in the US and maybe be heard as the negative word "none" or prefix "non".
- Umi
Origin:
Japanese, Malay, IndonesianMeaning:
"sea; mother"Description:
Stylish and simple, Umi is an ocean inspired Japanese name that may appeal to those who enjoy Lumi, Rumi, and Una. It appears in the popular anime series, Love Live
- Roy
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"red"Description:
If girls have adopted Ray, why not Roy.
- Lys
Origin:
Diminutive of Elisabeth or FrenchMeaning:
"lily"Description:
Lys is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In French, it derives from 'fleur-de-lis' meaning 'lily,' a flower symbolizing purity and the French monarchy. In Welsh and Scandinavian contexts, Lys relates to 'light' or 'brightness.' This concise, single-syllable name carries an elegant simplicity while retaining deep symbolic connections. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Lys has maintained steady usage in France, Denmark, and the Netherlands. The name's brevity makes it distinctive in an era of longer feminine names, while its cross-cultural roots give it versatility. For parents seeking minimalist naming choices with historical depth and natural symbolism, Lys offers a refined yet understated option.
- Bex
Origin:
Short form of RebeccaDescription:
Modern, mini nickname for Rebecca, much fresher than Becca or Becky.
- Edy
Description:
Edy is a feminine name that can be considered a diminutive or variant spelling of Edith, which comes from Old English elements meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'war, strife,' combining to suggest 'prosperous in war' or 'blessed fighter.' This simplified spelling gives the traditional name a more modern, concise feel. While Edith has historical significance and has experienced periods of popularity, Edy remains relatively uncommon, offering a fresh take on the classic. The name has a simple, friendly quality while maintaining connections to its more formal counterpart. Edy can also occasionally be used as a nickname for other names beginning with 'Ed' like Edwina or Edna.
- Dim
Description:
Dim is a feminine name with various origins and meanings across cultures. In Slavic contexts, particularly Russian, it functions as a diminutive of names like Dimitri or Dmitry. In Vietnamese, Dim can be found as a given name with various meanings depending on the tone and context. As an English word name, it carries associations with softness, subtlety, and understated qualities. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal, making it unusual but accessible. While uncommon in most Western countries, Dim may appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive, short name. Its simplicity allows it to work across language barriers, though English speakers might hesitate due to the word's negative connotations of lacking brightness or intelligence.
- Fan
Description:
Fan is a feminine name with diverse cultural origins. In Chinese, it can mean 'sail' or 'to float,' symbolizing freedom and movement. The name may also be derived as a nickname from Frances or Fanny in Western contexts. In East Asian cultures, Fan carries connotations of elegance and refinement. While not commonly used as a standalone given name in Western countries, it enjoys moderate popularity in China and among Chinese diaspora communities. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal that crosses cultural boundaries, though its unconventional nature in Western contexts might lead to occasional confusion with the word for a mechanical cooling device or an enthusiastic supporter.
- Agi
Description:
Agi is a diminutive feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hungarian, it serves as a nickname for Agnes, meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' It also appears in Japanese culture with various meanings depending on the kanji characters used. In Finnish, Agi can be a short form of Agatha. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its brevity and soft sound make it appealing to parents seeking a simple yet unique name with cross-cultural appeal. While not frequently found in popularity charts, Agi offers a concise alternative to more common diminutives.
