1798 Four Letter Girl Names
- Ivye
Description:
Ivye is a feminine name that likely evolved as a variant spelling of Ivy, which comes from the English word for the climbing evergreen plant. The modified spelling adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the natural association. Ivy itself has been used as a given name since the late 19th century, symbolizing fidelity, eternity, and strong attachment in the Victorian language of flowers. This variation with a 'ye' ending might be influenced by the trend toward unique spellings or may draw from older English orthographic patterns. Ivye remains uncommon, appealing to parents seeking nature-inspired names with a slightly unconventional presentation while retaining the brevity and botanical charm of the original.
- Umai
Origin:
TurkishMeaning:
"mother, placenta"Description:
In Turkish mythology, Umay was the mother goddess of the Earth, protecting women, children, and fertility. The name is derived from the Turkish root umāy, meaning "placenta." The placenta was considered to have incantatory properties, making Umay the ideal name for this goddess. Today, it's a well-used girl name in Turkey, along with Ece, another name for the goddess.
- Gari
Description:
Gari is a feminine name that can have multiple origins, depending on cultural context. As a feminine name, it may be a variant spelling of Gary (which was traditionally masculine, derived from Germanic elements meaning "spear" or from place names), adapted for feminine usage. In Japanese culture, Gari can have various meanings depending on the kanji characters used. This short, distinctive name has a modern, streamlined quality with its four letters and straightforward pronunciation. While uncommon as a feminine name in Western contexts, its brevity aligns with contemporary naming trends favoring short, distinctive names. Gari has a versatile quality that crosses cultural boundaries, potentially serving as a nickname for longer names like Garnet or Margaret. Its simplicity gives it a contemporary feel despite its potential traditional roots.
- Aoko
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"blue child"
- Veva
Description:
Veva is a feminine name with Latin and Spanish origins. It can be considered a diminutive of names like Genevieve or Genoveva, or it may stand as an independent name. In Spanish-speaking regions, Veva carries connotations of sweetness and charm. The name has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality for those who bear it. Veva's brevity and melodic sound make it appealing to parents seeking a simple yet elegant name. While not frequently found in popularity charts, Veva has persisted across generations, occasionally experiencing small revivals as parents search for unique alternatives to more common names.
- Tifa
Description:
Tifa is a feminine name that gained significant recognition through the character Tifa Lockhart in the popular video game series Final Fantasy VII. While the name has Japanese associations due to its appearance in Japanese gaming culture, it doesn't have traditional Japanese roots. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and open vowel ending. Prior to the game's release in 1997, Tifa was extremely rare, but has since developed a small but dedicated following among gaming enthusiasts and parents drawn to its modern, distinctive sound. The name carries associations of strength and loyalty based on the character's traits. Beyond gaming culture, Tifa appears occasionally in various cultures, sometimes as a variant of Tiffany or as a standalone modern creation.
- Dyan
Origin:
Variation of DianeDescription:
Dyan is an early 'creative spelling' publicized by actress Dyan Cannon, but a creative spelling can't revive an uncreative name. Modern parents would much prefer the classic Diana.
- Faan
Description:
Faan is a feminine name with Dutch and Frisian origins, though it can also appear in Chinese naming traditions with different meanings. In Dutch contexts, it likely emerged as a diminutive of names containing the element 'Fan-' or possibly as a short form of Stephanie or Frances. The name is characterized by its brevity and simplicity, making it distinctive yet uncomplicated. Faan remains quite rare internationally, primarily found in the Netherlands and among Dutch-speaking communities. Its usage has remained consistent but minimal throughout recent decades, giving it a unique quality appealing to parents seeking uncommon names. The name's straightforward pronunciation belies its cultural richness and historical connections to traditional Dutch naming patterns.
- Elbe
Description:
Elbe is an uncommon feminine name derived from the Elbe River, one of Central Europe's major waterways flowing through the Czech Republic and Germany before reaching the North Sea. As a given name, Elbe carries geographic and natural associations while offering a distinctive brevity. Its Germanic roots give it a European flavor, though it remains rare as a personal name worldwide. The name's connection to a powerful, historically significant river lends it connotations of strength and continuity. Elbe may appeal to parents with German heritage or those seeking short, distinctive names with natural elements. Its simplicity and unique character make it memorable despite its rarity in naming practices.
- Thao
Origin:
VietnameseMeaning:
"good-hearted; respectful; blooming"Description:
A name used for both sexes in native Vietnam, meaning "good-hearted" or "respectful of parents".
- Shaw
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"lives by the thicket"Description:
Shaw is a streamlined and more modern-sounding Shawn, with many notable surname namesakes.
- Ryen
Description:
Ryen is a contemporary feminine name that represents a modern spelling variation of Ryan. Originally an Irish surname derived from 'rí' meaning 'king' and 'an' as a diminutive, translating roughly to 'little king.' This spelling with an 'e' gives the traditionally masculine name a softer, more feminine feel while maintaining its strong Irish heritage. Ryen emerged as part of the trend toward gender-neutral names and creative spellings. Its simplicity and strong sound make it appealing to parents seeking a name that balances strength with modernity. Though less common than the traditional Ryan spelling, Ryen has gained some traction in recent decades as parents seek distinctive variations on familiar names. The single-syllable name carries a contemporary, streamlined quality that fits current naming trends.
- Nyna
Description:
Nyna is a feminine name with both Nordic and Slavic origins. In Nordic traditions, it's considered a variation of Nina, meaning 'little girl' or 'great-granddaughter.' In Slavic contexts, it derives from names ending with the diminutive '-yna' suffix, conveying affection. Some linguists also connect it to Greek roots where it could relate to 'Ann' meaning 'grace.' Nyna remains relatively uncommon in most Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its simple pronunciation and feminine sound have helped maintain modest but consistent usage across diverse cultures, particularly appealing to parents seeking an uncommon yet accessible name with cross-cultural appeal.
- Lyah
Description:
Lyah is a contemporary feminine name that likely emerged as a variation of names like Leah, Liah, or Lya. With its elegant simplicity, Lyah combines the popular 'L' beginning with a soft ending sound that parents are increasingly drawn to. The traditional name Leah has Hebrew origins meaning 'weary' or 'delicate,' though its biblical importance has overshadowed this somewhat somber meaning. As a modern variation, Lyah offers a fresh twist while maintaining the melodic quality of its root name. While still relatively uncommon, Lyah has gained some popularity in the 21st century as parents seek unique spellings of familiar names. The name has a graceful, somewhat exotic quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce.
- Thia
Description:
Thia is a short, feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive of names like Cynthia, Anthea, or Dorothea. Alternatively, it could derive from the Greek 'theia,' meaning 'goddess' or 'divine.' In some cultures, Thia might be connected to the Greek Titaness Theia, mother of the sun, moon, and dawn. The name has a delicate, melodic quality despite its brevity. While not among the most popular names, Thia has seen occasional use throughout the English-speaking world. Its simplicity, classic feel, and mythological connections appeal to parents seeking a short but meaningful name. Thia combines ancient roots with a contemporary sound that works well in today's naming landscape.
- Teda
Description:
Teda is an uncommon feminine name with several possible origins. It may be derived from the Germanic element 'theud' meaning 'people' or 'race,' connecting it to names like Theda and Theodora. Alternatively, it might relate to the Teda people, an ethnic group in Chad, Libya, and Niger. The name has a simple, melodic quality with its two syllables and balanced sound. Teda remains quite rare in contemporary usage, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking uncommon names. The straightforward pronunciation and spelling add to its accessibility despite its rarity. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, the name has an international quality that travels well across cultural boundaries. The brevity and clarity of Teda give it a modern feel despite potential ancient origins.
- Jann
Description:
Jann is a feminine name with multiple origins. It can be considered a feminine form of Jan (a Dutch/Scandinavian variant of John) or a short form of Janette or Janet. The name ultimately derives from Hebrew 'Yochanan' meaning 'God is gracious.' Jann has a crisp, modern sound despite its ancient roots. While never tremendously popular, the name has maintained steady usage throughout the decades, appealing to parents who appreciate its simplicity and strength. The streamlined spelling gives this classic-rooted name a contemporary edge, making it both timeless and fresh.
- Kivi
Description:
Kivi is a distinctive feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Finnish, it literally means 'stone' or 'rock,' symbolizing strength and permanence. The name also has Hebrew roots where it's a variation of Kiva, meaning 'protected' or 'sheltered.' In some African cultures, Kivi relates to words for joy or happiness. This short, melodic two-syllable name has a contemporary feel with its balanced vowel sounds. Though relatively uncommon in Western countries, Kivi's cross-cultural significance and natural imagery make it increasingly appealing to parents seeking a meaningful yet uncommon name for their daughters. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across languages.
- Clia
Origin:
Invented literary nameDescription:
Clia could be seen as a variation of Clea (probably another invented literary name), or the creation of L. Frank Baum for a mermaid Princess character in one of his Oz books. Offers a similar choice to Cleo vs Clio.
- Duce
Description:
Duce is an uncommon feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Italian, where 'duce' means 'leader' or 'duke,' though this connection carries historical complications due to its association with Mussolini's title during Fascist Italy. Alternatively, it could be a creative modern invention or a variation of more common names like Dulce (Spanish for 'sweet'). As a given name, Duce is extremely rare, particularly for girls. Parents might choose it for its distinctive sound and strong presence. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary feel, while its unusual nature ensures individuality. However, potential historical associations may influence perception in some cultural contexts.