Names That Mean Joy

Sachiko was one of the first Japanese names familiar to Americans when it was used in the 1950s by actress Shirley Maclaine for her daughter, called the adorable short form Sachi. While Sachiko does not rank on the US Social Security baby names list, Sachi was given to 25 girls in the most recent year counted.

Aleeza is one of the most energetic of the legion of Alyssa/Alicia/Eliza names. Another spelling of Aleeza: Aliza.

A rare and beautiful name that could easily cross cultures.

A pretty and modern word name for a daughter, expressing great happiness.

Looks modern, but sounds like the dated Ronnie.

Intriguing twist on several familiar names, though many people will mistake this for Elsa, Eliza, and so on.

Gila and its variants have joyous meanings in Hebrew, but other kids might connect them to the monster.

The Indian name Saran is used primarily in Punjab among the Sikh population. As a West African name, Saran has its origins in the Jula language, spoken in Burkina Faso, the Ivory Coast, and Mali.

Diminutive of the Czech name Vojtech, a cognate of Polish Wojciech.

Has an evocative African beat.

An old favorite in traditional Jewish families.

A bit masculine in feel.

A beautiful meaning for a long-awaited child.

A beautiful meaning for a long-awaited child.

This charming West African mini name fits in with the other similarly short names that are all the rage right now. Ayo is enjoying new visibility thanks to actress Ayo Edebiri, star of TV's The Bear.

An Ethiopian name that means "joy."

A joyful Yoruba name which would be perfect for a long-awaited baby.

An ancient elfin name borne by a granddaughter of Alfred the Great. The name appeared on a character in The Lost Kingdom, a ruler of Mercia.

Gay, nearly giddy, gee-whiz feel; also too reminscent of a gila monster.