Tzeitel Ahava's Favorite Girls' Names

A soft and lovely Hebrew name with an equally lovely meaning. Variations include Ahavah, Ahaba, Ahabah, Ahuva and Ahuvah.

Aliza might seem like yet another variation of the eternal Alyssa/Alicia/Eliza loop, but it's a distinct name all its own. The z adds zip.

This pretty palindrome name is rarely heard in the US, but could make an interesting namesake for an aunt or grandma Ann. It's also a German diminutive form of Anna.

Unknown but eminently usable choice, especially for Jewish parents, with lovely meaning.

Aviva is vivacious and memorable, a fresh spin on the Vivian and Vivienne names that have been getting more popular since Angelina and Brad chose one for their twin daughter. Another A-beginning palindrome name: Aziza.

This floral name, related to bloom and Blossom, is common in the Jewish community, but not often heard outside it. Other Yiddish nature names are Ita (star), Masha (rising water), and Mayim (water).

Affirmative adjective occasionally used as a name.

The Biblical name of a great prophet and judge who helped organize an army and effect a major victory over the Canaanites. Sounds much fresher than the Anglicized Deborah.

Esther was derived from the Old Persian word stāra, meaning "star." In the Old Testament, Esther, originally named Hadassah, was the captured Jewish wife of the King of Persia who risked her life to save her exiled people from annihilation. This story is celebrated by Jews on the holiday of Purim, so that it has traditionally been given to girls around that time.

An old favorite in traditional Jewish families.

Freyde is a feminine name with Yiddish origins, traditionally used in Jewish communities. It derives from the Yiddish word for 'joy' or 'happiness' (פרײדע), making it a name with inherently positive connotations. The name was relatively common among Ashkenazi Jewish women in Eastern Europe before the mid-20th century but became less frequent following population displacements during World War II. While uncommon in mainstream usage today, Freyde has seen some renewed interest among families seeking to honor their Jewish heritage. The name carries cultural and historical significance while conveying a beautiful sentiment. Alternative spellings include Freide, Frayda, and Fraida. Its distinctive sound and meaningful origins make it a thoughtful choice for parents drawn to names with clear positive meanings and cultural depth.

Hodel is a feminine Yiddish name that gained recognition as one of Tevye's daughters in the musical "Fiddler on the Roof." The name has Jewish origins and may be related to the Hebrew word "hodaya" meaning "praise" or "thanksgiving." Historically used in Eastern European Jewish communities, Hodel carries cultural significance representing tradition and family bonds. The name remains relatively uncommon outside Jewish communities but has a warm, vintage appeal. Its connection to the beloved musical character—who shows independence and questions tradition—has given the name associations with strength of character and the courage to follow one's heart.

Strong but sweet, Leah is a classic name that doesn't feel dull or dusty. It's got plenty of dignity, grace, and pluck, making it a solid choice in the 21st century.

A light-sounding name with a great meaning that could also appeal to non-Yiddish speakers. It is quite rare in the US, but on an upwards trend.

Lili has been blooming in many forms for a couple of decades now. The Lili version will surely get more attention now that the Duke and Duchess of Susses, aka Harry and Meghan, are using is as a short form for their daughter Lilibet Diana's name. Lili makes the slight and light though that is not necessarily a bad thing; it also mutes the name's floral identity and gives it a cute and quirky repetitive spelling, ala Coco and Lulu. A famous German song is titled Lili Marlene.

Naomi was once a primarily Jewish name from the Old Testament that referenced the mother-in-law of Ruth. Because of this, it is a symbolic name given to girls on Shavuot when the story of Ruth is read in the synagogue.

A jewel-encrusted choice, far more unusual than Pearl.

Rachel was derived from the Hebrew word rāchēl, meaning "ewe." In the Old Testament, Rachel was the favorite wife of Jacob, and mother of Joseph and Benjamin. International variations include the Spanish Raquel and Israeli Rahel.