G Girls

Floral, bright, and subtly powerful, Gaia is a name with two separate origins. In Greek mythology, it is the name of the earth goddess and the universal mother, who takes her epithet from the Ancient Greek word for land or ground. It was this ecological element that led actress Emma Thompson to choose it for her daughter back in 1999, and it could hold similar appeal to green minded parents today.

Genevieve is derived from the Germanic medieval name Genovefa, or Kenowefa, which consists of the elements kuni, meaning "kin", and wefa, meaning "woman." The medieval saint Genevieve, patroness of Paris, defended the city against Attila the Hun through her rational thinking, courage and prayer.

A short form for a whole variety of names, this short form has been used across Europe as a stand-alone since the 1920s. It spiked in popularity in the 1950s, owing to the fame of Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida but faded out of use in the 2000s. A sweet and sparky name akin to Nina and Mina, some parents in English speaking countries may be concerned about teasing potential, though it was still given to around 115 girls in the US in a recent year. Popular in Spain, it is borne by martial artist Gina Carano, and actresses Gina Gershon, Gina Rodriguez, Gina Torres, and Gina McKee.

The Spanish travelling or Romani community are called Gitanos, and Gitana is the feminine word. The term evolved from the Old Spanish word egiptano "Egyptian".

One case where the English version -- Josephine -- is far preferable.

Greta is an Old World name long tied to the iconic Garbo, but now synonymous with environmental activism.

Like Greta, Gretchen is a German Margaret diminutive that has become an American quasi-classic, though not much used today, having dropped off the list in 2009. She was at her high point in the 1970s, making it into the top 200.

Grethe is a feminine Scandinavian name, primarily used in Norway and Denmark, that functions as a variant of Greta or Margaret. Its ultimate origins trace back to the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' In Scandinavian usage, Grethe has maintained steady popularity for centuries, representing a cultural touchstone that connects to Nordic heritage. The pronunciation typically follows 'GRAY-tuh' or 'GREH-tuh' depending on the specific Scandinavian language. While less common outside Nordic countries, it has gained some international recognition. Grethe carries a distinctive sound that's both accessible to English speakers and authentically Scandinavian. The name projects strength and simplicity, characteristics often associated with Scandinavian culture and design aesthetics.

Gretl is a diminutive form of Margaret, used primarily in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria. The name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl,' with Gretl emerging as an affectionate, familiar version. Most famously associated with the younger sister in the Von Trapp family (portrayed in 'The Sound of Music'), Gretl carries folkloric charm and Alpine cultural associations. The name has a warm, endearing quality with its compact form and distinctive ending. While uncommon outside German-speaking countries, Gretl offers an appealing alternative to the more widely used Gretel or Greta. The name evokes a sense of European heritage and traditional charm, making it attractive to parents seeking a name with cultural specificity and historical character.

Griselda is a famous folklore figure, noted for her patience and obedience. Her story has been told by Petrarch, Chaucer, Boccaccio and set to music by Scarlatti, Vivaldi and Massenet.

Gunhilde is a strong feminine name with Norse and Germanic origins, combining elements meaning 'war' or 'battle' with 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'female warrior.' This powerful ancient name was borne by various notable women in Norse and Germanic history, including Gunhild of Denmark, a 10th-century Danish queen. The name embodies feminine strength and warrior spirit, reflecting the valuation of courage and fortitude in Nordic cultures. While uncommon in contemporary Western naming practices, Gunhilde maintains appeal for those interested in Norse heritage or seeking names with powerful historical associations. The name's distinctive sound and spelling make it unmistakable, and its warrior etymology makes it particularly meaningful for parents who wish to bestow qualities of strength and resilience upon their daughters.

While Gwen may have originated as a short form of Gwendolen and Gwendolyn, these days it frequently stands on its own. Rocker Gwen Stefani has given it a shot of cool, and parents are choosing it as a standalone more and more often—Gwen hopped back onto the US Top 1000 in 2013 after an absence of over 30 years. Gwen could also be short for Guinevere.

One spelling variation that's more popular than the original, this somewhat old-fashioned name might be in honor of poet Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African-American to win a Pulitzer prize for poetry, or may be a way to get to the modern short form Gwen.