Favourite girls names

Annika is a surprise hit of recent years, inspired by golfer Sorenstam; for Trekkies, it was also the name of a 'Star Trek:Voyager' character. Some people's first memory of it might be as Pippi Longstocking's friend. A nice namesake for an ancestral Ann.

Brigette is a feminine name representing a French-influenced variant of Bridget, which derives from the Irish name Brighid, meaning 'exalted one' or 'strength.' The original Brighid was an important Celtic goddess associated with poetry, healing, and craftsmanship, later syncretized with Saint Brigid of Kildare. This particular spelling with 'g' instead of 'd' and the French-style '-ette' ending gives the name a sophisticated, continental flair while maintaining its Celtic heritage. Brigette enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century but remains less common than the traditional Bridget or Brigid forms. The name carries associations of strength, creativity, and elegance, making it appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth, feminine charm, and a slightly distinctive spelling.

Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.

Melodic and lively, Delilah has cut itself (mostly) free from its treacherous past to become a contemporary favorite.

Imogen has long been fashionable in England and is gaining favor in the US among stylish parents. Pronounced the British way — the initial i is short as in Kim, as is the final E as in Ken — Imogen is as pretty and classy as it is distinctive.

Quinn is one of the first popular Irish unisex surnames, a strong and attractive choice on the rise for girls but still popular for boys. Quinn was used for about 2600 baby girls and 600 boys in the US last year.