International model names

Malaika is a feminine name of Swahili and Arabic origins, meaning 'angel' or 'good spirit.' In Swahili-speaking regions of East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, it's a commonly used name that carries spiritual significance. The name gained international recognition partly through the popular Swahili love song 'Malaika,' which has been covered by numerous international artists since the 1960s. While not widely used in Western countries, Malaika has seen some growth in multicultural communities. Parents are drawn to its melodic sound, meaningful etymology, and exotic yet accessible quality. The name combines spiritual depth with a gentle pronunciation that works well across linguistic boundaries.

Marga is a feminine name with roots in multiple cultures. It's primarily a diminutive of Margaret, which derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' In Spanish and German-speaking regions, Marga stands as a nickname or shortened form of Margarita or Margareta. The name carries an air of classic elegance while offering a more concise alternative to its longer forms. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Marga enjoys modest popularity in parts of Europe, particularly in Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands. The name conveys a sense of timeless grace and simplicity, making it appealing for parents seeking a traditional yet not overly common name for their daughters.

Yes, it's pronounced with a long o sound at the end, just like Margo and Margot. This spelling was popularized by supermodel, actress, and tragic Hemingway granddaughter Margaux, whose name spelling came courtesy of a bottle of French wine. (The original spelling of her name was Margot; she changed it when she heard her parents were drinking a bottle of Chateau Margaux the night she was conceived.) Margo itself is a diminutive of Margaret, which means "pearl" or, in its French version, "daisy." Margaret or Marguerite would be more stylish variations now.

Marine was trending for a long time in France, but the far right politician Marine (born Marion) LePen has dampened the mood.

A flinty mineral name that puts a feminine spin on Micah, or short form of the biblical Michal.

Mona had more than a moment in the sun, peaking in 1950 at Number 230 but falling off the Top 1000 completely in the late 1980s. Its similarity to the word "moaner" undercuts the appeal of its simplicity. In one recent year, fewer than 100 baby girls received the name, and we don't see it reviving any time soon.

Enticing modern nickname name possibility.

Well, parents are naming their children Eden and Heaven...so why not?

Officially a shortening of the traditional and tricky Gaelic Fionnghuala/Fionnuala, Nuala makes a lovely choice all on its own. Nuala is well-used in Ireland.

Odette is the good swan in Tchaikovsky's ballet Swan Lake, a role for which Natalie Portman won an Oscar ---and it would make a particularly soigne, sophisticated yet upbeat choice, unlike some of the more dated other 'ette'-ending names.

With its relation to Mount Olympus, home of the Greek gods, and to the Olympic games, this name has an athletic, goddess-like aura, making it the perfect Olivia substitute.

Ondria is a feminine name with a flowing, melodic quality. It likely derives as a variant of Andrea, which comes from the Greek 'andreia' meaning 'courage' or 'manly.' The unusual spelling gives this traditional name a fresh, distinctive feel. Another possible etymology connects it to names like Audrey or Ondine, the latter referring to water nymphs in mythology, giving Ondria subtle associations with water and mysticism. Though rare in most English-speaking countries, Ondria offers the familiar nickname options of Onnie or Dria. The name combines traditional roots with an uncommon spelling, making it recognizable yet distinctive. Its melodic sound with flowing vowels gives it an elegant, sophisticated quality while remaining accessible in pronunciation.