I Girl Names
By msicitoxe
Updated Mon May 22 2023
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less familiar girl names starting with I
- Iara
Origin:
Variation of Yara, Arabic, TupiMeaning:
"small butterfly; lady of the water"Description:
Iara rhymes with Yara, an Arabic name of which it can be a variation. More commonly it's associated with Iara of Brazilian myth — a water nymph, sometimes mermaid, of Tupi and Guaraní legend. In the legends, Iara seduces men to the river to accompany her in her immortal life.
- Idalyne
Description:
Idalyne is a feminine name with likely Germanic and Greek influences, possibly combining elements of 'ida' (industrious or prosperous) with the suffix 'lyne,' a variation of 'line' meaning 'lake' or possibly derived from 'Helena' meaning 'bright, shining light.' This elegant, uncommon name carries a vintage charm while remaining distinctive. Idalyne has a melodious quality that flows beautifully when spoken. While not among mainstream popular names, it appeals to parents seeking something unique yet accessible. The name offers versatile nickname options including Ida, Iddy, or Lynnie. Idalyne's rarity gives it a special quality, allowing a child to have a name that stands out while still having classical roots and a pleasing sound.
- Idelle
Description:
Idelle is a delicate feminine name with French and Hebrew influences. It likely developed as a variant of Ida (meaning 'industrious' or 'prosperous') with the French diminutive suffix '-elle,' creating a name that suggests 'little Ida.' Alternatively, it may relate to the Hebrew 'Adel,' meaning 'noble.' Idelle enjoyed modest popularity in the early 20th century but has since become quite rare, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name conveys elegance, refinement, and a touch of old-world sophistication. With its soft sounds and romantic feel, Idelle might appeal to parents seeking a feminine name that's both unusual and classically beautiful.
- Ilaina
Description:
Ilaina is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Elena, Elaina, or Ilana. If connected to Elena/Elaina, it derives from Greek 'helene' meaning 'torch' or 'bright light.' If related to Ilana, it has Hebrew origins meaning 'tree' or 'oak tree.' This uncommon spelling creates a distinctive visual identity while maintaining a melodic pronunciation. Ilaina combines the flowing quality of multiple vowels with a gentle consonant framework, giving it an elegant, feminine sound. The name remains rare in English-speaking countries, appealing to parents seeking something familiar in sound but unusual in appearance. Ilaina's multiple potential origins give it cross-cultural appeal, while its lyrical quality creates an impression of grace and sophistication.
- Ilesha
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"earth lord"Description:
Ilesha is an unusual choice that will undoubtedly be confused with similar and far more common names such as Alicia and Elissa.
- Ilisa
Origin:
Scottish and English variation of Alisa and ElisaDescription:
Ilisa is a spelling variant that's less appealing than the original.
- Iliza
Description:
Iliza is a feminine name with several possible origins: it may be a variant of Eliza (itself a shortening of Elizabeth, meaning 'pledged to God' in Hebrew), a form of the Slavic name Ilsa or Ilse, or a creative modern variation. The name carries a distinctive, exotic quality with its crisp pronunciation and balanced rhythm. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Iliza has gained some recognition through contemporary namesakes, including American comedian Iliza Shlesinger. The name's international versatility makes it adaptable across cultural contexts while maintaining an elegant, sophisticated feel. With its melodious sound and unusual status, Iliza offers a distinctive alternative to more common Elizabeth derivatives while retaining subtle connections to this timeless name tradition.
- Imara
Origin:
KiswahiliMeaning:
"firm"Description:
This could make a hauntingly evocative name for an American child, striking the perfect balance of the unusual and the familiar. Imara's meaning adds further appeal placing it among the special class of girl names that mean strong, brave, or powerful.
- Inara
Origin:
Arabic, Basque, mythology, "shining light, enlightenment; sunray; goddess"Meaning:
"shining light, enlightenment; sunray; goddess"Description:
Inara is an appealing choice with multiple origins, currently in the Top 500 in the UK and the Netherlands. Gentle looking but bright in feel, it is also on the rise in the US, possibly owing to its use in Joss Whedon's hit sci-fi series Firefly, featuring main character, Inara Serra.
- Inaya
Origin:
Arabic, Bengali and UrduMeaning:
"care, concern"Description:
Inaya is a soft and expressive name that derives from the Arabic word "inayah", meaning "care, concern, help". It is an indirect Qur'anic name, and the strictly feminine form of the unisex Inayat.
- Inessa
Origin:
Russian variation of Ines; Spanish from GreekMeaning:
"pure, chaste"Description:
Inessa is a truly multi-cultural name, heard in Spain, Germany and Russia, and is related to the names Agnes and Ines/Inez.
- Iolana
Origin:
HawaiianMeaning:
"soaring like a hawk"Description:
Iolana is a hip-swaying, melodic, and unusual choice. Similar Hawaiian bird-themed choice: Iolani.
- Iona
Origin:
Scottish place-nameDescription:
This name of a small island off the coast of Scotland is trending upwards along with other I names.
- Irenea
Description:
Irenea is a feminine name derived from the Greek name Eirene (Εἰρήνη), meaning 'peace.' It represents an elaborate variation of the more common name Irene, with the added suffix giving it a more ornate, classical feel. Though rare in English-speaking countries, Irenea has historical usage in parts of Eastern Europe, Spain, and Latin America. The name carries the beautiful connotation of peacefulness and harmony that its Greek root implies. Throughout history, it has never reached widespread popularity, maintaining its status as an uncommon, distinctive choice. Irenea offers parents seeking a name with classical roots and meaningful symbolism a unique alternative to the more familiar Irene or Irina.
- Iris
Origin:
Flower name; GreekMeaning:
"rainbow"Description:
Iris has so much going for it. It's a fashionable flower name. It's a mythological name, from the Greek goddess of the rainbow. And it's a classic name, always ranking in the girls' Top 1000 but now at its highest point ever.
- Irisa
Description:
Irisa is a delicate feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Iris, the Greek name meaning 'rainbow' and associated with the goddess who served as a messenger between gods and humans. Another possibility is that it's derived from the Slavic name Irisha, a diminutive of Irina meaning 'peace.' Some may also see it as a creative variation of Irish or Irisha, giving it a connection to Ireland. Irisa has a modern, melodic quality with its soft sounds and rhythmic syllables. While not among the most common names, its uniqueness and gentle sound make it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. The name carries connotations of natural beauty, tranquility, and colorful vibrancy.
- Isaline
Origin:
French variation of IsabelleDescription:
A trendy name in France, sometimes also spelled Ysaline, that's related to both Isabelle and Iseult. To the American ear, it freshens up Isabelle without really improving on it.
- Ivanna
Origin:
Feminine of Ivan, which is itself a variation of JohnDescription:
Ivanna / Ivana both come out of the name "John" by way of the Russian variant Ivan. Whereas Joanna feels dated, Ivanna feels cosmopolitan and fresh. Ivanka (of Trump fame) is a diminutive version of Ivanna.
- Ivette
Origin:
French variation of YvetteDescription:
Feels more modern than the Y version but also less authentic.
- Idalie