Lopes da Silva (female names, Part 3 of 12)

This a-ending feminine form of Adrian, from the northern Italian city of Adria, is a soft and lovely Italian choice. It appears as a character in Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors.

A popular spelling variation of Adriana.

Though perhaps not as currently stylish as Ruby, Jade, or Pearl, Amber has a colorful history (remember the notorious Forever Amber heroine?). Unfortunately, it does come with the "Amber Alert" connotation for modern parents (and their children).

Anny is a charming feminine name that serves as a variant of Annie, which itself originated as a diminutive of Ann/Anne. The root name derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' This particular spelling with a 'y' ending gives the name a slightly more whimsical, modern feel while maintaining the warm, friendly qualities associated with Annie. Anny has seen varying levels of usage across different English-speaking countries and is also found in several European countries including France and Czech Republic. While not as common as the traditional Annie spelling, Anny offers a subtle twist on a classic name, providing familiarity with a touch of distinctive character. Its brevity and friendly sound make it both accessible and endearing.

This name of a minor character in the Old Testament, also spelled Atara, has a softly pleasing sound. In the Old Testament, Atarah was a descendant of Judah.

The goddess name Aurora has consistently been on the US popularity list since the nineteenth century, but has really taken off in the past 30 years. Aurora also enjoys remarkable international popularity, ranking in the Top 100 throughout the English-speaking world as well as in Italy, Spain, Norway, Switzerland, and several other European and Latin American countries.

Like Benita, had some popularity in the fifties.

Though a couple of its more "creative" spellings—Carli and Karlee, for example—are still on the rise, this feminine form of Carl, popularized by singer Carly Simon in the 1970s, could by no stretch be considered fashionable. Despite its decline, the name has still seen some use in the entertainment industry, from Nickelodeon's iCarly to Canadian pop singer Carly Rae Jepsen.

Carrie lives on mainly on the screen, as the new/old antiheroine of Stephen King's classic Carrie, as turn-of-the-21st-century diva Carrie Bradshaw of Sex & The City, and as Claire Danes' Emmy-winning character Carrie Mathison of Homeland.

Ceris is a feminine name with Welsh origins, often associated with the cherry tree or cherry fruit. This concise, two-syllable name (pronounced either as KEH-ris or SEH-ris) carries natural symbolism and beauty. In Welsh tradition, Ceris connects to sweetness, fertility, and the renewal of spring. Though relatively uncommon even in Wales, it represents a distinctive alternative to more popular nature-inspired names. Ceris has remained somewhat under the radar internationally but appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage that's both recognizable and unique. Its brevity and soft sound give it a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots. The name's connection to cherries also links it to qualities of sweetness, vitality, and natural beauty.

A Native American tribe name which is found in the names of two US states, Dakota was one of the first trendy nineties place names, but is now flagging a little in popularity. The cultural question around using a Native American tribe name as a baby name may be partly to blame.

Sometimes used on its own. See DANI.

Though still being used, Deanna peaked many decades ago.

Has a sweetness via its relation to such words as dulcet; other similar possibilities are DULCE, DULCINA, and the down-home DULCIE. Though this Latin names for girls is rarely heard in contemporary times in this form, Dulcie is found.

Elida is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. In Greek tradition, it's connected to Elis, an ancient Greek district and city, offering historical depth. The name also appears in Norse mythology as a variant of Hlíð, meaning 'slope' or 'hillside.' In Spanish-speaking communities, Elida has gained modest popularity, possibly as a variation of Elidia or Adelida. The name possesses a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft consonants. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Elida has maintained consistent, if minimal, usage throughout the 20th century. The name strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness—recognizable in structure but uncommon enough to stand out. Its cross-cultural presence makes it versatile for families with diverse heritage connections.

This name is closely identified with Emmylou Harris, the singer who gives dignity to an old-style combo name. There were over 60 baby girls named Emmylou in the US last year, due the the popularity of all names Em-related and the stylish middle name Lou.