Cool Underused Names for Girls
- Parisa
Origin:
Iranian, PersianMeaning:
"like a fairy"Description:
Funny how one letter can turn a name from ordinary to special. Parisa is so much more distinctive than either Marisa or Paris, with its sparkly meaning. It ultimately comes from the Persian word parī, used to describe a fairy, sprite, or similar.
- Scotia
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"Scotland"Description:
Place names can be a nod to your cultural heritage or a commemoration of a favorite destination. Scotia comes from the Latin name for Scotland, which may be a perfect fit for a family of Scottish heritage if Scotland feels too on-the-nose. Caledonia is another possibility, used by the Romans for the land north of Hadrian's Wall in England, which marked the upper boundary of the Roman Empire. And Nova Scotia (meaning "new Scotland") is also the name of a Canadian province.
- Kalila
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"beloved"Description:
The lilting name of a range of mythical mountains, with an extensive menu of spellings, and a more unusual way of fitting in with current favorites Lila and Lola.
- Dione
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"divine queen"Description:
In Greek mythology the mother of Aphrodite by Zeus, and also one of Saturn's moons; this is an astral name quite distinct from the better known Dionne.
- Daffodil
Origin:
Flower name, from GreekMeaning:
"asphodel"Description:
Yes, though it seems so extreme, girls were actually sometimes given this name a century ago; now it is so uncommon it would make a strong springtime statement. Biggest obstacle: the nickname Daffy.
- Wendeline
Description:
Wendeline is a feminine name that serves as an elaborate form of Wendy or a feminine version of Wendell. The name has Germanic roots, likely connected to the elements 'wand' meaning 'to wander' and 'lin' being a diminutive suffix. Some might also connect it to Wendel, referring to the Vandals, a Germanic tribe. Though rare in modern usage, Wendeline has a graceful, old-world quality with its flowing syllables and elegant ending. The name gained minor recognition through Saint Wendelin, a Germanic hermit and abbot, though the feminine form has less historical documentation. Potential nicknames include Wendy, Lina, or Dell. The name appeals to parents drawn to vintage-sounding names with German or European heritage, offering familiarity through its connection to Wendy while remaining distinctively uncommon.
- Janvier
Origin:
French word nameMeaning:
"January"Description:
Used in France as a male name, this would make an appealing and unusual choice, as would two other Gallic month names, Avril and Mai.
- Faun
Description:
Faun is a delicate feminine name derived from Roman mythology, where fauns were woodland deities or nature spirits, often depicted as half-human, half-goat creatures similar to the Greek satyrs. The name evokes images of enchanted forests, mystical creatures, and a connection to the natural world. In literature, fauns have been portrayed as playful, musical beings, adding to the name's artistic associations. As a personal name, Faun has remained quite rare, appealing to parents drawn to uncommon mythological names with a whimsical quality. The name's brevity and soft sound give it an ethereal, graceful quality. Faun may also appeal to nature-loving parents seeking a subtle botanical or woodland-inspired name that references the magic and mystery of the natural world.
- Quincie
Description:
Quincie is a feminine name that appears to be a creative variation of Quincy, which originated as an English surname derived from the Latin name Quintus, meaning 'fifth.' This feminized spelling adds a playful, delicate touch to the more traditional form. While Quincy has historically been used primarily for boys, this variant with the 'ie' ending decisively shifts it into feminine territory. The name has a spirited, somewhat preppy quality while remaining uncommon enough to be distinctive. Quincie combines the trend of surname-inspired first names with modern spelling adaptations. The name has a bright, energetic sound and offers the cute nickname option 'Quinn.' Though relatively rare in official records, Quincie represents the contemporary trend of adapting traditionally masculine names for girls.
- Giza
Description:
Giza is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Egyptian roots, sharing its name with the famous plateau where the Great Pyramids stand. In this context, it carries historical and mysterious connotations. Alternatively, it could be related to the Hungarian diminutive of Gizella, which comes from the Germanic name Gisela meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage' in its ancient context. The name has a striking quality with its distinctive 'z' sound and compact form. Though uncommon in most Western countries, Giza may hold greater familiarity in Eastern European and North African regions. Its cross-cultural nature makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with international resonance and historical depth.
- Yamina
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"right, proper"Description:
Attractive Middle Eastern choice used in a variety of spellings.
- Valetta
Origin:
Latin place and surnameDescription:
This name of the major Maltese city takes on an air of attractiveness via model Amber Valletta, making it an appealing alternative to the overexposed Valerie and Vanessa.
- Barbarella
Description:
Barbarella is a feminine name that gained recognition primarily through the 1968 science fiction film of the same name featuring Jane Fonda. It's an elaboration of Barbara, which comes from Greek meaning 'foreign woman' or 'stranger.' The '-ella' suffix adds a diminutive, affectionate quality. Barbarella carries a distinctly retro, space-age vibe that evokes the 1960s era of futurism and innovative style. While uncommon as a given name, it possesses a playful, bold character that sets it apart. Those named Barbarella might appreciate the name's associations with a strong, adventurous female character and its unique pop culture legacy combining femininity with futuristic flair.
- Venisa
Description:
Venisa is a delicate feminine name with uncertain etymology, though it may be a variant of Venice, the beautiful Italian city of canals, or possibly a variation of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. The name has a melodic, romantic quality with its soft sounds and flowing rhythm. Venisa remains quite rare in usage, never having appeared in the top 1000 names in the United States. Its uniqueness makes it appealing to parents seeking an uncommon yet feminine-sounding name with subtle European flair. The name carries connotations of beauty, elegance and romance, influenced by its possible connections to Venice or Venus.
- Janne
Origin:
Danish and Norwegian diminutive of JohannaMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
This common name for both boys and girls in Scandinavia would definitely work better as a feminine name in the U.S.
- Athene
Description:
Athene is a feminine name derived from Greek mythology, where Athena was the goddess of wisdom, courage, strategic warfare, and crafts. This variant spelling offers a slightly softer pronunciation than the more common Athena. The name carries strong associations with intelligence, strength, and creativity—attributes of the goddess herself. Though less popular than Athena, Athene has appealed to parents drawn to classical mythology and seeking names with powerful feminine connotations. The name has an elegant, timeless quality that works well across various cultures. Athene offers the distinctive heritage and meaning of its mythological origin while providing a slightly more unique option than the standard spelling, making it appealing for parents who appreciate classical references with a subtle difference.
- Orabella
Origin:
Latin variation of ArabellaMeaning:
"beautiful altar"Description:
Lacks the vintage charm of the original Arabella, but with the love for all names Bella, it might appeal to some.
- Arionna
Description:
Arionna is a feminine name that emerged as a modern variation of names like Arianna or Ariana. With Greek origins, it connects to the element 'ari' meaning 'excellence' or 'best,' though the specific form Arionna is a contemporary creation rather than an ancient name. The double 'n' spelling gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining its melodic pronunciation. Arionna began gaining modest popularity in the United States during the early 2000s, appealing to parents seeking names with classical roots but modern flair. The name carries a musical quality with its flowing vowels and soft consonants. While less common than similar names like Arianna, it provides familiarity with a touch of uniqueness. Arionna projects elegance and individuality while remaining accessible and feminine.
- Reinhilde
Description:
Reinhilde is a feminine name of Germanic origin, combining 'rein' meaning 'pure' or 'clean' and 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'conflict.' This powerful combination creates a meaning along the lines of 'pure warrior' or 'clean battle.' Common in Germanic countries historically, particularly Germany and Austria, Reinhilde carries a strong medieval resonance. While less frequently used in modern times, it represents a connection to Germanic heritage and mythology. The name conveys qualities of strength, purity, and resilience. Reinhilde might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical depth and a powerful meaning reflecting courage and integrity.
- Xylda
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
One of many distinctive names in the show and book series Midnight, Texas by Charlaine Harris -- and one of very few girl's names that start with the letter X.