Name options for kids
- Linden
Origin:
English tree nameMeaning:
"tree of the genus Tilla"Description:
Though this name of a sturdy tree that can live for centuries was quite popular for boys in the first half of the twentieth century, at this point in time we can see Linden as a fresh-sounding possibility for a little girl named to honor an Aunt Linda. Early pagans and Christians embraced the Linden as a holy tree, thought to aid healing and often planted near churches. The Linden is the mythological symbol of truth, peace, and justice; court cases and marriage ceremonies were often held beneath Linden trees. The Linden tree is associated with the goddess Freya.
- Linnea
Origin:
SwedishMeaning:
"twinflower, lime tree"Description:
Linnea is an attractive Scandinavian name that derives from the renowned 18th century Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, who developed the Linnean system of classifying plants and animals.
- Lucien
Origin:
French form of LucianMeaning:
"light"Description:
Sophisticated Gallic version of Lucian, Lucien may appeal to parents attracted to this meaning over that of Lucas and Luke, which have a different root, and also looking for a more unusual choice.
- Luciliano
Description:
Luciliano is an elaborate and melodious masculine name with Latin roots, likely derived from the Roman name Lucilius or Lucillus, diminutives of Lucius meaning "light" or "illumination." This ornate name combines the popular elements of Luciano and Emiliano into a distinctive yet recognizable form. Though relatively rare, Luciliano has particular appeal in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking regions where longer, flowing masculine names are traditional. The name carries a certain aristocratic flair while maintaining connections to the increasingly popular "Luc-" family of names. Its meaning associated with light gives it positive connotations of brightness, clarity, and hope.
- Lucius
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"light"Description:
Lucius is an old Roman clan name that has lots of religious and literary resonance, yet is still vital today. It was the name of three popes, appears in several Shakespeare plays, and, like all the names beginning with 'luc' relates to the Latin word for light.It was one of a limited number of forenames used in ancient Rome, and because of its meaning was often given to boys born at dawn.
- Lieu
- Mai
Origin:
Japanese, French, Welsh, Vietnamese, NavajoMeaning:
"dance; May; cherry blossom; coyote"Description:
Cross-cultural winner.
- Malin
Origin:
Scandinavian diminutive of MagdaleneMeaning:
"high tower or woman of Magdela"Description:
A multi-cultural name that's in the Norwegian Top 50 and well-used throughout the Scandinavian cultures. Malin has the advantage of being at once simple and unusual.
- Manu
Origin:
Finnish, Maori, Hawaiian, SanskritMeaning:
"greatest; bird; wise"Description:
An international name that, although short and simple, sounds strong and distinctive.
- Meelia
Description:
Meelia is a rare feminine name with a melodic, flowing quality. Its origins are somewhat obscure, though it may be related to Irish names like Melia (a variant of Amelia) or could be derived from Mila or Emilia. The double 'e' creates a distinctive sound and appearance that sets it apart from more common names. With its soft consonants and vowel-rich pronunciation, Meelia has a gentle, lyrical quality that aligns with contemporary naming trends favoring musical-sounding names for girls. Despite its rarity, the name feels intuitive to pronounce and has a familiar structure that makes it accessible. Meelia might appeal to parents seeking an uncommon name that still sounds feminine and graceful without being overly elaborate or difficult to spell.
- Meena
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"blue semiprecious stone, bird"Description:
Interesting multi-cultural option.
- Melba
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Australian opera singer Nellie Melba—self-named for her hometown of Melbourne—inspired this now-dated name more associated today with a peach dessert and dietetic toast.
- Melda
Description:
Melda is a feminine name with multicultural origins. In Turkish, Melda means 'young girl' or can refer to a graceful appearance. The name also has potential Italian roots, possibly derived from 'Imelda,' meaning 'universal battle' or 'powerful fighter.' With its simple two-syllable structure and melodic sound, Melda carries an elegant, somewhat vintage quality. Though not commonly used in English-speaking countries, the name enjoys moderate popularity in Turkey and parts of Southern Europe. Melda offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name that's recognizable but uncommon, combining strength and femininity in its various cultural meanings.
- Melea
Description:
Melea is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins, primarily Greek and Hawaiian. In Greek, it relates to 'meli' meaning 'honey,' suggesting sweetness and warmth. In Hawaiian tradition, it means 'gentle' or 'pleasant.' This cross-cultural appeal gives Melea versatility and global charm. The name has remained relatively uncommon but has seen quiet, consistent usage across diverse communities. Its melodious three-syllable structure flows beautifully when spoken, with an emphasis on the middle syllable. Melea offers a distinctive yet accessible alternative to more common names like Malia or Amelia. The name evokes qualities of gentleness, sweetness, and natural beauty, making it appealing to parents seeking a name that is both unique and meaningful, with positive associations across different cultural traditions.
- Meleana
Description:
Meleana is a beautiful Hawaiian feminine name with melodic qualities. It means 'continuous paradise' or 'ever-flowing heaven,' combining 'mele' (song or chant) with 'ana' (continuous). The name evokes images of tropical breezes and flowing waters, capturing the natural beauty of Hawaiian culture. While primarily used in Hawaii and among Hawaiian families, Meleana has gained some recognition in other parts of the United States as interest in Hawaiian names has grown. Its exotic sound and positive meaning make it appealing to parents seeking a name with cultural depth and natural beauty. Meleana remains relatively uncommon, offering uniqueness while still being approachable in pronunciation.
- Melena
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of Magdalena, variation of Melaina or MelinaMeaning:
"from the high tower; black, dark; honey"Description:
A short form of Magdalena in Dutch and a variation of Melaina, Melina, Melinda, Melanie, Milena and similar, Melena is also used for a character in the novel Wicked and the subsequent Broadway musical.
- Melia
Origin:
Greek mythology name, diminutive of Amelia, or HawaiianMeaning:
"ash tree; honey; work; plumeria"Description:
This is a rich, melodic shortening of the popular girls' name Amelia that can stand on its own. There are several figures in Greek myth named Melia, most notably a daughter of Oceanus. The Meliae are nymphs associated with trees.
- Melida
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"honey sweet"Description:
This alternative spelling to Melita does have an endearing feel about it, plus a quiet strength.
- Melinda
Origin:
English combination nameMeaning:
"beautiful honey"Description:
In the eighteenth century there was a poetic fad for names with the 'inda' sound, and, along with Belinda, Clarinda, Dorinda and Florinda, Melinda was one of those created at that time. It came into non-literary use in the 1840's, peaking in the U.S. in the late 1960s and 1970s: Melinda was a Top 100 name from 1967 to 1980. It began to fade as nickname Mindy ascended. Nowadays, however, Melinda feels more contemporary than cousins Melissa, Mindy, Belinda and Linda.
- Meline
Description:
Meline is a feminine name with Armenian origins, derived from the Greek name 'Melina,' meaning 'honey' or 'yellow.' In Armenian culture, it carries connotations of sweetness and warmth. The name has gained modest popularity in France and Armenia, while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Some parents choose Meline as an alternative to more popular names like Melanie or Madeline, appreciating its melodic sound and unique character. The name blends traditional roots with a contemporary feel, making it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible.