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Short-ish Names for Girls

  1. Glenda

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Glenn, English, Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "valley"

    • Description:

      Part nature name, part mid-century favorite, Glenda came into use in the 20th century as a feminine form of Scottish Glenn, likely inspired by Linda and Wanda too. While Glenn would give it the meaning "valley", if you do consider it a smoosh name with Linda, Wanda, or Brenda, you get means such as "beautiful valley", "tender valley", "Wend's valley", "sword valley" or "fire valley".
  2. Tabby

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Tabitha, Aramaic

    • Meaning:

      "gazelle"

    • Description:

      Feline nickname for Tabitha — a bewitching vintage choice.
  3. Dacia

    • Origin:

      Latin place-name

    • Description:

      Dacia is an ancient place-name -- it was in Eastern Europe -- as lacy as Dacey, but more substantial.
  4. Ragna

    • Description:

      Ragna is a feminine name with deep Norse roots, derived from the Old Norse elements "regin" meaning "advice, counsel, or divine powers" and "ar" meaning "warrior." It can be interpreted as "warrior of the gods" or "divine counselor." Historically significant in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Iceland, Ragna was carried by several notable figures in Norse sagas. The name experienced a modest revival in the early 21st century as interest in Norse mythology and Viking heritage increased. Ragna projects an image of strength, wisdom, and connection to ancient traditions. Its distinctive sound and powerful meaning appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and feminine strength outside mainstream options.
  5. Skya

    • Description:

      Skya is a modern feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a creative variation of 'Sky' or 'Skye,' referencing the heavens and conveying a sense of limitlessness and freedom. The name could also have Scandinavian or Scottish influences, possibly relating to the Isle of Skye in Scotland. Some parents might choose Skya as a unique spelling of the Sanskrit-derived 'Skaya,' meaning 'branch' or 'protection.' With its compact, flowing sound and distinctive appearance, Skya appeals to parents seeking something contemporary yet meaningful. Though rare in statistical records, the name's connection to nature and the celestial realm gives it appealing symbolic depth.
  6. Aleeza

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "joy"

    • Description:

      Aleeza is one of the most energetic of the legion of Alyssa/Alicia/Eliza names. Another spelling of Aleeza: Aliza.
  7. Merla

    • Description:

      Merla is a feminine name with varied origins and meanings across cultures. In Spanish, it derives from "merlo" meaning "blackbird," symbolizing beauty and grace. It can also be considered a variation of Merle, which has Germanic roots meaning "famous" or "bright." In some contexts, Merla appears as a shortened form of names like Merlinda or Merilda. The name has never achieved widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, remaining distinctive and uncommon. Merla peaked in usage in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s but has since become quite rare. The name carries a vintage charm while maintaining a simple, melodic quality that feels both familiar and unique.

  8. Sabrine

    • Origin:

      French form of Sabrina, British river name

    • Description:

      Sabrina is the Latin name for the Severn, Britain's longest river. Drop the final syllable and you get a streamlined, French-esque name that's just as elegant, but without the Teenage Witch association. Sabrine has been used in the USA since 1970, but never for more than 18 girls a year — that makes it a rare gem.
  9. Calais

    • Origin:

      French place-name

    • Description:

      Undiscovered name of picturesque northern French port.
  10. Leonara

    • Description:

      Leonara is a feminine name with Latin roots, derived from 'leo' meaning 'lion.' It's a variant of names like Leonora, Eleanor, and Lenora, combining strength and elegance. While less common than its variants, Leonara maintains the regal quality associated with lion symbolism. The name conveys a sense of courage and nobility, qualities traditionally associated with lions. Though rare in most English-speaking countries, it occasionally appears in Italy, Spain, and Latin American communities. Leonara offers an uncommon yet recognizable alternative for parents seeking a name with classical origins and a melodic sound while maintaining connections to more familiar names.
  11. Jasia

    • Description:

      Jasia is a feminine name with Polish origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Joanna or Janina (Polish variants of Jane or Joan). The name ultimately derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God is gracious.' While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Jasia has maintained modest usage within Polish communities both in Poland and among the diaspora. The name features a distinctive pronunciation (YAH-shah or YAH-see-ah) that maintains its Polish character. Its short length and melodic quality give it a modern feel despite its traditional roots. Jasia combines the appeal of an authentic cultural name with enough simplicity to work well internationally, making it approachable yet distinctive.
  12. Inesa

    • Origin:

      Lithuanian, from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "pure, virginal"

    • Description:

      This Lithuanian form of Agnes sounds sweet and versatile internationally.
  13. Rica

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian, diminutive of Federica or Erica

    • Description:

      Pretty but slight.
  14. Emelda

    • Description:

      Emelda is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from the elements 'amal' meaning 'work' or 'labor' and possibly influenced by names like Esmeralda or Imelda. The name Imelda, to which Emelda is closely related, comes from Germanic roots meaning 'universal battle' or 'powerful fighter.' Emelda has a vintage, romantic quality with its soft sounds and flowing rhythm. Though never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, the name has maintained a consistent, if rare, presence. It carries an elegant, slightly exotic flair while remaining accessible in pronunciation. Emelda might appeal to parents who appreciate classic-sounding names with historical depth but want to avoid common choices. The name projects strength wrapped in feminine grace.

  15. Bryna

    • Description:

      Bryna is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections, primarily associated with Hebrew and Irish origins. In Hebrew, it relates to the word meaning "blessing" or "she is blessed," while in Irish contexts, it may be a variation of Brenda, derived from Old Norse elements meaning "sword" or "flaming sword." This relatively uncommon name combines brevity with a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more popular options. Bryna has maintained a consistent but low profile in usage patterns, never becoming trendy but persisting as a choice for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. The name's cross-cultural roots give it versatility, allowing it to feel at home in different cultural contexts while maintaining its unique character and meaningful associations.
  16. Kimbry

    • Description:

      Kimbry is a feminine name that appears to be a modern variation of Kimberly, which originated as an English place name derived from Cyneburg-leah, meaning "royal fortress meadow." This streamlined version removes the third syllable for a more concise, contemporary feel. Kimbry maintains the friendly, approachable quality of Kimberly while offering something slightly distinct. The name has remained relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking familiar sounds with a unique twist. As with Kimberly, Kimbry conveys a sense of strength and grace, with the shorter form giving it a more modern edge. The name works well in professional settings while still feeling personable and distinctive.
  17. Franca

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "free"

    • Description:

      One of the most attractive and unusual spins on the "Fran" franchise.
  18. Flanna

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "red-haired"

    • Description:

      Flanna is an uncommon name for a red-haired girl, not as familiar -- or some would say, as pretty -- as its nickname, Flannery.

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