Sweet as Sugar
- 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.
- Kiera
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little dark one"Description:
Kiera entered the American popularity list in 1988, though it lags behind the alternate spelling Keira, largely due to the fame of actress Keira Knightley.
- Ariel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"lion of God"Description:
Ariel is a male Biblical name, seen there as the messenger of Ezra, and also used as a symbolic name for the city of Jerusalem, while Shakespeare used it for a (male) sprite in The Tempest.
- Marissa
Origin:
Variation of Maris or a combination of Maria + LouisaMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + famous battle"Description:
Pretty feminissima name that never became as overused as cousin Melissa. The more streamlined Maris is a more modern sounding option.
- Chelsea
Origin:
Place name, EnglishMeaning:
"landing place for chalk or limestone"Description:
Chelsea is still being used, with about 400 baby girls named Chelsea in the US last year. But it was much more popular a few decades ago, peaking at Number 15 in 1992.
- Elaina
Origin:
Variation of Elaine or Elena,"bright, shining light"Meaning:
"bright, shining light"Description:
While both Elaine and Elena are on an upward trajectory, Elaina has shifted up and down the charts in recent years, making no big moves in either direction. Steadily used, this blend of the two could make it clearer which pronunciation is preferred.
- Afton
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Name of a town in Scotland that has a feminine strength.
- Sana
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"mountaintop, splendid, brilliant"Description:
One of the most easily imported Arabic names.
- Cicely
Origin:
English variation of CeciliaMeaning:
"blind"Description:
This frilly Victorian name is a variant of Cecilia and Cecily, with which it might well be confused. Cicely was a surprise choice for comedienne Sandra Bernhard.
- Leanora
Description:
Leanora is a feminine name that represents a graceful variation of Eleanor or Leonora. It blends the Greek element 'helē' meaning 'light' or 'bright' with 'nor' possibly derived from Latin 'honor.' The name carries an air of vintage elegance and sophistication. Throughout history, Leanora has maintained a subtle presence, never reaching mainstream popularity but appreciated for its melodious sound and classical feel. The name tends to evoke images of dignity and refinement. In recent decades, as parents seek distinctive yet traditional-sounding names, Leanora has occasionally seen modest revivals, particularly appreciated by those drawn to names with historical depth and a lyrical quality.
- Adelle
Description:
Adelle is a feminine name with French origins, considered a variation of Adela or Adelaide, ultimately deriving from the Germanic element 'adal' meaning 'noble' or 'nobility.' The name carries an elegant, classic quality while remaining relatively uncommon compared to similar names like Adele or Adeline. Adelle gained some recognition through singer Adele Adkins, though the slightly different spelling gives it a distinct identity. The name has a gentle, feminine sound with its soft ending. Throughout history, Adelle has maintained consistent though modest usage, never reaching tremendous popularity but maintaining steady appreciation. The name blends traditional roots with a slightly contemporary feel, appealing to parents seeking something recognized but not overused.
- Sirena
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"entangler"Description:
Sounds like Serena, but refers to the mythological sirens -- half woman, half bird -- who virtually sang men to death. Not a great role model for your little girl.
- Blaike
Description:
Blaike is a feminine name representing a modern spelling variation of Blake, which originated as an Old English surname meaning 'dark' or 'black-haired.' The distinctive spelling with 'ai' instead of 'a' gives the name a more feminine appearance while maintaining the strong, concise sound of the original. Blake began transitioning to first-name use for boys in the early 20th century, while the feminine usage, particularly with variant spellings like Blaike, emerged more recently in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. This gender crossover reflects contemporary naming trends that embrace traditionally masculine names for girls. Blaike appeals to parents seeking a name that balances strength and femininity with a modern edge, while the unique spelling helps distinguish it as a feminine variant.
- Lea
- Naiomi
- Sienne