First Names for Girls
By ellieberry
Updated Sat May 20 2023
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- Adelaine
Origin:
Variation of Adeline or Adelaide, a compound name blending Adele and ElaineMeaning:
"noble; noble light"Description:
With Adelyn, Adelaide, Adeline, Ada, Lainey, Delaney, and Elena all in the charts, Adelaine remains surprisingly underused. Given to just 35 girls in the US in 2023, it makes a distinctive but familiar alternative to the other Ad- names in the charts and comes with the built in nicknames Lainey, Laine, Della, Addie and Ada. Beauty influencer and vlogger Adelaine Morin might draw more people's attention to the name in coming years, or perhaps it will be dismissed as it might feel more popular than it actually is.
- Ainsley
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"one's own meadow"Description:
While theoretically unisex, this surname name has been edging up the girls’ names list, perhaps originally as an Ashley substitute. One quality in Ainsley's favor: It's remained steadily popular -- but not TOO popular -- for more than 20 years now, ranking consistently around Number 400. That makes it stylish and familiar without showing up everywhere.
- Alexandrie
Description:
Alexandrie is a feminine name that represents a French variation of Alexandra, which ultimately derives from the Greek name Alexandros meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This elegant variation adds a distinctly French flair to the classic name through its ending. While Alexandra and Alexandria are more common internationally, Alexandrie offers a sophisticated European alternative with its soft pronunciation and graceful ending. The name carries the strength and historical significance of its Greek origins while adding a touch of French refinement. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it may appeal to parents seeking a name with international appeal and classical roots but with a distinctive, feminine quality.
- Alida
Origin:
Diminutive of AdelaideDescription:
Alida had a brief flurry of popularity a hundred years ago but is rarely used today. But given the rise of so many names related to Adelaide and Adeline, Alida might be rediscovered.
- Anona
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"corn, grain"Description:
Name of the Roman goddess of harvest and grain, appropriate for a fall baby. And a palindrome too!
- Ansley
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"clearing with a hermitage"Description:
Part Ashley, part Ainsley, part Annie, Ansley featured in the US Top 1000 from the late '90s until 2020. It peaked in 2011 when it nearly reached the Top 600, but has declined in recent years.
- Apollonia
Origin:
Feminine variation of Apollo, Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"destroyer, strength; father's light"Description:
This name of a third-century Christian martyr has an romantic, appealing feel in the modern world. It first came to American attention via Prince's love interest in the film Purple Rain. It could make an unexpected route to sweet nickname Polly — or perhaps to the quirky apple!
- Arbor
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Arbor is an original unisex tree-related choice we're sure to hear more of. Highly unusual now, Arbor takes its place alongside other new arborial names ranging from the mighty Oak (or Oakley) to the more delicate Birch to the more flowery Juniper, Acacia, and Hazel.
- Aristelle
Description:
Aristelle is a refined feminine name that appears to blend Greek elements with a French-inspired ending. Likely derived from 'aristos' meaning 'best' or 'excellent' in Greek, the same root found in 'aristocrat,' it carries connotations of nobility and distinction. The elegant '-elle' suffix adds a feminine, romantic quality. This rare name has minimal historical usage but fits with contemporary interest in unique names with classical roots. Aristelle's melodious sound and sophisticated air make it suitable for parents seeking an uncommon name with an aristocratic feel. Despite its rarity, it follows familiar naming patterns, making it accessible while remaining distinctive.
- Auden
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"old friend"Description:
A softly poetic surname name, associated with poet W.H., Auden is enjoying quiet but marked fashion status. It was chosen for his daughter by Noah Wyle and is definitely one to watch.
- Ayla
Origin:
Hebrew or TurkishMeaning:
"oak tree; halo, moonlight"Description:
Bright, fresh, and sunny, Ayla is a fashionable and exciting international choice for girls. Reminiscent of other trending names such as Layla, Isla, and Ava, Ayla has recently found its place in the Top 100.
- Baylor
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"horse trainer"Description:
Baylor is a possible occupational alternative to the tired Taylor, especially for a horse lover.
- Bethanne
Description:
Bethanne is a compound feminine name that combines elements of Elizabeth (Beth) and Anne, two classic names with Hebrew origins. This melodic combination creates a name that feels both familiar and distinctive. Bethanne emerged in America during the mid-20th century when double names gained popularity. It carries the meanings of both original names: "house of God" from Beth (Elizabeth) and "grace" from Anne. While never reaching widespread popularity, Bethanne maintains a steady, if uncommon, presence. The name has a gentle, traditional Southern charm that appeals to parents seeking something recognizable yet not overused. Spelling variations include Beth-Anne, Beth Anne, and Bethann.
- Bethany
Origin:
Biblical place name and HebrewMeaning:
"house of figs"Description:
Bethany is a lyrical name that still strikes many parents as a fresher, more substantial substitute for the overused Brittany/Brittney or the more antiquated Beth.
- Blake
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"fair-haired, dark"Description:
The unisex Blake, which indeed has two conflicting meanings, has a briskly efficient image when used for a girl.
- Briony
Origin:
Spelling variation of BryonyMeaning:
"to sprout"Description:
Briony may be the variation and Bryony the original, but many parents will see this as the more authentic-feeling version of this attractive botanical name. Still unusual in the U.S., Briony is in the British Top 100 and may appeal to parents as a fresh spin on Briana or Brittany or an honorific for a Brian, though it bears no relationship to the male name.
- Bronte
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"thunder"Description:
This lovely surname of the three novel-writing sisters, now used as a baby name, makes a fitting tribute for lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. While the original name took an umlaut over the e, modern English speakers may find that more trouble than it's worth.
- Carina
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"dear little one"Description:
Carina is a pretty delicately feminine name whose fall from popularity is not helped by its similarity to hurricane name Katrina or slang victim Karen.
- Cecilia
Origin:
Feminine form of Cecil, LatinMeaning:
"blind"Description:
Cecilia is a lovely classic name deservedly enjoying a new turn in the sun. Always among the Top 500 girls' names in the US, Cecilia is now at its highest point ever.
- Cecily
Origin:
Feminine variation of CecilMeaning:
"blind"Description:
Cecily is as dainty as a lace handkerchief. Cecily has a wide assortment of namesakes. One Cecily was the mother of King Richard III, whose beauty gained her the title "the Rose of Raby," Cecily Parsley is a Beatrix Potter bunny, Cecily Cardew is a character in The Importance of Being Earnest, and the author of the Gossip Girl books is Cecily von Ziegesar.