Vivacious V names [girls]

Vada is a feisty retro choice that feels like a fresh spin on the likes of Ava and Ada. Its bold V initial is bang on trend, although Vada remains very uncommon in the US. It is perhaps best known as the heroine of the 1991 cult classic coming-of-age movie My Girl, Vada Sultenfuss, played by Anna Chlumsky.

Mystical overtones.

Valdis is a feminine name with Norse and Baltic origins, particularly prominent in Latvian culture. The name derives from elements meaning 'rule' and 'goddess' or 'power,' suggesting a woman of strength and authority. In Latvian tradition, Valdis is actually more commonly used as a masculine name, though it has been adopted for girls in some regions and contexts. The name has a concise, powerful sound with its two syllables and strong consonants. Valdis carries connotations of leadership, wisdom, and divine connection in its traditional usage. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers a distinctive option for parents drawn to names with Nordic or Baltic heritage. Its straightforward pronunciation and spelling make it accessible despite its unfamiliarity in many Western naming traditions.

Effortlessly stylish, with plenty of sweetness and strength, Valentina feels like a fresh alternative to Valerie, Victoria, or Vanessa.

For a girl, we'd say Val-en-teen, though many would insist on pronouncing it like the holiday.

This diminutive of Valeria has a strong and striking sound to match its meaning. It has also been used in Brazil in recent decades.

Valinda is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a combination of the Latin prefix 'val' meaning 'strong' or 'healthy' with the Spanish suffix 'linda' meaning 'beautiful,' essentially creating a name that means 'beautiful and strong.' Alternatively, it could be a variation of Valentina or a unique creation. The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. Valinda has a melodic, romantic quality while still conveying strength. Its distinctive sound and spelling make it stand out among more common names, appealing to parents seeking something unique yet accessible with a pleasant rhythm.

Vara is a feminine name with diverse origins across multiple cultures. In Sanskrit, it means 'blessing' or 'boon,' while in Swedish it's related to 'spring' or 'springtime.' In Hebrew, Vara can be a variation of Sarah meaning 'princess,' and in Finnish, it relates to 'preparation' or 'readiness.' This multicultural name is concise yet melodious with its two balanced syllables. Vara remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries but has consistent usage in India, Scandinavia, and parts of Eastern Europe. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across languages while its varied meaningful associations give it depth. The name projects gentle strength and natural beauty, appealing to parents seeking a cross-cultural name with substance.

An interesting and appealingly international spin on Barbara, with a lot of charm and energy.

This Persian name with an Old Testament pedigree has a warm Sasha-like feel. The Biblical Vashti was a queen who refused her husband's orders to appear naked in front of his party guests and so was deposed in favor of Esther. For her independent spirit, Vashti has become something of a feminist icon.

Another astral name, this one relating to one of the largest and brightest stars in the heavens, is popular in Scandinavia and Spain, where it ranks among the Top 50 girls' names. Although still very rare in the US, we think it has serious potential to follow the likes of Luna and Lyra up the charts.

Velveina is an extremely rare feminine name that likely developed as an elaborate variant of names containing the 'vel' sound, such as Velma or Velvet. The name may have been inspired by the smooth texture of velvet, lending it a sense of softness and luxury. Another possibility is that it emerged as a feminine form of Calvin, with decorative elements added for distinctiveness. Velveina has never appeared in mainstream naming statistics and remains a curiosity rather than a common choice. Its elaborate nature gives it a vintage, somewhat ornate quality that might appeal to parents seeking a highly unusual and distinctive name. The -ina suffix adds a traditional feminine touch to this uncommon creation.

Velvet is a name that couldn't possibly be softer or more luxuriant. Many people have fond memories of it via the character of Velvet Brown, played by the young Elizabeth Taylor in National Velvet, an intrepid young woman willing to masquerade as a boy to race her horse in a dangerous steeplechase.

Ventura started life as a shortening of Bonaventura, Spanish for good luck or good fortune, but now stands on its own. It has a pleasant sound and the stylish 'V' ending, but Angelenos would associate it with the Valley's main stem--Ventura Boulevard, and others might think of Ace or Jesse Ventura.

The name of a heavenly planet and the Roman goddess of beauty and love was an intimidating no-no until tennis champ Venus Williams put an athletic, modern spin on it.