Stunning Names For Girls
- Aeliana
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"sun"Description:
This female form of the ancient Latin Aelian has an appealing sound, though kids might have a hard time handling that initial "ae" spelling. Just remember that the "ae" is pronounced "ee" (think Aesop's fables).The Annals of Aeliana is a children's fantasy series by Ryan Watters. The meaning is uncertain but is thought to derive from the Greek helios, which means sun.
- Anaise
Origin:
Variation of AnaisDescription:
Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.
- Cyane
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"bright blue enamel"Description:
Cyane is a mythological Sicilian nymph who lived in a pool and whose name is an intriguing twist on the color name trend.
- Maddalena
Description:
Maddalena is the Italian form of Magdalene, a name with biblical significance referring to Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus's most devoted followers. The name derives from Magdala, a village on the Sea of Galilee, with the place name meaning "tower" in Aramaic. Maddalena has been consistently popular in Italy through the centuries, appearing in art, literature, and music, including Prokoviev's opera "Maddalena." The name carries a lyrical, romantic quality with its flowing syllables and musical Italian pronunciation. While less common in English-speaking countries, it appeals to parents seeking a name with religious significance, European flair, and feminine elegance. The nickname Madda or Lena offers versatility for a child bearing this classical name.
- Titania
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"giant, great one"Description:
This name of the queen of the fairies in A Midsummer Night's Dream has a delicate, lacy charm similar to Tatiana's, but that first syllable could cause embarrassing problems.
- Darya
Origin:
Russian or Persian, variation of Daria or feminine form of DariusMeaning:
"kingly; possessing goodness; the sea"Description:
The beguiling Darya is the name of a character in Tolstoy's Anna Karenina. As a Russian name, it's a spelling variation of Daria, while in Iran, it's a girl's name that means "the sea".
- Shoshana
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"lily"Description:
This is a rare and lovely form of Susannah commonly heard in Israel. Shoshana Shapiro — nicknamed Shosh — is the character played by Zosia Mamet on the hit HBO series Girls — a fact that could give the name an upward thrust.
- Alexandrina
Origin:
Greek, variation of Alexandra,Meaning:
"defending men"Description:
Alexandrina is the most elaborate and unusual of the Alex- girls's names.The real first name of Queen Victoria, who was given it in honor of her godfather, Alexander I of Russia (her childhood nickname was Drina), it would make a distinctive pick, even though some might find five syllables a bit much. It was particularly popular in Scotland in the 1930s.
- Cinnabar
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Associated with a vivid red-orange-colored lacquer, would make a more than distinctive color-related choice.
- Dymphna
Origin:
Anglicized form of Irish DamhnaitMeaning:
"fawn"Description:
Dymphna, also spelled Dympna, is the name of an Irish virgin martyr. The story goes that she was a Celtic princess who fled to Belgium to escape the abusive attentions of her father, and his mad actions led to her becoming the patron saint of the insane.
- Magda
Origin:
German variation of MagdalenDescription:
On "Sex and the City," Magda was the elderly nanny from the old country -- which is what this name sounds like. While Magdalene and Magdalena are enjoying fresh life, Magda still feels dated.
- Cesaria
Origin:
Feminization of Cesar, LatinMeaning:
"head of hair"Description:
Cesaria, a modern feminine form of Caesar or the Latinate Cesar, has been obscure in the Western World but may stir to life along with other names that have their roots in ancient Rome. Cesarina, Cesarie, and Cesarea are other options.
- 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.
- Rialta
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"deep brook"Description:
Unique choice, with a pleasant antique feel.
- Drina
Description:
Drina is a feminine name with Slavic origins, most commonly found in the Balkan region. It derives from the Drina River that flows through Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, forming part of their border. As a personal name, Drina carries the natural beauty and cultural significance of its geographical namesake. The name has a melodic quality with its simple two-syllable structure and flowing sound. While uncommon in Western countries, it has maintained steady usage in Eastern European communities. Drina has a distinctive character that combines natural imagery with cultural heritage. Parents might be drawn to this name for its uniqueness, graceful sound, and connection to Slavic heritage.
- Elidia
Description:
Elidia is a feminine name with Spanish and Greek roots. It's a variation of names like Elida or Elydia, potentially derived from the Greek 'Elidaia,' referring to ancient Elis in Greece. The name may also be connected to the Greek word 'helios' meaning 'sun.' Elidia has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. In Hispanic communities, it's appreciated for its melodic sound and elegant feminine ending. The name carries a sense of brightness and warmth, reflecting its possible solar connections. While not widely used, Elidia has maintained a consistent presence, particularly in Spanish-speaking regions and communities.
- Lexia
Origin:
Greek, diminutive of AlexiaDescription:
See ALEXIA.
- Andrina
Origin:
Greek, feminine form of AndrewDescription:
Andrina is best-known as an older sister of The Little Mermaid.
- Mirena
Description:
Mirena is a feminine name with Slavic origins, particularly prominent in Bulgarian, Croatian, and other Eastern European cultures. It likely derives from the Slavic element 'mir' meaning 'peace' or 'world,' creating a name that essentially conveys 'peaceful' or 'of the world.' The name has a melodious quality with its flowing three-syllable structure. While well-established in Eastern Europe, Mirena remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality while still being accessible in pronunciation. Some may associate the name with the intrauterine device brand, though this is a modern and incidental connection. The name carries a gentle elegance and cross-cultural adaptability that appeals to parents seeking names with international flavor yet straightforward pronunciation.
- Mindel
Origin:
Yiddish form of Hebrew MenuchaMeaning:
"comfort"Description:
Rarely heard outside the Jewish community; another form is Minda.