Girls Names Beginning With P
- Philomine
Origin:
Variation of Philomena, GreekMeaning:
"lover of strength"Description:
This variation of Philomena has never been high on the popularity charts, but it did appear in the US infrequently as a French immigrant name. As a result, it has some ties to Louisiana and the Cajun community.
- Peg
Origin:
Diminutive of Margaret, GreekMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Peg is a nostalgic turn-of-the-last-century nickname, sociable but slight. Like near-identical twin Peggy, Peg is in mothballs.
- Pluma
Description:
Pluma is a feminine name derived directly from the Spanish word for 'feather,' giving it associations with lightness, freedom, and natural beauty. This nature-inspired name carries poetic connotations, as feathers symbolize flight, gentleness, and spiritual connection in many cultures. While never common as a given name in Spanish-speaking countries, Pluma has occasionally been chosen by parents attracted to its lyrical sound and evocative meaning. The name has a delicate, ethereal quality that sets it apart from more conventional choices. For literary-minded parents or those seeking nature connections, Pluma offers a distinctive option with built-in symbolism and a gentle, flowing pronunciation.
- Pat
Origin:
Diminutive of PatriciaMeaning:
"noble, patrician"Description:
An early and still quintessentially gender-neutral name, now supplanted by thousands of fresher options. Hasn't been recorded as a given name since 1991.
- Pennylane
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"street name"Description:
Inspired by the Beatles song "Penny Lane", about the sights and sounds of a typical street in Liverpool, England, this quirky smoosh name has charted regularly in the US since 2008.
- Phila
Origin:
Greek, Zulu, XhosaMeaning:
"lover, friend; to live of life"Description:
In the Zulu and Xhosa languages of Southern Africa, Phila is a unisex name pronounced "PEE-la" and means "to live of life" It's also the feminine version of the ancient Greek name Philo, pronounced "FEE-la", meaning friend or lover and present in several contemporary names and words used throughout the Western World. The name Philip, for instance, means lover of horses, while the city name Philadelphia means "brotherly love" and philosophy means "love of wisdom".
- Panra
Origin:
PashtoMeaning:
"leaf"Description:
Panra is a lovely nature name, meaning leaf, which would easily wear outside its native Pakistan. Pakistani singer Gul Panra is probably the most famous person with this name.
- Pomme
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"apple"Description:
Une amie for Gwyneth's little girl.
- Pamelita
Description:
Pamelita is a feminine name that functions as a diminutive form of Pamela, adding the Spanish suffix '-ita' which conveys affection and smallness. Pamela itself originated in the 16th century from Sir Philip Sidney's pastoral poem 'Arcadia,' potentially derived from Greek elements meaning 'all honey' or 'all sweetness.' Pamelita carries a warm, affectionate quality with its Spanish influence, making it particularly appealing in Hispanic communities or for families seeking to honor mixed cultural heritage. While relatively uncommon as a formal given name, it might be used as an endearing nickname. The name blends English literary tradition with Hispanic linguistic patterns, creating a cross-cultural option with a melodic, flowing sound.
- Pamella
Description:
Pamella is a variation of Pamela, a name created by the 16th-century poet Sir Philip Sidney for his pastoral romance "Arcadia." He derived it from the Greek words "pan" (all) and "meli" (honey), essentially meaning "all sweetness." This spelling with double 'l' adds a distinctive touch to the classic name. Pamela became widely popular in the English-speaking world during the 18th century after Samuel Richardson's novel "Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded" was published. The Pamella variant emerged later as parents sought to personalize the traditional spelling. While less common than Pamela, Pamella maintains the same warm, graceful qualities while offering a slightly more elaborate appearance. The name peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century.
- Polyxena
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"very hospitable"Description:
Polyxena was a minor figure in Greek mythology - a daughter of King Priam and a love interest of the famed warrior Achilles. The name is a bit clunky but could be pulled off by the right woman.
- Parastoo
Origin:
Iranian, PersianMeaning:
"swallow bird"Description:
The name Parastoo currently seems unusual to the Western ear, with that "too" ending rare in traditional English names. It is sometimes spelled Parastu. Pari or Parisa would make easier imports.
- Peita
Description:
Peita is a feminine name with possible roots in both Greek and Maori traditions. In Greek context, it may be related to 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone,' symbolizing strength and stability. In Maori usage, it could be a variant spelling of 'Peta,' the Maori form of Peter. The name has a gentle yet distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common feminine names. Peita remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it a unique quality for parents seeking something uncommon. The name has a pleasant rhythm and modern feel while potentially carrying cultural significance. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contribute to its appeal for contemporary parents looking for something both accessible and unusual.
- Pascalie
Description:
Pascalie is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the masculine Pascal, which comes from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover.' The feminine suffix '-ie' gives the name a graceful, flowing quality typical of French feminine names. While relatively uncommon even in French-speaking regions, Pascalie carries connotations of spring, renewal, and spiritual significance through its connection to Easter. The name has a melodic, three-syllable rhythm that feels both elegant and approachable. Pascalie offers families a distinctive choice that balances uniqueness with comprehensible pronunciation and spelling. Like other holiday-inspired names, it subtly references important cultural and religious traditions while functioning beautifully as a personal name with a touch of French sophistication.
- Pompeia
Origin:
Feminine form of Pompeius, RomanMeaning:
"five"
- Philomene
Description:
Philomene is a feminine name of Greek origin derived from 'philomenes,' meaning 'loved' or 'sweet-singing.' It's connected to Greek mythology through Philomela, who was transformed into a nightingale, giving the name associations with music and beautiful sounds. Philomene is more common in French-speaking regions and parts of Europe, though it remains relatively rare globally. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become less common. It carries an elegant, classical quality that appeals to parents seeking sophisticated traditional names with literary connections. Variations include Philomena, Filomena, and Philomèna.
- Prew
Description:
Prew is an uncommon feminine name with uncertain etymological origins. It may be a variant spelling of 'Prue,' which is a diminutive of Prudence, meaning 'caution' or 'discretion' from Latin 'prudentia.' Alternatively, it could be a surname-turned-first-name, as Prew appears as a family name in some English records. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary feel, aligning with the modern trend toward short, distinctive names. Prew remains extremely rare in usage, making it an unconventional choice that offers individuality. Its simple pronunciation and spelling contribute to its appeal for parents seeking something unique yet accessible.
- Penn
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"enclosure"Description:
Not commonly used for girls, but Bruce Willis used it as the middle name for his daughter Evelyn.
- Péronelle
Description:
Péronelle is a medieval French feminine name that originated as a variant of Petronilla, which itself derives from the Latin name Petronius, meaning 'of rock' or 'rocky.' It was particularly popular in medieval France and England following the Norman Conquest. Péronelle was often used among the nobility and gained significance through Petronilla of Aragon, the queen of Aragon in the 12th century. The name fell out of common usage after the Renaissance period but has occasionally been revived as a connection to French heritage. Today, Péronelle remains a rare name that carries a distinctly historical and aristocratic character, appealing to parents looking for a traditional French name with medieval roots.
- Paule
Origin:
French, feminine variation of PaulDescription:
This, the simplest French female version of Paul, was brought into the U. S. mix by novelist Paule Marshall, whose roots are in the West Indies.
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