Girls Names Beginning With K

Kahlila is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Khalila, which has Arabic roots meaning 'beloved' or 'dearly loved.' Alternatively, it could be connected to the Hebrew 'kelilah' meaning 'crown' or 'laurel.' The spelling with 'ah' gives it a flowing, melodic quality. This name carries a sense of exoticism and elegance, with its rhythmic three-syllable pronunciation. While not among commonly used names in Western countries, Kahlila has cross-cultural appeal and fits with contemporary trends toward names with meaningful origins and distinctive sounds. The name conveys warmth and affection while maintaining a sense of uniqueness and cultural richness.

Kari and all her many sisters, from Carrie to Carey to Kerry and onward, originated for the most part as short forms of either CatherineKatherine or one of the Charles feminizations such as Carol or Caroline.

Kataleen is a feminine name that represents a creative spelling variation of Katherine/Catherine and its derivative Kathleen. This unique orthographic form maintains the traditional Irish feel of Kathleen while giving it a distinctive visual identity. The name's roots trace back to the Greek 'Aikaterine,' possibly meaning 'pure,' though its etymology remains somewhat debated. Kataleen carries the same warm, classic appeal as Kathleen, which became particularly popular among Irish-American families in the mid-20th century. The 'K' beginning and 'een' ending preserve the name's Celtic character, while the middle spelling creates individuality. Though relatively uncommon, Kataleen appeals to parents seeking traditional sounds with contemporary spelling. The name evokes qualities of warmth, strength and cultural heritage while allowing its bearer a degree of uniqueness.

Katana is a male name in Old Persian and a well-used word in Japanese, but as a girls' name is these days found more often as Kitana, the name of a princess in the video game Mortal Kombat II.

Kate, in the headlines via Catherine Middleton aka the Princess of Wales, has been as pervasive as Kathy was in the 1950s and 1960s, both as a nickname for Katherine and Kaitlyn and as a strong, classic stand-alone name.

One of the most popular of the trendy Caitlin variations, Katelyn points directly to components Kate and Lyn --making it a bit more traditionally feminine.

Kathleen is the early Irish import version that came between Katherine and Kaitlin, and which hasn't been used in so long it's almost beginning to sound fresh again. It was a surprise pick by one of the hip Dixie Chicks, Martie Maguire. Kathleen was a Top 10 name from 1948 to 1951, and it is the subject of several old sentimental songs, such as "I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen."

A sweet and international short form of Catherine, pronounced like Katya and used in various European languages.

Kay, a cigarette-smoking, nightclubbing name of the 1930's, could be ready for a comeback along with cousins May/Mae and Ray/Rae.

A multicultural name, that's currently on style and fits right in with Kaia, Maya, Raya, and Mia. Currently in the Top 500 in both the UK and The Netherlands, it has several different origins and meanings.

Kayah is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Native American traditions, particularly Hopi, it's associated with meanings like 'wise child' or 'elder sister.' The name also appears in Arabic contexts meaning 'unique' or 'distinctive.' Additionally, Kayah is the name of an ethnic group in Myanmar. This multicultural background gives the name rich, diverse associations. Phonetically appealing with its balanced two syllables and open ending, Kayah offers a modern sound with ancient roots. The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek meaningful names with global connections. Its simplicity makes it accessible while its various cultural associations provide depth and significance beyond its pleasant sound.

This Cornish word name would make an excellent choice for a first-born daughter.

Kenza may feel perfectly in step with modern names like McKenzie and Kinsey and Kendra, but there was an 8th century Moroccan queen named Kenza so the name has deep roots. Kenza is that rare name that's equally attractive, simple, and unusual

Kerensa, forever romantic, is a rare Cornish name spelled with an 's' or 'z', the most modern of the Karen family. Kerensa (or Kerenza) has ties to the Welsh Cerys.

Kerria is a feminine name inspired by the flowering shrub of the same name, which produces bright yellow blooms and belongs to the rose family. The kerria plant was named after William Kerr, a Scottish gardener who collected plants in China in the early 19th century. As a name, Kerria combines botanical elegance with a flowing, melodic sound. While relatively uncommon as a personal name, Kerria fits well with the trend of nature-inspired and floral names that have gained popularity in recent decades. The name has a delicate yet distinctive quality, with its soft consonants and lyrical ending. For parents seeking something unique with natural associations, Kerria offers botanical significance while remaining easy to pronounce and spell.

Kerrie is a feminine name that originated as a variant spelling of Kerry, which derives from the Irish Gaelic 'Ciarraí,' referring to the county in Ireland. The name carries associations with the beautiful landscapes of southwestern Ireland, lending it a connection to Celtic heritage and natural beauty. Kerrie peaked in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s but remains a friendly, approachable choice with its soft sounds and straightforward pronunciation. The spelling with an 'ie' ending gives it a distinctly feminine touch compared to the original Kerry, which is used for both genders. While less common today, Kerrie has a warm, unpretentious quality that resonates with those seeking a name that's familiar without being overused. Its Irish roots give it a subtle connection to cultural heritage without being obviously ethnic.

Kerry is the name of one of the most beautiful and lush counties of Ireland was a seventies favorite. Related, updated versions might include Cerys and Keira.

A kestrel is a bird of prey. It has good potential as a strong girls' name, similar to Falcon for boys.

Kew is an offbeat name of a saint from Cornwall with boyish appeal.

Traditionally a West African boys' name, Khari is used quite often for girls in the U.S. as well, thanks to its similarity to the more familiar Carrie. Khari is one of the African names that easily bridges cultures.