Girl's Names Beginning With Y

A very long list of girls names beginning with the letter Y. I hope it comes in handy.
  1. Yvaine
    • Origin:

      Female variation of Yvain or Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "evening star"
    • Description:

      A mix of Yvonne and Elaine, Yvaine was first noticed in the Neil Gaiman fantasy novel and then movie Stardust, in which Claire Danes played the 'fallen star' Yvaine. This In all its forms, one of the most classic Scottish names for girls is now attracting namer attention--just as that other Gaiman-inspired name, Coraline, did. Yvaine has a definite romantic, medieval charm. A small segment of namers are definitely taking notice.
  2. Yvonne
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "yew wood"
    • Description:

      Peaking in the 1950s, Yvonne has now dropped out of the Top 1000 in 2003 and doesn't look set to return soon, although its rare Y initial might endear it to some. Yvaine, from Neil Gaiman's Stardust, has more modern appeal.
  3. Yvette
    • Origin:

      French, feminine of Yves
    • Meaning:

      "yew tree"
    • Description:

      This French name has the elegance of other '-ette' names such as Colette and is a botanical name without being too obvious about it.
  4. Yolanda
    • Origin:

      Spanish from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "violet flower"
    • Description:

      Bold and distinctive, Yolanda is a floral name that doesn't sound frilly or delicate. Ultimately deriving from the Greek words ioles meaning "violet" and anthos meaning "flower", it appears in a variety of forms internationally, including Jolanda, Jolanta, Iolanthe, Iolanta, Iolanda, and Jolana.
  5. Yareli
    • Origin:

      Native American, Spanish variation of Yara, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "water lady; small butterfly"
    • Description:

      Possibly a derivative variation of Yara, a popular name in Spanish-speaking countries meaning butterfly, Yareli was given to more than 400 baby girls in the US last year.
  6. Yuki
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "snow; happiness"
    • Description:

      Succinct and memorable, Yuki is a Japanese name, which may relate to winter or joy, depending on the kanji used. It is a unisex choice, notably borne by singer Yuki Kuramochi (stylized as YUKI).
  7. Yuri
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "lily"
    • Description:

      Most familiar to American ears as the Russian variation of George. Not recommended for a daughter.
  8. Yaretzi
    • Origin:

      Nahuatl, Aztec
    • Meaning:

      "you will always be loved"
    • Description:

      This unusual name from the Nahuatl or Aztec language has one of the best meanings around. It sprang onto the US popularity list in 2006 and made a brief appearance in the Top 300 before sliding down a bit. It's popular in Mexico and with US Americans of Latino or Hispanic heritage, hitting on two big girl name trends in those communities: Ya- beginnings and -i endings.
  9. Yasmine
    • Origin:

      Arabic variation of Jasmine
    • Meaning:

      "jasmine flower"
    • Description:

      Any of the Y forms, which also include Yasmeen, Yasmin, and Yasmina, make this name more unusual and distinctive.
  10. Yamileth
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Jamila, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "beautiful"
    • Description:

      Popular in Mexico and familiar in the US, Yamileth is an elaborate and fresh form of Yamila, ultimately derived from the Arabic Jamil. Meaning "beautiful", it shares sounds with other familiar and international choices, including Yara, Camila, and Arleth.
  11. Yona
    • Origin:

      Cherokee or variation of Jonah, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "bear; dove"
    • Description:

      A name with a double animal connection via two distinct origins, one Native American and the other Hebrew and Biblical. Yona is rare in the US but not unknown: It was given to a dozen baby girls in 2021.
  12. Ysabella
    • Description:

      Ysabella is an ornate variant spelling of Isabella, ultimately derived from Elizabeth, which has Hebrew origins meaning "pledged to God" or "God is my oath." This elaborate spelling with its initial 'Y' gives the classic name a distinctive, exotic flair while maintaining its regal associations and historical connections to queens and nobility across Europe. The 'Y' beginning evokes Spanish or medieval European influences, giving the name an antique, romantic quality. While less common than the standard Isabella, Ysabella appeals to parents seeking a unique twist on a beloved classic. The name allows for popular nicknames like Bella, Ysa, or Ysabel. Despite its unusual spelling, the name maintains the melodic flow and feminine elegance that has made Isabella a perennial favorite across many cultures.

  13. Yevette
    • Description:

      Yevette is an uncommon spelling variation of Yvette, a French feminine name derived from the Germanic name Ivo, meaning 'yew' (a type of tree symbolizing strength). The traditional Yvette emerged as the feminine diminutive form and gained popularity outside France in the mid-20th century. This 'Ye-' spelling variation likely aims to clarify pronunciation in English-speaking contexts, making the initial sound more intuitive than the traditional 'Y'. While Yvette peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, the Yevette spelling has remained quite rare. The name carries a certain vintage elegance with French associations, though this particular spelling creates a subtle distinction from the more traditional form.

  14. Yolande
    • Description:

      Yolande is a feminine name of medieval French origin derived from the Germanic elements 'yol' meaning 'viking' or 'valiant' and 'lande' meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gained popularity throughout medieval Europe. The name has royal connections, having been borne by several medieval queens and noblewomen, including Yolande of Aragon in the 15th century. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Yolande has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its elegant, vintage sound and distinctive character. Alternative forms include Yolanda, Iolanthe, and Violante, which evolved in different European languages.
  15. Yaala
    • Description:

      Yaala is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, meaning 'to ascend' or 'mountain goat,' symbolizing grace and surefootedness. In some cultures, it's also associated with strength and determination. This uncommon name has variations including Yaalah, Yaela, or Yaelah. Though relatively rare globally, it has some usage in Israel and among Jewish communities. The name's brevity and melodic quality, combined with its meaningful symbolism, make it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with cultural significance. Yaala's simple pronunciation and spelling also contribute to its quiet appeal across different linguistic backgrounds.

  16. Yolanthe
    • Description:

      Yolanthe is a distinctive variation of Yolande, a name derived from the medieval French name Violante, which relates to the Latin word for 'violet flower.' This elaborate version adds sophistication with its additional syllable and unique ending. Primarily found in Dutch-speaking regions and parts of Europe, Yolanthe remains rare in English-speaking countries. The name gained some international recognition through Dutch-Spanish actress Yolanthe Cabau. With its flowing sound and uncommon letter combinations, Yolanthe offers an exotic yet accessible option for parents seeking something distinctive. The connection to violets brings associations with modesty and delicate beauty, while maintaining an air of aristocratic elegance through its medieval European heritage.

  17. Yadirah
    • Description:

      Yadirah is a feminine name of likely Hebrew or Arabic origin. It may be related to the Hebrew name Yadira, meaning 'friend' or 'beloved,' with the added 'h' giving it a distinctive flair. The name has a lyrical quality that flows beautifully when spoken. Though relatively uncommon in mainstream Western naming practices, Yadirah has seen some usage in Hispanic and Middle Eastern communities. Its exotic sound and meaningful origins make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that feels both cultural and unique. Yadirah carries a sense of warmth and affection in its meaning while offering the uniqueness many modern parents desire.

  18. Yadira
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "worthy"
    • Description:

      Yadira is a popular choice in Mexico, Venezuela, and Colombia, and has also been a favorite among Latin American families in the US. Popularized by actress Yadira Jiménez in the mid-20th century, its exact etymology is unknown, but a likely possibility is that it comes from the Arabic Jadira, usually interpreted as meaning "worthy", though "bloom" is also suggested.
  19. Yedida
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "beloved, friend"
    • Description:

      A modern (and very rare) form of Jedidah, the mother of the biblical king Josiah.
  20. Yimmi
    • Origin:

      Choctaw, Native American
    • Meaning:

      "believes"
    • Description:

      A cute, upbeat name with a covetable meaning.

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