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. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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).
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Yuri
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "lily"
    • Description:

      Most familiar to American ears as the Russian variation of George. Not recommended for a daughter.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. Yamileth
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "beautiful"
    • Description:

      This beautiful and fresh name has a timeless meaning. Its popular -eth ending ensures it sits well with traditional names like Judith and Elizabeth, while its uncommon Y beginning makes it a good choice for parents looking for unique baby names. We think this name is a pretty alternative to the tired Yasmin/Yasmeen and the minimalist Yara.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.

  15. Yevetta
    • Description:

      Yevetta is a feminine name with Slavic origins, likely derived as a variation of Yvette or the Russian name Yeva (the Slavic equivalent of Eve). The addition of the diminutive suffix "-etta" creates a melodious, flowing quality that enhances its feminine appeal. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, the name carries cultural richness from Eastern European naming traditions. Yevetta blends exotic uniqueness with familiar phonetic elements, making it distinctive yet accessible. The name has a lyrical, almost musical quality with its soft consonants and rhythmic pattern. Though rare in most English-speaking regions, Yevetta might appeal to parents seeking a name with Slavic heritage or those looking for an uncommon alternative to more familiar names like Yvette or Eva.
  16. 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.

  17. Yvetta
    • Description:

      Yvetta is a feminine name of French origin, serving as a variant of Yvette, which itself is the feminine form of Yves. The name ultimately derives from the Germanic element 'iv,' meaning 'yew tree,' which symbolized longevity and resilience in ancient cultures. Yvetta carries a delicate, graceful quality with its soft consonants and ending vowel. Though popular in France during the early 20th century, the name's usage has declined in recent decades, making it relatively uncommon today. Yvetta has also found appreciation in Eastern European countries, particularly the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The name has a vintage charm that might appeal to parents seeking something classic yet distinctive, with the familiar 'Yve' sound but a slightly more elaborate ending that adds sophistication.

  18. Yamilet
    • Description:

      Yamilet is a feminine name of Spanish origin, combining elements of the names 'Yamila' and the French diminutive suffix '-et.' Popular in Hispanic communities, particularly in Mexico and Central America, the name has been steadily gaining recognition in the United States since the 1990s. Yamilet carries connotations of beauty, charm, and grace. The name has a melodious flow and distinctive character that appeals to parents seeking a name with cultural richness without being overly common. Its contemporary feel and international appeal have contributed to its growing popularity among diverse communities.
  19. Yedida
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "beloved, friend"
    • Description:

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