​
​
Advanced Search

Ladies

  1. Adair

    • Origin:

      English and Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "shallow place in a river near oaks"

    • Description:

      This undiscovered unisex name has lots of flair. It was first noticed as a girl's name, starting in the 1980's, on the long-running daytime drama Search for Tomorrow, with the character Adair McCleary, who had ahead-of-their-time brothers named brothers Hogan, Cagney and Quinn. But since Adair has yet to find many takers, it would make a fresh and appealing choice.
  2. Adeline

    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Adele

    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"

    • Description:

      Adeline has a lovely, old-fashioned "Sweet Adeline" charm, but has become so popular in the US under so many spellings and variations -- with Adalynn and Adalyn also popular -- that considered together it is far more popular than it first seems. Adorable nickname Addie is also pervasive.
  3. 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.
  4. Alice

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "noble"

    • Description:

      Alice is a classic literary name that's both strong and sweet, ranking in the US Top 100 and popular throughout the western world. Alice is derived from the Old French name Aalis, a diminutive of Adelais that itself came from the Germanic name Adalhaidis, which is composed of the Proto-Germanic elements aþala, meaning "noble," and haidu, "kind, appearance, type."
  5. Analeigh

    • Description:

      Analeigh is a feminine name that blends the graceful Anna with the melodic suffix -leigh, creating a contemporary yet sweet-sounding combination. With roots in Hebrew, where Anna means 'grace,' and the Old English 'leigh' meaning 'meadow,' Analeigh can be interpreted as 'graceful meadow.' This modern variant gained popularity in the early 2000s, particularly in the United States, as parents sought unique spins on traditional names. The spelling with '-leigh' rather than '-lee' or '-ly' adds a touch of sophistication. While not among the most common names, Analeigh has been steadily appreciated for its gentle sound and feminine qualities.
  6. Annabel

    • Origin:

      Scottish variation of Amabel

    • Meaning:

      "loving"

    • Description:

      Annabel is a spirited name that embodies quirky British gentility. Appearing in Scotland as early as the twelfth century, where it was a royal name, it also recalls the romantic Edgar Allan Poe poem Annabel Lee, written upon the death of his young wife, Virginia.
  7. Anneliese

    • Origin:

      German, Dutch

    • Meaning:

      "grace + oath"

    • Description:

      Anneliese is a German and Dutch combination of Anna and Liese (a form of Elizabeth) with an Old World feel but modern appeal. The Anglicized Annalise spelling in in the US Top 500, but this authentic German version has only ever broken into the US Top 1000 once, back in 2005.
  8. Annette

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "grace"

    • Description:

      Annette is a French diminutive of Ann which was among the first wave of widely-used girls' names from France, now neglected for so long that it's almost starting to feel stylish again.
  9. Annika

    • Origin:

      Swedish diminutive of Anna

    • Meaning:

      "grace"

    • Description:

      Annika is a surprise hit of recent years, inspired by golfer Sorenstam; for Trekkies, it was also the name of a 'Star Trek:Voyager' character. Some people's first memory of it might be as Pippi Longstocking's friend. A nice namesake for an ancestral Ann.
  10. Arabella

    • Origin:

      Latin, Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "yielding to prayer; lovable"

    • Description:

      Arabella, lovely and elegant, has long been well used in Britain and finally made it onto the American list in 2005. A Top 50 choice in the UK, in the US in remains in the Top 300, given to around 1300 babies each year.
  11. Ariadne

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "most holy"

    • Description:

      This name of the Cretan goddess of fertility is most popular now as the more melodic Ariana, but Ariadne has possibilities of its own. It first entered the US Top 1000 in 2014. The renewed interest in the name falls in line with the revival of other mythological names like Apollo and Athena. The trendy nickname Ari doesn't hurt either.
  12. Astrid

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian

    • Meaning:

      "divinely beautiful"

    • Description:

      Astrid has been a Scandinavian royal name since the tenth century, and many people associated it with the Swedish author of the Pippi Longstocking stories, Astrid Lindgren. Astrid is derived from the name Ástríðr, which is made up of the Old Norse elements that mean "god" and "beautiful."
  13. Audrey

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "noble strength"

    • Description:

      Audrey is one of the girls' names that have been rising due to their connection to Old Hollywood glamour—in this case the eternally chic and radiant Audrey Hepburn. Audrey has another very different appeal as one of the elite group of girl names that mean strong, brave, or powerful.
  14. Aurelia

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "the golden one"

    • Description:

      Aurelia is an ancient Roman name that's become a surprise hit in the contemporary world. A top favorite on Nameberry, it reentered the US Top 1000 in 2014 after a 70-year absence and continues to climb.
  15. Aurora

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "dawn"

    • Description:

      The goddess name Aurora has consistently been on the US popularity list since the nineteenth century, but has really taken off in the past 30 years. Aurora also enjoys remarkable international popularity, ranking in the Top 100 throughout the English-speaking world as well as in Italy, Spain, Norway, Switzerland, and several other European and Latin American countries.
  16. Austen

    • Origin:

      Literary surname and shortened form of Augustine, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "great, magnificent"

    • Description:

      While Austin is a popular boys' name, this spelling, honoring novelist Jane, nudges the name toward gender-neutral, chosen last year for 67 baby boys and 57 girls.
  17. Aveline

    • Origin:

      French from German

    • Meaning:

      "desired; or island, water"

    • Description:

      Aveline is a name that's long been an obscure cousin of more widely-used choices, but may come into its own riding the tail of the megapopular Ava, which may derive from the same root.
  18. Avery

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "ruler of the elves"

    • Description:

      Avery is a hugely popular name in the US, especially for girls. But while nearly four times as many girls as boys are named Avery today Avery's popularity is starting to soften for girls while it continues to strengthen for boys.
  19. Avis

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "bird"

    • Description:

      Avis is a bird name that's been in hibernation for awhile, possibly due to the car rental association, but it could make a return on the wings of Ava. Baldwin brother Daniel chose it for his daughter.
  20. Bianca

    • Origin:

      Italian

    • Meaning:

      "white"

    • Description:

      Bianca, the livelier Italian and Shakespearean version of Blanche, has been chosen by many American parents since the 1990s, just as Blanca is a favorite in the Spanish-speaking community. Its meaning of white relates to snow, making it one of the prime names for winter babies.
  21. Bridget

    • Origin:

      Anglicized variation of Gaelic Brighid

    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"

    • Description:

      Bridget is the Anglicized form of Brigid, an Irish-Gaelic name that was derived from the word brígh, which means "strength."
  22. Bronte

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "thunder"

    • Description:

      This lovely surname of the three novel-writing sisters, now used as a baby name, makes a fitting tribute for lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. While the original name took an umlaut over the e, modern English speakers may find that more trouble than it's worth.
  23. Caroline

    • Origin:

      French, feminine variation of Charles

    • Meaning:

      "free man"

    • Description:

      Caroline is a perennial classic, one of the elite group of girls' names that's ALWAYS ranked among the Top 1000 and that's been in the Top 100 since 1994. Elegant yet strong, Caroline calls to mind the Kennedy Camelot years and Princess Caroline of Monaco.
  24. Cassandra

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "shining or excelling man"

    • Description:

      The name of the tragic mythological Trojan princess who was given the gift of prophecy by Apollo, but was condemned never to be believed, Cassandra has been used for striking characters in movies and soap operas. Ethereal and delicate, Cassandra was in the Top 70 throughout the 1990s but is now descending in popularity.
  25. Cassia

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Cassius or Greek

    • Meaning:

      "cinnamon"

    • Description:

      Cassia is related to the cassia tree, which has yellow flowers and produces a spice that can be a substitute for cinnamon. Keziah, the name of Job’s daughter in the Old Testament, derives from the name of the plant as well. Cassia also has ties to the Ancient Roman name Cassius, an Ancient Roman family name meaning "hollow."
  26. Cecily

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Cecil

    • Meaning:

      "blind"

    • Description:

      Cecily is as dainty as a lace handkerchief. Cecily has a wide assortment of namesakes. One Cecily was the mother of King Richard III, whose beauty gained her the title "the Rose of Raby," Cecily Parsley is a Beatrix Potter bunny, Cecily Cardew is a character in The Importance of Being Earnest, and the author of the Gossip Girl books is Cecily von Ziegesar.
  27. Ceridwen

    • Origin:

      Welsh

    • Meaning:

      "beautiful as a poem"

    • Description:

      Celtic goddess of poetry, though less-than-poetic name.
  28. Charlotte

    • Origin:

      French, feminine diminutive of Charles

    • Meaning:

      "free man"

    • Description:

      Charlotte, the name of the young Princess of Cambridge, is the latest classic name to join Sophia, Emma, Olivia, and Isabella at the top of the popularity list. It is now among the most popular girl names in many English-speaking and European countries.
  29. Circe

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "bird"

    • Description:

      In Greek myth, Circe, daughter of Helios, the sun, was a sorceress living on the island of Aeaea, who could turn men into animals with her magic wand, which is just what she did to Odysseus's crew in Homer's Odyssey, transforming them into swine. All was forgiven, however, as Circe and Odysseus later had a child together—Telegonus.
  30. Clarissa

    • Origin:

      Elaboration of Clara

    • Meaning:

      "bright, clear"

    • Description:

      Clarissa, the daintier version of Claire, has a long literary history of its own, having been featured in the novels of Samuel Richardson, Charles Dickens, and Virginia Woolf—Clarissa was the title character of Mrs. Dalloway—not to mention the 1990s teen sitcom, Clarissa Explains it All.
  31. Clarity

    • Origin:

      English virtue name

    • Meaning:

      "the quality of being clear"

    • Description:

      Clarity is one of the lightest of the newly rediscovered virtue names, with a bit of three-syllable sparkle, old-fashioned charm and a clear vision for the future. Clarity is a very desirable quality in this confusing world and it also, unlike some other newly coined word names, has real meaning and history as a name.
  32. Claudia

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of Claude

    • Meaning:

      "lame; enclosure"

    • Description:

      Claudia is a classic name with ancient Roman roots. Never truly in or truly out, Claudia feels like a strong, modern choice that hits the sweet spot between too popular and too unusual..
  33. Colette

    • Origin:

      French, short form of Nicole, feminine variation of Nicholas, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "people of victory"

    • Description:

      Like the French author with whom the name is most closely associated, Colette is a chic and charming name that is being rediscovered. After disappearing for nearly 30 years, Colette rejoined the Top 1000 in 2012 at Number 659 and has continued to rise since then.
  34. Cora

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "maiden"

    • Description:

      Cora is a lovely, old-fashioned girls' that has been recently rejuvenated by its contemporary-feeling simplicity. In fact, Cora seemed headed straight for the top of the popularity list when the coronavirus pandemic somewhat weakened its appeal.
  35. Coralena

    • Description:

      Coralena is a delicate feminine name that appears to be an elaboration of Coral, which derives from the precious marine organism and the reddish-pink color it produces. This longer form adds a romantic, flowing quality to the nature-inspired root. Coralena may also be connected to names like Carolina or Coraline, sharing similar sounds and rhythms. Extremely rare in usage, Coralena appeals to parents seeking unique names with natural associations and feminine endings. The name evokes images of ocean beauty and precious natural formations, carrying subtle connections to both nature and jewels. With its melodic four syllables and soft consonants, Coralena has a graceful, almost musical quality that fits contemporary preferences for elaborate yet pronounceable girls' names with natural inspirations.

  36. Cordelia

    • Origin:

      Latin; Celtic

    • Meaning:

      "heart; daughter of the sea"

    • Description:

      Cordelia is exactly the kind of old-fashioned, grown-up name for girls that many parents are seeking for their daughters today. The name of King Lear's one sympathetic daughter, Cordelia has both style and substance along with its Shakespearean pedigree.
  37. Daisy

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Margaret or flower name, English

    • Meaning:

      "day's eye"

    • Description:

      Daisy, fresh, wholesome, and energetic, is one of the flower names that burst back into bloom after a century's hibernation. Originally a nickname for Margaret (the French Marguerite is the word for the flower), Daisy comes from the phrase "day's eye," because it opens its petals at daybreak.
  38. Daniela

    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Daniel used in various languages

    • Meaning:

      "God is my judge"

    • Description:

      Used across Europe, South America, and the US, Daniela is a popular feminine form of the Hebrew name Daniel. It has ranked in the US Top 300 since the early 90s and it's currently on trend in Spain, Portugal, Chile, Mexico, and Lativia.
  39. Diana

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "divine"

    • Description:

      Diana, the tragic British princess, inspired many fashions, but strangely, not one for her name. For us, Diana is a gorgeous and still-underused choice.
  40. Edith

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "prosperous in war"

    • Description:

      Edith was a hugely popular name a hundred years ago that's being revived among stylish parents in Stockholm and London. It's currently beginning to gain traction in the US among those with a taste for old-fashioned names with a soft but strong image.
  41. Eilidh

    • Origin:

      Gaelic form of Eleanor

    • Description:

      Long popular in Scotland, this attractive name is strictly-speaking the Gaelic version of Eleanor, but is also often considered part of the Helen family of names. After the Normans introduced it into the British Isles, it was transformed into Aileen or Evelyn. It has rarely been heard in the US, but it is slowly starting to be used here too.
  42. Elena

    • Origin:

      Spanish, Italian, German, Greek variation of Helen

    • Meaning:

      "bright, shining light"

    • Description:

      Elena is at its most popular point ever in the US, thanks to its cross-cultural appeal and the overall popularity of El- names. It's more international than Ellen or Eleanor, but still accessible.
  43. Elinor

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Eleanor

    • Description:

      Slimmed down spelling is well-established and makes an old name more modern, for better and worse. Katie Couric spells her Elinor's name this way.
  44. Eliza

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      Eliza is a name with a wonderful combination of streamlined zest and Eliza Doolittle charm and spunk. It's a classic that's popular right now -- but not too popular.
  45. Elizabeth

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      Elizabeth is one of the most popular girls' names of all time, the female equivalent of James or William. Yet Elizabeth has so much going for it—rich history, broad appeal, and timeless style—that no matter how many little girls are named Lizzie, Eliza, and Beth, you can still make Elizabeth your own.
  46. Esme

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "beloved"

    • Description:

      Esmé comes from the past participle of the Old French verb esmer, meaing "to esteem" or "to love." It can also be considered a derivative of the Spanish name Esmeralda, which means "emerald".
  47. Estelle

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "star"

    • Description:

      Maybe it's because she shares that winning -elle sound with Isabel and Bella, but Estelle is no longer seen as a muumuu-wearing canasta player of a certain age (think George Costanza's mother on Seinfeld or Joey Tribbiani's talent agent in Friends). This could be in part thanks to the young Royal Couple of Sweden, who chose it for their firstborn daughter, or the single-named British R&B singer. It reentered the US Top 1000 in 2012 after a nearly fifty-year absence.
  48. Evangeline

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "bearer of good news"

    • Description:

      Evangeline is a romantic old name enjoying a major comeback, thanks to its religious overtones, Eva's popularity, and the star of the TV megahit Lost, Evangeline Lilly. Evangelia and Evangelina — two variants of Evangeline — are sure to tag along for the ride.
  49. Evelyn

    • Origin:

      English from French and German

    • Meaning:

      "desired; or water, island"

    • Description:

      After decades of disuse, soft and feminine Evelyn has returned to the baby name stage in a huge way. It reached the Top 10 for the first time in 2017. Evelyn has now surpassed its former heights, joining a legion of contemporary little Evas, Avas, Eves, Evies, and Evelines.
  50. Everly

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "wild boar in woodland clearing"

    • Description:

      Sweet and stylish, with a sporty, energetic undertone, Everly is a name that ticks lots of boxes.
  51. Felicity

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "good fortune, happy"

    • Description:

      Felicity is as accessible a virtue name as Hope and Faith, but much more feminine -- and dare we say, happier. The hit TV show did a lot to soften and modernize the once buttoned-up image of Felicity, and it got further notice as the red-haired Colonial doll, Felicity Merriman, in the American Girl series. A current bearer is actress Felicity Huffman.
  52. Fiona

    • Origin:

      Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "white, fair"

    • Description:

      Fiona entered the American consciousness with the opening of the 1954 Broadway musical Brigadoon, but didn't come onto the U.S. popularity list until 1990.
  53. Freya

    • Origin:

      Norse

    • Meaning:

      "a noble woman"

    • Description:

      Freya has long been popular in the U.K. but has only taken off in the US in the last decade, along with the entire category of mythological names. Derived from the Old Norse name Freyja, meaning "Lady, noble woman", Freya is the name of the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.
  54. Gemma

    • Origin:

      Italian, Catalonian, Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "precious stone"

    • Description:

      Gemma is a jewel of a name, an Italian classic that was very popular in 1980s England, but has only recently been started to be used here; it entered the list in 2008.
  55. Georgiana

    • Origin:

      English, feminine variation of George

    • Meaning:

      "farmer"

    • Description:

      Long a popular upper-crust form in England, where it's pronounced George-ee-AH-na, Georgiana has been been neglected here. But with Georgia growing more popular and the general fashion for elaborate feminine names, Georgiana might have room to grow.
  56. Indiana

    • Origin:

      American place-name

    • Meaning:

      "land of the Indians"

    • Description:

      Indiana is one of those place-names (think Camden and Trenton) that sounds cooler than the place that inspired it. Its fashionable -ana ending certainly sounds eminently name-like, and Indie/Indy/Indi is one of the hottest nickname names for girls right now.
  57. Isobel

    • Origin:

      Scottish variation of Isabel

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      The Scottish spelling of Isabel has a definite character of her own, the 'o' giving her an extra infusion of strength but also an element of confusion. How do you pronounce that? Answer: Exactly like Isabel or Isabelle.
  58. Jayne

    • Origin:

      Variation of Jane

    • Description:

      Unplain (if dated) Jane.
  59. Jessa

    • Origin:

      Short form of Jessica, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "behold or wealthy"

    • Description:

      Once rare, this streamlined form of Jessica has been boosted by two very different television figures: the Jemima Kirke character on HBO series Girls, and reality television daughter Jessa Duggar.
  60. Jessalyn

    • Origin:

      Compound name including Jessica or Jessa and Lyn

    • Meaning:

      "to behold beauty"

    • Description:

      With a hint of the floral Jessamyn, the familiarity of Jessica, and reminiscent of sweet but strong Jocelyn, this compound name was quietly but consistently used from the 80s until the mid 2010s when it began to fall out of favor. This fall coincided with both Jessica dropping out of the US Top 200, and, interestingly, with Jojo and Jessalynn Siwa's appearance on reality TV show Dance Moms.
  61. Jessamine

    • Origin:

      English from Persian

    • Meaning:

      "jasmine"

    • Description:

      Jessamine, a charming name occasionally heard in England, is just beginning to be appreciated in the U.S. as a possible successor to all the Jess names of the past. It's also spelled Jessamyn, as in Quaker novelist Jessamyn West, author of Friendly Persuasion--who started life with Jessamyn as her middle name.
  62. Josephine

    • Origin:

      French feminine variation of Joseph, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"

    • Description:

      Josephine, with its large measure of class and character and a gently offbeat quality, has been on a gentle uphill climb in the US for over 30 years, now ranking in the Top 100. With an intriguing number of vivacious nicknames, from Jo to Josie to Fifi to Posy, Josephine is a Nameberry favorite.
  63. Juliette

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "little Julia"

    • Description:

      Juliette, pronounced with the emphasis on the last syllable, adds a little something extra to Juliet. In the past years it has been rising up the chart.
  64. Junia

    • Origin:

      Latin, Feminine variation of Junius

    • Meaning:

      "born in June"

    • Description:

      Juno is hot, June is showing signs of a comeback along with other month and day names, whereas Junia, the name of the the first century Christian referred to by the apostle Paul as an apostle (and who may have been male), is yet to be discovered.
  65. Katherine

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "pure"

    • Description:

      Katherine is one of the oldest, most diverse, and all-around best names: it's powerful, feminine, royal, saintly, classic, popular, and adaptable. Long one of the top girls' names starting with K, Katherine has now been unseated on the popularity list by upstarts Kennedy and Kinsley, but a dip in popularity only adds to its charm.
  66. Laurena

    • Description:

      Laurena is a feminine name that likely developed as a variation of Lauren or Laura, both ultimately derived from the Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree' or 'sweet bay tree,' which symbolized victory and honor in ancient Rome. The addition of the '-ena' suffix gives the name a softer, more melodic quality. Laurena combines classical roots with a gentle, flowing sound. While not among the most common names, it offers an elegant alternative to the more widely used Laura or Lauren. The name has been used sparingly throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, particularly in Latin American countries and Southern European regions. Laurena carries a timeless femininity that feels both familiar and distinctive.
  67. Lavinia

    • Origin:

      Latin, from ancient place name Lavinium

    • Description:

      Lavinia is a charmingly prim and proper Victorian-sounding name which actually dates back to classical mythology, where it was the name of the wife of the Trojan hero Aeneas, who was considered the mother of the Roman people.
  68. Leonie

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "lion"

    • Description:

      Leonie is a chic French and German form of a name that exists in a range of variations from Leona to Leonia to Leon to Leo to Lionel, all newly fashionable after a couple of generations in style limbo.
  69. Leta

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "glad, joyful"

    • Description:

      Leta has hipster cred as the daughter of cool mommy blogger Dooce. Related to the Greek mythological Leda, a great beauty who mothered another great beauty, Helen of Troy, Leta is a name that's as unique as it is historic: Only 14 baby girls were named Leta in the US last year, and 18 were named Leda. Pronunciation is lee-tah.
  70. Linnea

    • Origin:

      Swedish

    • Meaning:

      "twinflower, lime tree"

    • Description:

      Linnea is an attractive Scandinavian name that derives from the renowned 18th century Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, who developed the Linnean system of classifying plants and animals.
  71. Lola

    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Dolores

    • Meaning:

      "lady of sorrows"

    • Description:

      A hot starbaby name – chosen by Kelly Ripa, Chris Rock, Lisa Bonet, Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen, Carnie Wilson, and Annie Lennox, and used as the nickname of Madonna's Lourdes – Lola manages to feel fun and sassy without going over the top. Be warned, though: "Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets," to quote a song from the show Damn Yankees.
  72. Lorelai

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Lorelei, German

    • Meaning:

      "alluring, temptress"

    • Description:

      Lorelai is the spelling used for the character played by Lauren Graham on The Gilmore Girls, as well as her daughter, who preferred the nickname Rory. The television show reintroduced this name to a new generation, but the Lorelai spelling could be confusing -- is it lor-ah-LAY? -- to those unacquainted with the Gilmores.
  73. Louisa

    • Origin:

      Latinate feminine variation of Louis

    • Meaning:

      "renowned warrior"

    • Description:

      Louisa, a quaint but strongvintage name, is an example of the idea that these days, old-style girls’ names are more fashionable when they end with an a rather than with an e, as in Julie/Julia, Diane/Diana. So for the next generation, Louisa may rise again, especially with the growing popularity of other Lou/Lu-starting names, like Lucy and Luna. Louisa reentered the US Top 1000 in 2014 after a 45 year absence.
  74. Lucille

    • Origin:

      French variation of Latin Lucilla

    • Meaning:

      "light"

    • Description:

      Lucille is a name that had long been overpowered by its link to Lucille Ball, with an image of tangerine-colored hair, big, round eyes, and a tendency to stage daffy and desperate stunts. But with the newfound craze for double-L names like Lily and Lila, Lulu and Luna, and as the choice of Lucille by hipster parents Maya Rudolph and Paul Thomas Anderson, Lucille is breaking free from its old clownish image, moving rapidly up the charts over the past decade after a long nap.
  75. Luna

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "moon"

    • Description:

      The name of the Roman goddess of the moon, Luna is derived straight from the Latin word for moon, luna. Luna may be the name most likely to surprise someone from an older generation by its Top 10 status in the US and its widespread international popularity.
  76. Lydia

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "woman from Lydia"

    • Description:

      Lydia is one of the first place names, after an area of Asia Minor whose inhabitants are credited with strong musical talent great wealth. Always among the US Top 1000 girl names, Lydia is a quietly fashionable classic.
  77. Lyra

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "lyre"

    • Description:

      Lyra is a name with ancient and celestial roots that's finding new popularity thanks to its starring role in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series, seen in the movie The Golden Compass. Simple yet unique, Lyra hits the sweet spot between too popular and too unusual.
  78. Lorabel
    • Makenna

      • Origin:

        Spelling variation of McKenna, Irish, Eastern African

      • Meaning:

        "son of Kenneth; happy one"

      • Description:

        Makenna can be considered a member of the McKenna, Mackenna, Mckenzie and Mckayla family: surname style names that are popular for girls. It translates to "son of Kenneth", or taking Kenneth's meaning into account, "son born of fire". This particular spelling peeked in 2010 when it reached #201 on the US charts, and while it remains in the Top 500, it has declined in popularity in recent years.
    • Mallory

      • Origin:

        French

      • Meaning:

        "unfortunate"

      • Description:

        Early 1980s sitcom (Family Ties) name that has been well used ever since, with an upbeat three-syllable sound and a slightly tomboyish edge.
    • Margaret

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "pearl"

      • Description:

        Margaret is derived from the French Marguerite, which in turn came from Margarita, the Latin form of the Greek Margarites. Margarites was based on the Old Persian word margārīta, meaning "pearl."
    • Marguerite

      • Origin:

        French variation of Margaret; also a flower name

      • Meaning:

        "pearl; daisy"

      • Description:

        Marguerite is a classic French name with a remnant of old-fashioned Gallic charm; and is also a variety of daisy. Chic again in Paris, it's definitely ripe for revival here.
    • Mariann

      • Description:

        Mariann is a feminine name that functions as a variant of Marian or a combination of Maria and Ann. With roots in both Hebrew and Latin traditions, it carries the meanings of 'bitter' (from Maria/Mary) and 'grace' (from Ann), though the original 'bitter' meaning has evolved to be associated with the beloved biblical figure rather than its literal definition. Mariann peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1950s but has since become less common, giving it a vintage charm. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and combines traditional religious associations with a slightly distinctive spelling. Mariann offers the nickname options of Mari, Ann, or Anna, providing versatility for the bearer. In many European countries, particularly in Hungary, Mariann remains a classic choice.

    • Marigold

      • Origin:

        Flower name, from English

      • Meaning:

        "golden flower"

      • Description:

        Marigold, once found almost exclusively in English novels and aristocratic nurseries, is beginning to be talked about and considered here. It has a sweet, sunny, quirky feel. The marigold was the symbol of the Virgin Mary.
    • Marilla

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "shining sea"

      • Description:

        Marilla is a names that's familiar via its resemblance to Mary and variations, but also distinctive: It hasn't been on the Top 1000 since the 1800s and was given to only 27 baby girls last year.
    • Marilyn

      • Origin:

        English, combination of Mary and Lynn

      • Meaning:

        "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + lake"

      • Description:

        For a name that was in the Top 20 for a whole decade – the 1930's – Marilyn has attained the status of almost a one-person name. Just say the name Marilyn, and most people will know who you mean. Yet strangely enough, though Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jean and renamed in tribute to earlier star Marilyn Miller) was the sex symbol of her generation, very little stardust adhered to her name. In fact, when Mariah Carey wished to honor the star in her daughter's name, she chose to call her Monroe rather than Marilyn.
    • Marina

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "from the sea"

      • Description:

        This pretty sea-born name was used to dramatic effect by Shakespeare in his play Pericles for the virtuous princess who says she is "Call'd Marina, for I was born at sea."
    • Melanie

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "black, dark"

      • Description:

        Gone with the Wind inspired a generation of girls named Melanie, though it looks as though Scarlett will triumph in the end.
    • Melina

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "little honey"

      • Description:

        This traditional Greek name has held somewhat steady in the lower half of the US Top 1000 for the past 25 years, which makes it a great option for parents looking for a name that both fits in and stands out.
    • Melisande

      • Origin:

        French form of Millicent, German

      • Meaning:

        "strong in work"

      • Description:

        This old-time fairy tale name is rarely heard in the modern English-speaking world, but it's so, well, mellifluous, that it would make a lovely choice for a twenty-first century girl--a romanticized tribute to an Aunt Melissa or Melanie.
    • Minerva

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "of the mind, intellect"

      • Description:

        Minerva is the long-neglected name of the Roman goddess of wisdom and invention, the arts and martial strength, one of the mythology names for girls that might appeal to adventurous feminist parents. With Juno and Jupiter, she made the Capitoline triad, whose worship was at the very center of Roman religion.
    • Miriam

      • Origin:

        Hebrew or Egyptian

      • Meaning:

        "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

      • Description:

        The oldest-known form of Mary, serious and solemn Miriam has been a particular favorite of observant Jewish parents. But we can see it extending beyond that sphere into the next wave of Old Testament names post-Rachel, Rebecca, Sarah, Hannah, and Leah. Miriam is currently the Number 1 girls' name in Israel.
    • Morgana

      • Origin:

        Female version of Morgan, Welsh

      • Meaning:

        "sea-circle"

      • Description:

        Since Morgan is used as--or more--frequently for girls as for boys, this feminization has fallen by the wayside. It drew some brief attention via the pop singer Morgana King.

        The similar Morgiana appears in Tales from the Thousand and One Nights.

    • Nerissa

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "from the sea"

      • Description:

        An offbeat possible replacement for the overused Melissa and Marisa, Nerissa was used by Shakespeare for Portia's witty confidante in The Merchant of Venice. Queen Elizabeth has a cousin named Nerissa.
    • Nova

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "new"

      • Description:

        Nova has the feel of both newness, from its meaning, and great energy as an astronomical term for a star that increases suddenly in brightness before fading.
    • Olive

      • Origin:

        English, from Latin, nature name

      • Meaning:

        "olive tree"

      • Description:

        Though greatly overshadowed by the trendy Olivia, Olive has a quiet, subtle appeal of its own -- and is now enjoying a remarkable comeback. Olive is one of only four girl names starting with O on the US Top 1000. Cool couple Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen chose it for their daughter, reviving the name to stylishness, and now Drew Barrymore has a little Olive too, as has country singer Jake Owen.
    • Penelope

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "weaver"

      • Description:

        Penelope is an unlikely 21st century baby name success story. Off the Top 1000 for 25 years, Penelope jumped back on in 2001 and has been heading uphill ever since, propelled by the trend for mythological names, Spanish actress Penelope Cruz, and some high-profile celebrity babies.
    • Petra

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "rock, stone"

      • Description:

        A strong Greek name with pan-European charm, Petra is a relatively recent feminization of Peter, though it relates back to an incredible ancient city in Jordan that was rediscovered in the early nineteenth century.
    • Philippa

      • Origin:

        Greek, feminine variation of Philip

      • Meaning:

        "lover of horses"

      • Description:

        Philippa is a prime example of a boy's name adapted for girls that was common as crumpets in Cornwall, but rarely heard stateside. That was before the advent of royal sister-in-law Philippa Middleton, who goes by the lively nickname Pippa.
    • Phoebe

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "radiant, shining one"

      • Description:

        Phoebe is the Latin variation of the Greek name Phoibe, which derived from phoibos, meaning "bright." In classical mythology, Phoebe is the by-name of Artemis, goddess of the moon and of hunting. The masculine version of Phoebe is Phoebus.
    • Piper

      • Origin:

        English occupational name

      • Meaning:

        "pipe or flute player"

      • Description:

        Piper is a bright, musical name that entered the list in 1999, one year after the debut of the TV series Charmed, which featured a Piper, and it's been a consistent riser since. Piper Kerman is the memoirist whose prison experiences provided the basis for the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black.
    • Poppy

      • Origin:

        English from Latin

      • Meaning:

        "red flower"

      • Description:

        Poppy, unlike most floral names which are sweet and feminine, has a lot of spunk. Long popular throughout the rest of the English-speaking world, Poppy is finally starting to rise toward the top in the US, where it entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2016.
    • Primrose

      • Origin:

        English flower name

      • Meaning:

        "first rose"

      • Description:

        A quaint and quirky flower name, until recently considered a bit too prim for most American classrooms but brought back to life in recent years by the attractive character of Primrose "Prim" Everdeen in the Hunger Games series. In the Top 300 girl names in England and Wales and on Nameberry, Primrose remains rare in the US, but is made more accessible by a raft of sweet nickname options, including Rosie and Posy.
    • Pemberley
      • Rebecca

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "to tie, bind"

        • Description:

          Rebecca is a name representing beauty in the Bible, an Old Testament classic that reached the heights of revived popularity in the seventies but is still a well-used choice. It derives from the Hebrew name Rivkah, from the verb ribbqah, meaning "noose." The biblical Rebecca was the wife of Isaac and the mother of Esau and Jacob. Rebekah was a common spelling of the name in the Bible.
      • Renata

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "reborn"

        • Description:

          Widely used across Europe as a common baptismal name symbolizing spiritual rebirth, Renata, in this country it has an operatic image via Italian-born divas Renata Tebadi and Renata Scotti.
      • Rory

        • Origin:

          Irish

        • Meaning:

          "red king"

        • Description:

          Rory is a buoyant, spirited name for a redhead with Celtic roots. The name Rory is getting more popular overall, but for the past few years has been trending decidedly toward the boys' side -- however, it's been rising to new heights for girls in recent years.
      • Rosalie

        • Origin:

          French variation of Rosalia, Latin

        • Meaning:

          "rose"

        • Description:

          Rosalie hit its apex in 1938 and then slid straight downhill until it fell off the U.S. Top 1000 completely in the 1980s, only to spring back to life in 2009 as the name of a character in the Twilight series. The beautiful vampire Rosalie Hale has breathed fresh life back into this mid-century name, and the fact that the character is both sympathetic and relatively minor means Rosalie has the chance to thrive again as a baby name without feeling unduly tied to Twilight.
      • Rosemary

        • Origin:

          Latin or English

        • Meaning:

          "dew of the sea, or rosemary (herb)"

        • Description:

          Despite appearances, Rosemary is not a "smoosh" name, not even a traditional one. The name derives from two Latin terms "Ros" meaning ‘dew’ and "Marinus" "meaning "of the sea". The plant was termed ‘dew of the sea’ due to its salty texture and its ability to thrive in coastal climes. Only after the Middle Ages did the English names of Rose and Mary become interchanged with the name Rosmarinus and give us the modern name we use today.
      • Roslyn

        • Origin:

          Spelling variation of Rosalind

        • Description:

          Spelling variations abound when a name is trendy, which Rosalind is not these days. We say leave Roslyn back in the middle of the 20th century and reclaim the original Rosalind.
      • Rowan

        • Origin:

          Scottish and Irish

        • Meaning:

          "rowan tree; little redhead"

        • Description:

          Stylish, gentle, and rustic at the same time, Rowan is a name that falls into various categories. Unisex and cool, mystical and woodsy, with the feel of both Rose and Riley, Rowan is a fresh but familiar choice.
      • Rowena

        • Origin:

          Welsh

        • Meaning:

          "white spear or famous friend"

        • Description:

          A fabled storybook name via the heroine of Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe (1819), which featured a heroine called Rowena of Hargottstanstede, and also a Harry Potter name, as Rowena Ravenclaw, founder of one of the Hogwarts houses..
      • Ruby

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "deep red precious stone"

        • Description:

          Vibrant, sassy, and bubbly, Ruby is a vintage gem that hasn’t lost any of its sparkle. Currently popular in a number of English-speaking countries, Ruby is proof of the 100 Year Rule, trending again for the first time since its heyday in the 1910s.
      • Sadie

        • Origin:

          Diminutive of Sarah

        • Meaning:

          "princess"

        • Description:

          Sadie started as a nickname for Sarah, but their images couldn't be more disparate. Where Sarah is serious and sweet, Sadie is full of sass and fun.
      • Saoirse

        • Origin:

          Irish

        • Meaning:

          "liberty"

        • Description:

          Before the young Irish actress Saoirse Ronan made her mark in the films Ladybird and The Lovely Bones, few of us had heard this name, let alone known how to pronounce it. But now it is slowly way edging its way into the mainstream, particularly, of course, with parents who have Irish roots. It made its first appearance in the US Top 1000 in 2016, when it was the third-fastest-rising girls' name.
      • Saskia

        • Origin:

          Dutch

        • Meaning:

          "Saxon"

        • Description:

          From the first time we saw the name Saskia attached to a portrait of Rembrandt's wife (her full name was Saakje van Uylenburgh, but she was always called Saskia), we have found it utterly charming and wondered why it hasn't attracted more fans In this country--she's appreciated by the Brits, who have moved her to Number 392. Saskia is one of those names that's been used in Europe since the Middle Ages, but has never crossed the ocean.
      • Scarlett

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "scarlet, red"

        • Description:

          Scarlett Johansson is doing more for this sparky southern name than Scarlett O'Hara ever did. Since the turn of the 21st century, Scarlett has gone from an obscure literary name to one of the most popular girls' names starting with S, right after longtime favorites Sophia and Sofia.
      • September

        • Origin:

          English word name

        • Meaning:

          "month name"

        • Description:

          Parents are beginning to turn away from springtime months like April and June and are moving toward the cooler and crisper three-syllable September, October, November, and December.
      • Seraphina

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "ardent; fiery"

        • Description:

          Seraphina is one of the most-searched name on Nameberry, destined for even greater popularity. The highest-ranking angels, the six-winged seraphim, inspired the lovely name Seraphina.
      • Serena

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "tranquil, serene"

        • Description:

          Serena, a name used since Roman times, was given fresh life by tennis star Williams, and then again with the leading character on Gossip Girl, Serena van der Woodsen. There have also been Serenas on soap operas and other shows from Bewitched to Law & Order.
      • Shoshanna

        • Origin:

          Spelling variation of Shoshana, Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "lily"

        • Description:

          Shoshanna is a variation of one of the best-known original Hebrew baby names for girls , the original of Susanna. This is the spelling used by Shoshanna Lonstein, a designer who creates the Shoshanna clothing line and also the name of one of the four leading characters on the TV show Girls, Shoshanna Shapiro.
      • Stella

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "star"

        • Description:

          Stella is a name with star quality and sparkle, that manages to sound both ethereal and earthy. Celestial but not otherworldly, it lands somewhere between the popular Ella and bold Seraphina.
      • Sybil

        • Origin:

          Greek

        • Meaning:

          "prophetess"

        • Description:

          The image of the lovely Lady Sybil, tragic youngest daughter of the Crawley family on Downton Abbey is likely to go a long way towards reviving this almost forgotten name, off the list since 1966 and most popular in the 1920s and '30s.
      • Tabitha

        • Origin:

          Aramaic

        • Meaning:

          "gazelle"

        • Description:

          Though never as popular as the name of her Bewitched mother, Samantha, Tabitha has its own quirky, magical charm. The name of a charitable woman who was restored to life by Saint Peter in the Bible, it was a popular Puritan choice. Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick chose it for one of their twin daughters, which gave it a slight boost. Nonetheless, Tabitha remains in decline.
      • Tanis

        • Origin:

          Variation of Tanith, Phoenician, Native American, Cree

        • Meaning:

          "daughter"

        • Description:

          This obscure name found in Sinclair Lewis's 1923 novel Babbitt is a bit hipper than most other is-ending names like Janis and Doris. Some sources consider it a variation of Tanith, who is a Phoenician moon goddess and fertility figure, while others say it is a North American indigenous name from the Cree culture, meaning daughter. It may in fact have two separate derivations and meanings, but in any case is a lovely and unusual name.
      • Temperance

        • Origin:

          Virtue name

        • Description:

          Not too long ago, Temperance was found only on lists of Puritan baby names.
      • Tessa

        • Origin:

          Diminutive of Theresa

        • Meaning:

          "to reap, to gather"

        • Description:

          Tessa is one of those golden names that's been popular but not TOO popular for several decades now. Tessa has ranked in the Top 500 in the US since 1981 but has risen only once above Number 200.
      • Therese

        • Origin:

          German and Scandinavian variation of Theresa

        • Meaning:

          "to reap, gather, harvest"

        • Description:

          A form of Theresa with a touch of European flair along with its saintly connotations, Therese is particularly familiar in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, and the UK. While it has declined in use in recent years, it remains a solid choice with nicknames ranging from Reese to Tessie, Thea to Tessan, Terri to Tracey.
      • Thessaly

        • Origin:

          Greek, place name, meaning unknown

        • Description:

          The name of an area in northern Greece, known in the era of Homer's Odyssey as Aeolia, Thessaly makes a spirited and pretty place name. Reminiscent of Tessa, Rosalie, and Thea, the name likely derives from that of an ancient tribe, though the exact meaning isn't known.
      • Veda

        • Origin:

          Sanskrit

        • Meaning:

          "knowledge"

        • Description:

          A name with religious resonance, as the Vedas are the most sacred texts of Hinduism. Outside of that religious context, Veda has the makings of a modern popular name, with its sharp V initial, two syllables, and feminine a ending. This is evidenced by it reentry into the US Top 1000 in 2015, after fifty-five years off the list. Similar names on the rise are Vera and Vada.
      • Vera

        • Origin:

          Russian

        • Meaning:

          "faith"

        • Description:

          Vera was the height of fashion in 1910, then was for a long time difficult to picture embroidered on a baby blanket. Now, though, it has come back into style along with other old-fashioned simple names such as Ada and Iris.
      • Verity

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "truth"

        • Description:

          If you love Puritan virtue names and want to move beyond Hope and Faith and Grace, this is a wonderful choice, both for its meaning and its sound. A rare find here, though occasionally heard in England. It was used in Winston Graham's Poldark novels, was Madonna's name as James Bond's fencing instructor in Die Another Day, and made a brief appearance in Harry Potter. Not to mention being a fixture on British and Australian soaps. Verity also appears in one of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple mysteries.
      • Victoria

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "victory"

        • Description:

          Victoria is the Latin word for "victory" and a feminine form of Victor. It is the name of the ancient Roman goddess of victory, the equivalent of the Greek Nike, and also a popular third century saint.
      • Violet

        • Origin:

          English from Latin

        • Meaning:

          "purple"

        • Description:

          Violet is soft and sweet, yet with a vivacious edge. Today, Violet is the top flower name for girls, outranking Lily and Iris in the Top 100, and the second most popular color name for girls after Scarlett.
      • Waverly

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "meadow of quivering aspens"

        • Description:

          Waverly, with its literary resonance and lilting three-syllable sound, could well become the next generation's successor to Kimberly. Its upper-crusty surname feel places it among the new stylish English names for girls, successors to Ashley and Whitney.
      • Wendy

        • Origin:

          English, Celtic, Welsh

        • Meaning:

          "friend or white"

        • Description:

          It is popularly claimed that the name Wendy was invented by Sir James Barrie in 1904 for the big sister character in his play Peter Pan, which was followed by the classic novel in 1911. Barrie supposedly took it from the nickname "fwendy-wendy", that he was called by a young girl acquaintance.
      • Wilhelmina

        • Origin:

          German and Dutch, feminine variation of Wilhelm

        • Meaning:

          "resolute protection"

        • Description:

          Wilhelmina might once have been condemned as a clunky relic best left in the past, but a steadily increasing number of parents are dusting it off for their 21st century babies. A reasonably popular choice in the 19th century, but out of favor by the 1950s, in the last decade, the number of babies called Wilhelmina has doubled, with 140 girls receiving the name in 2023.
      • Willa

        • Origin:

          Feminine variation of William

        • Meaning:

          "resolute protection"

        • Description:

          Willa has become increasingly fashionable, with its combination of Willa (born Wilella) Cather-like pioneer strength and the graceful beauty of the willow tree.
      • Winifred

        • Origin:

          Welsh

        • Meaning:

          "blessed peacemaking"

        • Description:

          One of the few remaining unrestored vintage gems, with a choice of two winning nicknames--the girlish Winnie and the tomboyish Freddie. Winifred, the name of a legendary Welsh saint, was a Top 200 name into the mid-1920's.
      • Zara

        • Origin:

          Hebrew and Arabic

        • Meaning:

          "blooming flower; God remembers"

        • Description:

          Zara has multiple origins, but most notably is a variation of Zahrah, a name derived from the Arabic zahrah, meaning "blooming flower." Zara can also be a diminutive of the Bulgarian name Zaharina, a feminine form of the Hebrew Zechariah. Today, Zara is heavily associated with the Spanish fast-fashion empire of the same name.