Baby girl names
- Gwynn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fair, blessed"Description:
The most modern choice in this group, and the most distinctive; the Gwyn form is a common male name in Wales.
- Carlyle
Origin:
Variation of Carlisle, EnglishMeaning:
"from the walled city"Description:
Might Carlyle (or Carlisle) be the next Carly, which of course was the update on Carla? In 2015, 14 girls were given the Carlisle spelling (vs. 35 boys) but the Carlyle version did not make the SSA list for girls although it was registered for ten boys. But it's a name we think we'll hear more of for both genders.
- Gwyn
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"white, blessed"Description:
A male name in Wales, Gwyn has been mostly feminine in the US thanks to its resemblance to the more familiar Gwen. It derives from the same Celtic root as the popular Finn family of names.
- Cambry
Description:
Cambry is a modern feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Welsh place name Cambria (an ancient name for Wales), or it could be a creative variant of Cameron or Kimberly. The name has a contemporary feel with its trendy -bry ending, similar to popular names like Aubrey and Brinley. Cambry began appearing in the United States around the early 2000s, gaining modest recognition as parents sought fresh, distinctive names. It remains uncommon enough to be distinctive while having a familiar, accessible sound pattern. The name has a gentle yet modern quality, with soft consonants balanced by the stronger 'br' sound. Its relative rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name that's still easy to pronounce and spell.
- Gwenetta
Description:
Gwenetta is a feminine name that elaborates on the Welsh name Gwen, meaning "white," "fair," or "blessed." By adding the diminutive suffix -etta, the name takes on a more ornate, melodic quality while retaining its Celtic roots. This elaboration follows the pattern of names like Henrietta or Georgetta, creating a more formal version of the simple, classic Gwen. Gwenetta emerged primarily in the mid-20th century when such embellished variations were fashionable, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. The name has a vintage charm and distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common Gwen derivatives like Gwyneth or Gwenda. Gwenetta suggests refinement and grace while maintaining connections to its Welsh heritage.
- Alouetta
Description:
Alouetta is a feminine name derived from the French word 'alouette,' meaning 'lark' (a type of songbird). It's closely associated with the famous French-Canadian folk song 'Alouette, gentille alouette.' The name evokes images of music, freedom, and the natural world. Alouetta has never been widely used in English-speaking countries, maintaining its distinctive French character. The addition of the final 'a' softens and feminizes the traditional word. This melodic name carries connotations of joy and lightness, characteristics often attributed to the lark in literature and folklore. Parents drawn to Alouetta might appreciate its musical quality, French origins, or the symbolism of birds. The name has a romantic, whimsical quality that sets it apart from more common choices.
- Gwinn
Description:
Gwinn is an uncommon feminine name with Welsh and Celtic roots, though it can occasionally be used for either gender. Derived from Welsh elements meaning 'white' or 'blessed,' it has connections to the surname Gwynn or Gwyn. As a first name, Gwinn maintains a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more common choices. The name carries an elegant simplicity with its single-syllable pronunciation despite the double 'n' spelling. Though never reaching widespread popularity, Gwinn appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage and a subtle, refined character. Its rarity gives the name a distinctive quality while maintaining accessibility in pronunciation.
- Langley
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"long meadow"Description:
This somewhat snobby-sounding surname popped onto the name map when Mariel Hemingway used it for one of her daughters.
- Sidda
Origin:
Literary nameDescription:
Sidda is a name made famous by the heroine of The Ya-Ya Sisterhood; it probably started life as a nickname.
- Lorette
Description:
Lorette is a feminine name with French origins, functioning as a diminutive of Lora or Laura. These names ultimately derive from the Latin "laurus," meaning "laurel tree," which symbolized victory and honor in ancient times. Lorette has a delicate, graceful quality with its soft ending, embodying French elegance and refinement. In French culture, it also has religious connotations through association with Our Lady of Loreto. While never tremendously common in English-speaking countries, the name has maintained consistent if modest usage. Lorette offers a sophisticated alternative to more widely used Laura derivatives, appealing to parents seeking a name with French flair and classical roots.
- Lyza
Description:
Lyza is a feminine name that serves as a modern, streamlined variant of Elizabeth, Eliza, or Lisa. With its crisp, contemporary spelling, Lyza offers a fresh take on these traditional names while maintaining their essential sound and character. The name is concise yet melodic, with the 'z' adding a distinctive touch of uniqueness. Elizabeth, from which Lyza ultimately derives, has Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath' or 'God's promise.' As a shorter form, Lyza strips away some of the formal quality of Elizabeth while preserving its feminine essence. Though uncommon, Lyza appeals to parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and distinctive, with an energetic, modern vibe. Its simplicity makes it easy to spell and pronounce despite its relative rarity.
- Sybill
Description:
Sybill is a feminine name that represents a variation of Sibyl or Sybil, derived from the Greek word 'sibylla' meaning prophetess or oracle. In ancient Greece and Rome, sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers. This elegant name carries an air of mystery and wisdom throughout history. While less common than its traditional spelling, Sybill offers a distinctive touch with its double 'l' ending. The name experienced modest popularity during the early 20th century but remains relatively rare today, giving it a unique quality. Literary and pop culture references, including characters in works like Harry Potter, have occasionally brought attention to variants of this name.
- Tiernan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little lord"Description:
An old Irish surname cousin of Tierney that makes an unusual and appealing Irish gender switch.
- Jory
Description:
Jory as a feminine name is an intriguing choice with several possible origins. It may be a feminine adaptation of the masculine Jory, which itself can be a variant of George (meaning "farmer"), a form of the Hebrew name Yore ("he will teach"), or a short form of names like Marjorie. When used for girls, Jory has a modern, androgynous quality with its short, punchy sound. The name's simplicity makes it easy to spell and pronounce while remaining distinctive. Though uncommon for either gender, it has seen occasional use throughout the English-speaking world. Jory carries an independent, spirited quality that parents seeking an unconventional yet accessible name might find appealing. Its brevity allows it to pair well with longer surnames and middle names.
- Arrie
Description:
Arrie is a feminine name that may function as a diminutive of names beginning with 'Ar-' such as Arabella, Arianna, or Artemis. It also exists as a variant of Ari, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'lion' or Norse roots meaning 'eagle.' Some may see Arrie as a variation of Ariel or Harry. This short, sweet name carries a vintage charm reminiscent of early 20th century nicknames while maintaining modern appeal. Though uncommon, Arrie has seen occasional usage throughout the decades. The name's simplicity and soft sound give it a gentle quality, while its possible connection to powerful meanings like 'lion' or 'eagle' suggests hidden strength beneath its diminutive appearance.
- Vivee
Description:
Vivee is a rare feminine name likely derived from Latin roots connected to 'vivus' meaning 'alive' or 'living.' It may be considered a variation of more common names like Vivian, Vivienne, or Viva, all sharing this life-affirming etymology. The distinctive spelling with the double 'e' ending gives it a modern, stylized appearance while maintaining the vibrant sound of its root names. Vivee has never been widely used, remaining outside popularity charts in most countries. The name has a cheerful, energetic quality with its bright vowel sounds and concise two-syllable structure. For parents seeking a name that conveys vitality and positivity while remaining highly distinctive, Vivee offers an uncommon option with recognizable linguistic roots.
- Tierneigh
Description:
Tierneigh is a modern feminine name that appears to be a creative spelling variation of Tierney. The traditional Tierney originates as an Irish surname derived from 'Tighearnach,' meaning 'lord' or 'master.' The unique spelling incorporates 'neigh,' perhaps suggesting a connection to horses for families with equestrian interests. This contemporary spelling transformation gives the name a distinctive quality while maintaining the pronunciation of the more traditional form. Tierneigh represents the modern trend of customizing traditional names with unique spellings. Though rare in formal naming records, it appeals to parents seeking names with Celtic heritage but with an individualized touch.
- Kordelia
Description:
Kordelia is an alternative spelling of Cordelia, a feminine name with Latin origins that means 'heart' or 'daughter of the sea.' This variation with a 'K' gives the classical name a more modern, distinctive appearance while maintaining its elegant sound. The name gained literary fame through Shakespeare's tragic character in 'King Lear,' lending it artistic and cultural significance. While the traditional spelling remains more common, Kordelia offers a fresh take that maintains the name's romantic, poetic quality. The name evokes associations with loyalty, sincerity, and emotional depth. Its multiple syllables create a melodic, flowing quality that contributes to its timeless appeal.
- Legacy
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Legacy is proof that any attractive-sounding word can be turned into a name, and this one has the added attractions of an inspirational meaning and a cool creative namesake -- hot young artist Legacy Russell.
- Kalypso
Description:
Kalypso is a feminine name derived from Greek mythology, an alternative spelling of Calypso. In Homer's Odyssey, Calypso was a nymph who detained Odysseus on her island for seven years. The name comes from the Greek word 'kalypto,' meaning 'to conceal' or 'to hide,' reflecting the nymph's remote island home. This spelling variation with 'K' and 'y' gives the name a modern, distinctive appearance while maintaining its mythological roots. Beyond its literary associations, Kalypso also evokes the vibrant Calypso music of the Caribbean, adding cultural richness to the name. Though uncommon as a given name, Kalypso offers parents a choice that combines ancient storytelling tradition with exotic flair. The name conveys a sense of mystery, enchantment, and feminine power that appeals to those drawn to names with mythological significance.