Baby girl names
- Connolly
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"love, friendship"Description:
Energetic Connelly variation that works better for girls than for boys.
- 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.
- Abbott
Origin:
English, Aramaic, HebrewMeaning:
"priest, father"Description:
A traditionally masculine surname, denoting the head of a monastery, a priest, or someone who worked for a church official, Abbott may appeal as a fresh spin on Biblical Abigail. Quietly used for boys, it has seen very occasional use for girls since the 2000s.
- Legend
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"hero or fable"Description:
Legend joins cousins Story, Saga and Fable in the baby name pantheon of narrative words. Unlike Story and Fable, however, Legend comes with additional weight, being used for fame ("living legend") and to denote a person who is fantastic "what a legend"). Who can live up to that?
- 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.
- 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.
- Lydie
Description:
Lydie is a feminine name with French origins, representing the French form of Lydia. The name traces back to ancient times, derived from the historic region of Lydia in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The name means 'from Lydia' and has connections to the ancient Greek culture. In France and French-speaking regions, Lydie has maintained steady usage, appreciated for its elegant simplicity and classical roots. The name has a delicate, refined quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce. While less common in English-speaking countries than the form Lydia, Lydie offers a subtle French twist that appeals to parents seeking names with European flair. The name carries associations with culture and refinement, reflecting its ancient heritage and continued use in sophisticated naming traditions.
- Gwynne
Description:
Gwynne is a feminine name with Welsh origins, derived from the Welsh word 'gwyn' meaning 'white,' 'fair,' or 'blessed.' Traditionally used for both genders in Wales, it has become predominantly feminine in English-speaking countries. The name carries associations with purity, brightness, and spiritual blessing. Gwynne has historical connections to Welsh culture and mythology, where fairness and light were highly valued qualities. Though never extremely common, the name has maintained steady recognition, particularly in regions with Welsh heritage. Its distinctive spelling with the double 'n' adds visual interest while its short, one-syllable pronunciation offers simplicity. Parents often choose Gwynne for its Celtic roots, positive meaning, and elegant yet strong sound.
- Jynx
Description:
Jynx is an uncommon feminine name with modern origins, inspired by the English word 'jinx' meaning a person or thing believed to bring bad luck. The distinctive spelling with a 'y' instead of an 'i' gives the name a contemporary, edgy quality. Jynx gained some recognition through pop culture, particularly as a Pokémon character introduced in the late 1990s. The name carries a playful, mischievous connotation and projects a bold, unconventional image. Its rarity makes it stand out, appealing to parents seeking names with attitude and uniqueness. Despite its association with superstition, the name has been embraced by some for its short, punchy sound and memorable quality.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cybil
Description:
Cybil is a feminine name that represents a modern spelling variation of Sibyl or Sybil, derived from the Greek word 'sibylla,' meaning 'prophetess' or 'oracle.' In ancient Greek and Roman culture, sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers. The spelling with 'C' gained some popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly after actress Cybill Shepherd rose to fame in the 1970s. Though less common than many contemporary names, Cybil has a distinctly vintage charm while maintaining mystical undertones. The name suggests wisdom, intuition, and a connection to ancient traditions of feminine power.
- Korinne
Description:
Korinne is a feminine name representing a modern variant spelling of Corinne, which derives from the Greek name Korinna, meaning "maiden." This alternative spelling with 'K' emerged as parents sought ways to personalize traditional names while maintaining their essential sound and character. The name carries a graceful, feminine quality while its less common spelling adds a touch of uniqueness. Korinne has never reached widespread popularity but maintains steady usage, particularly in North America. The name balances classic origins with contemporary style, appealing to parents who appreciate traditional names with a slight twist. With its soft sounds and ancient Greek heritage, Korinne conveys both elegance and strength.
- Ortensia
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"of the garden"Description:
Variant of Hortensia, an unusual floral name and the name of a secondary character in Roald Dahl's Matilda.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
