Girls Names with Tomboy Nicknames

This feminization of Anthony, like other early French forms, such as Babette and Nanette, is not heard as often as it once was, but it could be time for a reappraisal of this delicate Gallic choice.

This most proper form of the name shot up the charts in the nineties, only to sink just as precipitously, supplanted by upstarts Makayla and McKayla ad infinitum. The Michaela version retains some elegance as the closest feminine form to the original.

Roberta has been one of the most successful feminization names, up at #64 in 1936. It's a name that's found all over children's lit, often nicknamed Bobbie or Robbie, though Bertie is another possibility. Notable bearers have included singers Roberta Flack and Roberta Peters--plus it's the birth name of Joni Mitchell.

Though rarely used now that many parents would rather appropriate men's names than sweeten them with feminine endings, Thomasina does have some vintage appeal.

Daniella, Daniela, and Danielle were among the hottest names for twenty years, but now, though still popular, they can no longer be considered stylish options, lagging behind the newer Ella, Stella, Bella, Gabriella, and Isabella.

Used quietly on boys in the US since the early 20th century, Mckenzie was abruptly overtaken by the Mackenzie spelling back in 1973 when actress Mackenzie Phillips introduced the name as a possibility for girls. While Mckenzie has never matched its sibling spelling in popularity, it nevertheless climbed the charts in its wake, peaking in 2000 at #133.

Frederica is an interesting possibility for the parent unintimidated by its old-fashioned formality, and who can appreciate the vintage charm and verve lurking beneath its stuffiness.

Not cutting edge, but still graceful and feminine.

Part of a group of similar midcentury names rarely given to babies today.

The Spanish version, with its -eena ending, takes the name out of the Oh My Darlin' realm, which for many American parents may be just the thing.

Joann is a feminine name derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious." It's a variant of Joanne or Joan, all stemming from the male name John. Popular throughout the mid-20th century in the United States, Joann reached its peak usage in the 1930s-1950s, reflecting the era's preference for clear, straightforward names. The name carries a classic, unpretentious quality that balances femininity with strength. While less commonly given to newborns today, Joann maintains a timeless appeal and recognition. Many notable women including actresses, athletes, and artists have borne this name, contributing to its enduring character. The spelling variant with no 'e' at the end gives it a slightly more streamlined appearance than Joanne, though both forms have been widely used.