Amazing Heroines
By lilahjagger
Updated Sun Apr 16 2023
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List of my fave girl names for potential heroines in my books and stories.
- Cora
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"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.
- Everly
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"wild boar in woodland clearing"Description:
Sweet and stylish, with a sporty, energetic undertone, Everly is a name that ticks lots of boxes.
- Isla
Origin:
Scottish place-name or SpanishMeaning:
"island"Description:
Isla is a hit name throughout the English-speaking world but hasn't found the same popularity in other western countries, perhaps because its spelling and pronunciation don't make sense for those whose native language is not English. Think island without the final two letters.
- Ivette
Origin:
French variation of YvetteDescription:
Feels more modern than the Y version but also less authentic.
- Khaleesi
Origin:
LiteratureMeaning:
"warlord"Description:
Khaleesi is an invented name introduced to the world by inventive and prolific author George R. R. Martin for his wildly popular Game of Thrones series—it's Dothraki for "queen" and is one of the titles of the character Daenerys. It entered the US Top 1000 in 2014.
- Kiera
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little dark one"Description:
Kiera entered the American popularity list in 1988, though it lags behind the alternate spelling Keira, largely due to the fame of actress Keira Knightley.
- Leoni
Description:
Leoni is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. It can be seen as a variant of Leonie, which derives from the Latin name Leo meaning 'lion,' symbolizing strength and courage. In some contexts, it may also function as a shortened form of Leontine or Leonida. Particularly popular in German-speaking countries and gaining traction elsewhere in Europe, Leoni offers a softer, more feminine take on the powerful lion imagery associated with its root. The name blends a certain strength with a melodic, gentle sound. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Leoni has been gradually increasing in usage, appealing to parents seeking a name that balances traditional roots with a contemporary feel and cross-cultural appeal.
- Livy
Description:
Livy is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name 'Livius,' which is associated with the ancient Roman historian Titus Livius. The name carries a sense of scholarly prestige and classical heritage. As a given name, Livy works beautifully as a modern, concise alternative to more traditional names like Olivia or Lavinia. It has gained modest popularity in recent years as parents seek short, distinctive names with historical roots. Livy combines intellectual associations with a light, appealing sound. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary feel while maintaining its connection to classical antiquity, making it appealing to parents who appreciate names with substance and style.
- Nasima
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"breeze, fresh air"Description:
Associated with a spring festival, this name is used by both Muslims and Christians.
- Nayeli
Origin:
ZapotecMeaning:
"I love you"Description:
A name rarely heard outside the Latino community, but it was popular enough in the early 2000s to crack the Top 200. Since then, it's lost ground.
- Neima
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"pleasant, agreeable, likeable"Description:
One of the less attractive Hebrew choices.
- Seraphina
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"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.