Girl Names

A modern Welsh name that will be misunderstood as Irene.

Originally inspired as by eighties TV actress Mackenzie Phillips, parents since have flocked to Mackenzie for their daughters. Now a staple All-American choice, Mackenzie has ranked in the US Top 1000 for nearly 50 years.

Mackenzie originates from the Scottish surname which itself an anglicized form of the Gaelic Mac Coinnich. Coinnich is one of the original Gaelic forms of Kenneth meaning "handsome, beautiful, comely".

Mhairie is a feminine Scottish Gaelic variant of Mary, with the 'mh' producing a 'v' sound in Gaelic pronunciation (roughly pronounced 'VAY-ree'). This distinctive spelling reflects traditional Gaelic orthography and gives the classic name a strong connection to Scottish heritage. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew 'Miriam,' and shares the rich history of Mary as one of the most enduring female names across many cultures. While less common than other Mary variants like Marie or Mairi, Mhairie has a lyrical quality and unique appearance that appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic roots. Its authenticity and cultural depth make it a meaningful choice for families with Scottish connections.

Variation of Michaela often used in Scandinavian countries. Mikaela is a Top 20 name in Puerto Rico.

Mikaila is a feminine name that represents a modern variation of Michaela, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Michael meaning "who is like God?" This contemporary spelling adds a unique twist while maintaining the name's biblical roots and angelic associations. Mikaila gained modest popularity in the United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s, appealing to parents seeking names with traditional origins but distinctive spellings. The name carries a melodic quality with its flowing vowels and gentle consonants. While less common than similar variants like Michaela, Makayla, or Mikayla, this spelling offers a balance between familiarity and uniqueness. Mikaila projects a blend of strength and femininity, with its angelic heritage giving it a spiritual dimension that many parents find appealing.

Indie actress Parker Posey put a female imprint on this sophisticated surname that's still about three times as common for boys but rising for both sexes. Parker has the advantage of its nature connection, relating it to such occupational names as Gardener and Forester.

Siobhan is the Irish variation of Joan, which is derived from the ancient Anglo-Norman name Jehanne. In this way Siobhan is indirectly related to the name Sinead—the Irish form of Jeannette, which also derived from Jehanne—although Sinead is not a nickname for Siobhan. Siobhan was the name of several early Irish queens and was introduced to the American public by the actress Siobhan McKenna.

See NATASHA.

Zoe is one of those surprising names that has been on the Top 1000 nearly every year since 1880, but it's only since the turn of this century that it's ranked in the Top 100.