Many memorable British girl names are popular globally, from Asia to the U.S. These classic names vary from traditional to unique and offbeat. It’s important to examine the different origins, variations, and usage of your favorite British names for girls.
Our engaging name list will see you safely into the ancient, the modern, the old-fashioned, and the uncommon. Here you’ll find all the information needed to choose the perfect name for your little girl that was once in the UK and ended up being her name.
105 Beautiful British Names for Girls
Explore merry old England and the rest of the UK’s great variety of British girl names below.
Abigail
Abigail has Hebrew origins and was King David’s wife in the Bible. It comes from “av,” meaning “father,” and “girl,” meaning “joy.” Abigail is a pretty common name and can appear as “Abby” or “Abbie” when your little girl wants to be casual.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Cause of joy, joy of the father
- Pronunciation: AEB-ih-Geyl
- Variations: Abagail, Abbigale, Abigayle
- Namesakes: Abigail Rogers, an American 19th-century advocate for women’s rights and education. Abigail Cruttenden, a British actress famous for the TV series Sharpe.
- Popularity: Abigail is ranked 1,806th worldwide, most popular in Nigeria, and highest-ranked at 37th in Ghana.
Agatha
Agatha is derived from the Old Greek “agathos” meaning “good” and “kind.” It was made famous by a 3rd-century Christian martyr who became the patron saint of nurses. Your little girl will enjoy this old-fashioned Agatha and can even be “Aggie” for short.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Good, honorable
- Pronunciation: AEG-ah-Thah
- Variations: Agathe, Agata, Agatah
- Namesakes: Agatha Christie, an English writer known for her detective novels with the characters Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. Agatha van der Mijn, an 18th-century Dutch flower painter, well known in London.
- Popularity: Agatha is ranked in the top 5,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in Tanzania, Brazil, and Nigeria.
Agnes
Agnes came from a Latin version of the Greek “hagni,” from “hagnos,” meaning “chaste.” It can also refer to “agnus,” meaning “lamb” in Latin. Agnes is old and elegant but stays popular all over the globe for little girls like yours to make cool.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Pure, holy
- Pronunciation: AEG-Nahs
- Variations: Agnesa, Agneta
- Namesakes: Agnes Carlsson (known as Agnes), a Swedish recording artist and the winner of the second season of the Swedish Idol series. Agnes Janich, a Polish visual artist of photography and installation art.
- Popularity: Agnes is ranked 332nd worldwide, most popular in Uganda, where it ranks 25th.
Alexandra
Alexandra is the female version of the Greek Alexandros. It combines “alexein,” meaning “to defend,” and “aner,” meaning “man.” Alexandra is ancient and strong, ready to take on the world, just like the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Protector of man
- Pronunciation: AEL-ahg-ZAEN-Drah
- Variations: Alessandra, Aleksandra, Alexandria
- Namesakes: Alexandra Vinogradova, a Russian volleyball player and part of the Russian national team. Alexandra Tolstaya, the youngest daughter and secretary of the Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy.
- Popularity: Alexandra is ranked 464th worldwide, and most popular in Romania, where it ranks 6th.
Alice
Alice partially came from the Germanic Adalheidis, shortened to Adelais in Old French. It might be one of the most famous British names for girls as the female protagonist in Alice in Wonderland. What adventures might your little Alice go on?
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Of a noble kind
- Pronunciation: AEL-ihs
- Variations: Alicia, Alicie
- Namesakes: Alice Liddell, the English inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s 1865 novel Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alice Walker, an American novelist and the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for The Color Purple.
- Popularity: Alice is ranked 227th worldwide, most popular in the U.S. and Brazil.
Amelia
Amelia comes from the Latin Aemilia, which consists of “amul,” meaning “industriousness” and “fertility.” British girl names as cute as Amelia can stand the test of time for your sweet new girl.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Work
- Pronunciation: Ah-MIYL-Yah
- Variations: Amalia, Amalie, Ameilia
- Namesakes: Amelia Earhart, an American aviation pioneer and the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Amelia Andersdotter, a Swedish politician and former Member of the European Parliament from 2011 to 2014.
- Popularity: Amelia is ranked 1,427th worldwide, most popular in Mexico.
Anne
Anne became popular among British female names during the Medieval era in England, France, Germany, and Scandinavia. It’s ancient and modern at the same time for the little girl in your life who manages to be timeless.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Favored by God
- Variations: Ann, Anna, Ana
- Namesakes: Anne Rice, an American gothic author best known for her novels The Vampire Chronicles. Anne Diamond, a British journalist, and host of the weekend breakfast show on GB News.
- Popularity: Anne is ranked 216th worldwide, most popular in France and the U.S., and is the #1 name in Norway.
Audrey
Audrey is made up of the Anglo-Saxon “aethel,” meaning “honorable,” and “thryth,” meaning “power.” Audrey is unisex, and its power and proper feel make Audrey the perfect name for your noble little one.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Noble strength
- Pronunciation: AO-Driy
- Variations: Adrey, Audray, Audrea
- Namesakes: Audrey Hepburn (born Audrey Ruston), a British actress ranked as the third-greatest female screen legend of all time. Audrey Williamson, a British runner who competed for Great Britain in the 1948 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Audrey is ranked 1,888th worldwide, most popular in the U.S.
Autumn
Autumn as a season, and a girl’s name comes from the Latin “autumnus.” It was first popularized as a unisex name in the 19th-century for babies born in fall. No matter her season, you can choose this quirky, ethereal name for your little girl.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Fall season
- Pronunciation: AA-Tahm
- Variations: Autom, Autum
- Namesakes: Autumn Phillips,, the Canadian-born former wife of Peter Phillips, son of Anne, Princess Royal. Autumn Christian, an American horror and science fiction writer known for her book Girl Like a Bomb.
- Popularity: Autumn is uncommonly ranked just above the top 25,000 names worldwide and is used most in the U.S.
Ava
Ava comes from the Latin “avis,” meaning “bird,” and is another version of Eve or Eva in Hebrew. Its most famous namesake Ava Gardner is a possible reason for its popularity in the 1990s. You can keep the party going for the little Ava, you know.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Guarantee
- Namesakes: Ava Willing, an American socialite and the first wife of John Jacob Astor IV. Ava Ohlgren, an American swimmer and former NCAA champion in 2007 and 2008.
- Popularity: Ava doesn’t rank in the top 15,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 17th in Jamaica.
Beatrix
Beatrix is derived from the Latin “viatrix,” meaning “voyager,” and “beatus,” meaning “blessed” or “happy.” Beatrix is one of the most quintessential British names for girls in the UK, so it may land on your little girl to make it famous again.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Traveler, pilgrim, bringer of joy
- Pronunciation: BIY-ah-Trihks
- Variations: Beatrice, Beatrica, Beatris, Beatriz
- Namesakes: Beatrix Potter, an English writer known for the children’s book The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Beatrix Kisházi, a Hungarian table tennis player who holds the record of winning four titles in the Europe Top-12 tournament.
- Popularity: Beatrix is mildly uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 99th in Hungary.
Bertha
Bertha has Germanic origins, consisting of the word “berht,” meaning “famous.” In Germanic myth, Berchta was a goddess of wild beasts. This storied history can only make Bertha a rare name for your little one to have.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Bright, famous
- Pronunciation: BEHR-Thaa
- Variations: Berta, Bartha, Birtha
- Namesakes: Bertha Wehnert-Beckmann, a German photographer in the 19th-century and Germany’s first professional female photographer. Bertha Townsend, an American tennis player and the first repeating women’s singles champion at the U.S. Open.
- Popularity: Bertha is ranked 1,152nd worldwide, most popular in Mexico.
Brianna
Brianna came out of the Celtic male name Brian, whose root “brigh,” means “strength” and “power.” This girly name should prove strong enough for the new girl you’re expecting to do great things in her life.
- Origin: English, Celtic
- Meaning: High, noble
- Pronunciation: Briy-AA-Nah
- Variations: Breanna, Breanne, Briana, Brina, Bryanna
- Namesakes: Brianna Taylor, an American singer, and songwriter appearing on the fifth season of American Idol. Brianna Keilar, an Australian-American political commentator and co-anchor of New Day on CNN.
- Popularity: Brianna is most popular in the U.S, and highest-ranked at 983rd in Australia.
Brittany
Brittany, though the name of a region in Northern France, was also once referred to as Britannia, meaning England. Brittany is now more popular in the U.S. than in the UK, but there are plenty of Brittanys to go around and share with your little one.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From Brittany, from Britain
- Pronunciation: BRIHT-ah-Niy
- Variations: Britny, Britney, Brittni, Brittani
- Namesakes: Brittany Murphy, an American actress best remembered for the film Clueless (1995). Brittany Broben, an Australian diver who won a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
- Popularity: Brittany is ranked just above the top 6,000 names worldwide and the most popular in the U.S., where it ranks 425th.
Brooke
Brooke has an Old English meaning of “dweller by the brook,” from “broc.” Brooke is unisex but used more often as a girl’s name, especially in the U.S. Brooke is naturally feminine yet modern enough for the cool little gal you’re raising.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Small stream
- Pronunciation: BRUWK
- Variations: Brook, Brookie, Brooks
- Namesakes: Brooke Shields, an American actress, and model known for the film The Blue Lagoon (1980) and Endless Love (1981). Brooke Anderson, an American journalist, and correspondent for the TV series Entertainment Tonight.
- Popularity: Brooke is ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and ranked highest at 387th in Australia.
Camillia
Camellia is a derivative of Camilla, meaning “attendant at a ritual.” Children who assisted Roman rites were called Camilli, and Camilla was referred to as an attendant of the Roman goddess Diana. Your little Camillia can also attend to all the best things in life.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Helper to the priest
- Pronunciation: Kah-MIHL-lyah
- Variations: Camilia, Camille, Camilla
- Namesakes: Camillia Monet, an American actress known for the films War of the Worlds (2005) and Seabiscuit (2003).
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,609 people were named Camillia worldwide, mainly in the U.S.
Carey
Carey is an Old Welsh name meaning “from Carew Castle.” In Irish, it means “descendent of the dark one,” referring to “Ciardha.” Carey can also be a surname, making it a unique choice for the special girl you’re soon to meet!
- Origin: English, Celtic
- Meaning: From the hill fort
- Pronunciation: KEHR-iy
- Variations: Care, Caree, Cari, Carre, Carree, Carrey, Carrie, Cary
- Namesakes: Carey Mulligan, an English actress who’s received a British Academy Film Award and a Critics’ Choice Movie Award. Carey Lohrenz, a U.S. Navy lieutenant and one of the first female naval aviators to fly the F-14 Tomcat in the U.S. military.
- Popularity: Carey is somewhat uncommon and not ranked in the top 15,000 names worldwide, used mostly in the U.S., and ranked 583rd in New Zealand.
Carmel
Carmel originates in Hebrew as “karmel,” meaning “fruit garden.” It’s unisex and is also the name of a famous mountain range in Israel. Carmel is often used in Irish cultures and remains elusive enough to make a splash as a fabulous girl’s name.
- Origin: English, Celtic
- Meaning: Garden, vineyard
- Pronunciation: KAAR-Mahl
- Variations: Carmal, Carmil, Carmele
- Namesakes: Carmel Tebbutt, an Australian politician and the first woman Deputy Premier of New South Wales. Carmel Myers, an American silent film actress, known for the film Ben Hur.
- Popularity: Carmel is not ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide but is most prevalent in Ireland.
Charlotte
Charlotte may come from the Germanic “karl,” meaning “free man.” It’s also considered a variation of Carolina. Charlotte shares the best of English and French femininity, while Charley is one of the many nicknames your little Charlotte could have.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Petite
- Pronunciation: SHAAR-Laht
- Variations: Carlotte, Charletta, Carlotta
- Namesakes: Charlotte Brontë, an English writer whose novels became classics of English literature. Charlotte Nichols, a British Labor Party politician and current Member of Parliament since 2019.
- Popularity: Charlotte is ranked 732nd worldwide, and most popular in DR Congo, where it ranks 12th.
Chelsea
Chelsea is known as an artsy neighborhood in London and was initially where ships would dock and offload their cargo of chalk. Chelsea is unisex, pretty, and cool at the same time, perfect for the sweet baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Chalk landing place
- Pronunciation: CHEHL-Siy
- Variations: Chelsey, Chelsie, Chelsy
- Namesakes: Chelsea Peretti, an American comedian, and actress known for the comedy TV series Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Chelsea Yarbro, an American writer, known for a series of historical horror novels about the vampire Count Saint-Germain.
- Popularity: Chelsea is ranked just over the top 10,000 names worldwide, is most popular in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 513th in Australia.
Chloe
Chloe is derived from the Biblical Greek word “khloē,” meaning “flowery, green.” It would often refer to Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility. Chloe has found immense popularity among English girl names and would fit any modern little gal, no matter where she calls home.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Blooming, fertility
- Pronunciation: KLOW-iy
- Variations: Chloie, Cloee, Cloei, Cloey, Cloé, Cloie
- Namesakes: Chloe Ashcroft, a British actor and former presenter of various BBC children’s TV programs. Chloe Marshall, an English plus-size model, and winner of the Miss Surrey title in March 2008.
- Popularity: Chloe is mildly uncommon, ranked in the top 13,000 names worldwide, and is most popular in England, where it ranks 356th.
Clara
Clara came from the Latin “clarus,” meaning “clear,” but is also a form of the Germanic Clare. Clara has remained very popular worldwide and may light up your little girl’s life in a snap.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Bright, famous
- Pronunciation: KLAER-ah
- Variations: Clare, Clarice, Clari
- Namesakes: Clara Bow, an American silent film actress known as “The It Girl.” Clara Schumann, a German pianist, composer, and one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era.
- Popularity: Clara is ranked 730th worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 82nd in Colombia.
Clarissa
Clarissa can also be derived from the Germanic Clarice or the English Clare. It originally came from “clarus,” meaning “brilliant.” Your little girl can shine brightly with this old-world version of British girl names.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Bright, famous
- Pronunciation: Klah-RIHS-ah
- Variations: Charissa
- Namesakes: Clarissa Wright, an English celebrity cook and TV personality known for the Two Fat Ladies cooking program. Clarissa Ward, a British-American TV journalist and chief international correspondent for CNN.
- Popularity: Clarissa is not ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide and is used most in the U.S. and the Philippines.
Daisy
In Old English, Daisy breaks down into “daeg,” meaning “day,” and “eage,” meaning “eye.” It’s also a very unique pet form of the Scottish Margaret. Daisy is an adorable flower name that can stand on its own for the beautiful girl in your garden.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Day’s eye
- Pronunciation: DEY-Ziy
- Namesakes: Daisy Speranza, a French tennis player who won the French Championship in doubles and mixed doubles between 1909 to1912. Daisy Al-Amir, an Iraqi writer and the author of The Waiting List: An Iraqi Woman’s Tales of Alienation.
- Popularity: Daisy is ranked 2,245th worldwide and most popular in the Philippines, where it ranks 166th.
Daphne
In Greek mythology, Daphne was a female nymph who turned into a laurel tree to escape from the God Apollo. Daphne is a mythological gem that can bring some ancient Greek storytelling and modern English tradition to your little lady.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Laurel
- Pronunciation: DAEF-Niy
- Variations: Dafney, Dafne, Daphney
- Namesakes: Daphne Touw, a Dutch field hockey goalkeeper playing for the Dutch National Women’s Team. Daphne Barak-Erez, an Israeli law professor and judge in the Supreme Court of Israel.
- Popularity: Daphne is ranked in the top 8,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S. and England.
Darla
Darla is a diminutive of Darlene, which means “dearly beloved.” It’s a wonderful term of endearment for your little girl you can enjoy using right from the start.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Darling
- Namesakes: Darla Anderson, an American film producer and member of the national board of directors for the Producers Guild of America. Darli Montañez, a Puerto Rican beauty pageant model and Miss Puerto Rico Universe in 2009.
- Popularity: Darla is ranked in the top 15,000 names worldwide and is most popular in the U.S., where it ranks 783rd.
Dawn
Dawn arose from the Old English words “daeg,” meaning “day,” and “dagian,” meaning “daybreak.” As far as British female names go, Dawn is short, sweet, and simple enough to make every day count for your sweet new girl.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Daybreak
- Variations: Dawne, Dawnn
- Namesakes: Dawn French, a British actress, and comedian known for the BBC comedy sketch show French and Saunders. Dawn Burrell, an American long jumper and gold medalist at the 2001 IAAF World Indoor Championships.
- Popularity: Dawn is ranked 1,432nd worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 124th in England.
Dora
Dora has become a short form of the Greek Dorothy, Dorothea, and Theodora, meaning “God’s gift.” Dora is a well-known children’s character and tends to have an instant association with adventurous little girls like yours.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Gift
- Variations: Dorah, Dori, Doria
- Namesakes: Maria Theodora (Dora) Pejačević, a Croatian composer who helped introduce the orchestral song to Croatian music. Dora Carrington, an English painter, associated with members of the Bloomsbury Group.
- Popularity: Dora is ranked 930th worldwide and is mostly used in Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.
Eden
Eden arose from the Biblical “garden of delight” first granted to Adam and Eve. It’s unisex but used more as a girl’s name. Eden has grown in modern popularity and can well represent the tiny paradise your little girl means to you.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Place of pleasure
- Pronunciation: IY-Dahn
- Variations: Edene, Edine, Edin, Edyn
- Namesakes: Eden Kuriakosse, an Indian actress who appears in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films. Eden Alene, an Israeli singer who represented Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest 2020.
- Popularity: Eden is ranked just above the top 5,000 names worldwide, most popular in the Philippines, and highest-ranked at 63rd in Israel.
Edith
Edith was born out of the Old English words “ēad,” meaning “riches” or “blessed.” Though a once obscure name, Edith has returned in popularity globally just in time to meet your little Edith.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Rich in war
- Pronunciation: EE-Dith
- Variations: Edithe, Eadith, Edythe
- Namesakes: Edith Cavell, a British nurse known for helping Allied soldiers escape German-occupied Belgium during the First World War. Édith Piaf (born Édith Giovanna Gassion), a French singer and one of France’s international stars.
- Popularity: Edith is ranked 473rd worldwide, most popular in Germany.
Effie
Effie is an adorable pet name variation of Euphemia, first used in the mid-19th-century. It’s unisex, but used much more as a girl’s name. Effie can use her words to become whomever she wants to be with this adorable name.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Well-spoken
- Variations: Effi, Effy, Ephi, Ephy
- Namesakes: Effie Boggess, an American politician who served in the Iowa House of Representatives from 1995 to 2005. Effie Crockett, an American actress credited with the lullaby “Rock-a-bye Baby.”
- Popularity: Effie is very uncommon worldwide, but used most in the U.S. and ranked highest at 822nd in Greece.
Eleanor
Eleanor once came from a French adaptation of the Old Provençal name Aliénor. It’s been used as a name for royalty over the centuries (and famous first ladies). Eleanor has a distinction about it all on its own and can be your beautiful girl’s first crown.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Lighthearted, shining light
- Pronunciation: EHL-leh-Naor
- Variations: Elanore, Eilinore, Eleonor
- Namesakes: Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the longest-serving first lady of the United States. Eleanor Porter, an American novelist, known for the books Pollyanna (1913) and Just David (1916).
- Popularity: In 2014, 2,065 people were named Eleanor worldwide, most in the U.S.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth was a Greek form of the Hebrew name Elisheva, meaning “God is my oath.” This classical name has traveled down through the ages and gained over 200 different forms and spellings along the way for your sweet daughter to perfect.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is perfection
- Pronunciation: Ih-LIH-Zah-Bahth
- Variations: Elizbeth, Elisabeth, Elizabet
- Namesakes: Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the English Queen of the UK and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 1936 to 1952. Elizabeth Bruenig, an American journalist and opinion writer for The Atlantic.
- Popularity: Elizabeth is ranked 56th worldwide, most used in the U.S.
Ella
Ella is derived from the Germanic prefix “Alia,” meaning “all” or “other.” It grew in popularity in the 19th-century and is currently somewhat common for little girls who love to play with the fairies and any others who come along.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Beautiful fairy woman
- Variations: Ela, Elah, Ellah
- Namesakes: Ella Fitzgerald, an American jazz singer, referred to as the “First Lady of Song.” Ella Junnila, a Finnish high jumper who won a bronze medal at the 2019 European Athletics U23 Championships.
- Popularity: Ella is ranked 3,886th worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 200th in Ukraine.
Elsie
Elsie is a nickname for the Biblical Elizabeth, in addition to Alice, Elsa, and Elspeth. Whichever English girl name Elsie might point to, it’s a lovable way to call the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my oath
- Variations: Elsy, Elsa
- Namesakes: Elsie Kittredge, an American botanist, photographer, and curator for the New York Botanical Gardens. Elsie Wayne, a Canadian politician who served as a Progressive Conservative Member of Parliament from 1993 to 2004.
- Popularity: Elsie is ranked 2,977th worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and ranked highest at 90th in South Africa.
Emily
Emily came from the Latin “aemulus,” meaning “rival,” or the Greek “aimylos,” meaning “wily” or “persuasive.” It’s the female form of Emil and is hugely popular, so your little Emily will find plenty of fellow Emilys to hang out with.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Rivaling
- Pronunciation: EHM-ih-Liy
- Variations: Emile
- Namesakes: Emily Brontë, an English novelist best known for her only novel, Wuthering Heights. Emily Davison, an English suffragette who fought for votes for women in Britain in the early 20th century.
- Popularity: Emily is ranked 843rd worldwide, most popular in the U.S.
Enid
Enid is a Celtic goddess and famous woman in the mythological tales of King Arthur. Enid is a unique vintage name with ancient magic for the little goddess you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Welsh
- Meaning: Soul, life
- Pronunciation: IY-Nahd
- Variations: Ened, Eneid, Enide, Ennyd, Enyd, Enyde
- Namesakes: Enid Blyton, an English children’s writer ranked in 4th place for the most translated author. Enid Lyons, an Australian politician and the first woman elected to the House of Representatives.
- Popularity: Enid is not ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide, and is most popular in Uganda, and highest-ranked at 90th in Jamaica.
Estelle
Estelle is a French version of the Latin “stella,” meaning “star.” It may have also come from the Greek “eustales,” meaning “well-groomed.” Your little gal can shine like the star she is with this whimsical, classic name.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Star
- Pronunciation: Eh-STEHL
- Variations: Estell
- Namesakes: Estelle Bennett, an American singer and member of the girl group the Ronettes. Estelle Sartini, a French rugby player, who captained the French women’s national rugby union team.
- Popularity: Estelle is ranked in the top 5,000 names worldwide, and most used in France.
Eunice
Eunice is an old-fashioned name built from the Greek root “euníkē,” composed of “eu” meaning “good,” and “níkē,” meaning “victory.” It has risen in popularity and can be victorious for the little girl like yours who wants to win.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Good victory
- Pronunciation: YUW-Niys
- Variations: Eunis, Eunise, Euniss, Eunisse, Eunyss, Eunysse, Eunys
- Namesakes: Eunice Kennedy Shriver, an American philanthropist, member of the Kennedy family, and the founder of the Special Olympics. Eunice Huthart, a stunt woman for Angelina Jolie, Milla Jovovich, and Uma Thurman.
- Popularity: Eunice is ranked 766th worldwide and is most popular in Nigeria and Kenya.
Evelyn
Evelyn arose out of Aveline, a feminine Norman-French name meaning “bird” or “hazelnut.” Evelyn has been around for a long time and can bring some class and elegance among British female names for your little girl’s life.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Bird, wished-for child
- Pronunciation: EHV-ah-Lihn
- Variations: Evaline, Evalin, Evalyn, Evalynn, Eveline
- Namesakes: Evelyn Lear, an American operatic soprano who won a Grammy Award in 1966. Evelyn Mora (born Kimia Moradzadeh), a Finnish entrepreneur and the founder of Helsinki Fashion Week.
- Popularity: Evelyn is ranked 457th worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and ranked highest at 21st in the Philippines.
Evie
Evie is a diminutive of Eve or Evelyn and can add some childhood sweetness to your little girl’s name. It isn’t given often on its own, but if the name fits, you can call your little one Evie all day long!
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Life
- Variations: Eve
- Namesakes: Evie Richards, a British cyclist and women’s cross-country champion at the 2021 Mountain Bike World Championships. Evie Peck, an American actress, known for guest-starring in the TV shows Friends and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
- Popularity: Evie is quite uncommon worldwide and is used most in Indonesia and the U.S.
Faye
Faye also comes from the Middle English “faie,” meaning “fairy.” Its magical associations make Faye more lighthearted than previously thought of as an “old lady” name. Little Faye can be full of whimsy and heart with this unusual, cute name.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Loyalty, belief
- Variations: Fay
- Namesakes: Faye D’Souza, an Indian journalist and TV news anchor on the CNBC TV18 newsroom. Faye White, an English footballer on the Arsenal Women’s team and the longest-serving female captain of England.
- Popularity: Faye is not ranked in the top 5,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S.
Felicity
Felicity is known as one of the “virtue” names, consisting of Felicity, Hope, and Charity. It’s not super popular, making it more special to name your little bundle of girlish joy, Felicity.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Happy
- Pronunciation: Feh-LIH-Sih-Tiy
- Variations: Feliciti, Felicia
- Namesakes: Felicity Huffman, an American actress and recipient of a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Felicity Sheedy-Ryan, an Australian triathlete gold medalist at the Duathlon World Championships.
- Popularity: Felicity is uncommonly ranked in the top 20,000 names worldwide, is mostly used in South Africa and England, while ranked highest at 340th in Australia.
Florence
Florence arose from the French version of Saint Florentia, a Roman martyr under Diocletian, and the Latin “florens,” meaning “flower.” It’s officially unisex, but more flowery girls are named Florence than boys.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Blossom
- Pronunciation: Flow-RAONS
- Variations: Florens, Florenz
- Namesakes: Florence Nightingale, an English social reformer and the founder of modern nursing. Florence Welch, an English singer and the lead vocalist of the indie rock band Florence and the Machine.
- Popularity: Florence is ranked 361st worldwide, most popular in Uganda, where it’s ranked 15th.
Freya
Freya appears as “Freyja” in Old Norse and means “noblewoman.” Freya was also the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. Freya is feminine and sweet all at once and can set the scene for an incredible little girl to come.
- Origin: English, Nordic
- Meaning: Mistress, lady
- Variations: Fraya, Frea, Freyah, Freyja
- Namesakes: Freya Van den Bossche, a Belgian (Flemish) politician and the youngest ever Deputy Prime Minister. Freya North, a British writer and one of the originators of “chick lit.”
- Popularity: Freya is very uncommon worldwide and used mostly in Germany and England.
Gemma
Saint Gemma was an Italian saint known for her stigmata. Gemma’s association with precious stones makes this cool name extraordinary for the gorgeous new jewel in your life.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Gem, jewel
- Pronunciation: JHEHM-ah
- Variations: Gemme
- Namesakes: Gemma Bond, an English ballet dancer and member of the corps de ballet with the American Ballet Theater (ABT). Gemma Geis i Carreras, a Spanish academic and politician, and member of the Parliament of Catalonia.
- Popularity: Gemma is ranked 2,813rd worldwide, and most popular in the Philippines, where it ranks 103rd.
Georgia
Georgia is the feminine version of George. It’s derived from the Greek word “georgos,” which consists of “ge,” meaning “earth,” and “ergo,” meaning “to work.” Outside of Greece, the English love using Georgia, so you can easily follow suit.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Farmer
- Pronunciation: JHOWR-Jhah
- Variations: Georgi, Georgie
- Namesakes: Georgia Ellinaki, a Greek water polo player and Olympic silver medalist with the Greek national team. Georgia Foote, an English actress, known for the BBC school drama series Grange Hill and the ITV soap opera Coronation Street.
- Popularity: Georgia is ranked 3,384th worldwide and is most popular in Greece.
Gertrude
Gertrude came from the Germanic root words “ger,” meaning “spear,” and “trud,” meaning “power.” Gertrudes can have interesting nicknames varying from Gerty to Trudy. Which will your little Gertrude be with this not-very-typical old-world name?
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Strong spear
- Pronunciation: GAHR-Truwd
- Variations: Gertraude, Gertruyde, Gertrud, Gjertrud, Gertraud
- Namesakes: Gertrude Abercrombie, an American painter based in Chicago and referred to as “the queen of the bohemian artists.” Gertrude Appleyard, a British archer who competed at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London.
- Popularity: Gertrude is ranked 3,633rd worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and ranked highest at 32nd in Austria.
Grace
Grace is derived from the Latin “gratia” meaning “God’s grace.” In Greek mythology, it referred to the Three Graces, the goddesses of charity and charm. There’s no fancy fluff to naming your daughter Grace, but only positive things to come.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Goodness, generosity
- Variations: Gracie, Graice, Grayce, Grase
- Namesakes: Grace Kelly, an American actress of the 1950s who later became Princess of Monaco in 1956. Grace Dent is an English columnist and restaurant critic for The Guardian and the Evening Standard.
- Popularity: Grace is ranked 148th worldwide, most popular in Nigeria.
Hannah
In the Old Testament, Hannah was the mother of Samuel, originally appearing as Channah. Hannah is unisex and quite popularly ranked at 139th in England, making Hannah one of many English favorites for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Grace, favor
- Pronunciation: HHAEN-ah
- Variations: Hana, Hanah, Hanna
- Namesakes: Hannah Arendt, a Jewish-German philosopher, author, and Holocaust survivor whose writing influenced 20th and 21st century political theorists. Hannah Whelan, a British gymnast and bronze medallist at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
- Popularity: Hannah is ranked 1,851st worldwide, and is most popular in Nigeria and England.
Harriet
Harriet is an English form of the French Henriette. Nowadays, Harriet can be a shorter form of Henrietta or a longer version of Hattie or Hettie. Whichever version you choose, your elegant lady can stand out as a modern-day Harriet.
- Origin: Germanic
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Pronunciation: HHEY-riy-Aht
- Namesakes: Harriet Andersson, a Swedish actress known as part of director Ingmar Bergman’s stock company. Harriet Redmond, an African-American suffragist, known as secretary and then president of the Colored Women’s Equal Suffrage Association.
- Popularity: Harriet is ranked 2,120th worldwide, and is most popular in Uganda, where it ranks 29th.
Hazel
Hazel was once known as “hæsel” in Old English and used as a surname for families who lived near a hazel tree. It may be unisex, but naming your little girl Hazel still doesn’t require her eyes to match their color to this adorable name.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Hazel tree
- Pronunciation: HHEY-Zehl
- Variations: Haesel, Haezel, Haizel, Hayzel, Hazyl, Heyzel, Heyzell
- Namesakes: Hazel Gaynor, an English historical fiction and fantasy author based in Ireland. Hazel Court, an English actress, known for the horror films The Curse of Frankenstein (1957) and The Man Who Could Cheat Death (1959).
- Popularity: Hazel is ranked in the top 3,000 names worldwide, most used in the U.S., and ranked 100th in Jamaica.
Helena
Helena is a variation on the Greek Eleanor and Helen. It comes from the Greek word “helios,” meaning “sun.” You can celebrate all things bright and beautiful for your little girl by naming her the lovely Helena.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Shining light
- Pronunciation: Heh-LEH-Naa
- Variations: Helen
- Namesakes: Helena Christensen, a Danish supermodel and the co-founder of Nylon magazine. Helena Braun, a German soprano opera singer who joined the Vienna State Opera and the Bavarian State Opera in 1939 and 1940.
- Popularity: Helena is ranked 608th worldwide, most popular in Brazil, and highest-ranked at 7th in Slovakia.
Imogen
Imogen is a variation of Innogen, which came from the Gaelic “inghean,” meaning “maiden.” Imogen also means “innocent” or “blameless” in Latin. This perfect little maiden’s name is ideal for the little girl you want to name in a unique way.
- Origin: English, Gaelic
- Meaning: Maiden
- Pronunciation: IHM-ow-Jhehn
- Variations: Imogine, Imojean, Imogene
- Namesakes: Imogen Cairns, a British gymnast who competed at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. Imogen Poots, an English actress known for the horror film 28 Weeks Later (2007) and the film The Look of Love (2013).
- Popularity: In 2014, 6,737 people were named Imogen worldwide, and mostly used in England, where it ranked 959th.
Iris
Iris is best known as a flower, which is also its meaning in Hebrew. In Greek mythology, Iris is the personification of the rainbow and a messenger for the gods. There is so much blooming around Iris for the colorful girl in your life.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Goddess of the rainbow
- Pronunciation: AY-Rihs
- Variations: Iriss, Irys, Iryss
- Namesakes: Iris Davies (pen name Iris Gower), a Welsh novelist known for historical romances. Iris Jharap, a Dutch cricketer who played twelve One Day Internationals (ODIs) for the Dutch national side, including at the 2000 World Cup.
- Popularity: Iris is ranked 1,202nd worldwide, and is most popular in Germany.
Isabelle
Isabelle is a French version of Isabella, which came from the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning “God is perfection.” Isabelle was a version of Elizabeth in the Middle Ages, so it’s traveled a long way to get to your little girl in time.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God’s promise
- Pronunciation: IHZ-ah-Behl
- Variations: Isabel, Isabella, Izabelle, Isobel
- Namesakes: Princess Isabelle of Orléans-Braganza, a French-Brazilian memoirist, and consort of Henri, the Count of Paris. Isabelle Huppert, a French actress, ranked second on the New York Times list of the greatest actors of the 21st-century.
- Popularity: Isabelle is ranked 854th worldwide, and most popular in France, where it’s ranked 12th.
Isla
Isla has Scottish connections via “Islay,” belonging to an island off the coast and two rivers in Scotland. It can also be a diminutive of the Spanish Isabella. Isla has all the cuteness it can give for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Island
- Variations: Islay, Islae, Islah
- Namesakes: Isla Traquair, a Scottish TV host and journalist for STV, Channel 5, and ITN. Isla Glover, a British actress, who first appeared in the 1963 play A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.
- Popularity: In 2014, 7,667 people were named Isla worldwide, while it ranked 503rd in Scotland.
Ivy
In Greek culture, the ivy plant represented fidelity between couples. It was often used as a girl’s name and surname in England. Ivy is unique enough to be on its own, as a first name or nickname- perfect for the little green goddess you know.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Vine
- Variations: Iveah, Ivye, Ivie
- Namesakes: Ivy Klein, a British composer, and pianist known for her settings of Early Modern and Romantic poetry. Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri, a South African politician and South Africa’s Minister of Communications from 1999 until her death.
- Popularity: Ivy is ranked 3,700th worldwide, most used in the Philippines.
Jaina
Jaina is a rare form of the English Jane. Jainism is a Buddhist-like religion in India, where Jaina is also used as a girl’s name. This rare gem can take Jane away and replace her with a little girl with a most holy name.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHEY-Naa
- Variations: Jayna
- Namesakes: Jaina Ortiz (born Jessica Ortiz), an American actress known for the TV series Rosewood and Station 19.
- Popularity: In 2014, less than 20,000 people were named Jaina worldwide, mostly in India.
Janae
Janae is a unique derivative of Jane, Jan, and even John. In French, Janae is a form of Jehanne or Jean. It’s has many origins and meanings, but while unisex, it maintains a distinct feeling all its own for the little sweetheart you know.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God has answered
- Pronunciation: Jhaa-NEY
- Variations: Jane, Jean, Jan
- Namesakes: Janae Bakken, an American TV producer and screenwriter known for the TV series Scrubs. Janae Kroczaleski (formerly Matthew Kroczaleski), a Transgender-American who competed as a powerlifter and competitive bodybuilder.
- Popularity: In 2014, 7,751 people were named Janae worldwide, mainly in the U.S.
Jasmine
Jasmine refers to the beautiful fragrant flower by the same name and came to England as a given name via France. It originates from the Persian and Arabic “yasmin,” and can bring ultimate sweetness to the little flower in your life.
- Origin: English, Persian
- Meaning: Gift from God
- Pronunciation: JHAEZ-Mihn
- Variations: Jasmin, Jasmyne, Jasmyn
- Namesakes: Jasmine Curtis-Smith, a Filipina-Australian actress known for Hannah Espia’s 2013 film Transit. Jasmine Valentin, a Finnish-Romani singer who represented Finland in the 1996 Eurovision Song Contest.
- Popularity: Jasmine is ranked just above the top 5,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S.
Josephine
Josephine arose from the Hebrew male Joseph or Yosef, but gained popularity as the name of Napoleon Bonaparte’s first wife. It’s pretty popular globally and ranked in the top 220 names in England, so it’s stuck around quite successfully just for you!
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Jehovah increases
- Pronunciation: JHOW-Sah-Fiyn
- Variations: Josefena, Josephene, Josephyne, Josaphine
- Namesakes: Josephine Langford, an Australian actress known for the After film series. Josephine Butler, an English social reformer in the Victorian era who campaigned for women’s suffrage.
- Popularity: Josephine is ranked 350th worldwide, most popular in the Philippines.
Katherine
Katherine arose from the Greek name Aikaterine, based on “katharos,” meaning “pure.” It has associations with the Greek goddess Hecate. Katherine is as traditional as it gets, and this lovely spelling remains popular for little girls everywhere.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: KAYTH-eh-Rihn
- Variations: Catherine, Kathryn, Cathryn, Katharine, Kathrine
- Namesakes: Katherine Ashley, the British governess and Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Elizabeth I of England. Katherine Garrett-Cox, a British business executive and CEO of the UK subsidiary of the Gulf International Bank of Bahrain.
- Popularity: Katherine is ranked 1,159th worldwide, and most used in the U.S.
Layla
In Hebrew and Arabic, Layla or Leila was given to girls born during the night and means “daughter of the night.” Layla is also known as an angel’s name in Hebrew. Night or day, your little girl can rock when she’s called Layla.
- Origin: English, Arabic
- Meaning: Night, dark
- Variations: Laela, Laelah, Laila, Laylah, Leila, Leilah, Leighla, Leyla, Leylah
- Namesakes: Layla Moran, a British politician and the Liberal Democrat Spokesman for Foreign Affairs and International Development. Layla Kaylif, a British Emirati screenwriter who won the IWC filmmaker award at the Dubai International Film Festival.
- Popularity: Layla is ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide, is most used in Bangladesh, and ranked highest at 50th in Bahrain.
Lottie
Lottie is a diminutive of the French Charlotte and a female version of Lotte. It can also mean “free” or “free man.” Lotti is an adorable way to bring a modern version of English girl names to your little one.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Little and womanly
- Pronunciation: LAHT-ee
- Variations: Ladi
- Namesakes: Lottie Ryan, an Irish TV and radio presenter with Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ). Lottie Shackelford, an American politician, and the first woman, appointed Mayor of Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1987.
- Popularity: Lottie is uncommonly ranked in the top 35,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S.
Lucy
Lucy is an English female variation of the Latin name Lucius, originating from “lux,” meaning “light.” It can also refer to the French “Lucie” and specifically mean “born at daybreak.” Birth times aside, Lucy is a classic girly name for your little sunshine.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Light
- Variations: Lucie, Lucee. Luci
- Namesakes: Lucy Worsley, a British historian known as a presenter of various BBC Television series. Lucy Verasamy, a British weather forecaster for ITV Weather, ITV Racing, and ITV’s Good Morning Britain.
- Popularity: Lucy is ranked 623rd worldwide, and is most popular in Kenya, where it ranks 12th.
Mabel
Mabel came from the Latin “amabilis,” meaning “lovable.” It has also been an Anglo-Saxon surname that came from the first name Anabel. Mabel is used often in Britain and Ireland and can bring an old-fashioned ring to your little girl’s name.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Dear
- Pronunciation: MEY-Bahl
- Variations: Mabelle, Maebelle, Maibel, Maible, Maybel, Maybelle
- Namesakes: Mabel Parton, a British tennis player and bronze medalist at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm.
- Popularity: Mabel is ranked 2,661st worldwide, and most popular in Argentina, where it ranked 122nd.
Maeve
Maeve originated in Irish as Medb, also meaning “she who rules.” In Irish mythology, Maeve is known as the Queen of Connacht and queen of the fairies. What little girl doesn’t want her own fairy army all to herself with this powerful name by her side?
- Origin: English, Old Irish
- Meaning: The intoxicating one
- Pronunciation: MEYV
- Variations: Maev, Maiv, Maive, Mave, Mayve
- Namesakes: Maeve Hillery, an Irish anesthetist and wife of the 6th President of Ireland, Patrick Hillery. Maeve Higgins, an Irish comedian and the principal actor and writer of the RTÉ production Naked Camera.
- Popularity: Maeve is very uncommon, with less than 10,000 people named Maeve in 2014, most of whom were in Ireland.
Margot
Margot is the French version of Margaret, which came from the Greek “margarites,” meaning “pearl.” Margot is also a nickname for Marguerite. Margot is a lovable way to name a Margaret when you need to call her name a bit faster.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Pearl
- Pronunciation: MAAR-Gow
- Variations: Margo, Margaux
- Namesakes: Margot Robbie, an Australian actress named by Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2017. Margot Pardoe, a British children’s fiction writer from the 1930s to 1960s known for the Bunkle adventure series.
- Popularity: Margot is ranked 3,818th worldwide, and most popular in Germany, where it ranks 167th.
Matilda
Matilda is an English variant of the Germanic name Mahthildis, made up of “maht,” meaning “strength,” and “hild,” meaning “battle.” Matilda was used more often during the Middle Ages, but there’s no reason you can’t raise your own mighty girl today.
- Origin: Germanic
- Meaning: Battle mighty
- Pronunciation: Mah-TIHL-Dah
- Variations: Maitilda, Maitilde, Mathilda, Mattilda
- Namesakes: Matilda Gage, an American writer, and activist known for her contributions to women’s suffrage in the U.S. Matilda Ehringhaus, an American civic leader and the First Lady of North Carolina from 1933 to 1937.
- Popularity: Matilda ranks just above the top 5,000 names worldwide, most popular in Ghana.
Maya
Maya means “good mother” in Greek and might refer to Maya, the mother of the Greek god Hermes, son of Zeus. It’s also a Latin version of May. Maya has stayed popular and provides a sweet, short name for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Great, big
- Pronunciation: MIY-aah
- Variations: Maia, Myah, Mya, Maiah
- Namesakes: Maya Rudolph, an American actress, comedian, and singer best known as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 2000 to 2007. Maya Diab, a Lebanese pop singer and former member of the Lebanese girl group The 4 Cats.
- Popularity: Maya is ranked 372nd worldwide and most prevalent in India.
Melody
Melody arose from the Greek words “melos,” meaning “song” and “aeido,” meaning “to sing.” It’s a beautiful tune for the little girl you know who wants to sing her own song.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Song
- Pronunciation: MEH-low-Diy
- Variations: Meloda, Melodia, Melodya, Melodye, Mélodie
- Namesakes: Melody Thornton, an American singer-songwriter and member of the Pussycat Dolls’ pop group. Melody Barnes, an American political advisor, appointed the Domestic Policy Council director for the Obama administration.
- Popularity: Melody ranks in the top 5,000 names worldwide, most popular in the U.S.
Mia
Mia is widely used globally as a nickname for Maria, Miriam, Mary, Amelia, Emily, and Maya. In Hebrew, it means “sea of bitterness” and can attach its sweet quality as a nickname or anytime name for a lucky little girl.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Bright, friendly
- Variations: Miya, Miah
- Namesakes: Mia Davies, an Australian politician and the current leader of the National Party in Western Australia. Mia Pojatina, a Croatian model, was crowned Miss Universe Croatia in 2018.
- Popularity: Mia ranked in the top 5,000 names worldwide, most used in Denmark, and ranked highest at 143rd in Denmark.
Mila
Mila also comes from the Spanish “milagros,” meaning “miracle,” and is Hebrew for “word.” It can be a form of Emelia, Milana, and Ludmilla. You have your pick of longer variations, but Mila itself can fit any sweet girl just right.
- Origin: English, Slavic
- Meaning: Dear, darling
- Variations: Milah, Milla, Millah, Myla
- Namesakes: Mila Kunis, an American actress known for the TV series That ’70s Show and Family Guy. Mila Horvat, a Croatian TV host on Croatian Radiotelevision (HRT).
- Popularity: Mila is ranked in the top 5,000 names worldwide, most popular in the Philippines, and 162nd in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Mildred
Mildred arose out of the Old English Mildthryth, made up of “milde,” meaning “mild” and “thryth,” meaning “power.” It can also mean “gentle advisor” in German. The coolest older women named Mildred all started as cool little girls.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Gentle strength
- Pronunciation: MIHL-Drehd
- Variations: Mildraed, Mildrid, Mildryd, Myldred
- Namesakes: Mildred Charneco, a Puerto Rican jurist serving as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico. Mildred Muis, a Dutch swimmer who won the silver medal at the 1988 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Mildred is ranked 2,094th worldwide, mostly used in the U.S.
Miriam
In the Hebrew Bible, Miriam was Moses’s sister in the Book of Exodus. Miriam is considered a variation of Mary, with origins from Egypt to Greece. Miriam has come to mean “beloved,” just as your little Miriam shall be.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Of the sea, bitter
- Pronunciation: MIHR-iy-ahm
- Variations: Mariam, Meryam, Miram, Mirriam, Miryam, Myriam
- Namesakes: Miriam O’Callaghan, an Irish TV current affairs presenter with RTÉ. Miriam Soares, a Brazilian footballer with the Brazil women’s national team who played at the 1991 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
- Popularity: Miriam is ranked 486th worldwide among British names for girls, and is most used in Mexico and ranked 11th in Israel.
Olivia
Though Olivia was first known as a character in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, it’s been used in England since the 13th-century. It connotes the peaceful act of “extending an olive branch” and can be a great start for the peacemaker girl you know.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Olive tree
- Pronunciation: Ah-LIHV-iy-Ah
- Variations: Olivie, Oliveea, Olivey
- Namesakes: Olivia Hussey, an English actress known for the 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Olivia Newton-John, an Australian singer with four Grammy Awards and ten Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Popularity: Olivia is ranked 1,270th worldwide, most popular in Mexico.
Ophelia
Ophelia is best known as Shakespeare’s tragic character in Hamlet, but it also has Greek origins. It’s derived from “ophelos,” meaning “aid” or “benefit.” Ophelia can bring some old-world literary charm to your little girl’s life.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Helper, helpful woman
- Pronunciation: Ow-FIY-Liy-aa
- Variations: Ofeliah, Ofilia, Opheliah, Ophelya, Ophilia
- Namesakes: Ophelia Lovibond, an English actress known for the film Guardians of the Galaxy and the CBS TV series Elementary. Ophelia Marie (known as Ophelia Olivaccé-Marie), a Dominican singer of cadence-lypso in the 1980s.
- Popularity: Ophelia is uncommonly ranked in the top 20,000 names worldwide, while it’s most popular in Ghana and ranked highest at 127th in Liberia.
Penelope
Penelope is revered as the name of Odysseus’ wife in Homer’s Greek epic poem The Odyssey. It consists of the word “penelops,” meaning “thread.” Penelope isn’t used as much as it once was in England, but it’s a beauty any girl would love.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Weaver
- Pronunciation: Pah-NEHL-ah-Piy
- Variations: Pennelope, Peneloppe, Penelopey
- Namesakes: Penelope Fillon, the French wife of the Prime Minister of France from 2007 to 2012. Penelope Lively, a British fiction writer, winner of the Booker Prize and the Carnegie Medal for British children’s books.
- Popularity: Penelope is most popular and highest ranked at 353rd in England.
Philomena
Philomena came from the Greek words “philos,” meaning “loving,” and “menos,” meaning “courage.” Saint Philomena was the patron saint of infants, babies, and youth. Give some saintly favor to the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Powerful love
- Pronunciation: Fihl-ah-MIYN-ah
- Variations: Filimena, Philomeena, Philomina, Philomyna
- Namesakes: Philomena McDonagh, an English actress known for the childrens’ TV series Grange Hill and ITV soap opera Emmerdale. Philomena Mensah, a Ghanaese Canadian sprinter and bronze medalist at the 1999 IAAF World Indoor Championships.
- Popularity: Philomena is most used in Nigeria and ranked 130th in Ireland.
Phoebe
In Greek mythology, Phoebe was a prophetess associated with the moon. In England, Phoebe is a diminutive of Euphemia. It might be best known as a character’s name in the TV show Friends, but your Phoebe can make it all her own.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Bright, pure
- Pronunciation: FIY-Biy
- Variations: Phebe, Phebee, Phebi
- Namesakes: Phoebe Gilman, a Canadian-American author, and illustrator who won the 1993 Ruth Schwartz Award for best children’s book. Phoebe Di Tommaso, an Australian figure skater who won the senior national title in the 2010–11 season.
- Popularity: Phoebe is uncommonly ranked above the top 10,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in Kenya and the U.S.
Poppy
Poppy was born out of the Old English “popaeg,” referring to the Poppy flower. It’s one of many British names for girls that use flowers as inspiration. You can encourage your little budding flower with this cool, quirky name.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Red flower
- Variations: Popee, Popey, Popi, Popie, Poppey, Poppi, Poppie
- Namesakes: Poppy Ackroyd, a British composer, pianist, and violinist who is a member of the live project Hidden Orchestra. Poppy Harlow (born Katharine Harlow), an American journalist known for reporting at CNN and Forbes.com.
- Popularity: Poppy is very uncommon and most used in South Africa and Indonesia.
Primrose
Primrose might have come from the Latin “prima rosa,” meaning “first rose.” The primrose flower is the first to bloom come springtime, but your little girl can have fun with this naturally pretty name no matter when she is born.
- Origin: English, Arabic
- Meaning: First rose
- Pronunciation: PRIHM-Rows
- Variations: Primrosa, Prymrose
- Popularity: Primrose is very uncommon worldwide, while it’s mostly used in South Africa and ranked 633rd in Zimbabwe.
Rebecca
In the Hebrew Bible, Rebecca was the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau. It became popular with English puritans in the 16th-century. Rebecca is tried and true for little girls who want to make their own traditions.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: To tie, bind
- Pronunciation: Rah-BEH-Kah
- Variations: Rabecca, Rebekah, Rebecha
- Namesakes: Rebecca Isaacs, a British operatic soprano in the mid-19th-century and the Directress of Operas at the Strand Theater. Rebecca Otengo, a Ugandan politician and Uganda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia.
- Popularity: Rebecca is ranked 259th worldwide, most popular in the U.S.
Rosalind
Rosalind arose from the Germanic “Roslindis,” but is best known as a “lovely rose” from the Latin “lindal.” It can also be a Spanish combination of the names Linda and Rosa. Rosalind is uniquely sweet as a flower for your little rose girl.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Pretty rose
- Pronunciation: RAAZ-aa-Lihnd
- Variations: Rosalinde, Rosalynd, Rosalina, Rosaline
- Namesakes: Rosalind Cornett, a British table tennis player who played at the World Table Tennis Championships from 1951 to 1955. Rosalind Blauer, a Canadian economist.
- Popularity: Rosalind is mainly used in the U.S., and ranked in the top 500 in Wales.
Rosemary
In addition to its Latin origin, Rosemary can refer to the strong herb of the same name, known as a symbol of remembrance. When naming your little girl Rosemary, you can call her either part of the name or anything from Rosie to Romy.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Dew of the sea
- Pronunciation: Rowz-MAER-iy
- Variations: Rose Mary, Rosemarey, Rosemarie, Rosmarie
- Namesakes: Rosemary Clooney, an American singer and actress first known for the 1950s song “Come On-a My House.” Rosemary Dempseyan, an American activist and the Vice President for Action of The National Organization of Women (NOW).
- Popularity: Rosemary is ranked 956th worldwide, and most popular in the U.S.
Sadie
Sadie can be a diminutive of Sarah or even a short form of the internationally used Mercedes. Sarah was adapted to Sadie in England in the 18th-century, but it’s also a modern name for today’s little princess.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Princess
- Variations: Saydi, Saydie, Sade, Sadee, Sadi, Sadye
- Namesakes: Sadie Frost, an English actress, producer, and fashion designer who ran the fashion label Frost French. Sadie Jones, an English writer, best known for her award-winning debut novel, The Outcast (2008).
- Popularity: Sadie just misses being ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide and is mostly used in Chad and the U.S.
Scarlett
Scarlett’s English origins connect it to the color scarlet, associated with courage and passion. Gone With The Wind’s Scarlett O’Hara is one of the most famous Scarletts, but your Scarlet can also enjoy these traditions all at once.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Red
- Pronunciation: SKAAR-Leht
- Variations: Scarlet, Scarlette, Scarlotte
- Namesakes: Scarlett Johansson, an American actress and the world’s highest-paid actress in 2018 and 2019. Scarlett Johnson, an English actress, known for the BBC soap opera EastEnders and BBC Three sitcom Pramface.
- Popularity: Scarlett is very uncommon worldwide, used mostly in the U.S., and highest-ranked at 843rd in Chile.
Sienna
The Italian city of Siena in Tuscany and its association with a reddish-brown color might connect to the name. In French, Siena can mean “soil” or “clay.” Sienna is whimsical enough for your little girl to paint with whatever color she likes best.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Orange-Red
- Pronunciation: Siy-EHN-aa
- Variations: Siena, Siene, Sienya, Syenna
- Namesakes: Sienna Miller, an American-English actress known for the films Factory Girl (2006) and The Edge of Love (2008). Sienna Rodgers, the current editor of the British news website LabourList.
- Popularity: Sienna is rare and used mainly in the U.S.
Sophia
Sophia was the name that personified wisdom in early Christianity. Often, Sonya and Sophia share the same meaning and can be interchanged, depending on the culture. Sophia could be a wise choice for the baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Wisdom
- Pronunciation: Sow-FIY-ah
- Variations: Sofia, Sofiya, Sofie, Sophie, Sophey, Sofi
- Namesakes: Sophia Yan, an American classical pianist, journalist, and Beijing correspondent at The Daily Telegraph. Sophia Di Martino, an English actress, known for the Marvel Cinematic Universe TV series Loki.
- Popularity: Sophia is ranked 1,393rd worldwide, most popular in Tanzania.
Summer
Summer might have arisen from Germanic origins that used the root “sam/sem,” meaning “season.” It rose in popularity in the late 20th-century as a seasonal name. The warmer weather may call on your little one to be named Summer.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Summer (season)
- Pronunciation: SUH-Mehr
- Variations: Summar, Sommer, Summers
- Namesakes: Summer Meng, a Taiwanese actress known for the TV series Sweet Sweet Bodyguard (2012) and Aim High (2014). Summer Ross, an American beach volleyball player named 2010 USA Volleyball Beach Female Athlete.
- Popularity: Summer is uncommonly ranked in the top 17,000 names worldwide, and is mostly used in the U.S.
Sylvia
Sylvia (spelled Silvia) was the nature goddess and mother to the twin founders of Rome, Romulus, and Remus, in Roman mythology. Your little girl can begin her own unique story with the traditional form of Sylvia.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Woods, forest
- Pronunciation: SIHL-Viy-ah
- Variations: Silvia
- Namesakes: Sylvia Poggioli, an American radio reporter for National Public Radio. Sylvia Hanika, a German tennis player known for winning the Year End Championships in 1982.
- Popularity: Sylvia is ranked 716th worldwide, most popular in the U.S., and ranked highest at 93rd in South Africa.
Thelma
Thelma’s Greek origins come from “thelema,” meaning “will,” and later named after an occult in Victorian England. It was popularized in a British novel of the same name in 1887. Your little Thelma can be strong-willed and know what to do with it.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Will, volition
- Variations: Telmah, Telma, Thelmah
- Namesakes: Thelma Forbes, a Canadian politician and member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba from 1959 to 1969. Thelma Todd, an American actress, known by the nicknames “The Ice Cream Blonde” and “Hot Toddy.”
- Popularity: Thelma is ranked 2,925th worldwide, most popular in the U.S.
Tiffany
Tiffany has origins in the Old French medieval name Tiphaine. It’s also rooted in the Greek “theos,” meaning “God,” and “phainein,” meaning “to appear.” Tiffany peaked in the U.S. in the 80s, but you can go retro anytime you like for your little girl.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Manifestation of God
- Pronunciation: TIYF-aa-Niy
- Variations: Tiffani, Tiffanie, Tifanee, Tifanie
- Namesakes: Tiffany Haddish, an American stand-up comedian named one of the 100 most influential people globally by Time magazine in 2018. Tiffany Zahorski, an English-Russian ice dancer and the 2018 NHK Trophy silver medalist.
- Popularity: Tiffany is ranked 2,697th worldwide, most used in the U.S.
Valerie
Valerie comes from the Latin “valere,” meaning “strength,” and was used as the Roman surname Valerius. Valerie can appear as a boy’s name as Valery, especially in France and Russia. This Valerie, however, is girly all the time.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Healthy, brave
- Pronunciation: VAA-Leh-riy
- Variations: Valleri, Valery, Vallery, Valorie, Valeri
- Namesakes: Valerie Ann Amos, a British politician who served as the 8th UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. Valerie Plame, an American former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer, and writer.
- Popularity: Valerie is ranked 713th worldwide, and most popular in France, ranking 35th.
Victoria
Victoria is known as the goddess of victory in Roman mythology. In England, Queen Victoria might be one of the most famous queens. How could your little girl go wrong with this most mighty of British girl names?
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Victory, conqueror
- Pronunciation: Vihk-TOWR-iy-Ah
- Variations: Vyktoria, Victoriah
- Namesakes: Victoria Wood, an English comedian who won a BAFTA TV Award in 1986 for the sketch series Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV. Victoria Tolbert, the First Lady of Liberia from 1971 to 1980.
- Popularity: Victoria is ranked 206th worldwide, most used in Nigeria and the U.S.
Viola
Viola is a variation of Violet and refers to a popular string instrument. Viola became a popular name in the 19th-century when floral names were all the rage. A beautiful sound or a pretty flower, Viola, can bring loveliness to your little one’s life.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Violet
- Pronunciation: Viy-OW-Lah
- Variations: Violet, Violah, Violetta
- Namesakes: Viola Hashe, a South African teacher, anti-apartheid activist, and trade unionist. Viola Poley, a German rower who competed for East Germany in the 1976 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Viola is ranked just over the top 5,000 names worldwide, is mainly used in the U.S., and ranked highest at 199th in Hungary.
Vivian
Vivian arose from the Latin “vivus,” meaning “living” and “alive.” It’s unisex, but more often used as a girl’s name. Vivian was also once the Roman name Vivianus and feminine Viviana. Vivian has a modern-day feel for the little Viv you know.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Lively
- Pronunciation: VIHV-iy-ahn
- Variations: Vivienne, Vivien, Vivyan, Vyvyn, Viviann, Vyvian
- Namesakes: Vivian Archibald, a British Virgin Islander politician and the Deputy Governor of the British Virgin Islands since 2008. Vivian Maier, an American street photographer whose work was discovered and recognized after her death.
- Popularity: In 2014, 7,075 people were named Vivian worldwide, while it’s ranked highest at 670th in Sweden.
Whitney
Whitney consists of the Old English words “’hwit,” meaning “white,” and “ey,” meaning “island.” Whitney is classically cool and can provide a very English name foundation for your little girl to have.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: White island
- Pronunciation: WIHT-Niy
- Variations: Whitnee, Whitni, Whitnie, Whitny, Whittney, Witney
- Namesakes: Whitney Houston, an American singer with over 200 million records worldwide sales. Whitney Genoway, a Canadian water polo player and silver medalist at the 2009 FINA World Championships.
- Popularity: Whitney is ranked just above the top 10,000 names worldwide and is most popular in the U.S.
Willow
Willow is derived from the Old English “welig,” meaning “willow.” It grew in popularity in the early 21st-century, especially in the U.S., and remains a top choice for bohemian girls who love nature.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Willow tree, freedom
- Variations: Willo, Willough, Wylo, Wylow
- Namesakes: Willow Shields, an American actress who played Primrose Everdeen in the film series The Hunger Games (2012–2015). Willow Bay (born Kristine Bay), an American TV journalist and former editor for the Huffington Post.
- Popularity: Willow is very rare and used mostly in the U.S. and Canada.
Winifred
Winifred is an English version of the Welsh name Gwenffrewi, made up of “gwen,” meaning “fair” and “ffrew,” meaning “stillness.” It means “blessed reconciliation” in Celtic cultures and can bless the joyous baby girl you’re expecting.
- Origin: Old English, Welsh
- Meaning: Holy, joy, peace
- Pronunciation: WIHN-ih-Frehd
- Variations: Winafred, Winnifrid, Winnifred, Winefride, Wynefred
- Namesakes: Winifred Spooner, an English aviator and winner of the Harmon Trophy as the world’s outstanding female aviator of 1929. Winifred Ward, a British therapist and founder of modern speech therapy.
- Popularity: Winifred is ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide, is mostly used in England, and ranked highest at #193 in Northern Ireland.
Winter
Winter is a seasonal name with English origins meaning “wet season.” It was once a European surname and is unisex, though its used more often as a girl’s name. Whenever the due date, your little girl can thrive triumphantly as Winter in any season.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Winter season, cold season
- Variations: Wynter, Wintar, Wintr
- Namesakes: Winter Lee Vinecki, an American marathon runner, triathlete, and aerial skier who finished an Antarctica marathon in 2013. Winter Zoli, an American actress, and model known for FX’s TV series Sons of Anarchy.
- Popularity: Winter is pretty rare while it’s used most in Zambia and the U.S.
Yasmin
Yasmin is the original Persian version of the English Jasmine, though Yasmin has grown in popularity among Arabic and Persian immigrants in England. Yasmin/Jasmin is a beautiful flower, perfect for a growing girl’s name beginning with Y.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Jasmine flower
- Pronunciation: YAEZ-Mihn
- Variations: Yasmine, Yazmin, Yasmeen, Yasmene
- Namesakes: Yasmin Abbasey, a Pakistani Judge and one of only two women serving in the Sindh High Court. Yasmin Knoch (known as Yasmin K.), a German pop singer known for the 2001 second season of the TV series Popstars.
- Popularity: Yasmin is ranked 527th worldwide, and most popular in Pakistan, where it ranks 32nd.
Zadie
Zadie (spelled Zadi) was a Persian and Azerbaijani suffix once used as titles or nicknames for members of royalty. In Hebrew, Zadie is a form of “Sadie,” meaning “princess.” Royalty abounds when you name your little queen Zadie.
- Origin: English, Arabic
- Meaning: Prosperous
- Pronunciation: ZEY-Diy
- Variations: Zadi, Zade, Zady
- Namesakes: Zadie Smith, an English writer whose debut novel, White Teeth was a best-seller in 2000.
- Popularity: In 2014, 1,211 people were named Zadie worldwide, mainly in the U.S.
Zoe
The Hebrew gilr’s name Eve became the Greek Zoe at one point in time. It rose in popularity among early Christians, who associated Zoe with eternal life. Zoe is unisex but almost always used for cool little girls with a lot of life inside them.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Life
- Pronunciation: ZOW-iy
- Variations: Zoie, Zoey, Zooey, Zoi, Zowie
- Namesakes: Zoe Birkett, an English singer who appeared on the reality TV series Pop Idol and Big Brother. Zoe Caldwell, an Australian actress, and four-time Tony Award winner for Best Featured Actress in a Play for Slapstick Tragedy.
- Popularity: Zoe is ranked in the top 10,000 names worldwide, most used in England.
British Girl Names FAQs
What Is a Very British Girl Name?
Olivia is one of the most popular girls’ names worldwide. It ranked 1,270th globally and is often used in the UK, where it’s ranked in the top 500 English names. Olivia is considered a classic British name with Latin origin, meaning “olive.” Lily, Sophia, and Emily are also in the top five British girls’ names.
What Girl Names Are Illegal in the UK?
If you plan on naming your baby girl in the UK, you cannot use the following illegal names: Martian, Monkey, Chow Tow (which means smelly head), Rogue, and Akuma (meaning “devil” in Japanese).
Is London a Girl Name?
London is a unisex name meaning “the great river” and refers to the city of London. It occurs as a girl’s name more often than a British name for boys but can be given to either little girls or boys. London is thought to have come from Landon and can appear as Londen, London, and Londyn.
