names for girls and their interesting meanings

Names for girls these days come in many varieties, from traditional and classic to modern and unique. When searching for the perfect girl's name, there are a lot of factors new parents should consider. An important one is how the name will carry into adulthood - choosing something appropriate for a baby but also good for a career woman one day. Other considerations are whether you want something popular or more unusual, the length, pronunciation and spelling, and most importantly - the meaning behind it.

Here are some currently favorite girls names with details on their background:

Emma - This name comes from the Germanic ermen, meaning "whole" or "universal". Emma has been a top girls name for the past several years. It's easy to spell and pronounce, and the meaning evokes strength.

Ava - This lovely name is a variation of Eva and the Hebrew word “chaim” meaning life. Classy and simple, many parents are now opting for shorter names.

Olivia - A feminine name stemming from the Latin word “olive", which is a symbol for peace and fertility. Olivia is currently in the top 5 girls names and comes with some great nickname options like Liv and Livvy.

Amelia - Germanic in origin meaning “work”, it also has associations with the Latin word “aemulus” meaning rival. A great blend of girliness and ambition.

Sophia - The meaning of this ancient Greek name is “wisdom." Perfect for parents who hope their little girl will grow up wise beyond her years.

Charlotte - French feminine diminutive form of Charles, meaning "petite" and “feminine.” This name oozes grace and class.

Zoe - In Greek mythology, Zoe means “life”. This name is a stylish short name for the modern age.

Harper - An occupational English surname meaning “harp player.” This has moved to a unisex given name recently.

Isabella - This lovely Latin name is a feminine form of Isabel, itself coming from the Hebrew Elizabeth meaning “devoted to God." Isabella sounds romantic and elegant.

Avery - Originally an English surname denoting someone who was a steward or the keeper of birds for a noble household. Now used for both girls and boys.

Luna - Directly from Latin, the name Luna means "moon". Mythology ties the moon to feminine energy in many cultures.

Genesis - From the Greek, meaning “origin” or “birth." In the Bible's Book of Genesis is the creation story. A powerful name for a baby girl.

Athena - This name comes directly from Greek mythology - Athena was the Goddess of wisdom and war. A strong and intelligent name choice.

Aurora - This poetic name comes from the Latin word for dawn. In stories, Aurora is the Roman goddess of sunrise.

Hazel - This nature name refers to the Hazel tree. In folklore these trees were thought to have protective and magical powers.

Naomi - A Hebrew origin name meaning “pleasantness”. In the Bible Naomi was the mother-in-law of Ruth who accompanied her to Bethlehem.

Isla - Isla comes from “island” in Spanish and Scottish origin. A currently popular name that conjures scenic images.

Elena - This is a Spanish and Italian variation of the classic Helen, derived from Greek, broadly meaning “light” or “bright”.

Penelope - This vintage name ties back to Greek literature - Penelope was the famously faithful wife of Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey epic poem.

Layla - This poetic name comes from a classic Arabic love story meaning "night". Eric Clapton's song "Layla" further popularized this romantic name.

Scarlett - An English surname denoting someone who sold scarlet cloth. Scarlett O'Hara of Gone with the Wind fame exemplifies the fiery personality now associated with it.

Nora - Shortened form of Eleanora or Honora. Nora is an anglicized form of the Greek name Theano, meaning “goddess”.

Eloise - This name with French roots comes from the Germanic name Aloisia, originally Louise. Denoting “renowned warrior", it’s a feminine choice with a strong backbone.

Evelyn - From the French surname Évelyne originally stemming from the male given name Aveline meaning “desired, wished for child”.

Ruby - As the name of the precious red gemstone, Ruby symbolizes passion and energy associated with the color red. A vintage name now revived.

Ivy - Another nature name, Ivy calls to mind resilient vines with pointed green leaves used historically for medicinal healing.

Adeline - French in origin meaning “noble” this name variant relates to nobility and aristocratic roots for your little princess.

Cora - In Greek mythology, Cora was an alternative name for Persephone, the goddess of spring growth and daughter of harvest goddess Demeter.

Elodie - A French name meaning “foreign riches or wealth” derived from the Spanish name Elodia relating to a foreign place.