Choosing the perfect name for your baby girl is an exciting part of pregnancy. The name you pick will be part of her identity for her entire life. Many parents want a name that is both cute and meaningful.
When considering cute girl names, it helps to understand name origins and meanings. Names from literature, myth, and different cultures often have fascinating backstories. Below is a list of delightful baby girl names along with the story behind each one.
Emma - This sweet name comes from German and means "universal." It was popularized by the Jane Austen novel Emma, published in 1815. The main character Emma Woodhouse demonstrates confidence, creativity and a playful spirit.
Luna - Luna comes from the Latin word for "moon." In Roman mythology, Luna was the divine embodiment of the moon. Luna is a great pick for a bright shining light in your life.
Stella - Meaning "star" in Latin, Stella is the perfect name for your little star. It was popularized by Stella Dallas, the protagonist in a 1920s novel and movie. The name Stella exudes old Hollywood charm and elegance.
Layla - With Arabic origins, Layla means "night" and conveys beauty and serenity. It was the object of romantic affection in the classic seventh century Arabic love story Layla and Majnun. The tale portrays an intense almost maddening passion.
Nora - Nora is an Irish diminutive for Honora, meaning “light.” Author Henrik Ibsen used it in his 1879 play A Doll’s House for a bold, devoted leading lady. Nora speaks to women defying societal constraints.
Lily - This floral name comes from the flower that symbolizes purity in English culture. Actress Lily James of Downton Abbey embodies the name's charm and innocence.
Luna (Spanish) - Meaning "moon," this name conjures up the magic and light of the night sky. In Latin American folklore, the moon goddess Mama Luna watches over women and children.
Mila (Slavic) - The popular name Mila originates as a diminutive of Russian names like Ludmila meaning "dear one" or "beloved". Model and actress Mila Kunis brings liveliness and humor to the name.
Lyra (Greek) - Lyra refers to the lyre, a small harp, representing poetic inspiration in Greek myth. The girl's name calls to mind creativity and artistic passion.
Isla (Scottish) - Isla comes from the Scottish word for “island.” It evokes escapism, adventure and independence. Actress Isla Fisher exemplifies the wit and charisma of the name.
Eliana (Hebrew) - A feminine form of Elijah, Eliana means "my God has answered." It speaks to faith and divine protection. Puerto Rican actress Ana Villafañe offers a spirited namesake.
Freya (Norse) - This sweet Scandinavian name belongs to the Norse goddess of love and fertility. It speaks to the heart and the natural world.
Clara (Latin) - The Latin name Clara, meaning “bright,” ”clear” or “famous,” has musical flair and intellectual depth. Dancer Misty Copeland and actress Clara Bow give the name a creative flair.
Elena (Spanish) - A Spanish version of Helen, Elena signifies “shining light” - an apt name for a brilliant little girl. Dominican American author Julia Alvarez provides a literary namesake.
Gabriella (Hebrew) - The feminine form of Gabriel, Gabriella means “God is my strength.” It calls to mind resilience paired with kindness and compassion. American gymnast Gabby Douglas embodies its spirit as an athlete role model praised for her heart and leadership.
Lucia (Italian) - Derived from Lux, the Latin word for “light”, Lucia signifies grace under pressure. Italian opera highlights heroines of this name, like the long suffering Lucia di Lammermoor. It calls to mind tenacity and rising above challenges.
Mariposa (Spanish) - Meaning “butterfly” in Spanish, Mariposa symbolizes transformation and hope. With roots in Latin America, it speaks to the beauty and freedom of the natural world.
Paloma (Spanish) - Meaning “dove” in Spanish, Paloma has roots in Latin American culture where it became popular through the veneration of the Virgin Mary. It evokes peacefulness, devotion and nurturing care.
Michaela (Hebrew) - The feminine form of Michael, Hebrew for “who is like God?,” Michaela signifies being extraordinary and auspicious. Tennis player Maria Sharapova provides a strong and elegant athletic example.
Linnea (Swedish) - This Swedish name comes from the iconic Nordic flower, the twinflower, representing hope and renewal. Its sweetness calls to mind innocence and purity of heart.
Jasmine (Persian) - Jasmine refers to a beloved flower known for its joyful fragrance and star-shaped blooms. This graceful Persian name from folkloreconjures enchanting femininity.
Savannah (English) - Meaning “open plain” in English, Savannah calls to mind the beauty, freedom, and wildlife of grasslands near the equator where gazelles roam freely. Its imagery speaks to the natural world.
Melanie (Greek) - Derived from the Greek word “melas” meaning dark and deep, Melanie evokes mystery alluring beauty. Pulitzer Prize winning author Melanie Sumner provides a contemporary namesake known for lyricism and insight.
Carmen (Spanish) - This beloved name comes from the Spanish word meaning “song” or “poem”. It conjures musicality, rhythm and building life’s melody. Opera heroines like Bizet’s capricious gypsy Carmen provide cultural namesakes.
Mira (Slavic) - Meaning “peace” or “world” in Sanskrit, Mira has an uplifting global quality. Polish British scientist Marie Curie, known for her pioneering research, offers an inspirational namesake recognized for her groundbreaking mind and commitment to discovery.
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