Girl Names That Start With C

Choosing a name for your baby girl can be exciting yet challenging. If you’ve decided to pick a name starting with the letter C, the task becomes easier.

Whether you simply like names that start with C or aim to start a family tradition, there are plenty of options to explore.

Interestingly, names starting with C can offer a variety of sounds, making them unique and diverse.

C names can have different pronunciations, like K (Candace), S (Celine), Ch (Chelsea), Sh (Charlotte), or even J (Cansu).

This offers a wide range of choices that can suit different preferences and styles.

The following sections will detail 77 names starting with C, giving you plenty of options to consider for your baby girl’s name.

Popular Girl Names That Start With C

Charlotte

The name Charlotte is a feminine version of Charles, introduced in the 17th century. Many queens and authors, like Charlotte Brontë, have borne this name.

It gained popularity in the U.S. in the 2000s. Alternatives include the Italian or Spanish Carlota or Carlotta.

Camila

Camila is the Spanish and Portuguese form of the name, which has Roman roots. It appeared in Virgil’s Aeneid as a warrior maiden.

Another popular spelling is Camilla, and it can also be spelled Camille.

Chloe

Chloe means “green shoot” in ancient Greek, depicting a plant sprouting leaves. This name was linked to Demeter, the Greek goddess.

It can also be spelled without the letter H.

Claire

Claire is the French version of Clara, meaning “clear,” “bright,” or “famous.” Originating from Latin, it can also be spelled Clare, shifting the spelling without the letter I.

Caroline

This name has Latin roots and is the feminine form of Charles, which means “man” in German. Caroline has several variants, including Carolina, Carolyn, and Carol.

Cora

Derived from the ancient Greek name Kore, Cora means “maiden.” It was an epithet for the goddess Persephone. This name is ideal for those seeking something tied to Greek mythology.

Clara

Clara is the English form of the French name Claire and has roots in the Latin name Clarus. In the nineteenth century, Clara was popular, but recently, Claire has become more common.

Charlie

Often recognized as a boy’s name, Charlie is also a diminutive for Charlotte. It has various spellings, including Charlee, Charli, and Charleigh.

Cecilia

Cecilia has Latin origins and means “blind.” Despite its mundane meaning, it became popular due to a famous saint.

In England, Cecily was more favored until Cecilia took over in the eighteenth century. Diminutives include Celia, Cilla, and Cece.

Callie

Callie is considered a diminutive of Caroline but stands well on its own. Variants include Cali and Caleigh.

More Popular Girl Names That Start With C

Catalina

This name has origins in Spanish culture. Catalina comes from the names Katherine and Catherine.

It’s also the name of a Spanish saint, who is the patron saint of Mallorca. There’s even an island off the coast of Los Angeles named after her.

It’s a great choice for those with Spanish heritage or connections to California.

Celeste

Derived from Roman roots, Celeste means “heavenly” or “of the sky.” This name can be used for both boys and girls.

It’s related to the English word “celestial.” For a cute twist, consider nicknames like Celestina or Celestine.

Collins

Originally a surname, Collins has gained popularity as a unisex first name. As of 2020, it ranked 365 in the list of popular girl names. Interestingly, it didn’t make the top 500 for boys.

Camryn

This name is a variant—and more popular—spelling of Cameron, another unisex name. Its Scottish origins mean “crooked nose,” which might not be the prettiest meaning, but it has a modern and cool sound. Nicknames could include Cam.

Cassidy

Cassidy is another unisex name that comes from an Irish background. It means “curly haired,” making it a charming choice for a child with curly locks. Nickname options include Cass or Cassie.

Carmen

In Latin, Carmen translates to “song.” It may also come from the Hebrew name Carmel, meaning “garden.”

Both meanings offer a beautiful image. Additionally, Carmen is famous due to the opera by Georges Bizet.

Celine

Celine is a name with French or English/German roots, depending on whether it’s spelled with an accent on the first E.

Its Latin origins mean “heaven.” The popularity of this name surged thanks to the fame of singer Céline Dion.

Beautiful Girl Names That Start With C

Caitlin

Originally an Irish name, Caitlin has evolved from the Old French name Cateline, itself a form of Catherine.

Variants of this name include Cathleen. Cute short forms can be Cait or Cate, depending on the spelling.

Caitriona

Another Irish form of Catherine, Caitriona can also be spelled Caitria, Catrina, or Catriona. It carries the timeless charm of traditional Irish names.

Calista

Derived from the male Roman name Callistus, Calista means “most beautiful” in Greek. It’s a perfect name for a beautiful baby girl.

Caprina

Inspired by the Italian island of Capri, Caprina is a unique and modern choice. It’s ideal for those who love the island or simply like the name’s melody.

Carlene

Carlene is the female form of the male name Carl, which traces back to the German name Karl, meaning “man.”

Therefore, Carlene can be thought to mean “woman.” Variants include Carlyn, Carlin, and Carline.

Caryn

The name Caryn is a less common variant of Karen, which is the Danish form of Katherine. It’s a simple, yet elegant choice.

Chantal

Coming from a French surname that means “stony,” Chantal also has a musical twist, as “chant” means “song” in French. It’s a lovely pick for a family with musical ties.

Ciara

Ciara can either be a variant of the name Sierra or derive from the Irish male name Ciar, meaning “black.”

This gives the name a dual heritage and meaning, depending on preference.

Unique Girl Names That Start With C

Cadence

If you want something unique and modern, this name has only been in usage since the twentieth century.

It means “rhythm” or “flow” and is often found in musical terminology. It’s perfect if you love music and want to share that love with your daughter.

Caetana

This Portuguese name comes from the Latin male name Caietanus, which means “someone from Caeta,” an area in present-day Italy known as Gaeta.

The Spanish spelling is Cayetana. Either version offers a unique-sounding name.

Cansu

A Turkish name pronounced jan-SOO, it combines Can, meaning “soul” or “life,” with su, meaning “water.”

This name is both unique in sound and rich in meaning, sure to set your daughter apart.

Cattleya

Those familiar with orchids may recognize this name as a variety of orchid with flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white.

Named after horticulturist William Cattley, it is a beautiful, floral-inspired choice.

Cennet

A Turkish name meaning “paradise” or “garden,” derived from Arabic. This name brings to mind serene and lush imagery.

Cerise

This pretty name means “cherry” in French and is pronounced SU-REEZ, offering a unique and charming option.

Charmaine

The exact meaning of this name is unclear, though it might be derived from the Greek name Charmion, which means “delight.”

Despite its uncertain origins, this name has a dignified and elegant sound.

Chelsea

Known as a district in both London and New York City, Chelsea became a popular name in the 1970s.

One of the most recognized bearers is Chelsea Clinton, daughter of former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Variants include Chelsey and Chelsie.

Cheyenne

Derived from the Dakota Native American language, this name possibly means “red speakers.”

It is also the name of a Native American group and the capital city of Wyoming, offering a unique and beautiful name choice.

Chihiro

A Japanese name considered unisex, with chi meaning “thousand” and hiro meaning “fathom” or “arm span.”

It has a beautiful sound and evokes imagery of embracing.

Cleopatra

A Greek name meaning “glory of the father.” Many queens of Egypt, including the famous Cleopatra VII, bore this name.

Despite her tragic story, Cleopatra is a beautiful name and can be shortened to Cleo.

Concordia

Meaning “harmony” in Latin, this name was also the name of a Roman goddess of peace and harmony. This unique name can symbolize the peace your daughter will bring into your life.

Crystal

In English, this word refers to something clear and colorless like glass, hence “crystal clear.”

Of Greek origin, it means “ice.” A known bearer of the name is Crystal Jennings Carrington from the TV series Dynasty. Variant spellings include Christal and Chrystal.

Cyrielle

A French name that is the female form of Cyril, which in Greek means “lord,” often referring to God or Jesus. This unique name brings a touch of elegance and significance.

Rare Girl Names That Start With C

Caelie

Caelie stands out as a unique twist on the more common name Kaylee, originating from the combination of Kay and Lee.

Another creative variation is Caileigh, which offers a distinctive flair.

Calliope

Calliope, also spelled Kalliope in Greek, is the name of one of the nine Muses, known for her role as the goddess of epic poetry and eloquence.

The name translates to “beautiful voice” in Greek, making it fitting for families with a love of music or public speaking.

Calypso

Calypso is a name steeped in mythology, referring to the Greek nymph who detained Odysseus for seven years.

The name means “to cover” or “to conceal” and can also represent a Caribbean music style, making it appealing to those with a love for mythology or Caribbean culture.

Cambria

Derived from the Latin name for Wales, Cambria is perfect for those with Welsh roots. In Welsh, it’s called Cymru, deriving from cymry which means “the people.”

This ancient yet modern-sounding name is rare and meaningful.

Campbell

Originally a Scottish surname meaning “crooked mouth” in Gaelic, Campbell is a unique unisex name.

Despite its original meaning, the name stands out for those seeking a gender-neutral option with Scottish heritage.

Carey

Carey, a unisex name that might remind you of Kerry, actually comes from the Irish surname Ó Ciardha, meaning “black.” It stands out for its Irish roots and versatile usage.

Carson

Carson is a modern-sounding unisex name of Scottish origin, though its meaning remains unknown. It offers a fresh and unique option for a girl’s name starting with C.

Chanelle

Chanelle, a variant of the French surname Chanel, means “channel,” referring to someone living near a water channel.

Popularized in the 1970s by fashion icon Coco Chanel, this name exudes elegance and style.

Charity

Charity is a rare and distinct name. It’s derived from the Latin word caritas, meaning “generous love,” “dear,” or “beloved.”

Commonly used by Puritans, it carries a timeless appeal.

Chastity

This name, meaning “pure,” gained popularity in the 1970s. This was due to Sonny Bono and Cher naming their daughter Chastity.

It is a unique and uncommon name choice for a girl.

Cherish

Cherish, meaning “to treasure,” makes a beautiful and meaningful name for a little girl you hold dear. It’s rare and evokes a sense of love and appreciation.

Christiane

Christiane could be seen as the French and German form of Christina, originating from the male name Christian.

Not commonly used in English-speaking countries, it’s pronounced KREES-TYAN in French and kris-TYA-nə in German.

Cosima

Cosima is an Italian name, the feminine form of Cosimo. It comes from the Greek word kosmas, which means “order” or “decency.”

It offers a sophisticated and rare option for a girl’s name.

Cybill

Cybill, a unique spelling of the name Sibyl, refers to the ancient Greek prophetesses known for their divine knowledge.

Revived in the 19th century, a famous bearer of the name is actress Cybill Shepherd.

Cymone

Cymone is a rarer spelling of Simone, which is the female version of the male name Simon.

The names mean “he (or she) has heard” in Hebrew, offering a distinctive choice for a girl’s name.

Cute Girl Names That Start With C

Chita

This charming Spanish name is a shortened form of Conchita and Concha, both diminutives of Concepción.

A well-known figure with this name is Chita Rivera, an actress, singer, and dancer.

Chrissy

Often used as a nickname for Christine or Christina, Chrissy stands beautifully on its own. It offers a playful and cute option for a girl’s name that starts with C.

Cindy

Commonly derived from Cynthia or Lucinda, Cindy can also be an independent name.

It surged in popularity during the late 1950s, but it’s still a lovely choice for today.

Codie

This name is the feminine variant of the male name Cody. Originating from an Irish surname, it means “helpful.”

Codie provides a unique and friendly option for a girl’s name.

Coral

Inspired by the coral found in oceans, this name brings to mind tropical adventures and underwater beauty.

It’s a refreshing and vibrant choice for a little girl.

Corie

Corie is a diminutive of names like Corinna, Cora, and Cornelia. Variations include Corrie and Cori.

It pairs beautifully with a name like Dorie for twins.

Cosette

In French, Cosette translates to “little thing.” This name gained popularity from Victor Hugo’s novel Les Misérables, making it a cute and literary choice.

Cheryl

Created in the twentieth century, Cheryl likely combines the names Cherie and Beryl.

The French term chérie means “darling,” adding a sweet touch to this name.

Old-Fashioned Girl Names That Start With C

Candace

This name comes from the Cushitic language and means “queen mother.” It famously appears in the New Testament, where it’s mentioned as a title for the queens of Ethiopia.

The name was very common with Puritans, and its popularity continued into the twentieth century. A cute nickname for your baby girl could be Candi or Candy.

Carla

Though the name is most popular in the Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish languages, it’s also found in German, Dutch, and English.

It’s the feminine form of the male name Carl, Carlo, or Carlos.

Carmela

This is the Italian and Spanish form of the name Carmel, which means “garden” in Hebrew.

It’s also the name of a mountain mentioned in the Old Testament. Why not choose this beautiful, old-fashioned girl’s name that starts with C?

Cassandra

In Greek, this girl’s name means “to excel” or “to shine.” In Greek mythology, Cassandra was a Trojan princess.

The name became popular in the Middle Ages, then fell out of favor until it was revived in the twentieth century. With its lovely meaning, it would be the perfect name for your little girl.

Catherine

This variant spelling of Katherine comes from the Greek and means “each of the two.”

It’s sometimes been associated with the Greek word for pure. Saints, queens, and empresses have borne this name. Why not add your daughter to this esteemed list?

Christina

This is probably one of the most common Christian girl’s names. In fact, it’s the female version of the male name Christian.

A seventeenth-century Swedish queen by this name abdicated in order to become Catholic. The name can be spelled Cristina, Christine, or Christa.

Claribel

This old-fashioned girl’s name was created by combining the name Clara with the suffix bel.

Three authors (Edmund Spenser, William Shakespeare, and Alfred, Lord Tennyson) used this made-up name in their works. It’s not a bad made-up name at all!

Clarissa

This name is used in English, French, and Italian. It’s derived from the Latin name Clarice, which is related to Clara, also on this list.

In French it’s spelled Clarisse, and in Spanish, Clarisa.

Claudia

This girl’s name is popular in many languages, but its origins lie in the Latin male name Claudius, which means “lame” or “crippled.”

Many Roman emperors and even saints bore this name.

Clotilde

This old-fashioned French girl’s name is Germanic in origin and means “fame” and “battle.” It can also be spelled Clothilde.

Colleen

From the Irish word cailín, the name simply means “girl.”

It’s not frequently used in Ireland but has been very common in the United States since the twentieth century.

Constance

This old-fashioned English girl’s name comes from the Latin name Constans, which unsurprisingly means “constant” or “steadfast.”

A cute nickname for your daughter can be Connie.

Cordelia

This woman’s name appeared in the twelfth-century chronicles of Geoffrey of Monmouth, and later appeared in Edmund Spenser’s poem The Faerie Queene as well as Shakespeare’s King Lear.

Literary lovers will appreciate this choice of name.

Corinne

This is the French form of the name Corinna, which is Greek in origin and means “maiden,” sharing the history with the name Cora on this list.

Cynthia

Originally a Greek name, it meant “woman from Kynthos,” which is an island in Greece. The name was also an epithet for the goddess of the moon, Artemis.

The name reached popularity in the United States in the late 1950s, but it’s waned since then. Why not bring it back?