Girl Names That Start with N

By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024

Popular Girl Names That Start With N

Nora

Nora sits at the top spot. This elegant name comes from Irish and Arabic roots, meaning “honor” and “light.”

Once the short form of Honora or Eleanor, Nora now stands strong on its own. It has a literary charm from Henrik Ibsen’s play The Doll’s House and a cinematic appeal with writer Nora Ephron, known for films like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle. A fitting choice for the new strong female in your world!

Nova

Nova, with its Latin origin meaning “new,” is perfect for a newborn. This name has a fresh and vibrant feel, capturing the brightness of a Nova star. It’s ideal for your little star who brings light into your life.

Natalie

For those born around winter holidays, Natalie is a beautiful pick. Meaning “Christmas day” in Latin, it adds a festive touch.

Famous Natalies include actresses Natalie Wood and Natalie Portman, giving it a glamorous edge.

Naomi

Once mainly a Jewish name, Naomi has gained broad popularity. Its Hebrew meaning is “pleasantness.” Found in the Old Testament, it offers biblical significance.

Model Naomi Campbell and actress Naomi Watts are notable bearers of this lovely name.

Navaeh

Spell Navaeh backward, and you get “heaven.” This modern name became widely known when musician Sonny Sandoval chose it for his daughter.

Since 2005, Navaeh has ranked among the top 100 girl names in the United States.

Natalia

Natalia, a variant of Natalie, has Russian roots and is common in Slavic regions. It brings a unique twist to Natalie.

Prima ballerina Natalia Makarova is a well-known example who adds grace to this name.

Norah

A variation of Nora, Norah shares the meaning “honor” or “light.” Singer Norah Jones brings a musical elegance to this name, making it a charming option for your little one.

Noelle

Noelle is a lovely choice for a baby girl born during the holiday season. The female version of Noel means “Christmas” in French, giving it a festive and joyful feel. It’s perfect for bringing holiday cheer all year round.

Nyla

Nyla might come from the Gaelic names Niles or Neil, which mean “champion” or “cloud.”

Rising in popularity since 2001, it has an air of mystery and was once the name of an Egyptian princess.

Nicole

Nicole comes from the male name Nicholas, with roots in French and Greek meaning “victory of the people.”

Famous Nicoles like actress Nicole Kidman and singer Nicole Scherzinger make this name popular and timeless.

Unique Girl Names That Start With N

Nadine

A French variation of the Russian name Nadia, Nadine means “hope.” This name isn’t commonly heard but can bring a fresh sense of hope to a baby girl.

Naenia

Originating in Roman mythology, Naenia means “incantation” and was the goddess of funerals. This unique name has a cool and somewhat dark twist.

Nanna

Of Scandinavian origin, Nanna means “daring” and “brave.” Named after a Norse goddess, Nanna offers a bold option that goes beyond traditional grandmother associations.

Narcissa

Derived from the Greek name Narcissus, Narcissa is associated with the daffodil flower. This name offers a distinctive alternative to other floral names.

Neasa

In Irish legend, Neasa was the mother of Conchobar, who displayed strength and determination. Originally Assa, meaning “gentle,” her name changed to Neasa, meaning “not gentle.”

Nellie

A diminutive name that stems from names containing “el,” such as Helen and Eleanor.

Inspired by nineteenth-century journalist Nellie Bly, this vintage name carries both cuteness and strength.

Nephele

In Greek mythology, Nephele was a goddess created from a cloud by Zeus and the mother of centaurs. This enchanting name suits dreamers or air sign babies.

Niamh

Niamh, pronounced NEEV, is of Irish Gaelic origin and means “bright.”

Known as the golden-haired daughter of the King of the Land of Youth, Niamh is popular in Ireland and the UK but unique in the United States.

Nigella

Meaning “black” in Latin, Nigella is a rare feminine form of Nigel. The name is notably borne by British TV chef Nigella Lawson.

Nyssa

Named after an ancient town in Asia Minor, Nyssa was the place where Saint Gregory was a bishop in the fourth century.

For botanical enthusiasts, Nyssa is also the genus name of the Tupelo tree.

Biblical Girl Names That Start With N

Naamah

Naamah means “pleasant.” This name of Ancient Hebrew origin appears in the Old Testament.

She was the daughter of Lamech and a wife of Solomon. It’s a fitting name for a delightful little girl.

Nahal

Nahal is a Hebrew name that means “stream.” It’s an interesting choice for a baby girl, especially if she is born under a water sign like Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces.

Nava

This name has a unique Hebrew origin and means “beautiful.” Nava has a trendy sound that makes it a modern pick for a girl’s name.

Nili

Nili originates from an acronym of the Hebrew phrase “Netzach Yisrael Lo Yishaker,” which means “the eternity of Israel will not lie.”

This phrase is also in the Old Testament. Nili is a cute and interesting name.

Nitzan

Nitzan is another unique Hebrew name that means “flower bud.” It’s a lovely name for a little girl who is like a budding flower.

Noah

Noah is a widely known biblical name with different meanings for girls and boys.

The female Noah means “motion” and is found in the Old Testament as the daughter of Zelophehad. This name is good for those looking for a gender-neutral option.

Noam

Noam is a unisex Hebrew name meaning “pleasantness.” It is commonly used in Israel but is less common in the United States.

A famous Noam is Noam Chomsky, a well-known linguist and social activist.

Noga

Noga is the modern, feminine version of the Hebrew name Nogah, meaning “brightness.”

In the Old Testament, Nogah is a song by King David. It’s a great name for a little girl who is a bright ray of sunshine.

Noya

Noya is a popular name in Israel and means “beauty” in Hebrew. It’s a sweet and fitting name for a beautiful baby girl.

Nurit

Nurit means “buttercup flower” in Hebrew. It’s an ideal name for those who want a nature-inspired choice.

International Girl Names That Start With N

Na

This name, originating from China, means “graceful.” It’s a short and sweet name that is perfect for a little girl who embodies grace and elegance.

Nabila

A feminine form of Nabil, this Arabic name means “noble.” Nabila is a strong and honorable choice, suited for families with Arabic heritage.

Nada

This name has roots in both Arabic and Slavic cultures. In Arabic, it means “generosity” or “dew,” while in Slavic, it means “hope.” Nada carries both beautiful and inspiring meanings.

Nadia

A more well-known variation of Nada, Nadia has Russian origins and also means “hope.”

The name gained fame from Romanian Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who was the first gymnast to score a perfect 10 at the Olympics at the age of 14.

Naja

Of Greenlandic origin, Naja means “boy’s younger sister.” The name gained popularity in Denmark due to B.S. Ingemann’s 1842 novel “Kunnuk and Naja, or the Greenlanders.”

Nālani

This Hawaiian name, meaning “the heavens,” evokes the tranquility and beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. Nālani is as heavenly in sound as it is in meaning.

Nana

An international name with multiple meanings, Nana is the Greek and biblical version of Ioanna, a Japanese name meaning “greens,” and a Hawaiian name meaning “spring.”

Although often used as a term for grandmother, Nana has the potential to be a cute and vintage name for a baby girl.

Natsuko

A Japanese name meaning “summer child,” Natsuko is perfect for a baby born in the summer months. This name brings a touch of sunshine into your life.

Nerina

This Italian name possibly comes from the Greek name Nereida, meaning “sea nymphs.”

Nerina appears in Torquato Tasso’s play “Aminta” and Giacomo Leopardi’s poem “Le Ricordanze.”

Nicolette

Derived from the French name Nicole, meaning “victory of the people,” Nicolette adds a flair to the original.

Variants like the Italian Nicoletta and nicknames such as Nico and Nicci make this name versatile and charming.

Nnenne

A name of Igbo origin from Western Africa, Nnenne means “mother’s mother.”

It’s often given to children believed to be the reincarnation of their maternal grandmothers, making it a deeply meaningful choice.

Beautiful Girl Names That Start With N

Nancy

Nancy is an elegant and timeless name that originally served as a medieval diminutive for Annis. It later evolved into a smaller form of Ann, another classic name.

Gaining popularity in the eighteenth century, Nancy has been a name in its own right ever since. Fictional characters like the girl detective Nancy Drew and a character in the musical “Oliver Twist” are well-known bearers of this name.

Additionally, Frank Sinatra dedicated his song “Nancy With the Laughing Face” to his daughter, adding a touch of charm and nostalgia.

Nerissa

Nerissa is a name with deep mythological roots, derived from the Greek sea god Nereus, the father of the sea sprites.

Shakespeare used this elegant name in his play “The Merchant of Venice” for Portia’s confidante and lady-in-waiting, giving it a touch of classic literature charm.

Natasha

Natasha comes from the Russian name Natalya, meaning “Christmas day.”

This makes it a beautiful choice for a baby born in the winter season. Natasha gained popularity in the 1980s but maintains a timeless allure.

It appears in Leo Tolstoy’s novel “War and Peace” and is also the name of the well-known Avengers heroine, Natasha Romanoff.

Nefertari

Nefertari is an ancient Egyptian name that means “the most beautiful.” This name belongs to a highly educated and diplomatic queen, who was the wife of Ramesses II.

With its powerful meaning, Nefertari is a fitting choice for a strong and beautiful little girl.

Nimue

Nimue is inspired by Arthurian legend, known as the Lady of the Lake. This name evokes images of beauty and magic.

Nimue is recognized as a sorceress who enchanted Merlin, making it a mystical and enchanting name.

Nisha

Nisha is a name of Hindi origin that means “night” in Sanskrit.

This name could be a lovely choice for those who are fond of the night sky or have an affinity for nighttime.

Nizhoni

Nizhoni comes from the Navajo language and means “beautiful.” This unique and elegant name exudes an air of grace and charm, making it a lovely choice for a baby girl.

Noelia

Noelia is a Spanish name that serves as the feminine version of the French masculine name Noël, meaning “Christmas.”

This name is a delightful choice for children born during the holiday season, adding a festive touch.

Nuala

Nuala is a beautiful Irish name pronounced NOO-lah. It is the short form of Fionnuala, meaning “white shoulders.”

In Irish legend, the Children of Lir featured Fionnuala, who was transformed into a swan for 900 years. This name carries a sense of grace and elegance.

Nyx

Nyx is a short name with a modern and trendy vibe. It means “night” and comes from the powerful Greek goddess of the night.

Considered to be from the dawn of creation, Nyx represents strength and is a wonderful choice for those with an interest in cosmology or astronomy.

Short and Cute Girl Names That Start With N

Nala

Nala is a name of African origin with an unknown meaning. It rose to popularity as the friend and wife of Simba in The Lion King.

This short name adds an extra layer of cuteness, ideal for fans of the classic animated movie.

Nan

Nan is a diminutive of Ann or Nancy, offering a cute old-fashioned vibe that’s great for modern times.

As a one-syllable name, it is both strong and endearing.

Neo

Neo is a name that brings various connections. While many might remember the character from The Matrix, in the Tswana language of South Africa, it means “gift,” and in Greek, it translates to “new.”

This unisex name is a wonderful choice, reflecting both a sense of modernity and a special gift.

Nessa

Nessa is a shortened form of Vanessa, a genus name for a type of butterfly known as brush-footed.

This name symbolizes beauty, hope, and change, making it perfect for a little girl with an adventurous spirit.

Nettie

Nettie is a charming, vintage name that works as a diminutive for names such as Annette, Jeanette, and Henrietta.

It has a nostalgic feel, ideal for those considering a whimsical, old-fashioned name for their baby girl.

Nia

Nia’s meanings span various cultures. In East African Swahili, it signifies “purpose,” while in Welsh, it’s the form of the Irish name Niamh.

For families seeking a less common alternative to Mia, Nia is short, spunky, and full of life.

Nila

Nila means “dark blue” in Sanskrit, making it a sweet choice for a baby girl with deep, dark blue eyes.

This name is both unique and modern, offering a hint of elegance.

Nina

Nina, a Russian-origin name, serves as a short form for names ending in nina. Widely recognized in Spain and Russia, it has a global appeal.

Nina is also linked to historical goddesses, such as a Babylonian goddess of the oceans and an Incan goddess of fire. A famous namesake includes the singer Nina Simone.

Nita

Nita often serves as a diminutive for names that end in nita, like Anita.

This cute name means “bear” in the Native American Choctaw language, perfect for a baby girl who’s as fierce and cute as a bear cub.

Nona

Nona translates to “ninth” in Latin. It refers to the Roman goddess of pregnancy.