Middle Names for Girls

How to Choose a Middle Name for Your Baby Girl

Honor a Beloved Family Member

Choosing a middle name that honors a beloved family member can add a personal touch.

Whether it’s a grandparent, an aunt, or any special person, this gesture can keep their memory alive.

Do Something Unique and Different

If standing out is important, consider a unique middle name.

This might be something uncommon or a name with a unique spelling. Such a name can give your child a distinct identity.

Create a Nice-Sounding First Name–Middle Name Pairing

Balance is key when pairing the first and middle names.

They should flow well together when spoken aloud. This can make your child’s full name easy to say and pleasing to hear.

Give More of Your Favorite Names

If you have multiple favorite names, a middle name offers an opportunity to use another top choice.

This ensures you don’t have to miss out on a name you love.

Choose a Classy, Cute, or Pretty Name

Whether your preference is for a name that exudes elegance, charm, or sweetness, pick one that fits the personality you envision for your baby girl.

This can add a special touch to her full name.

Check State Laws for Unique Names

If you’re considering a middle name with unique characters or an unusually long name, make sure to check your state’s regulations.

Some states have rules about what names are allowed.

Important Tips:

• Make sure the middle name sounds good with the first name.
• Choose a name that holds meaning or significance.
• Consider family traditions, but feel free to create your own.

Cute and Pretty Middle Names for Girls

Akiko

In Japanese, the name Akiko can have various meanings depending on the kanji characters used, such as clear, crystal, bright, autumn, or child.

This allows parents to pick a meaning that best fits their little girl.

Anika

Anika is a feminine name derived from the male name Anik in Hindi and Bengali. In Sanskrit, it translates to army or splendor, making it a special choice for a baby girl.

Cora

Cora has its roots in Latin, derived from the Greek name Kore, an epithet for the Greek goddess Persephone.

It became popular after appearing in James Fenimore Cooper’s novel “The Last of the Mohicans” and later in the TV show “Downton Abbey.”

Devika

The Hindi name Devika means little goddess in Sanskrit.

It’s a royal and meaningful middle name for a little princess.

Dora

Typically a short form for names like Dorothy, Theodora, or Isidora, Dora stands well on its own and makes a sweet choice for a middle name.

Elsa

Elsa is the short form of the German and Dutch name Elisabeth, spelled with an S.

Fans of Disney’s animated movies might find this name especially appealing.

Gina

This name can be a shorter form of Georgina, Regina, Luigina, Virginia, and Eugenia.

It works nicely as a middle name, especially to balance a long first name.

Keri

Keri is a feminine form of the name Kerry, which is also the name of an Irish county.

This unique spelling makes it appealing for a middle name.

Lulu

Lulu is often used as a diminutive for names starting with Lu, like Luisa.

In Arabic, it means pearls. This makes it a lovely middle name, symbolizing something precious and beautiful.

Macy

Macy comes from an English surname linked to the French town of Massy.

It sounds feminine and pretty, and could also be a nod to the popular department store.

Molly

Originally a diminutive of Mary, Molly has become a name in its own right.

Fans of literature might remember Molly Bloom from James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses.”

Nina

Nina is a shortened form of names ending in nina, such as Antonina or Giannina.

The name also has Russian roots and means little girl in Spanish, making it a perfect middle name.

Poppy

Poppy is an Old English name inspired by the flower.

It adds an adorable and playful touch to a girl’s name.

Rina

In Japanese, Rina can mean white jasmine, village, or vegetables depending on the kanji used.

The first meaning, white jasmine, is especially charming for a middle name.

Thea

Thea is short for Dorothea or Theodora.

It’s a unique choice that stands out while being easy to pronounce and remember.

Zinnia

Zinnia is named after a flower, making it an appealing choice for nature lovers.

Its bright and cheerful sound makes it a pretty middle name for any little girl.

Unique Middle Names for Girls

Afua

Following a tradition in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, this name means “born on Friday” in the Akan language.

It can make a special middle name, especially if your daughter is born on a Friday.

Alma

With roots in Latin, Spanish, and Hebrew, Alma signifies nourishing, soul, or young woman.

This pretty name adds a gentle touch to any full name.

Beverly

Starting as a surname from an English city, meaning “beaver stream,” Beverly transitioned from a male name in the 19th century to a female name in the 1990s.

Blanca

Blanca is the Spanish and Catalan form of Blanche, which means white or fair in French. It’s a sweet choice for a fair little girl.

Bronwyn

A variant of the Welsh name Bronwen, Bronwyn means “breast” and “fair.”

It’s a rare and unique pick for a middle name.

Calla

Named after a popular lily, Calla comes from Latin and Greek origins.

In Greek, it means beauty, making it a charming middle name.

Chanda

In Hindi, Chanda describes someone fierce, hot, and passionate.

This name suits both boys and girls and is an epithet of the Hindu goddess Durga.

Damaris

In Greek, Damaris translates to “calf.”

Appearing in the New Testament, the name stands out with its melodic sound.

Elaina

A variant of Elaine, which is the Old French form of Helen, Elaina also appears in King Arthur’s legends.

It’s a timeless middle name with historical roots.

Felicia

This name comes from the Latin word for lucky or successful and is the feminine form of Felix.

Another option is Felicity, a name with a similar meaning.

Frida

Rooted in German and Scandinavian origins, Frida means peace.

Frida Kahlo, the famed Mexican painter, made this name iconic.

Georgia

As the feminine form of George, Georgia rose in popularity after the state was named for King George II.

Georgina offers another unique option if you prefer a slightly different sound.

Ivanna

Derived from the Greek Ioannes and a Slavic form of John, Ivanna is the feminine form of Ivan.

Alternatives include Yvonna or Yvonne.

Sekai

For the Shona people of Zimbabwe, Sekai means “to be humorous.”

This name brings joy and laughter to a little girl who loves to giggle.

Tokunbo

Used by the Yoruba people of Nigeria, this name means “returned from abroad.”

It’s given to children born outside their home nation who then return home, making it a unique middle name under these circumstances.

Yadira

Gaining popularity in Mexico in the 1940s, Yadira rose to fame through Colombian actress Yadira Jiménez.

Though its exact meaning remains a mystery, many believe it has Arabic roots.

Simple One Syllable Middle Names for Girls

Anne

Anne is a classic name that became popular in the 17th century due to Queen Anne.

It comes from the French form of Anna. If you want an even shorter version, consider Ann.

Blaire

Blaire is a modern take on the Scottish surname Blair, which means field in Gaelic.

It’s a crisp, stylish choice for a middle name.

Bree

Bree is derived from the Irish name Brígh, meaning power.

It’s also a nickname for Brianna or Gabriella. Bree suggests strength and determination.

Brooke

Brooke comes from the name Brook, used by those living near a stream.

Brooke gained popularity in the 1950s and remains a trendy and elegant choice.

Claire

Claire is a bright and clear name originating from Clara. Spelling variations include Clare.

Dawn

Dawn signifies the beginning of twilight, just before sunrise.

It carries the hopeful imagery of new beginnings and endless possibilities.

Eve

Eve means to breathe or to live and is known as the name of the first woman in the Old Testament.

Eva is a variant that became popular in the 19th century.

Faith

Faith emerged during Puritan times, symbolizing trust and one of the most valued virtues of that era.

Grace

Grace, from the Latin word gratia, means grace.

Like Faith, it was widely used in Puritan times.

Hope

Hope became a cherished name during Puritan times, symbolizing optimism and joy.

Jun

Jun is a Japanese name meaning pure, moist, or clean, depending on the kanji used.

It’s a short and distinctive middle name.

Lynn

Lynn comes from an English surname and the Welsh word for lake.

Originally a boy’s name, it’s now more common for girls and can be a nickname for Linda.

Luz

Luz means light in Spanish. It’s a perfect name for a girl who brings brightness into your life.

Paige

Paige has origins in Greek, where it meant little boy, and in English, where it meant servant.

It’s a short, sweet, and modern choice for a girl.

Pearl

Pearl is derived from the Latin word perla and refers to the precious object found in oysters.

It’s associated with the birthstone for June, symbolizing health and wealth.

Rose

Rose, before being linked to the flower, meant famous type.

It’s a beautiful and timeless middle name for a girl.

Ruth

Ruth means friend in Hebrew and appears in the Old Testament.

She was an ancestor of King David, making it an excellent choice if you seek a kind and friendly name with biblical roots.

Sloane

Sloane comes from an Irish surname meaning raid.

Despite its original militant meaning, it has a refined and classy sound.

Starr

Starr is a variation of the name Star, symbolizing the beauty of stars in the night sky.

Other variations include Starla and the Latin form Stella.

Zhen

Zhen is a Chinese name meaning precious, genuine, or virtuous, depending on the characters used.

It’s a meaningful and distinctive name for your little one.

Most Common and Popular Middle Names for Girls

Abigail

From Hebrew roots, Abigail translates to “father of joy.”

This name saw a rise in popularity during the Reformation period, faded out for a while, and then experienced a revival in the 20th century.

Amelia

A variant of Amalia, Amelia enjoyed popularity in the 18th century.

Recently, it has made a comeback and is frequently chosen as a middle name.

Aria

Ideal for opera enthusiasts, Aria means “air” in Italian, often referring to a song or melody in operas.

The name gained recognition in English-speaking countries in the 20th century. An Iranian variant, Arya, means “noble.”

Ava

In Persian, Ava means “voice” or “sound.”

It’s also considered a variant of the English name Eve and remains a popular choice for middle names.

Avery

Originally a surname, Avery works well for both boys and girls.

It comes from Norman French names like Alberich or Alfred and is a modern favorite.

Camila

Camila, spelled with one “l,” is the Spanish and Portuguese version of Camilla.

This name traces back to Roman roots and is associated with a warrior maiden from Virgil’s Aeneid.

Charlotte

Charlotte is the feminine form of Charles.

It gained popularity in the 19th century, partly due to author Charlotte Brontë. Royals have also favored this name over the years.

Elizabeth

Derived from the Greek form of a Hebrew name meaning “my God is an oath,” Elizabeth appears in both the Old and New Testaments.

It became widely used in Europe from the 12th century and has remained popular, especially as a royal name.

Ella

Ella originates from the German name Alia, which means “other.”

It became fashionable in the 14th century and saw a resurgence in the 20th century, helped by singer Ella Fitzgerald.

Emily

Emily is the female form of Emil.

Popular in the 18th century and again in the 20th century, notable Emilys include author Emily Brontë and poet Emily Dickinson.

Emma

With German roots, the name Emma became widely recognized in England after the Norman Conquest.

Jane Austen’s novel Emma further popularized it.

Evelyn

Originally a boy’s name, Evelyn transitioned to being a girl’s name, especially after the 18th century novel Evelina by Fanny Burney.

It derives from the name Aveline.

Harper

Harper is another unisex name, originating from an English surname meaning “harpist.”

The name gained fame through To Kill a Mockingbird author Harper Lee.

Isabella

This Latin version of Isabel has been common among royals.

It surged in popularity in the United States during the 1990s and remains a popular choice.

Luna

Luna means “moon” in Latin and is also the name of the Roman goddess of the moon.

This celestial name is increasingly favored for girls.

Mia

In Scandinavian, Dutch, and German, Mia is short for Maria.

In Italian, the word “mia” means “mine,” making it a charming choice for a little girl.

Mila

Mila is derived from Slavic names containing “milu,” which means “gracious.”

It’s a sweet and meaningful name for a girl.

Olivia

Popularized by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night, Olivia is thought to come from either the name Oliva or Oliver.

It has been widely used in the 20th century and remains beloved.

Sophia

In Greek, Sophia means “wisdom.”

This name was common among royals in the Middle Ages and gained popularity in the United States in the 1990s. It can also be spelled Sofia.

Elegant Middle Names for Girls

Alexandria

Alexandria is the feminine form of Alexander.

Alexander the Great, a famous historical figure, named several cities after himself, including Alexandria in Egypt. This name exudes strength and power, making it a striking choice for a middle name.

Beatrice

Beatrice, the Italian variant of Beatrix, appears in both Dante’s Divine Comedy and Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.

The shortened form, Bea, offers a cute and concise option if you prefer a one-syllable middle name.

Brigitte

Brigitte, found in both German and French, is a variation of Bridget, which means “exalted one” in Irish.

In Irish mythology, Bridget was the goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom, adding a mythical allure to this name.

Carmen

Carmen, the Spanish variant of Carmel, gained popularity after Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen, which tells the story of a lively gypsy girl.

This name conveys a sense of spirited charm.

Caroline

Caroline, a French feminine name, has a rich history.

It derives from the Latin Carolus, the English Charles, and the German Karl, which means “man” in German. Some believe it originated from the word hari, meaning “warrior,” fitting for a strong, determined girl.

Catherine

Catherine, the French version of Katherine, has Greek origins meaning “each of two” or “torture.”

In Christian tradition, Catherine is often interpreted to mean “pure.” This name blends strength and purity.

Diana

Diana means “heavenly” or “divine” and was the name of the Roman goddess of the moon, hunting, forests, and childbirth.

This name carries a sense of grace and divinity.

Florence

Florence, named after the Italian city, stems from florens, meaning “prosperous” or “flourishing.”

Known for Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, this name is filled with historical significance and grace.

Gloria

Gloria, meaning “glory,” has Spanish and Portuguese roots.

It’s a name shared with famous actresses, feminists, and singers. Adding Gloria to your baby girl’s name list ensures she carries a sense of grandeur.

Ines

Ines, the Spanish form of Agnes, is of Greek origin and means “chaste.”

St. Agnes, often depicted with a lamb symbolizing innocence, was a martyr in Roman times.

Julia

Julia is the feminine form of Julius and appears in the New Testament and Shakespeare’s Two Gentlemen of Verona.

Julie is another charming variation of this classic name.

Louisa

Louisa, the feminine form of Louis, was a name borne by many French kings and saints.

This name brings a sense of nobility and elegance.

Lydia

Lydia means “someone from Lydia,” a region in present-day Turkey named after King Lydos.

In the New Testament, Lydia was a woman who converted to Christianity, adding a touch of historical depth.

Maria

Maria has Greek and Hebrew origins and is often used interchangeably with Mary.

Empress Maria Theresa and other royals have borne this name, giving it a regal and timeless appeal.

Madeline

Madeline, the English form of Magdalene, comes from Magdala, meaning “tower” in Hebrew.

The name gained popularity through a beloved series of children’s books, offering a blend of literary and historical charm.

Rebecca

Rebecca means “to join” in Hebrew and appears in the Old Testament.

The Puritans frequently used this name, which connotes purity and steadfastness.

Victoria

Victoria, meaning “victory” in Latin, is the feminine version of Victor.

Queen Victoria popularized this name, which remains widely admired for its historical and victorious connotations.

Vivian

Vivian is of Latin origin, meaning “alive.”

Initially a masculine name, it later became a popular feminine name, resonating with elegance and vivacity.

Yesenia

Yesenia is inspired by a type of palm tree found in South America. The name gained prominence through a Mexican telenovela, making it unique and culturally rich.