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Although long names sound regal and sophisticated, they are often shortened for daily use. Thus, it’s no wonder that short names have become more popular these days. If you fancy short girl names with meanings, our list of beautiful and unique names can help you out. Short names have surged in popularity due to their ease of use in daily life, coupled with a modern preference for simplicity and uniqueness in baby naming. This trend is reflected in social media and pop culture, where memorable, short names are often favored. Names like Emma, Kim, Kate, etc., are short but sound cute, impactful, and smart. They are also easy to remember and pronounce. Their simplicity and style make them popular choices among parents. So, take your pick from the options below.
Key Pointers
- Short names for girls gained worldwide recognition as more long names were condensed.
- Often, short names originated as nicknames before transitioning into standalone names.
- Short names like Emma, Kim, Belle, and Mae are extensively used and much-loved by new parents.
Top 100 Short Girl Names
These short unique girl names are not only cute but also have a beautiful meaning.
1. Adele
This pretty name has a long history. Adele was the name of William, the Conqueror’s daughter. Then we had Saint Adele. Its current popularity can be attributed to the British-American singer Adele.
2. Agnes
It is a holy name for the Catholics. In Spanish and Portuguese, Agnes is spelled as Ines, which is another cool possibility.
3. Aine
Aine is a sweet and simple Irish name, derived from the noun aine, which means ‘radiance and splendor’. In Irish mythology, Aine was one of the wives of Fionn Mac Cool and the queen of Munster fairies.
4. Aliz
Rather than going for the typical classic Alice, you can opt for its Hungarian version to spice things up. It’s unique but sounds classic.
5. Althea
Althea is one of the few least-used Greek names in the US and so is one of the beautiful rare girl names you can give to your baby. It has a girly and relaxed feel, making it suitable for a surfer chick. Althea means ‘healing’.
6. Amber
This romantic English name originates from the prized gemstone that is formed from the fossilized tree resin. It came into focus in the US through actress Amber Heard.
7. Amede
Amede is a beautiful, heart-centered name with the roots same as Amedee and Amadeus. This name means ‘to love’. Pronounce this name as ‘Ah-me-DEH’ for the Creole effect.
8. Amy
Amy is a “Little Woman” classic. It skyrocketed in popularity in the 19th century, along with other Little Women names. Amy means ‘beloved’.
9. Anais
Let’s face it! Anais is a super pretty name. In mythology, Anahita was the symbol of knowledge and healing. Italy and Greece transformed it into Anaitis. French further cut it to make Anais. It makes an elegant alternative to Anna.
10. Analia
This short and sweet baby girl name appeared in the top 1000 name list in 2009, with #331 spot.
11. Anya
We can’t decide which one we like more, Anna or its Russian form Anya. Anya is sweet and simple, but has spunk. No wonder, it was picked for the strong-willed and sharp-tongued character in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
12. Arya
Game of Thrones fans would instantly recognize this name thanks to the spunky daughter of Ned Stark. This Indian origin name shot up the charts following the premiere of this series. It means ‘noble goddess’.
13. Ava
This three-letter name has a sizable appeal. It has links with birds, desire of the heart and even beginning, considering it’s related to Eve. Ava Gardner was once its sole owner, but it has now been claimed by several girls.
14. Ayn
This small and tart name shares its association with Atlas Shrugged writer Ayn Rand. It’s a Finnish form of Ann and means ‘grace’.
15. Bay
If you want a winsome one-syllable name for a mouthful surname, you can pick Bay. It’s short, smooth and timeless. Bay means ‘reddish brown’.
16. Belle
Belle and its cousin Bella have seen a recent rise, thanks to the super popular Isabella and the Twilight franchise. Also, the name of the Disney princess, Bella was a top 100 name in the 80s and is still going strong.
17. Bijou
Bijou, the French word for ‘jewel’, is as pretty as a precious stone. It’s eccentric and luscious and sounds magnificently vintage when you pronounce it with a French accent.
18. Blair
This name is suitable for both the genders, but currently, it’s on the rise for girls. It’s derived from a Scottish place name and means ‘plain’ or ‘field’.
19. Briar
Briar is a spunky, cute and cool sounding name meaning ‘thorny’. The meaning may not be very pleasant but the name definitely is.
20. Brooke
If you’re looking for a retro moniker that sounds cool as well, Brooke could be your pick. Brooke was once one of the hottest names, thanks to Brooke Shields.
The name Brooke stands out from the crowd and comes with many advantages with regard to pronunciation. An English professor and mother from St. Louis with the same name also feels the same. She did not like her name growing up, but her opinion has changed now. Brooke says, “Now I appreciate my name because it’s easily recognizable but not overly common. And although it sometimes gets spelled wrong when people drop the “e” (even my students), it’s never mispronounced (i).”
21. Buffy
This will sound great on your little one as a nickname. It’s cute, frilly and full of life, just like the character Buffy from the series Buffy, the Vampire Slayer.
22. Chloe
We bet most of you didn’t know that this simple and sweet name was Greek in origin. Meaning ‘green shoot’, Chloe refers to the blooming plants.
23. Cia
It is among the short and unique baby names for girls. This moniker is a favorite with parents who like names with deeper meaning. Cia means ‘of the moon’.
24. Claire
This classic moniker, with analogs in English, French and Italian, has seen a recent revival. Its straightforward meaning, ‘clear, bright’, will go down well with traditional parents.
25. Clor
This American invented name is extremely rare, which is a good thing. At least, there won’t be five Clors in your daughter’s school.
26. Coco
Any name that begins with Co has to be coy and cute. But this one’s stylish as well since its namesake is the founder of Chanel. Courtney (Monica) Cox and David Arquette picked this name for their little girl.
27. Cora
Thanks to author James Fenimore Cooper for bringing this beautiful name to notice. Cora is originally associated with the daughter of Greek God Zeus, but in today’s time, it gained popularity through the British television series Downton Abbey.
28. Dawn
Dawn is the time when the day breaks and the sun rises. So we feel it will make a simple, yet beautiful name for your daughter.
29. Dove
Dove, the symbol of peace, would make a lovely namesake for your little girl. It has a calm and serene sound, primarily because of its similarity to the word ‘love’. Dovey would make a cute nickname.
30. Edie
Keira Knightley was probably inspired by the 60s fashionista Edie Sedgwick while choosing this name for her daughter. Edie means ‘riches’.
31. Ella
Ella, the Old German name, meaning ‘other’, originated as a short form for Elena and Eleanor, but now stands on its own at the 18th spot in the US.
32. Elsa
Most of you must be familiar with this name via Elsa from Frozen. But did you know that’s originally a short form of Elizabeth? This name means ‘oath of God’. Elsa is elegant and beautiful, perfect for your little princess.
33. Emma
Emma is the moniker of several great literary characters, including the famous Emma from Jane Austen’s novel. This name has been on the top 10 list for decades. It isn’t uncommon, but is definitely one of the most stylish girl names.
Trivia34. Erin
Erin is an easy, breezy name native to Ireland. It means ‘peace’. It’s moderately popular in Ireland and US.
35. Esme
If you’ve picked Esmeralda as the given name for your daughter, you can choose Esme as the nickname. This French name means ‘beloved’.
36. Etta
Etta is one of the rising stars, err names, of the recent years, all thanks to the “At Last” singer Etta James. In the 19th century, this name was much more popular than most of the classic names in the list.
37. Eva
Eva is the Spanish variation of Eve and means ‘life’. Despite being just a letter away from its super popular cousin Ava, Eva could not attain the same stardom. We’re not saying it isn’t popular. In fact, it’s one of the top 100 names in the US, all thanks to actress Eva Longoria.
38. Eve
This tiny name is well used throughout the world. In the Bible, Eve was the first woman on earth.
39. Faith
This Biblical name has a millennial cred, thanks to the dark slayer from the television show Buffy, the Vampire Slayer.
40. Fleur
One of the most gorgeous baby girl names in our opinion. Fleur is the French word for ‘flower’.
41. Grace
This moniker stands for generosity and goodness. In Latin, this name is related to the grace of God. Grace has seen resurgence on the baby name charts, partly due to celebs picking it for their daughters.
42. Gretl
This Greek name comes from the name Margaret and means ‘pearl’. It has several spelling variations, including the popular Gretel and Gretal.
43. Gwen
Gwen is a lovely name, meaning ‘fair’ or ‘blessed’. You get the option of using it as a nickname for Gwyneth or Gwendolyn. Or use it as a given name.
44. Haven
This uplifting name is chosen by parents who see their daughter as a long-awaited gift. In English, this name means ‘place of safety’ and ‘shelter’.
45. Hazel
Hazel is a fashionable and trendy short baby girl name, originating from the hazel tree.
46. Helen
We think mountains are excellent inspiration for exotic girl names. Strong and mighty Helen is inspired by Mt. Helens. It means ‘bright’, ‘shining light’.
47. Hope
There’s no better sentiment to bestow on your baby girl than Hope. Hope has always been low-key in terms of popularity but it never entirely left the public eye.
48. Ida
Ida is considered a successor to Ava and Ada by the baby names experts and even we agree with them. It means ‘industrious one’.
49. Isla
Isla, pronounced as ‘Eye-la’, is the name of a river flowing through Scotland. Its prominent bearer is Hollywood actressIsla Fisher.
50. Ivy
This one would fit well in the middle spot. Ivy means ‘faithfulness’.
51. Jill
Jill is sleek and clear as a crystal. This moniker is associated with innocence and sweetness ever since Jill from the nursery rhyme took a fateful trip to get a pail of water.
52. Joss
Joss originated as a nickname for Jocelyn, but is now a charismatic name for both girls and boys. Its namesake would be the British soul singer Joss Stone.
53. Juno
This name will stand apart among several names in the crowd. In Roman mythology, Juno was the protector of marriage.
54. Kady
Kady is an evocative and distinctive Irish name, meaning ‘first’. But some people use it as a short form for Kadence or a variation of Katy.
55. Kai
This gentle, soft and well-traveled name has meanings rooted in Welsh, Japanese, and Hawaiian.In Japanese, it means ‘from the sea’ and in Hawaii, it stands for ‘ocean’. But its origin is in Wales, where it means ‘keeper of the keys’.
56. Kate
Kate, sitting pretty on the #222nd spot, is by far the most attractive and stylish short forms of Katherine, Kathryn and even Catherine. Did you know that the real name of Duchess of Cambridge is Catherine, not Kate? She’s mostly known by her nickname.
57. Kira
When we heard Kira for the first time, we were surprised to know to it’s a Russian name, since most of the Russian names have a hard sound. This delicate name means ‘farsighted’.
58. Klara
Klara has been moving up the charts lately, but is still unique enough to be a special name. This name conjures images of a bright and idealistic girl.
59. Lace
Lace is a feminine and tantalizing variation of the super popular English name Lacy. It’s derived from the French nobleman’s surname brought to the British Isles during the Norman conquest.
60. Lacy
It is a beautiful but rare name for your daughter. It means ‘from Latius’s estate’.
61. Lana
Parents would know this name through talented actress Lana del Ray. Don’t you think it sounds magical?
62. Lark
Lark is a sweet songbird, found in the meadow. Hence the name suggests a cheerful approach to life. The name is originally derived from Middle English word ‘larke’.
63. Leda
Literature buffs would know Leda as the mother of Helen of Troy. But did you know that this name means ‘happy’? It would be perfect for girls with a sunny disposition.
64. Leigh
Leigh is basically the feminine spelling of the name Lee. It borrows its glamor quotient from Vivian Leigh, Scarlett O’Hara from Gone with the Winds. Leigh means ‘meadow’.
65. Liesl
Sound of Music fans would recognize Liesl as the name of the eldest Trapp daughter in the movie. It’s derived from Elizabeth and means ‘God is my oath’.
66. Lily
Probably one of the sweetest sounding baby names ever. And no matter how many botanical names come and go, this name will never go out of fashion.
67. Lisa
Lisa is the short form of the Hebrew name Elizabeth, which means ‘God is my oath’.
68. Litzy
This short form of Elizabeth came into forefront via Mexican singer and actress Litzy. This Spanish short form of Elizabeth is well used in the US. It isn’t in the top 1000 spot, but is expected to make a comeback soon.
69. Liv
Liv, which is the Norse word for life, was brought into the mainstream by American actress Liv Tyler. You can either use it as a nickname for Olivia, or keep it as it is for a catchy moniker.
70. Lois
Lois has various meanings in different cultures. It’s said to be a Teutonic name meaning ‘holy’. But in German, it means ‘female warrior’. And in France, it’s considered a form of Louise.
71. Lula
In 2014, just 87 girls were named Lula in the US. So it would make a unique moniker for your daughter. In its heyday, Lula was the 43rd most popular name. It means ‘famous in war’.
72. Mabel
If you find vintage names like Violet and Sadie too common, you can use Mabel instead. It is sweet but not sugary. And it has a cute meaning as well ‘lovable’.
73. Mae
If you want a month-inspired baby name for your daughter, you can pick Mae. It’s short, sweet and not too much into-the-face. This name currently sits in the 589th position. So it’s still not that common.
74. Malia
Malia, the Polynesian and Hawaiian form of Mary, is a historical name in some cultures. This name sounds as peaceful and flowing as its meaning ‘calm’. Malia Obama would be its famous namesake.
75. Mia
This multicultural name is the sixth most popular name in the Social Security List in 2016, which explains how much people love it. Among the celebs who have picked this name for their daughters are Perez Hilton and Kate Winslet.
76. Millie
This adorable name is the diminutive of upstanding name Millicent. It means ‘gentle strength’.
77. Myra
An extraordinary name for your extraordinary daughter, Myra means ‘poetic invention’ in English.
78. Nell
Nell is one of those cute baby girl names that have taken off in the last few years. It’s stylish yet distinguished, and works well, both on its own and as a short form of Helen or Eleanor.
79.Niamh
A brilliant moniker, it’s short, stunning, distinctive and rolls off the tongue. And it means ‘radiant and bright’, a fitting name for your girl.
80. Opal
Opal is a regal name, with shimmering beauty. This lustrous gem gleams like a star in the darkness. Since it’s an October birthstone, you can use it for your October baby.
81. Paige
This moniker often pops up regularly in movies and television shows. Paige, meaning ‘attendant’, exudes sophistication and elegance, no matter what century it is.
82. Paris
Paris, the cosmopolitan city of France, played and still plays, a crucial role in films, cuisine, art, literature and of course, fashion. This name got a boost via the socialite Paris Hilton.
Did you know?83. Quana
Quana is a refreshing Native American name meaning ‘fragrant’. To make it more distinctive, you can either snip the ‘n’ or add an ‘h’ at the end.
84. Quinn
Quinn is derived from a Gaelic surname and means ‘counsel’. A girl with the name Quinn might have a career as a famous lawyer.
85. Rain
It cannot get more classic and cleaner than this. Rain originates from the Old English word ‘regn’ and signifies good future. It is a sign of abundance and blessing in Native American and Asian beliefs.
86. Reeve
This name immediately brings to mind Christopher Reeve, one of the first actors to play Superman on screen. Could there be any better way to bring power and strength to your young lady?
87. Rose
Rose has been one of the most popular floral monikers for centuries. It does sound a bit old-timey, but it is still sweet and gives a classic feeling for a newborn.
88. Ruby
Ruby is one of the most familiar gemstone inspired baby names, and one of the sultriest as well. Ruby Dee and Ruby Keeler are two of the most notable bearers of this glittering, red stone name.
89. Sia
This strong name, meaning ‘victory’, came into prominence via the Australian singer Sia Furler. And now since Cheap Thrills is a super hit at global level, the popularity of this name will increase further.
90. Suzy
Suzy or Suzie, this name sounds cute no matter how you spell it. It means ‘graceful lily’.
91. Taya
Who would know that the fifth fastest rising name in the US is a made-up name? Last year, it jumped 1107 placed to land at #982 spot. It means ‘perfectly formed’, ‘princess’.
92. Tess
Tess is one of the most fashionable forms of Theresa. It’s sassy and soft at the same time.
93. Teva
The Scottish name Teva, meaning ‘twin’, would be a perfect name if you have twin baby girls. How would Steva sound for the other baby?
94. Thea
Thea is originally a mythological name but can also be used as a short form for Anthea, Theodora, Galathea and Timothea. It was one of the top names in Norway in the years 2006 and 2007. Currently, it’s one of the top 50 names in Sweden. It means ‘goddess’.
95. Una
In an epic poem, Una is the personification of beauty, truth, and unity. This name means ‘one’, ‘also’.
96. Velma
This edgy and cool name was given to less than 13 girls in the year 2014. So the time is perfect to grab this cute short name for girls. Velma means ‘desire to protect’.
97. Vera
Vera stems from the Latin word for ‘true’. So your girl will be bound to tell you the truth.
98. Zelda
The legend is definitely resurfacing in the form of a baby girl name. Last year, Zelda jumped 512 spots, to secure the 647th place.
99. Zoe
Zoe has been one of the top 1000 names in the US Social Security Administration list since 1880. It means ‘life’.
100. Zuri
Zuri is one of the fastest rising names in the US. It’s originally a Swahili name, meaning ‘good, kind’. It’s a gender-neutral name, but sounds feminine to our ears.
As you explore these short girl names, remember that each name carries its unique charm and meaning. Choosing a name for your child is not just about how it sounds; it’s also about the significance it holds. Take your time to find the name that resonates with you and your family.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Illustration: Amazing Short Baby Girl Names With Meanings
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes a short name appealing to a girl?
Short names are easy to pronounce, spell, and remember. The names are also often trendy, popular, and unique, making them appealing for naming a baby girl.
2. How do short names reflect cultural trends and traditions?
Short names may reflect the changing cultural trends and traditions as many cultures give their babies long names showing deep cultural and historical roots. Therefore, shorter names nowadays can be seen as proof of the changes.
3. Can short girl names have multiple syllables?
Yes, short girl names can have multiple syllables. The length of a name refers to the number of characters or letters it contains, whereas the number of syllables refers to the number of distinct vowel sounds in the name. So, a short girl’s name can have one, two, or even three syllables. Some adorable short girl names with multiple syllables include Emily, Olivia, Isabella, Amelia, and Sophia.
4. How can I choose the perfect short girl name for my child?
When choosing the perfect short name for your baby girl, it’s essential to think about several key factors. Start by considering how the name flows with your family surname—names that blend smoothly can feel more harmonious. Phonetics is also important; a name that’s easy to pronounce and spell will not only be convenient but will also help avoid confusion in everyday life. Additionally, consider the cultural or personal significance of the name. A name rooted in your heritage or carrying a special meaning can provide a deeper connection for your child. Striking the right balance between simplicity, meaning, and ease of use will ensure the name stands the test of time.
Choosing a name for your baby girl is an exciting experience as it will be a part of their personality and identity. When choosing a short name for your little one, it is important to consider certain factors such as the meaningfulness of the name, ease of pronunciation, and the personality you want your child to have. Therefore, we have made this list so you can pick the best short name for your little princess. Give your daughter a unique, beautiful short name that everyone can remember.
Infographic: Short Baby Girl Names With Meanings
Giving your baby a long and regal name might be a sign of sophistication, but it might, at times, be shortened unacceptably for ease of the conversation. So why not choose a short yet beautiful name for your baby girl? To help you with that, we have prepared the following infographic for you to explore. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. My Favorite Name;
https://bythebrooke.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-favorite-name.html
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