Breton Names for Girls
- Senara
Origin:
Variation of Azenor, BretonMeaning:
"light"Description:
The origins of Senara, the name of a Cornish saint who is patron of the village of Zennor, are not so straightforward. Some say she was the same person as Azenor, a legendary Breton princess whose mother-in-law cast her out to sea in a trunk. Other stories say she was a mermaid turned Christian.
- Maelie
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"Princess"Description:
The French Miley? This trendy choice from Brittany, which is pronounced either as Miley or May-lee, is related to the traditional (male) saint's name Mael, traditionally feminized as Maelle.
- Enora
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"honor"Description:
Unusual Honor or Nora alternative, but we prefer the originals.
- Anaelle
Origin:
Breton form of AnnaMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Also spelled Anael, this offers a new spin on an old standard. Or even a couple of old standards, if you count Annabelle.
- Conwenna
Origin:
Cornish, Welsh or BretonDescription:
Made familiar by poet William Blake. According to Blake, after her death, Conwenna "shines ... over the north with pearly beams gorgeous and terrible". Make of that what you will.
- Azenor
Origin:
Breton form of Elinor or HelenMeaning:
"light"Description:
One way to spin grandma Helen or Ellen's name off the beaten track. The legendary Azenor was a tragic 6th century Breton princess who was mother to a saint. This personage also may be known as Senara.
- Oanez
Origin:
Breton variation of AgnesMeaning:
"lamb."Description:
Kind of a combination of Agnes and Inez, a name rarely heard in the US.
- Perlezenn
Description:
Perlezenn is a rare feminine name of Breton origin, derived from the Breton word for "pearl" (perlez). In Breton culture, which comes from the Celtic region of Brittany in northwestern France, names often have connections to nature and natural beauty. The suffix "-enn" is typical in Breton feminine names, adding a distinctive regional quality. This uncommon name carries the same symbolic associations as Pearl – purity, rarity, and natural beauty – while offering a strong connection to Breton heritage and language. Perlezenn remains extremely rare outside of Brittany, making it a unique choice that reflects Celtic linguistic traditions. Its melodic quality and unusual sound pattern give it an exotic yet elegant feel.
- Nanig
Description:
Nanig is an extremely rare feminine name with unclear origins, possibly derived from Armenian, Middle Eastern, or Indigenous roots. It might be a variation of names like Nanig, Nanic, or Nanuk found in various cultures. In some contexts, it could be related to the Armenian name Nanik or represent a diminutive form of Ana or Nan with the addition of a cultural suffix. The name's brevity and soft sound give it a gentle quality, while its rarity makes it highly distinctive. Nanig remains virtually unknown in most Western countries, making it an unusual choice that would stand out in any community. For those seeking a truly uncommon name with a melodic quality and potentially rich cultural connections, Nanig offers considerable uniqueness while still being relatively straightforward to pronounce.
- Katell
Origin:
Breton variation of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Original twist on this classic.