Animal Names for Girls

A light and lovely Russian diminutive of Yelena (Helena), now used in its own right in Russia. Also spelt Alyona.

Cachet is one of those word names -- Cliché is the most egregious example -- that sounds lovely but seems slightly ridiculous when taken literally.

The name of Alexander the Great's half-sister, known for her prowess in martial exercises.

With its word name style and two equally lovely meanings, Brilliance could be one to watch.

Cardi B is the stage name of the rapper born Belcalis Almanzar. The name Cardi originated as a short form of Bacardi, a nickname the musician got because her sister is named Hennessy, after the cognac. The B, she says, stands for a range of things, depending on the day, including Belcalis and Bacardi. Cardi is one invented name that's found instant fame and could go much further. For now, it's definitely one of the most talked-about girl names starting with C.

The Spanish variation of the 80s and 90s American favorite Amber has an international flair.

The French word for angel is Ange, but Angèle is the French version of the name Angela, and feels much fresher nowadays.

A combination name and an English surname, Brynleigh has trendy sounds and two possible nature meanings. Less popular than its counterparts, Brinley and Brynlee, it is nevertheless still in the US Top 1000.

Blending the sounds of Bryce, Brian, Riley and Kylie, Bryleigh is a modern invention that ranked in the US Top 1000 from 2010 to 2017, alongside its more popular counterpart, Brylee. Peaking in 2015 when it was given to 320 girls, Bryleigh has since been in decline, pushed out by Brynleigh and Everleigh.

Desired and chosen by many, despite (or because of) its blatantly sensual image.

An alternative spelling to Cece that would make a more intuitive nickname for names with a "Ci" spelling, like Cicely or Lucille.

The odds that Bryluen will become a success in the US are low, but that might be all the more reason to snag it for yourself. It's a Cornish word meaning "rose," and has only been used as a name in modern times.

A name from ancient Roman, now rare.

The name of a woman who played a dramatic role in ancient Roman legend, it seems quite slight for modern use. Variation: ARIA

Christmas is a day name long and quietly used as a name for babies born at Christmas. Prettier and more modern than Noel or Noelle.