Names That Mean Joy

Has an evocative African beat.

An Ethiopian name that means "joy."

Gila and its variants have joyous meanings in Hebrew, but other kids might connect them to the monster.

Lowena is the Cornish word for "joy". As a given name, it is most commonly spelt Lowenna. Another variation is the more unisex Lowen.

This name was used by Shakespeare (who got it from Plutarch) in Antony and Cleopatra for one of the attendants of the Egyptian queen. An interesting possibility, it is heard occasionally in the UK, even less frequently in the US.

A rare and beautiful name that could easily cross cultures.

This charming West African mini name fits in with the other similarly short names that are all the rage right now. Ayo is enjoying new visibility thanks to actress Ayo Edebiri, star of TV's The Bear.

Lovejoy's use as a surname follows that as a nickname. In Medieval times, when many people shared names, nicknames were relied upon to distinguish individuals. Many of these nicknames later became surnames. Lovejoy, from the Middle English love(n) and joie, referred to someone who was affectionate and joyful — although the Oxford Dictionary of American Family Names notes that Lovejoy may have been bestowed ironically, at times.

An African name with a joyful meaning.

An ultra-positive word name, notably the middle of musician Quincy Jones.

A pretty and modern word name for a daughter, expressing great happiness.

Aleeza is one of the most energetic of the legion of Alyssa/Alicia/Eliza names. Another spelling of Aleeza: Aliza.

Gay, nearly giddy, gee-whiz feel; also too reminscent of a gila monster.

A joyful Yoruba name which would be perfect for a long-awaited baby.

Spirited unisex Hebrew name.

A melodious Yoruba name with one of the best meanings around.

An ancient elfin name borne by a granddaughter of Alfred the Great. The name appeared on a character in The Lost Kingdom, a ruler of Mercia.

Diminutive of the Czech name Vojtech, a cognate of Polish Wojciech.