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vintage girl names begging to be rediscovered

  1. Mellie

    • Origin:

      Short form of Melissa, Amelia, Melanie and related names

    • Description:

      Mellie is not Millie and it's not Nellie, though it will forever be confused with those too more familiar nicknames. It's cute, too, and while some of the names it's usually short for may be sailing into the sunset (so long, Melody!), others like Amelia are rising through the ranks and may give Mellie a new chance to shine as a cute girls' nickname. Just be prepared for endless confusion.
  2. Melrose

    • Origin:

      Scottish surname

    • Meaning:

      "bare promontory"

    • Description:

      Traditionally a Scottish habitational surname, but today could be viewed as a mashup of Melanie or Melissa and Rose.
  3. Merced

    • Description:

      Merced is a feminine name of Spanish origin derived from the word 'Mercedes,' which means 'mercies' or 'graces.' It is connected to the Catholic title for the Virgin Mary, 'María de las Mercedes' (Mary of Mercies). The name carries connotations of compassion, kindness, and blessing. While less common than the variant Mercedes, Merced maintains the same beautiful meaning with a slightly more understated feel. In Spanish-speaking communities, particularly those with strong Catholic traditions, the name has historical significance and cultural resonance. The name's pronunciation (mer-SED) gives it a graceful, flowing quality that many parents find appealing.
  4. Merlyn

    • Description:

      Merlyn is primarily used as a feminine name in modern contexts, though it has historical usage for both genders. It represents a variant spelling of Merlin, the legendary wizard from Arthurian tales. The name derives from Welsh origins, possibly from 'Myrddin,' a figure in medieval Welsh legend. The spelling with a 'y' gives the name a more feminine appearance while retaining its magical associations. Merlyn evokes qualities of wisdom, mystery, and magical power. Though never extremely common, the name saw modest usage in English-speaking countries throughout the 20th century, appealing to parents drawn to its mystical qualities and literary connections. The name carries connotations of intelligence, insight, and a touch of the extraordinary.

  5. Merriel

    • Description:

      Merriel is a feminine name with roots likely derived from 'Mary,' a biblical name of Hebrew origin meaning 'bitter,' 'beloved,' or 'drop of the sea.' This spelling variation adds a distinctive touch to the traditional form. While less common than variants like Meryl or Muriel, Merriel has its own gentle charm and classic feel. The name has never been widely popular in mainstream usage, giving it a rare and special quality for those who bear it. Merriel tends to project an image of quiet elegance and grace, with a somewhat vintage appeal that connects to earlier eras while remaining timeless.
  6. Merrill

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "sea-bright"

    • Description:

      Merrill, once fairly common for males, is rarely used for girls (or boys either, for that matter) with this spelling. Chef Emeril Lagasse dropped the initial E from his name and called his daughter Meril.
  7. Meta

    • Origin:

      German, Slovene, and Scandinavian diminutive of Margaret, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "pearl"

    • Description:

      A unique international short form of Margaret, now associated with Facebook and Instagram and with "meta" fiction, books, TV shows, and similar that are self-referential.
  8. Midori

    • Origin:

      Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "green"

    • Description:

      In Japan, color names symbolize human qualities (in this case, fame); name of gifted violist Midori, but also a Japanese melon liqueur.
  9. Miller

    • Origin:

      English occupational surname

    • Meaning:

      "grinder of grain"

    • Description:

      Miller is the third-most common surname in the United States and was one of the fastest-rising first names for both girls and boys in 2023.
  10. Minerva

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "of the mind, intellect"

    • Description:

      Minerva is the long-neglected name of the Roman goddess of wisdom and invention, the arts and martial strength, one of the mythology names for girls that might appeal to adventurous feminist parents. With Juno and Jupiter, she made the Capitoline triad, whose worship was at the very center of Roman religion.
  11. Minta

    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Araminta, invented hybrid name

    • Description:

      Minta is an eighteenth century short form of a literary beauty still used in England today, but yet to be discovered by American baby namers. It has a fresh and dainty feel.
  12. Mirian

    • Description:

      Mirian is a feminine name with roots in several cultures. It's a variant of Miriam, which has Hebrew origins and traditionally means 'bitter' or 'beloved'. In some Latin American countries, particularly in Georgia and other Eastern European regions, Mirian is used as both a feminine and masculine name. As a feminine name, Mirian has maintained modest popularity over the decades, offering a slightly unique alternative to the more common Miriam or Marian. The name carries a classic, timeless quality while still feeling distinctive. In recent years, it has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an option for parents seeking a traditional name with an uncommon flair.

  13. Missouri

    • Origin:

      Native American

    • Meaning:

      "Dugout canoe"

    • Description:

      Missouri, the name of a tribe, a state and a river, derives from the Illinois word mihsoori meaning "dugout canoe". It became a somewhat popular American girls' name in the mid-19th century.
  14. Mossie

    • Description:

      Mossie is a feminine name with Irish origins, traditionally used as a nickname for Maurice (for males) or Maureen (for females). In Irish contexts, it's pronounced more like 'MOH-shee' and has been used as an independent given name for generations, particularly in rural communities. The name has a gentle, vintage quality reminiscent of simpler times. Outside Ireland, Mossie might evoke associations with moss—the soft green plant—lending nature-inspired overtones. While uncommon in most English-speaking countries today, it retains usage within Irish families honoring heritage. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and diminutive ending, making it feel simultaneously quaint and affectionate. Mossie represents a connection to Irish naming traditions while maintaining a distinctive character.
  15. Murielle

    • Description:

      Murielle is an elegant feminine name of French origin, serving as a variant of Muriel. The original name Muriel derives from Celtic elements meaning 'sea, bright' or 'shining sea.' Murielle emerged as a distinctively French elaboration, adding the feminine '-elle' suffix to create a more melodious version of the classic name. Though less common in English-speaking countries, Murielle has maintained steady popularity in France and French-speaking regions. The name carries an air of sophistication and Old World charm. Murielle tends to conjure images of refinement and grace, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with European flair that remains relatively uncommon yet historically established.
  16. Murphy

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "sea warrior"

    • Description:

      This surname name popularized for girls by TV's Murphy Brown back in the 80's and 90's still has some breezy energy. Almost 400 baby girls were named Murphy in 2021, versus just over 200 baby boys, making the name solidly gender neutral.
  17. Murray

    • Origin:

      Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "from the land by the sea"

    • Description:

      An old-man name that sounds cute when used for a little girl, and is starting to seem cool again for boys too. For girls, it might be associated with Mina Murray (later, Mina Harker) from Bram Stoker's Dracula and its many adaptations.
  18. Myrtis

    • Origin:

      Greek botanical name

    • Description:

      This Myrtle variation may not be the most melodious choice but it does have that appealing nature meaning.
  19. Mardella
    • Maridell