Names That Mean Small, Little, or Tiny

Hack is, unfortunately, both an unappealing word and sound.

The unusual (to English speakers) name Cendrillon is French for Cinderella, though most Americans wouldn't recognize it as such. This might make an excellent middle name for those who are looking for something rare, whimsical, fantastical, and literary. But you must insist on the lovely French pronunciation — if you're choosing a name this uncommon, why not go all the way.

Juliet sound-alike Joliet actually derives from the name Jolie, and was historically a term of endearment, later a surname. It's an attractive alternative to Juliet names and could work to honor a Joe or Joseph in your life.

Charming Gallic possibility but with some obvious playground problems.

Charming Gallic name uncommon in France, and unknown in this country, with literary credibility as the title of a Charlotte Brontë novel.

Sounds a bit like an Australian airline.

Same problem as Eóin -- squared.

A possible addition to the Ava / Ada / Adah collection, with a Jewish twist.

This operatic Italian name -- it appears in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" -- is a more unusual route to the nickname Pam/Pammy.

Has a petite, dainty charm.

Perfect for a child of Japanese Irish heritage.

Pronounced Beshette, this unfamiliar French appellation sounds fresh and feminine.

Sounds like a Hobbit.

Aban is the Persian word for the month of October, derived from the Avestan apes, meaning "the waters".

What it really means: you're a "Casablanca" fan.

Anima is a name that could work in so many languages, blessed as it is with easy spelling and pronunciation. It works equally well in the East and in the West, as its roots can either come from Latin, where it means "soul", or from Sanskrit, where it means "minute, tiny".

Might be carrying things too far -- little little girl? -- though could freshen up this favorite.

An unusual and appealing Scottish family name that would work as well for a girl as a boy.

This name relates to Oisin, a famous ancient Irish poet, the son of Finn MacCool.