Naming your new baby can feel like a big responsibility, especially because you can't confirm with them whether they like the name or not! But don't worry, if you're struggling to pick out the perfect name for your new baby girl, we've got a list of 10 names you definitely won't regret. They're classic, timeless, and we're sure even your baby will love it. But to keep you on the right path, we've also provided you with 10 names you might want to stray away from. What do you think?
1. Charlotte
Charlotte is a simple name that sounds beautiful and feels elegant. It has French origins that means "free man" or "petite," and it's a name that has been popular for centuries. We love the classic feel it gives off, and its timeless appeal is made clear thanks to its frequent use in both royal families and literature.
Image by Daniela Dimitrova from Pixabay
2. Elizabeth
Elizabeth is girl's name that comes from biblical roots meaning "God is my oath". It's a strong name that has been worn by both queens and influential women throughout history. Because of this, it almost guarantees it'll never go out of style! It's also a flexible name that comes with a variety of nickname options, like Liz or Beth.
3. Amelia
Amelia is another example of a timeless name that exudes both charm and strength. It originated from the Germanic word amal which means "hardworking". Not to mention, this name is associated with pioneering women such as Amelia Earhart, making it an appealing choice for parents. Over the years, it continues to maintain its high popularity, signaling that it's here to stay.
4. Sophia
With its beautiful, melodic tone, Sophia is a popular choice for baby girls simply because of how pretty the name sounds. It translates to "wisdom" in Greek, making the meaning just as nice as the name itself. It's got a lovely classical appeal that proves to be popular across various cultures.
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5. Harper
More modern than the others, Harper is a stylish name that's definitely here to stay. Although it's gained popularity more so in recent years, parents love the contemporary feel of the name and how it perfectly blends a modern and classic feel.
Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay
6. Emma
Associated with many beautiful and well loved actresses like Emma Stone, Emma Watson, and Emma Roberts, this lovely girl's name has consistently held onto its popularity across generations. Having Germanic origins that means "whole" or "universal", Emma is celebrated for its simplicity and classic beauty. It's the perfect example of short and sweet!
7. Audrey
Audrey is a name that just oozes elegance and sophistication. And with a meaning of "noble strength," it makes perfect sense! Popularized by the beloved actress Audrey Hepburn, this name brings a beautiful gracefulness that parents are immediately drawn to.
8. Isabella
Isabella is one of the most romantic and timeless girl's names out there. It has Spanish and Italian origins that means "devoted to God," and its important biblical meaning is only matched by its beautiful, melodious sound. It's a continuous favourite for many parents looking for the perfect baby girl name.
Image by Ruslan Gilmanshin from Pixabay
9. Grace
Grace is name that's as elegant as it is simple. There's a gentleness to the name that just can't be beat, automatically evoking a calming effect.
Its one-syllable simplicity makes it a classic favourite, and it's no surprise that parents love this name.
Image by Daniela Dimitrova from Pixabay
10. Victoria
Victoria is a strong choice for parents looking for something more regal and sophisticated. Meaning "victory" in Latin, it's been a common name for queens of history, symbolizing strength and elegance. The name's historical significance ensures it has a timeless appeal and that it'll remain a distinguished choice for years to come.
Image by Ruslan Gilmanshin from Pixabay
1. Nevaeh
Onto some names that you might want to reconsider...Starting off with Nevaeh, this popular name choice in the early 2000s was a weird one. Take a closer look - it's "Heaven" spelled backwards! While it might be unique, it's a trendy name that definitely won't stand the test of time. As your child grows older, it might feel more and more outdated as the name's novelty factor wears off.
Image by btchurch from Pixabay
2. Bertha
Although Bertha was once a prevalent name that meant "bright" or "glorious", it's not really a name that conveys those two meanings in modern times. It's fallen out of favour thanks to its constant association with an older generation; it's got a heavy sound to it that makes it feel dated.
Image by Dirk (Beeki®) Schumacher from Pixabay
3. Gertrude
Gertrude came from noble roots, but it's a girl's name that's quickly become old-fashioned as it hasn't seen a resurgence in popularity in many years.
It might have to do with its harsh consonant sounds, given that modern preferences are drawn more to soft, gentle sounding names.
Image by Dorothy Loges from Pixabay
4. Myrtle
Only really heard when watching Harry Potter (remember Moaning Myrtle, anyone)? Myrtle is a name that's quite antiquated. Though it was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it's not a name that has been favoured since then. Because it's often associated with older women, it doesn't really make it an appealing choice for a new baby girl.
Image by svklimkin from Pixabay
5. Dorcas
Dorcas, a name with biblical origins meaning "gazelle," is completely unheard of in modern times despite its historical significance. It has a pretty unconventional sound, making the name seem less flattering. And with an eerie similarity to the word "doofus," parents might regret choosing it for their daughter in this modern setting.
Image by Daniel Reche from Pixabay
6. Edna
Edna was once a popular choice in the early 20th century, but unfortunately, it hasn't really seen the light of day since then. Its old-fashioned feel makes it an unpopular choice when other more modern-sounding names are available.
Image by kone kassoum from Pixabay
7. Barbara
Barbara, meaning "foreign woman," was extremely popular in the mid-20th century but has seen a significant decline in usage. While it carries a sense of nostalgia, its sound and style may not mesh well with the preferences of modern parents, making it feel outdated.
Image by Bob Dmyt from Pixabay
8. Trendy Names with Unusual Spellings (e.g., Khaleesi)
Names inspired by pop culture phenomena or those with highly creative spellings might seem cool at the moment but can quickly become dated as trends change. These names might also pose a lifetime of spelling and pronunciation corrections, leading to potential regrets. Do you really want your kid to have to answer, "Are you named after ___"? for the rest of their lives?
9. Agnes
Agnes, meaning "pure" or "holy," has a rich history and was once a very popular name. However, its vintage charm might not translate well into the modern era, potentially being seen as too old-fashioned or stern for a young girl today.
10. Mildred
Mildred, meaning "gentle strength," has noble origins and was popular in the early 20th century. Its heavy sound and association with past generations might not appeal to contemporary tastes, possibly making it a name parents or their daughters could regret.
