Modern Baby Girl Names Trendy Picks for 2023

As the new year approaches, parents-to-be are eagerly searching for the perfect modern baby girl names to welcome their little ones into the world. From strong, heroic monikers to short, sweet names with long vowels, the world of contemporary girl names is brimming with innovative and inspiring options.

According to the latest data, the trends in baby girl names are shifting towards gender-neutral and powerful choices, with a growing preference for names that evoke a sense of strength, resilience, and individuality. Parents are increasingly drawn to names that celebrate real-life heroines, as well as those rooted in mythology, literature, and history.

Key Takeaways

• The top modern baby girl names for 2023 include strong, heroic names, gender-neutral choices, and short names with long vowels.
• Parents are seeking names that celebrate real-life heroines and female figures from myth, legend, and literature.
• Shorter names with a sweet, modern twist are gaining popularity, with nicknames becoming the new full names.
• Vintage names from the Roaring ’20s are also making a comeback, offering a timeless and sophisticated vibe.
• Nature-inspired and optimistic names are emerging as a popular choice, reflecting a desire for connection and positivity.

Shift Towards Gender-Neutral and Powerful Names

The modern baby name landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Parents today are increasingly gravitating towards gender-neutral and powerful names for their baby girls. This shift reflects a growing societal trend towards inclusivity and gender flexibility.

Short Names with Long Vowels

• Eva – A classic name of Hebrew origin meaning “life,” exuding simplicity and grace.
• Isla – Of Scottish origin, meaning “island,” evoking images of serene landscapes.
• Lila – A sweet name of Arabic origin meaning “night” or “dark beauty,” capturing a sense of mystery.
• Mia – A popular, succinct name of Italian and Scandinavian origin meaning “mine” or “wished-for child.”
• Zoe – A lively Greek name meaning “life,” full of vitality and joy.
• Ada – A name of German origin meaning “noble” or “nobility,” embodying a timeless charm.
• Leia – Of Hebrew origin, meaning “weary,” but popularly known from the Star Wars franchise as a name of strength.
• Ari – A short, unisex name of Hebrew origin meaning “lion,” symbolizing courage and power.
• Ola – A Scandinavian name meaning “ancestor’s relic,” also found in various cultures with meanings like “wave.”
• Eli – A name of Hebrew origin meaning “ascended” or “my God,” also used as a short form for names like Elijah or Eliana.
• Noa – A Hebrew name meaning “motion” or “movement,” offering a modern and gentle appeal.
• Esme – Of French and Persian origins, meaning “beloved” or “emerald,” providing a sense of cherished value.
• Orla – An Irish name meaning “golden princess,” combining regal elegance with simplicity.
• Kaia – A name of Hawaiian origin meaning “sea,” perfect for nature lovers.
• Alma – Of Latin origin, meaning “nurturing” or “soul,” a gentle and nurturing name.
• Elia – A name of Hebrew and Italian origins, meaning “God is my God,” with a soft and melodic sound.
• Ina – A name of various origins, including Polish and Scandinavian, often meaning “pure” or “strong-willed.”
• Isa – A short name of German and Spanish origin meaning “strong-willed,” often a diminutive of Isabel or Isadora.
• Uma – Of Sanskrit origin, meaning “splendor” or “tranquility,” and associated with the Hindu goddess Parvati.
• Ava – A popular name of Latin origin meaning “life” or “bird,” elegant and easy to pronounce.
• Ira – A name of Hebrew origin meaning “watchful” or “vigilant,” also known in Hinduism as a mythological name.
• Asha – A name of Sanskrit origin meaning “hope” or “wish,” embodying positivity and aspiration.
• Ora – A Latin name meaning “prayer” or “gold,” with a sense of warmth and spirituality.
• Ida – Of German origin, meaning “industrious one,” reflecting strength and resilience.
• Ovie – A modern name often derived from Olive or Olivia, with a fresh and cheerful sound.
• Enya – An Irish name meaning “fire” or “little seed,” known for its lyrical and serene quality.
• Ezra – Traditionally male, now increasingly unisex, of Hebrew origin meaning “helper” or “protector.”
• Osa – A Scandinavian name meaning “god-like” or “divine,” short and strong.
• Yara – A name of Arabic and Brazilian origins, meaning “small butterfly” or “water lady,” reflecting grace and nature.
• Eira – A Welsh name meaning “snow,” capturing the purity and beauty of nature.

Strong, Heroic Names for Baby Girls

• Athena – Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare, symbolizing strength and intelligence.
• Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, the iconic Egyptian queen known for her leadership and resilience.
• Sable – Of English origin, meaning “black” and often associated with power and sophistication.
• Zelda – Of German origin, meaning “grey fighting maid,” known from the legendary video game series.
• Kira – A name of Persian origin meaning “throne” or “sun,” reflecting power and radiance.
• Rhea – Greek goddess of fertility and mother of the gods, symbolizing nurturing strength.
• Isis – Egyptian goddess associated with magic and healing, representing resilience and protection.
• Juno – Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth, known for her strength and authority.
• Soraya – Persian name meaning “princess” or “the Pleiades,” signifying regal strength.
• Anya – Of Russian origin meaning “grace,” also associated with resilience and determination.
• Ingrid – Scandinavian name meaning “beautiful” and “beloved,” linked to Norse mythology.
• Maia – Greek goddess of spring and growth, symbolizing renewal and strength.
• Sienna – Inspired by the earthy color and associated with resilience and endurance.
• Freya – Norse goddess of love, beauty, and war, embodying strength and independence.
• Aria – Of Hebrew origin meaning “lioness,” conveying courage and power.
• Luna – Latin for “moon,” representing strength and mystery.
• Selene – Greek goddess of the moon, associated with grace and strength.
• Morgana – Inspired by the Arthurian legend, known for her powerful and enigmatic qualities.
• Jezebel – A strong name with historical significance, often associated with power and determination.
• Nadia – Of Russian origin meaning “hope,” reflecting strength and resilience.
• Mira – Of Latin origin meaning “wonderful” or “admirable,” embodying inner strength.
• Zara – Of Arabic origin meaning “princess” or “flower,” signifying elegance and strength.
• Vesper – Latin for “evening star,” representing beauty and strength.
• Orla – Irish name meaning “golden princess,” combining regal elegance with strength.
• Talia – Of Hebrew origin meaning “dew from heaven,” symbolizing renewal and vitality.
• Rogue – Modern name associated with strength and individuality, reflecting a fierce spirit.
• Hero – A name symbolizing courage and bravery, inspired by the concept of heroic deeds.
• Valkyrie – Norse mythological figures who choose those who may die and those who may live in battles.
• Elektra – Greek name meaning “shining” or “bright,” associated with power and strength.
• Ariadne – Greek name meaning “most holy,” known for her role in mythology and association with strength.

The trend towards powerful names for girls is also evident, with a notable presence of names that convey strength, like Atlas, Justice, and Valentine. This shift signifies a cultural shift towards empowering young girls and instilling them with a sense of confidence and determination from the very beginning.

Modern baby girl names

The modern era has ushered in a wave of creative and unique baby girl names that defy traditional conventions. Parents today are seeking names that are not only visually appealing but also carry deeper significance. From short names with long vowels to strong, heroic monikers inspired by real-life trailblazers, the landscape of contemporary girl names is ever-evolving.

• Luna – Latin for “moon,” symbolizing beauty and mystery.
• Maeve – Of Irish origin meaning “intoxicating,” embodying strength and allure.
• Eloise – Of French origin meaning “healthy” or “wide,” offering a vintage-modern charm.
• Ophelia – Of Greek origin meaning “help,” known for its literary and poetic elegance.
• Isla – A Scottish name meaning “island,” evoking tranquility and natural beauty.
• Aurelia – Latin for “golden,” reflecting elegance and warmth.
• Eleanor – Of Old French origin meaning “light,” associated with grace and dignity.
• Ivy – A name of English origin symbolizing fidelity and eternal life.
• Hazel – Of English origin meaning “the hazel tree,” combining natural beauty with vintage appeal.
• Nova – Latin for “new,” symbolizing a fresh start and brilliance.
• Sienna – Inspired by the rich earthy color, reflecting warmth and strength.
• Aria – Of Hebrew origin meaning “lioness,” conveying strength and musicality.
• Zara – Of Arabic origin meaning “princess” or “flower,” symbolizing elegance and beauty.
• Mila – Of Slavic origin meaning “gracious” or “dear,” embodying charm and simplicity.
• Juno – Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth, symbolizing strength and protection.
• Vera – Of Latin origin meaning “true,” representing authenticity and strength.
• Talia – Of Hebrew origin meaning “dew from heaven,” symbolizing grace and vitality.
• Kai – Of Hawaiian origin meaning “sea,” reflecting tranquility and fluidity.
• Sage – Of Latin origin meaning “wise,” offering a sense of wisdom and calm.
• Nina – Of Spanish origin meaning “little girl,” embodying simplicity and sweetness.
• Cora – Of Greek origin meaning “maiden,” combining vintage appeal with modern sensibility.
• Riley – Of Irish origin meaning “courageous,” reflecting a strong and adventurous spirit.
• Elara – Of Greek origin, the name of one of Zeus’s lovers and a moon of Jupiter, symbolizing beauty and mystery.
• Mara – Of Hebrew origin meaning “bitter” but also associated with a sense of strength and resilience.
• Lyra – Of Greek origin, referring to the constellation and symbolizing music and harmony.
• Cleo – Of Greek origin meaning “pride” or “fame,” evoking elegance and strength.
• Astrid – Of Scandinavian origin meaning “divine strength,” reflecting a sense of nobility and power.
• Esme – Of French and Persian origins meaning “beloved” or “emerald,” embodying grace and warmth.
• Daphne – Of Greek origin meaning “laurel tree,” symbolizing victory and peace.
• Zinnia – A flower name with a vibrant and exotic touch, symbolizing enduring love and memory.

As parents seek to imbue their children’s names with deeper meaning, the landscape of modern baby girl names is evolving to offer a rich tapestry of feminine name ideas that celebrate the unique spirit of each child.

Old-Fashioned Names Revived for Girls

As parents seek a return to timeless elegance, many are reviving old-fashioned girl names that have been dormant for decades. These vintage monikers, often associated with our grandparents’ generation, are making a surprising comeback in the modern era. From stately classics to quirky nicknames, the resurgence of old-fashioned names reflects a desire for a sense of history and tradition.

Grandpa Names for Baby Girls

One intriguing trend is the adoption of traditionally masculine “grandpa names” for little girls. Names like Bobbie, Drew, Frankie, Georgie, Ozzie, Ray, and Teddy are shedding their old-man associations and finding new life in the pink column. This gender-neutral approach allows parents to explore a wider range of options, infusing their daughters’ names with a touch of vintage charm.

• Bobbie – A diminutive of Robert, meaning “bright fame,” bringing a touch of vintage charm.
• Drew – A short form of Andrew, meaning “manly,” now used as a gender-neutral choice.
• Frankie – A diminutive of Francis, meaning “free man,” offering a playful and spirited vibe.
• Georgie – A friendly form of George, meaning “farmer” or “earthworker,” with a sweet, approachable feel.
• Ozzie – A diminutive of Oswald, meaning “God’s power,” exuding a fun and endearing quality.
• Ray – Short for Raymond, meaning “wise protector,” with a classic and straightforward appeal.
• Teddy – A diminutive of Theodore, meaning “gift of God,” offering a cute and nostalgic touch.
• Alvie – A diminutive of Alvin, meaning “noble friend,” with a unique and vintage charm.
• Charlie – A diminutive of Charles, meaning “free man,” that feels both classic and modern.
• Sidney – Of Old French origin meaning “wide island,” with a timeless and sophisticated feel.
• Eddie – A diminutive of Edward, meaning “wealthy guardian,” with a vintage and endearing quality.
• Hattie – A diminutive of Harriet, meaning “home ruler,” offering a quaint and charming touch.
• Lennie – A diminutive of Leonard, meaning “brave lion,” exuding a vintage and friendly vibe.
• Monty – A diminutive of Montgomery, meaning “mountain,” with a playful and distinguished feel.
• Rudy – A diminutive of Rudolph, meaning “famous wolf,” bringing a nostalgic and lively touch.
• Norma – Of Latin origin meaning “pattern” or “rule,” with a classic and timeless appeal.
• Mabel – Of Latin origin meaning “lovable,” offering a vintage and sweet quality.
• Rita – A diminutive of Margarita, meaning “pearl,” with a classic and refined charm.
• Penny – A diminutive of Penelope, meaning “weaver,” bringing a fresh and vintage-inspired feel.
• Nellie – A diminutive of Eleanor or Helen, meaning “bright, shining one,” with a charming and classic vibe.
• Daisy – Inspired by the flower, symbolizing innocence and purity, with a vintage and cheerful touch.
• Clara – Of Latin origin meaning “bright” or “clear,” offering a classic and elegant charm.
• Edie – A diminutive of Edith, meaning “happy war,” with a vintage and spirited quality.
• Gertie – A diminutive of Gertrude, meaning “spear of strength,” with a quirky and old-fashioned charm.
• Beatrice – Of Latin origin meaning “bringer of happiness,” with a vintage and refined appeal.
• Goldie – Of English origin meaning “golden,” with a cheerful and nostalgic touch.
• Nina – Of Spanish origin meaning “little girl,” offering a vintage and simple charm.
• Ivy – Inspired by the plant, symbolizing fidelity and eternal life, with a classic and nature-inspired feel.
• Roxie – A diminutive of Roxana, meaning “dawn,” with a vibrant and retro charm.
• Minnie – A diminutive of Minerva, meaning “intellect,” with a sweet and nostalgic quality.

The revival of vintage names from the Roaring ’20s, such as Evelyn, Amelia, Charlotte, Dorothy, Margaret, Ruth, Frances, Florence, Louise, and Lillian, further adds to the nostalgic charm of old-fashioned girl names.

Optimistic and Nature-Inspired Names

As parents seek to instill a sense of positivity and connection to the natural world in their children, optimistic and nature-inspired names have emerged as a popular trend in 2023. These names not only evoke feelings of hope and wonder but also showcase a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of the earth.

• Seren – Welsh origin, meaning “star,” evoking a sense of celestial beauty and tranquility.
• Aria – Italian origin, meaning “air” or “melody,” reflecting a light, uplifting spirit.
• Solene – French origin, meaning “sunlight,” symbolizing warmth and brightness.
• Fiora – Italian origin, meaning “flower,” representing beauty and nature.
• Zara – Arabic origin, meaning “princess” or “flower,” conveying elegance and grace.
• Celeste – Latin origin, meaning “heavenly,” connecting to the celestial and divine.
• Lyra – Greek origin, referring to the constellation, embodying a sense of wonder and the cosmos.
• Saffron – Persian origin, referring to the flower and spice, symbolizing vitality and warmth.
• Elara – Greek origin, meaning “shining light,” associated with a moon of Jupiter and celestial beauty.
• Celia – Latin origin, meaning “heavenly,” bringing a sense of grace and serenity.
• Isla – Scottish origin, meaning “island,” connecting to nature and the serene beauty of landscapes.
• Aurora – Latin origin, meaning “dawn,” representing new beginnings and hope.
• Nova – Latin origin, meaning “new star,” symbolizing new beginnings and brilliance.
• Violet – English origin, referring to the flower, representing delicate beauty and positivity.
• Daphne – Greek origin, meaning “laurel tree,” symbolizing victory and nature.
• Harlow – English origin, meaning “hare hill,” evoking a sense of pastoral beauty and tranquility.
• Selene – Greek origin, meaning “moon,” connecting to the celestial and ethereal.
• Juniper – Latin origin, referring to the tree, symbolizing protection and renewal.
• Eira – Welsh origin, meaning “snow,” reflecting purity and the beauty of winter landscapes.
• Giselle – German origin, meaning “pledge,” conveying a sense of elegance and promise.
• Aurelia – Latin origin, meaning “golden,” symbolizing warmth and brilliance.
• Solstice – Latin origin, referring to the celestial event, representing change and illumination.
• Talia – Hebrew origin, meaning “dew from heaven,” evoking a sense of freshness and grace.
• Raya – Hebrew origin, meaning “friend,” reflecting connection and warmth.
• Amara – Latin origin, meaning “eternal,” conveying a sense of timeless beauty and optimism.
• Lila – Arabic origin, meaning “night,” offering a sense of mystery and the calm of the evening.
• Blythe – English origin, meaning “free spirit” or “happy,” embodying a joyful and carefree nature.
• Juno – Latin origin, referring to the Roman goddess, symbolizing strength and protection.
• Niamh – Irish origin, meaning “radiance” or “brightness,” reflecting light and beauty.
• Mira – Latin origin, meaning “wonderful” or “admirable,” conveying a sense of awe and admiration.

Whether parents are drawn to the upbeat names that evoke a sense of positivity or the celestial names that connect their child to the vastness of the universe, the trend towards optimistic and nature-inspired names reflects a collective desire for a more hopeful and sustainable future.

Vintage Names from the Roaring ’20s

As the 21st century roars on, vintage names from the Roaring ’20s are making a comeback. According to trends, names like Evelyn, Amelia, and Charlotte have already cracked the top 10 in recent years, and more classic Jazz Age names are poised for a resurgence.

Some other beloved vintage names from the Roaring ’20s that may see a revival include:

• Beatrice – Classic name meaning “bringer of joy.”
• Eleanor – Timeless name meaning “shining light.”
• Vivian – Elegant name meaning “alive” or “lively.”
• Adelaide – Vintage name meaning “noble kind.”
• Mabel – Charming name meaning “lovable” or “beautiful.”
• Irene – Classic name meaning “peace.”
• Esther – Old-fashioned name meaning “star.”
• Gloria – Radiant name meaning “glory.”
• Clara – Sweet name meaning “bright” or “clear.”
• Harriet – Vintage name meaning “home ruler.”
• Sylvia – Nature-inspired name meaning “woodland.”
• Nora – Elegant name meaning “honor” or “light.”
• Thelma – Unique name meaning “will” or “volition.”
• Lena – Vintage name meaning “bright” or “shining.”
• Ruby – Precious name inspired by the gemstone.
• Myrtle – Nature name referring to the myrtle plant.
• Edith – Classic name meaning “prosperous in war.”
• Beverly – Vintage name meaning “beaver stream.”
• June – Simple name associated with the summer month.
• Nellie – Charming name meaning “bright, shining one.”
• Hazel – Nature-inspired name referring to the hazel tree.
• Ruth – Classic name meaning “compassionate friend.”
• Doris – Elegant name meaning “gift” or “bountiful.”
• Frances – Timeless name meaning “free one.”
• Agnes – Vintage name meaning “pure” or “holy.”
• Cora – Classic name meaning “maiden” or “heart.”
• Viola – Elegant name referring to the violet flower.
• Lillian – Floral-inspired name meaning “lily.”
• Ada – Vintage name meaning “noble” or “nobility.”
• Opal – Precious name inspired by the gemstone.

Beyond the classic picks, quirky badass girl names from the Jazz Age like Billie are also gaining popularity as parents seek to honor the vintage names and old-fashioned names of the past.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Evelyn or the spunky spirit of Billie, the classic names and vintage names of the Roaring ’20s offer a wealth of inspiration for modern parents seeking a touch of Jazz Age charm.

Top Baby Girl Names and Biggest Climbers

As parents eagerly anticipate the arrival of their little girls, they’re exploring a wide range of top baby girl names that capture the essence of modern style and cultural influences. The current list of most popular girl names in the United States features classics like Olivia, Emma, and Charlotte, maintaining their reign at the top. However, the landscape of trending girl names is ever-evolving, with several names making significant strides in popularity.

• Elowen – Cornish name meaning “elm tree.”
• Zara – Elegant name meaning “princess” or “flower.”
• Thalia – Greek name meaning “to blossom” or “flourishing.”
• Juno – Mythological name associated with the goddess of marriage.
• Luna – Celestial name meaning “moon.”
• Maya – International name meaning “illusion” or “water.”
• Nia – Short name meaning “purpose” or “bright.”
• Sienna – Earthy name inspired by the color and city.
• Nova – Star-inspired name meaning “new.”
• Raven – Nature-inspired name referring to the bird.
• Kira – Simple name meaning “light” or “sun.”
• Alina – Elegant name meaning “bright” or “beautiful.”
• Ivy – Classic nature name referring to the climbing plant.
• Daphne – Greek name meaning “laurel tree.”
• Freya – Norse name meaning “lady” or “noble woman.”
• Zelda – Vintage name meaning “gray fighting maid.”
• Cora – Timeless name meaning “maiden” or “heart.”
• Mabel – Vintage name meaning “lovable” or “beautiful.”
• Iris – Floral name referring to the flower and goddess.
• Piper – Trendy name meaning “flute player.”
• Lyra – Celestial name referring to the constellation.
• Vera – Classic name meaning “faith” or “truth.”
• Esme – Charming name meaning “esteemed” or “loved.”
• Aria – Musical name meaning “air” or “melody.”
• Cleo – Short name meaning “glory” or “pride.”
• Lila – Elegant name meaning “night” or “dark beauty.”
• Harlow – Modern name meaning “rock hill.”
• Emery – Gender-neutral name meaning “brave” or “powerful.”
• Marley – Trendy name meaning “pleasant seaside meadow.”
• Rhea – Mythological name meaning “flowing stream.”

These rising girl names not only capture the imagination of parents but also speak to a broader cultural shift towards individuality and self-expression. As parents seek to imbue their daughters with a sense of strength and purpose, these popular girl names offer a fresh perspective on the timeless tradition of naming a new life.

Whether it’s the resurgence of vintage-inspired names or the embrace of gender-neutral monikers, the latest baby name trends reflect the evolving priorities and aspirations of modern parents. As the landscape of popular girl names continues to shift, one thing remains constant: the desire to find a name that captures the essence of a child’s unique identity and boundless potential.

Conclusion

The world of modern baby name trends is an ever-evolving landscape, with parents seeking to imbue their daughters’ names with a sense of strength, individuality, and connection to nature and mythology. From the rise of gender-neutral and powerful names to the revival of old-fashioned “grandpa names,” the 2023 landscape reflects a diverse range of preferences and inspirations.

Whether parents are drawn to short names with long vowels, heroic monikers, or nature-inspired appellations, the modern baby name selection offers a wealth of options to suit every taste. As the trends continue to evolve, it will be exciting to see which names gain popularity in the coming years and how parents navigate the name selection process to find the perfect fit for their little ones.

Ultimately, the key to choosing a meaningful and memorable name lies in finding one that resonates with the parents’ values, aspirations, and the unique personality of their child. By staying informed about the latest baby name trends and exploring the rich histories and meanings behind different monikers, parents can embark on a journey of name inspiration that results in the perfect fit for their precious daughter.