Timeless baby girl names that combine energy and fashion with poise and sophistication.
Most historical baby girl names are inspired by women who fought for gender equality and freedom. These women paved the way for a better future for all women. By naming your daughter after one of these strong women, you are honoring their legacy. Browse through the list of powerful historical names to find the perfect one for your little princess.
Baby Girl Names To Inspire Your Name Search
1. Ada
The English mathematician Ada Lovelace is recognized as the First Computer Programmer for her ideas about computers. She is a role model in the scientific field, particularly for women. The baby girl name Ada translates to ‘grace’ in German.
2. Adelina
The first Hispanic woman to run for the US Congress was Adelina Otero-Warren. She was a well-known politician and activist who took part in the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Her nickname comes from the Old German language, where Adelaide signifies ‘noble strength.’
3. Alice
Alice Paul was a famous leader of the Women’s Suffrage Movement. She shares the same name as the main character in the book Alice in Wonderland. The baby girl name Alice comes from Old German and means ‘noble.’
4. Althea
The baby girl name Althea is fashionable and sophisticated, with Greek origins meaning ‘healing plant.’ It became well-known thanks to Althea Gibson, a pioneering African-American tennis player who was the first to win a Grand Slam Title.
5. Amelia
The baby girl name comes from the famous female pilot Amelia Earhart, who flew alone across the Atlantic Ocean. Her brave story can be a source of inspiration for your child. Amelia is a Latin name with the meaning of ‘hardworking.’
6. Angela
Angela Davis, the American political activist, is famous for campaigning against sexism and racism. Her name comes from Latin and translates to ‘messenger of God.’
7. Angelina
Angelina Grimké Weld was among the pioneers who spoke out against slavery and paved the way for freedom for many. The name Angelina comes from the Greek word Angelos, which translates to ‘angel.’
8. Anna
Anna Arnold Hedgeman was a champion for civil rights and was the first African American woman to be part of a New York mayor’s cabinet. She became well-known for her lifelong commitment to fighting for equality. The baby girl name Anna comes from Hebrew and signifies ‘grace.’
9. Anne
The baby girl name was inspired by Anne Frank, a brave German and Jewish girl who showed courage during the Holocaust. Naming your child Anne can boost their confidence and the name itself means ‘God has favored me.’
10. Aphra
Aphra is a special Hebrew name that means ‘house of dust.’ The name is influenced by Aphra Behn, an English playwright famous for her work Oroonoko.
11. Aretha
We came up with this name in honor of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. She was a well-known American musician, writer, and advocate for civil rights who had an incredible and inspiring musical journey. The name Aretha comes from Greek and signifies ‘excellence.’
12. Artemisia
Artemisia is a baby girl name of Greek and Spanish origin which means ‘perfect.’ This unique baby name is based on the Italian artist Artemisia Gentileschi, who was famous for her innovative Baroque paintings.
13. Audrey
Audrey Hepburn, a famous British actress and humanitarian, faced numerous challenges in her life that could serve as inspiration for your daughter. Interestingly, her name, which comes from Anglo-Saxon roots, translates to ‘strength.’
14. Austen
The baby girl name Austen comes from Latin and means ‘magnificent.’ Jane Austen, the famous English novelist, was a trailblazer for feminist rights during her time. She continues to inspire writers and we hope she will also inspire your baby.
15. Betty
Betty Friedan, the author of The Feminine Mystique, is considered one of the most inspiring historical figures who played a significant role in the second wave of feminism in America. Her name, of Hebrew origin, means ‘oath of God.’
16. Bella
Bella Abzug, a famous American activist, was known as ‘Battling Bella’ for her work fighting for women’s rights and equality. Her name comes from Italian and Latin roots, and means ‘beautiful.’
17. Bessie
Bessie is a baby name that means ‘God is my oath’ in Hebrew, Dutch, and English. Bessie Coleman made history as the first Native American woman to take flight in 1921.
18. Billie
Billie Holiday was a popular Jazz singer in the 1930s who captivated audiences with her outstanding performances. Her name, Billie, comes from English and means ‘determination.’
19. Boudicca
Boudicca is a traditional Latin baby girl name that means ‘victory.’ Historians are familiar with this baby name because of the powerful queen of the British-Celtic Icenic tribe, Boudicca.
20. Catherine
Catherine the Great, who was the longest-reigning empress of Russia, was the inspiration for the name of our company. She modernized Russia and helped it grow during her time in power. The name of this queen means ‘clear’ and comes from Latin origins.
21. Celia
The lovely name means ‘heaven’ and comes from Latin. It is well-liked in the music world because of the Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz.
22. Coco
The baby girl name Coco is inspired by the famous fashion icon Coco Chanel who changed the fashion industry. It is an American name that means ‘chocolate bean.’
23. Coretta
The baby girl name we chose was inspired by Coretta Scott King, a civil rights leader and activist. This baby name is of English origin and its meaning is ‘from the round hill’.
24. Clara
Clara Barton, the founder of the Red Cross, and Clara Fraser, who was a leader of the Freedom Socialists Party. The baby name has Latin roots and means ‘bright.’
25. Cleopatra
Cleopatra, a well-known Egyptian queen, is famous for her leadership during a time when Egypt was powerful and influential. Her name, of Greek origin, translates to ‘father’s glory.’
26. Daisy
Throughout history, there have been many notable figures named Daisy to admire. Examples include Daisy Bates, an American journalist, and Daisy Ashford, an English writer. The baby girl name Daisy is of Old English origin and it means ‘day’s eye.’
27. Diana
It is a well-liked baby girl name because of Princess Diana. The name has roots in Latin, Greek, and Indo-European languages and translates to ‘divine.’
28. Dolores
Dolores is a Latin name that means ‘sorrow.’ Dolores Huerta, a prominent American labor leader, is well-known for her advocacy for improving conditions for farmers.
29. Dorothy
This baby girl name of Greek origin signifies ‘gift from God.’ It was influenced by the American advocate Dorothy Irene Height, who dedicated her life to advocating for equality for African Americans and women.
30. Edith
Edith Cowan was a social reformer from Australia who made history as the first woman to be elected to the Australian Parliament. The baby girl name ‘Edith’ comes from Old English and means ‘blessed.’
31. Eleanor
Eleanor Roosevelt, a former First Lady of the United States, spoke up about the rights of African-American and Asian-American women at work. She is a source of inspiration for young girls. The baby name Eleanor comes from Greek and means ‘shining one.’
32. Emily
Emily comes from the name Aemilius in Roman history and it means ‘rival.’ The poet Emily Dickinson, famous for her poem ‘Hope is the Thing with Feathers,’ is an influential figure for many fans of English literature.
33. Emmeline
A different version of the common baby name Emmie is the older and traditional version, Emmeline. This baby girl name has roots in Old German and means ‘hardworking.’ Emmeline Pankhurst, a famous British activist, is known for founding the Women’s Social and Political Union.
34. Elizabeth
The baby girl name we chose, Elizabeth, was inspired by the great rulers of England, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Elizabeth II. These queens were successful in ensuring the prosperity of their territories, making the name historically powerful. The name Elizabeth comes from Hebrew and means ‘God is my oath.’
35. Ella
Ella is a Spanish baby girl name that means ‘feminine.’ It was inspired by the famous Jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald, who is known for songs like Cheek to Cheek and Miss Otis Regrets.
36. Ethel
The lovely baby girl name Ethel, which has an Old English origin, means ‘noble.’ An important person named Ethel is the English composer and women’s rights advocate Ethel Smyth.
37. Evelyn
This nickname is inspired by an American geneticist named Evelyn Witkin, known for her important research on DNA repair and DNA mutagenesis. The baby name Evelyn has roots in Norman French and means ‘wished-for child.’
38. Flo
Flo comes from Latin and it means ‘flower.’ One famous person with this name is Florynce Kennedy, who supported both feminism and the Civil Rights Movement.’
39. Florence
The name comes from an English Statistician, who is also considered the Founder of Modern Nursing. It is a popular choice for parents who love nature because it means ‘flowering’ in Latin.
40. Frida
This Old German baby name means ‘peaceful’ and is associated with elegance, just like the famous artist Frida Kahlo who is known for her powerful self-portraits.’
41. Gabriela
This baby girl name is common in Europe, and it comes from France. It means ‘God is my strength.’ Gabriela Mistral, a poet from Chile, was the first Latin American writer to win the Nobel Prize for her works, ‘Desolation’ and ‘Tala.’
42. Georgia
Georgia comes from the baby girl name George in Latin and Greek, which means ‘farmer.’ The name is linked to the artist Georgia O’Keeffe, known for her beautiful paintings of nature that catch people’s attention.
43. Germaine
Germaine is a popular baby name that can be used for both males and females, and it means ‘brother.’ Germaine Greer, a writer who focuses on sexual empowerment for women, played a major role in the Radical Feminist Movement.
44. Gertrude
Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to swim across the English Channel, which is the stretch of water between France and England. She is a well-known athlete who is honored by women worldwide. Her German name, which translates to ‘strong spear,’ has a daring connotation.
45. Gloria
The baby girl name Gloria is inspired by an American activist named Gloria Steinem, who fought for women’s rights. The name Gloria means ‘glory’ and comes from Latin roots.
46. Grace
The baby name Grace comes from Latin and means ‘grace of God.’ It was inspired by Grace Hopper, one of the few women to earn a Ph.D. in Mathematics in the 1930s. She was a pioneer in computer programming and later retired as a naval officer.
47. Harriet
Harriet Tubman, a famous American abolitionist, is the inspiration for this name. She was known as the ‘Moses of her people’ and her name has a beautiful meaning of ‘home-ruler’ in Old German. She escaped from slavery and helped others, even though she faced many challenges along the way
48. Hazel
Hazel Scott, a jazz singer, was the first Black American woman to have her own TV show. She played various roles that encouraged women to follow their dreams in entertainment. The baby name Hazel means ‘hazel-nut tree’ and comes from Old English.
49. Hedy
The baby name Hedy comes from Greek and Hebrew roots and means ‘delightful.’ It became well-known thanks to the actress Hedy Lamarr from the Golden Age of cinema. She is also famous for being one of the inventors of a radio signaling device used during World War II.
50. Helen
Helen Keller, a famous American writer, has inspired many people and is considered one of the great figures in history. She motivated numerous individuals with disabilities worldwide. Interestingly, her Greek name also translates to ‘shining light.’
51. Hypatia
The name Hypatia, of Greek origin, means ‘highest’ and signifies her brilliance and expertise in the field.
52. Ida
Ida is a lovely baby girl name with roots in ancient German and Greek, which means ‘hardworking.’ You may have heard of Ida B. Wells, a well-known American activist and writer who worked tirelessly for the rights and equality of African American women in the 1890s.
53. Isabella
The baby girl name Isabella comes from Spanish and Italian origins and means ‘God is my oath.’ It was the name of a well-known British explorer and writer in the 19th century named Isabella Bird, who wrote a book called A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains.
54. Jane
The English primatologist, Jane Goodall, served as an inspiration for many. Her name, of Hebrew origin, means ‘Yahweh is gracious.’ Through her research on chimpanzees, she made important findings that expanded our knowledge of the animal kingdom.
55. Joan
Joan of Arc, considered a heroine in France, has been a significant figure for women globally for many years. Her name, which comes from Hebrew and means ‘God is gracious,’ is often associated with femininity.
56. Josephine
The name Josephine is the female version of the baby name Joseph and it translates to ‘Yahweh shall grow.’ This baby girl name is well-liked because of Josephine Butler, who was a social worker and a significant advocate for women’s voting rights.
57. Junko
Junko is a Japanese name that means ‘obedient’ and is known for its adventurous spirit. The name is inspired by Junko Tabei, the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest and the first woman to climb the seven highest peaks on Earth.
58. Kate
Kate is a baby name of French origin that means ‘clear.’ The baby girl name became more well-known thanks to Kate Bornstein, an American trans activist and author who inspires people who feel limited by traditional gender norms.
59. Katherine
The name is named after the pioneer Katherine G. Johnson, who played a crucial role in advancing the first moon landing. This American mathematician’s name comes from Greek roots and means ‘pure.’
60. Kennedy
Kennedy, which means ‘leader with helmet,’ is the English version of the Celtic name Cinnéidigh. This baby name was influenced by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who was admired for her commitment to her country and her family when she was the First Lady of the United States.
61. Laura
Laura comes from the Latin baby name Laurus and means ‘bay laurel plant.’ One famous person with this name is Laura Bassi, an Italian physicist who was the first woman professor to earn a Ph.D.
62. Lise
She enjoys spending time with her friends and playing basketball. Lise also likes to read books and watch movies in her free time. She is a good student and participates in various extracurricular activities at school. Lise hopes to become a veterinarian when she grows up. The special Hebrew name Lise is a trendy variation of Elisa or Lisa and it means ‘God’s promise.’ Lise Meitner, a well-known and impactful scientist from Austria, contributed to the discovery of nuclear fission and created the term.
63. Lola
This baby name is named after activist Lola Hendricks, who was an important member of Fred Shuttlesworth’s Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights. The name Lola comes from Spanish and translates to ‘sorrow.’
64. Lucille
The lovely name Lucy comes from Latin and means ‘light.’ It is a well-known baby girl name in the entertainment world, often associated with the comedian Lucille Ball.
65. Lucretia
Lucretia, which means ‘succeed,’ was a popular baby girl name in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It comes from Lucretia Mott, an American abolitionist who helped write the Declaration of Sentiments.
66. Lucy
Lucy is a baby girl name that comes from Latin and means ‘light.’ This baby name is inspired by Lucy Parsons, an American activist who worked to abolish slavery and promote women’s rights. She overcame obstacles and challenges in her fight for equality.
67. Madeleine
The baby girl name Madelaine, which comes from Greek origins, means ‘woman from Magdala.’ This baby name has been gaining popularity on lists of popular names thanks to its association with former United States Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright.
68. Malala
This baby girl name comes from Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, who is the youngest person to win a Nobel Prize. The baby name Malala means ‘grief-stricken’ in Arabic.
69. Margaret
The baby girl name comes from Margaret Sanger, a famous person who promoted oral contraceptives and introduced the concept of birth control to the world. The name of this influential educator is a combination of Latin, Ancient Greek, and French words that mean ‘pearl.’
70. Maria
Maria Stewart was the first African American woman to publish a political document that helped to lead the movement against slavery. Her nickname, which comes from Latin, means ‘star of the sea.’
71. Marie
Marie Curie, a physicist from Poland and France, found radium and polonium, and became a role model for women in the science field. The name Marie comes from Latin and means ‘star of the sea.’
72. Marsha
Many people see Marsha P. Johnson, a vocal advocate for gay rights, as a symbol of strength. Her name is the female version of Marcus, which is derived from the name ‘Mars.’
73. Mary
The baby girl name Mary comes from both Armani and Hebrew roots and it means ‘beloved.’ It was a common name in the 18th century largely because of Mary Wollstonecraft, who fought for women’s rights and equality in society.
74. Maya
If you enjoy poetry and want a baby girl name related to that style, you could choose the name Maya. It comes from Greek and means ‘good mother.’ This name is inspired by the well-known American poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou.
75. Miriam
Miriam is a baby girl name that comes from Egypt and Hebrew and it means ‘drop of the sea.’ The baby name is famous because of the African singer Miriam Makeba, who used her performances to highlight the unfairness of the South African apartheid.
76. Naomi
The baby girl name comes from Hebrew and means ‘pleasant one.’ It was influenced by American war worker Naomi Parker, who was a model in the famous ‘We Can Do It!’ poster.
77. Nellie
Nellie is a modern variation of Elanor and translates to ‘sunray.’ This baby girl name became popular because of American journalist Nellie Bly, who bravely exposed the mistreatments in an asylum.
78. Rita
This baby girl name originates from Latin and means ‘pearl.’ Rita Moreno, a famous actress, is the only woman of Latin descent to win an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) award, which is a prestigious achievement.
79. Rosa
Rosa Parks is known as the mother of the civil rights movement and displayed remarkable strength even in small actions. Her elegant name, of Latin descent, means ‘rose.’
80. Rosalie
Rosalie Edge, a well-known person in history, was a strong supporter of women’s rights. She was also famous for her work in protecting the environment. Her name itself represents beauty, empowerment, and the natural world because it translates to ‘flower of life.’
81. Rosalind
Rosalind Franklin was the leading figure in discovering the density of DNA. She played a key role in the genetic advancements of the last century. Her name, which comes from Old German, means ‘gentle horse.’
82. Ruby
The baby girl name ‘Ruby’ is inspired by the bright red gemstone. Our inspiration for this baby name comes from Ruby Bridges, an American activist known for her important role in the Civil Rights Movement.
83. Ruth
Ruth is a baby girl name from the Old Testament that comes from Hebrew and means ‘friend.’ It was popularized by Ruth Bader Ginsberg, a former US Supreme Court Justice.
84. Sacajawea
Sacajawea is a special baby girl name that comes from the Shoshoni people and means ‘bird woman.’ She helped Lewis and Clark on their journey as a guide. Her role showed the Native Americans that the explorers were not a threat.
85. Sandra
Sandra is a shorter version of the baby name Alexandra and its meaning is ‘man’s defender.’ This baby name comes from Greek origin and is well-known because of the former US Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.
86. Serena
Serena is a Latin baby name that means ‘calm.’ Serena Williams, the famous tennis player, is admired by many young girls for her skills and achievements. She made significant changes in women’s tennis and is recognized as one of the top players globally.
87. Shirley
The baby girl name comes from Shirley Chisholm, the first woman to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. The name Shirley means ‘bright meadow’ and comes from Old English.
88. Simone
The baby girl name Simone, inspired by the French writer Simone De Beauvoir, is a great choice for your daughter. Simone De Beauvoir’s ideas on feminist existentialism are thought-provoking and can inspire your child as well. The name Simone is the feminine form of the Hebrew name Simon, which means ‘to hear.’
89. Sonia
The baby girl name Sonia represents determination and bravery, inspired by Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic woman to be a judge in the US federal court. It comes from an English word meaning ‘wisdom.’
90. Sojourner
The baby girl name Sojourner, which comes from American roots, means ‘traveller.’ It is well-liked because of the American women’s rights activist and bold advocate, Sojourner Truth.
91. Susan
It is a well-known name because of Susan B. Anthony, a women’s rights advocate in America. This beautiful baby girl name comes from Hebrew and means ‘lily.’
92. Sylvia
Sylvia is a Latin baby girl name that means ‘forest.’ Many literature fans are familiar with this name because of the famous American writer Sylvia Plath, known for her ground breaking works that made her a bold figure in women’s literature.
93. Teresa
Teresa is a traditional Greek bay girl name that means ‘late summer.’ This baby name is inspired by Saint Teresa, who showed empathy and dedicated her life to helping the less fortunate.
94. Thatcher
The baby name Thatcher makes people think of Margaret Thatcher, who was the first female Prime Minister of Britain. She led the country forward during difficult times. The last name Thatcher can also be used as a first name in English, and it means ‘roof thatcher.’
95. Theodora
The baby name Theodora comes from Greek and means ‘God’s gift.’ It is named after the powerful queen of Byzantium, Theodora, who was married to Justinian I.
96. Vera
During World War II, Vera Atkins, a British intelligence officer, prepared undercover agents to fight against the Nazis. Her bravery and determination continue to motivate women today. The name Vera in Slavi means ‘faith.’
97. Victoria
The baby name Victoria comes from Latin and means ‘victory.’ Victoria Woodhull was a trailblazer in the Women’s Suffrage Movement, breaking many barriers. She made history as the first woman to have a presence on Wall Street.’
98. Virginia
The baby girl name became well-known because of the famous English writer Virginia Woolf and doctor Virginia Apgar. Woolf was known as one of the most modern writers of the 20th century, while Apgar created a way to assess the health of new born. Both of their names have Latin roots and mean ‘maiden.’
99. Wangari
Wangari is a Kenyan and African baby name that means ‘a leopard.’ The environmentalist Wangari Maathai is famous for her work in preventing deforestation and desertification, which earned her a Nobel Peace Prize.
100. Zora
The American writer Zora Neale Hurston influenced many young authors with her books. The baby girl name Zora comes from Slavic roots and translates to ‘dawn.’
Explore additional baby names
When picking a name for your baby, you may find that a few hundred options just isn’t sufficient. Keep searching through the abundance of baby names until you discover the perfect one.
Frequently Asked Questions
The historical baby girls name mentioned in the list above showed incredible courage that we appreciate today. They demonstrated equality, fairness, and honor with their bravery. You can choose from baby girl names like Alice, Amelia, Billie, Cleopatra, Dorothy, Eleanor, Frida, Harriet, Kennedy, Malala, Naomi, Sylvia, Teresa, and more for your baby girl to inspire her to achieve great things in life.
Illustration: Baby Girl Names To Inspire Your Name Search
Now that you have a baby girl, it’s important to help her become strong and able to make her own decisions. A good idea might be to give her a name of a woman who overcame challenges and made a big impact on the world.
