Top Baby Girl Names in Ireland

European Baby Names

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Europe is an expansive name and has seen a lot happen in its history. It has many stories to tell, and the naming traditions are one such story. In the early 15th century Europeans chose simple names which belonged to the family and did not come from a fancy place. There was an abundance of Elizabeth, Mary, Alice, etc. So was the case with the male names as well – Robert, Thomas, William – these were mundane names.

Then, something changed. During the classic period, with the increase in exports, French and Italian names become commonplace. People began choosing these names and stepped out of family names. In recent times, Europeans have begun choosing a lot of Spanish names and are turning excessively towards Junior or Jr names as well.

Accounting for all these trends can be daunting, and we understand that. Which is why MomJunction has compiled a list of European baby names giving due consideration to all traditions.

Top 50 European Baby Names For Girls:

1. Abella:

Abella is one of the most romantic and the most exotic Spanish names that you can bestow on your darling.

2. Mia:

Mia, meaning 'mine' is a favorite with Germans. Now could there be a perfect name for your daughter signifying what she is to you?

[ Read: Exotic Baby Names ]

3. Isla:

Isla, coming from the name of a Scottish River, is a beautiful name to consider for your daughter.

4. Maya:

You don't have to be a Spanish to appreciate the beauty of the Spanish name. Maya is a 'nombre' that has the correct doses of sweetness and spiciness.

5. Adriana:

Besides, windmills and tulips, Netherlands is also known for its distinct monikers. Adriana is a beautiful Dutch name to consider for your baby. Rie would be a perfect nickname for Adriana.

6. Lola:

Lola is one of the best French names meaning 'sorrow.' The meaning isn't the most pleasing one, but the name is gorgeous.

7. Ingrid:

Here's a Danish name for your little princess. The meaning of Ingrid is 'Ing's beauty'. But do you even know who Ing was? Ing was the god of earth's fertility.

8. Clare:

Clare, a variation of the common name Clara, is popular in Italy. Despite being a downright European name, Clara is extremely popular in America.

9. Lilou:

If you are fond of names like Louise or Lily, then you will adore Lilou, a combination of both. You can even shorten this name to Lee.

10. Logan:

This name Logan has enjoyed great success in the recent years. But its meaning is not the best of all. It means 'hollow.'

11. Michalina:

Michalina is a Polish variation of Michaela. It means 'no one compares to the Lord.'

[ Read: Popular Baby Names ]

12. Maja:

Your daughter is sure to love you for giving her this name. Maja, meaning 'pearl' is one of the most popular European baby names from Sweden. And going by its popularity, we don't see it fading anytime soon.

13. Emma:

Emma, meaning 'universal' has made a surprise return to the top 10 list, all because of the legion of 'Emma' heroines. This top European baby name also got a big boost when Ross and Rachel bestowed it on their daughter in "FRIENDS".

14. Olivia:

Just like its cousins Sophia and Isabella, Olivia is a lovely Shakespearean name with a balance of feminity and strength. The name has also been a favorite star baby name for the last decade. The meaning of Olivia is 'olive tree'.

15. Sophia:

Sophia is a winner. It has a sensuous sound and a lovely meaning. This European baby name appeals to a broad range of parents, from intellectuals to film stars. Sophia is the most preferred spelling, but Sofia can also be considered.

16. Isabella:

Isabella sounds like a superstar name. This European name has been raising the popularity chart like no other. It's feminine, and a classic. Bella is the best nickname for this one, remember Isabella Swan from Twilight?

17. Ava:

Ava is the Latin for Eve and means 'life'. It is epidemically popular in Hollywood. A dozen of high profile parents chose Ava for their daughters. A fascinating thing about this name is that it is much more ancient than its sleekness suggests.

18. Emily:

Emily is strong, classic, simple, feminine, pretty- everything that parents look while selecting a name for their daughter. It also has some great literary namesakes like Emily Bronte and Emily Dickinson.

[ Read: Cute Baby Names ]

19. Abigail:

Here's another quintessential European name meaning 'my father is joyful.' Abigail, the wife of David, was renowned for her wisdom, beauty, and prophetic powers.

20. Charlotte:

Charlotte is the recent European royal name to join the bandwagon along with Olivia, Emma, and Sophia. This unique European baby names sound sophisticated yet lush, feminine yet mature.

21. Lillian:

Lillian is considered by many parents as a subdued cousin of the popular Lily. It originated as a pet name of Elizabeth but later became an independent name.

22. Hannah:

Hannah is a soft and gentle name with an aristocratic and homey image. The TV sensation "Hannah Montana" did a great deal to popularize this name. It means 'grace'.

23. Kennedy:

Before you start raising eyebrows, Kennedy is a unisex name. This charismatic name manages to sound classic and trendy, both at the same time.

24. Samantha:

Samantha is a feminization of Samuel. Sadly, it's beginning to fade after years of use. But it sounds lovely.

[ Read: Baby Names Inspired By Love ]

25. Anna:

Exotic, classic and simple, Anna is the most dominant variant in the Ann family. The name has been used throughout Europe for generations.

26. Peyton:

Peyton, meaning 'fighting man's estate' is a unisex name growing in popularity because of its softness combined with the naughtiness.

27. Annabelle:

This charming name is one the rise along with other 'Elle' ending names like Isabelle. This saucy and fancy name sounds both lively and melodious.

28. Caroline:

Caroline is a perennial classic European name. It also sounds a lot more feminine than its trendier cousin Carolyn. The meaning of Carolyn is 'free man'.

29. Serenity:

Serenity is soft, sweet and far from shrinking. It means 'peace,' something that is lacking greatly in the world.

30. Violet:

Violet is one of the prettiest floral and color names. It was chosen by Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, the high profile Hollywood celebs.

31. Stella:

The name Stella manages to be both earthy and heavenly at the same time. One of the most notable bearers of this name is Stella McCartney, the renowned designer.

32. Autumn:

Colorful and crisp, Autumn is the most preferred season name in Europe. Even Jennifer Love Hewitt named her daughter Autumn.

33. Eliana:

Eliana is a rhythmic and poetic name that is beginning to catch along with names starting with El. Eliana means 'God has answered'.

34. Alice:

Alice is another sweet and strong European name. The name got a big bounce in 2010 when Tina Fey chose it for her daughter.

35. Eleanor:

This formal name keeps coming in and out of fashion right from the time Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine brought it to England from France.

36. Katherine:

Katherine is one of the most diverse, royal, powerful, simple and adaptable European names. It also has a myriad of spelling and namesakes, including the famous Catherine.

37. London:

Could there any name more European than this one? This place name is an unusual and attractive name with a lot of substances.

38. Madelyn:

Madelyn or Madeline is an all-time favorite baby girl's name with the French people. If you want to go the French way, then Madeleine is the original spelling.

39. Grace:

Grace is a popular name in Northern Ireland. Some parents love its simplicity, while others adore its meaning.

40. Mareike:

Mareike translates to 'bitter', but it sounds nothing like it. This beautiful name is a German variation of Mariah or Mary.

41. Sarah:

Sarah is as stylish as it is traditional. It is widely used in Europe, but with a range of variations. Our favorite is Sarah, which means princess.

42. Gabriella:

More than 5000 girls were given the name Gabriella last year in Europe. That speaks enough about its popularity. The name sounds super sweet and graceful, just like your little angel.

[ Read: Serbian Names For Your Baby ]

43. Alzbeta:

The Czech language has some of the most alluring and striking baby names, one of them is Alzbeta. Alzbeta is the Czech form of Elizabeth.

44. Arianna:

Arianna would be a smooth and exotic choice for your daughter. It's also one of the Top 25 names in Italy.

45. Diane:

We've got a perfect moniker for your little mademoiselle, Diane it is. The name is steeped in glamor and class. And it's a fresh change from the commonplace Diana.

46. Penelope:

Penelope is a classic European name meaning 'weaver'. Nell or Poppy would be great nicknames instead of the traditional Penny.

47. Audrey:

Audrey is one of the European names that have been rising mainly due to its connection to the chic and radiant Audrey Hepburn. The meaning of Audrey is 'noble strength'.

48. Esmeralda:

Esmeralda, meaning 'emerald' in Spanish is climbing the charts briskly, all thanks to the Disney's film "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". You can even shorten it to Esme. We loved both!

49. Illona:

Illona is a Greek name that sounds pretty when it rolls off the tongue and looks beautiful when written. The meaning of Illona is 'torch of light'.

50. Chiara:

Chiara, meaning 'light' in Italian, is the perfect illustration of the light your baby girl will bring in the lives of many.

Top 50 European Names For Boys:

51. Lotte:

Lotte sound so classy and chic. No wonder people are opting for this name all over Europe. Meaning 'masculine,' the name Lotte always remains in the top 100 baby name list in the Netherlands.

52. Giotto:

The name Giotto has a creative legacy. It was born by Giotto di Bondone, as Italian architect and painter from Florence. Besides, it sounds great, doesn't it?

53. Xander:

Xander is a sassy Geek name meaning 'defender of people'. With such a powerful meaning, Xander is bound to be a hit with everyone. It sounds great when you call it too.

54. Luis:

Luis, meaning 'famous warrior' will make a decent name for your son. Even the spelling is a cool variation of the common Louis.

55. Adorjan:

The Finno-Ugric language of Hungary makes the English version of the names look unique, fiery, and anything but boring.

56. Baptiste:

Baptiste, meaning 'Baptist' comes from the Greek word 'bapto,' which means dip. The name has an association with the handsome male model 'Baptiste Giabiconi.

57. Adelmo:

The German language can be rough to the ears, but its names are very pleasing. Adelmo is a beautiful German name meaning 'noble protector'.

58. Pietro:

Pietro is an appealing Greek variation of Peter. It translates to 'rock'.

59. Paolo:

Paul never sounded so exotic before. Paolo is an irresistibly romantic Italian variation of Paul. The most notable bearer of this name is Paolo Acerbis, the famous football player.

60. Oliver:

Oliver, meaning 'affectionate' is topping the chart of baby names in Sweden.

61. Marcello:

Marcello pronounced, as 'mar-che-llo' is one of the most attractive and lush Latin and Spanish names. It is obtained from the ancient name Marcellus, derived from Mars, the god of war. The meaning of Marcello is 'young warrior'.

62. Benito:

Benito is the Portuguese version of Benedict. It is an fitting name if you want a break from the usual Ben and Benjamin. The meaning of this distinctive name is 'blessed'.

63. Cyrilo:

Portuguese names have a distinct rhythm that makes it sound so beautiful. Cyrilo is a Portuguese version of the name Cyrillus, meaning 'lordly'.

64. Eryk:

In Polish, Eryk translates to lovable; exactly what your baby boy is to you. The Norse meaning of this name is 'eternal ruler'.

65. Jan:

If the Nordic culture is something that enamors you, then why don't you consider picking a Danish name for your child? Jan, pronounced as 'yahn' would make an excellent pick. It's the Danish version of John.

66. Emilio:

Dashing Emilio is a Spanish and Italian favorite. It is a variation of Emil and means 'rival'. Even its cousins Emiliano would make a good pick. The meaning of Emiliano is 'work'.

67. Bence:

Bence is a Hungarian variant of Vincent. The name that was used quietly for centuries is now viewed as a seeming stylish name along with the other B names. The meaning of Bence is 'conquering'.

68. Leon:

Leon is one of the hottest leonine names in Europe. The name peaked in 1920's and then declined. Now its slowly making its way back to the baby name world. It has already made a place in the top 100 names list. The meaning of Leon is 'lion'.

69. Matteo:

Matteo is an energetic Italian variant of the good ol' Matthew. It is moving further into the European nomenclature in terms of popularity. Mateo is a nice spelling alternative to Matteo.

70. Davide:

As you all must have guessed by now, Davide is an excellent alternative to David, meaning 'beloved'. The name Davide is a classic in Italy with many parents going for it.

71. Phillipe:

Phillipe, pronounced as fill-eep, was the name of one of the 12 apostles. The name is favored by parents who are in search of a classic name for their son. A slight twist in the spelling is making it look and sound exotic.

72. Isak:

Isak is the Russian variant of name Isaac. This Hebrew name, meaning laughter leaped into the Top 50, where it has been for the past few years. It even shows signs of heading higher. Ike or Izzy would make cute nicknames for Isak.

73. Alban:

Alban is an extremely unusual name of meaning 'white'. It was the name of an early 'martyr' in Roman Britain. You can also opt for its alternate spelling Alben. A notable bearer of this name is Alben W. Barkley, one of the Vice Presidents of the United States.

74. Gustav:

The name Gustav is very popular in Germany and Sweden. Meaning 'staff of the Goths', this European name will make an uncommon pick for your son.

75. Alejandro:

Alejandro is a softer variation of Alexander. This classic Spanish name made a smooth transition to this culture and currently ranks 157. And to add to its current popularity is Lady Gaga's song 'Alejandro'.

76. Javier:

Javier, pronounced as hah-vyee-AIR, embodies for many people in the charismatic persona of Javier Bardem, the Spanish-born Oscar-nominated actor.

77. Mikel:

The European form of Michael, Mikel has simplified and streamlined spelling. The meaning of this name is 'who is like God'.

78. Florian:

Not just, Florence and Flora, even Florian has returned with full force. It is the trendy Latinate ending that has made it so popular in Europe. As a first name, Florian may sound a bit feminine, but would make a great middle name; especially if you have a granny r mommy named Florence.

79. Kristian:

Kristian is the Greek variation of the name Christian. It is a great variation if you find Christian overtly pious and tradition. Did you know that in Middle Ages Kristian was a female name?

80. Henrik:

Henrik is a variation of the name Henry. After hovering and fluctuating around the latter half of the Top 50 for 20 years, Henrik is now at its highest point since the World War 2. And the fact that Henry is very common has increased Henrik's popularity substantially.

81. Kristoffer:

The Scandinavian version of Christopher means 'bearer of Christ'. The name has so much more Debonair than plain Christopher.

82. Stefan:

Stefan is an elegant, continental name meaning 'crown'.

83. Etienne:

Here's another European name meaning 'crown'. Fashionistas associate this name with the popular designer Etienne Aigner.

84. Ferdinand:

The name Ferdinand has a profound legacy. It was the name of several Italian and Spanish kings. Three Roman emperors have borne this name too. Now that's one cool name to bestow on your child.

85. Hector:

In the early days, the name Hector was used primarily by the Latino families. It was the name of the hero of the Trojan War. Today, it's considered by parents who want to give a distinguished name to their son. The meaning of Hector is 'holding fast'.

[ Read: Cute Baby Nicknames ]

86. Hugo:

Hugo, the Latin variant of Hugh sounds more hefty than original. The rich history behind this name makes it even more appealing. And we even love names that end with 'o'.

87. Giovanni:

Giovanni is an Italian classic name. This fresh and cool sounding name is now in the top 125 names in the United States. Giovanni also has plenty of notable namesakes, Giovanni Boccaccio being one of them.

88. Gabriel:

Gabriel was the name of the archangel who heralded the news of the birth of Jesus Christ. He appears in Jewish, Muslim and Christmas texts. This biblical name means 'God is my strength'.

89. Raymond:

Though Raymond has been long dormant, some parents, especially celebs are finding it cool. Ray will make the coolest nickname for Raymond. The meaning of Raymond is 'wise protector'.

90. Remy:

Remy entered the popularity list in 2009, quickly becoming one of the fastest rising names in the list. The name came into the spotlight via the 2007 Disney film 'Ratatouille'.

91. Victor:

Victor is one of the earliest European Christian names. It was borne by several popes and saints, symbolizing Jesus Christ's victory over death. The name is favored greatly by the fashionable parents of London.

92. Xavier:

Xavier is one of the few X names that most people know and use. It's often paired with Francis as a middle name. The meaning of Xavier is 'brightness', which your kid brings in your life with his arrival.

93. Armand:

Meaning 'soldier,' Armand has been considered one of the most romantic male names since the first producing of 'Camille'. Armand is not much heard outside European countries. So if you belong to Asia or any other continent, it will make a unique name for your child.

94. Enzo:

Just like Leonardo is a short form of Leo, Enzo is the short form of Lorenzo. This captivating and confident name has been beginning to be used parents of all ethnic backgrounds. The meaning of Enzo is 'estate ruler'.

95. Marcel:

Marcel is currently on the brink of style resurgence. Marion Cottilard, the French Oscar winner named her son Marcel. The meaning of this soothing name is 'little warrior'.

96. Blaise:

Blaise may sound contemporary, but is actually the name of an ancient Christian martyr. The name gives out a fiery feel. Even Amanda Beard named her baby boy Blaise.

97. Rhys:

Reese, Reece, and Rhys, all mean the same, but we particularly like Welsh spelling Rhys the most. Rhys is a high ranking name in Scotland, Ireland, and England. The meaning of Rhys is 'ardor'.

98. Jasper:

Despite being a European name, Jasper has been rocketing up the ranks in the United States. Jasper is considered a charming and posh name in England. Its meaning is 'bringer of treasure'.

99. Rocco:

Rocco is a favorite with the hipster parents. We love it too. The meaning of this quirky Italian name is 'rest'.

100. Evan:

Evan, the Welsh of John has a nice-guy feel to it. This European name for babies has been popular in Wales since the 19th century and surprisingly, holds the 24th spot for boy's names in France. The meaning of Evan is 'Lord is gracious'.

So these were the top 100 European baby names and meanings from us. Which of these names appealed to you the most? Share with us in the comment section.