Girl Middle Names
The custom of middle names is thought to have originated with the Romans. Aristocratic families used multiple names to indicate their lineage with some having as many as 30 middle names! But, while Rome was an empire for hundreds of years, the three-part name wasn’t used for everyone in Roman society or for that whole period of time. Women tended to have two names, and slaves often just had one. Fast-forward to the 17th century and England’s upper classes began using middle names, although this was only about 10% of the British population. Today, middle names serve much the same purposes they always have. They are a way to keep family names going, thus preserving relationships, and they’re a way to try something new or “put old names out to grass” without cutting the cord entirely.
Over the years, some girl middle names have fluctuated in popularity while some have stood the test of time. At the moment, names that end in an "e" sound seem to be all the rage while previously names that ended in an "a" sound have been hugely popular. If you’re looking for some middle name inspiration, this list of girl middle names is for you. I have gathered together all the classics along with a few trendy middle names for you to choose from.
Girl Middle Names
1. Louise
I promise you this is not just me being biased or conceited (although it is a great name if you ask me), Louise has long been one of the most popular girl middle names. The name Louise is a girl's name of French origin meaning "renowned warrior". It is the middle name of both Madonna and Meryl Streep so definitely has some star quality to it as well. If you want a name that will stand the test of time, then Louise is a pretty good option. However, if you want something a little more edgy, try Eloise or Louisa!
2. Kamilah
The name Kamilah is a girl's name of Arabic origin meaning "perfect". It is one of the more up-and-coming girl middle names so if you want to stay ahead of the curve, it is a great choice! Kamilah is also one of the most adaptable of the Middle Eastern names, partly because of its similarity to the western Camilla. It also sounds undeniably pretty so is sure to suit your little one perfectly!
3. Rose
"A rose by any other [middle] name would smell as sweet." Sorry, Shakespeare! Another one of the more classic girl middle names here. The name Rose is a girl's name of Latin origin meaning "rose, a flower". It is derived from the Latin rosa, which referred to the flower. There is also evidence that suggests it was a Norman variation of the Germanic name Hrodohaidis, meaning “famous type.” Regardless of its meaning, Rose is a timeless and beautiful middle name for a girl.
4. Anais
Some of you may recognise this name from a popular perfume. Pronounced Ahn-ay-ees, it has seen a recent surge in popularity for girl middle names so is perfect for those wishing to opt for a more contemporary name. The name Anais is a girl's name of Hebrew origin meaning "grace". It is a slightly unusual and exotic name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin. Anais would make a creative and distinctive middle name.
5. Elizabeth
Beautiful, elegant, and undeniably regal, Elizabeth is a great choice for girl middle names. It is a classic middle name that will never lose its appeal. The name Elizabeth has religious roots and origins in Hebrew, having several meanings including "My God is an oath" or "My God is abundance.” Whether you’re religious or not, Elizabeth is a smart choice for girl middle names due to its timeless nature and sophisticated connotations.
6. Antonella
An exotic and more feminine twist on the name Antonia, Antonella is a girl middle name that everyone seems to be loving at the moment! In Latin Baby Names the meaning of the name Antonella is “praiseworthy” or “of inestimable worth”. It is hugely popular in Italy but there’s no reason we can bring it to this side of the Channel. Antonella is definitely a bold middle name choice but for the more daring among you, it is a great option!
7. Sunny
Definitely on the more hippy end of the spectrum, Sunny has become an increasingly popular choice for girl middle names as of late. Sunny as a girl's name is of English origin meaning "sunshine, happy, or cheerful temperament" and who doesn’t want those associated with their baby?!
8. Isabella
The name Isabella is a girl's name of Hebrew, Spanish, Italian origin meaning "pledged to God". This is another one of those girl middle names that have remained popular for quite some time. It has many variations such as Isabella, Isobel, or perhaps Bella, so you can twist it to suit your babies first name! Part of the reason Isabella is so successful is that it appeals in an eclectic range of ways to a huge number of parents. It is undeniably feminine yet still classic. You can’t go wrong with this one!
9. Juniper
Gin devotees may recognise Juniper as the name of the berry from which gin comes, but it also makes for a beautiful girl middle name. It comes from the Latin, Juniperus which means "youth producing" or "evergreen" and has historically been used as both a boys and girls name - perfect for those who want a gender-neutral middle name. If this is a little too out there for you, perhaps variations including June, Juno, or Junie will tickle your fancy!
10. Olivia
Olivia is a Latin name meaning "olive tree," and the feminine alternative to the boy name Oliver. It has long been a popular first name and middle name choice for its timeless appeal. Its initial popularity can be attributed to the beautiful, sought-after heiress in William Shakespeare's play, Twelfth Night. Many people use Olivia as a double-barrelled middle name such as Olivia-Anne or Olivia-Beth so if you want a middle name and then some, Olivia is a superb choice!
