150 African American Girl Names with Meanings

A baby is a gift of God for every family. Parents can convey their love and affection towards them by giving them a beautiful and apt name. The name given to a child serves as their primary identifier and can impact their identity, personality, and future success. For instance, many parents thoughtfully choose African American girl names that reflect cultural pride and deep meaning. Selecting a name that mirrors the family’s values, culture, and traditions while also considering factors such as pronunciation, uniqueness, and potential nicknames is crucial. Naming a baby requires careful thought and research, making it important to explore all options before making a final decision.

Are you worried and confused about finalising a name for your baby? Then to ease your work, we have compiled a list of amazing African American baby girl names.

Different Ways African American Used to Find Names for Girls

African American naming traditions have a rich and diverse history. Historically, many African Americans used Biblical names to name their children, but there are also many other unique and creative ways that these families have used to name their daughters. One way African American families have named their daughters is by using nature-inspired names, such as ‘Jasmine’ or ‘Iris’. Another popular naming tradition is to use names that reflect African heritage, such as ‘Nia’ or ‘Amani’. African American female names are also kept after historical figures, such as ‘Harriet’ or ‘Angela’ after Harriet Tubman and Angela Davis, respectively. Additionally, African American names for girls are often kept to reflect qualities their parents hope their daughters will embody, such as ‘Faith’, ‘Hope’, and ‘Charity’.

In recent years, African American parents have also embraced unique and unconventional names, such as ‘Zendaya’ or ‘Kamala’. These names often reflect cultural and social movements and are chosen as a way to celebrate and honour their identity.

Common African American (Black) Girl Names

We hope our assistance will be helpful enough for you to be able to decide a beautiful name for your little princess. Let us have a look at the names:

1. Abana

It is an African American baby girl name which sounds sophisticated. Individuals with such names are expected to have strong personalities in their lives.

2. Absco

This rarely-heard name adds a unique identity to your child. It means a person with ‘an innovative mind’.

3. Achebe

If you are from a religious family then go for this name. It means that this person is always protected by the Almighty.

4. Adaeh

This name is very classy; it points to a crowned person. People with such names are expected to be very responsible and well-known.

5. Adamma

Your daughter is the most beautiful girl in the whole world. This name reflects her beauty and makes her the centre of attraction among the crowd.

6. Aiysha

The meaning of the name is ‘complete and powerful person’. Individuals with such a name are very determined to achieve their goals in life.

7. Amahle

A baby is the most beautiful gift to a parent; babies are so cute and adorable. This name means ‘the prettiest or finest girl’.

8. Baina

It refers to a girl who is bright and glitters like sunshine. These individuals are amazing people to talk to and are very friendly in nature.

9. Behati

Every baby is a gift or a blessing to their parents. Thus, this name suits your daughter well as it means ‘blessing’, this will even make her feel special.

10. Bisa

A girl is the world of her parents. They do love them immensely. By giving your daughter this name you can convey your love and affection as it means ‘being loved’.

11. Chalondra

A name is an identity to a person, and thus, this will be one of the best names as it means a ‘smart person.’

12. Chipo

This short and simple name has a great impact. It means ‘a gift’, and since every child is a gift to their parents, it is always highly suggested.

13. Dayo

A baby is a bundle of joy to every family. Therefore, this name is very suitable as it means ‘arrival of joy’.

14. Delu

A daughter is always very precious to her parents. Delu means ‘on who is exceptionally very beautiful’. This name is very much in trend now.

15. Durah

A baby girl is very precious to her family. The meaning of this name is ‘pearl’ and thus this name is totally suitable.

16. Eega

Every girl is free to fly and achieve all her goals, so the name Eega, in the literal term, means ‘bird which flies high’. Thus, this name is suggested in the top list.

17. Fabunni

This is one of the old African American names, which means ‘thing which was given by God or a gift’.

18. Fahari

A name adds the first identity to a person, so you can opt for this as it means ‘a smart and confident woman.’

19. Faizah

This name refers to victory. An individual who turns out to be very successful in life because achieving all her goals is like a cakewalk to her.

20. Faraja

Every parent would love to provide a comfortable life for their daughter. This name in itself says that the girl will enjoy comfort throughout her life.

21. Feechi

Are you from a religious family? Then is the best name for your daughter as it means a woman who worships the Almighty. This a very popular name.

22. Gasira

This is one of the common names from the African American region, and it means ‘a brave person’. In this competitive era, it is very important for a person to be strong and brave.

23. Ghalyela

A baby is everything to the parents, to convey their value for you, you can choose this name as it means ‘one who is very valuable’.

24. Hagos

It is one of the unique names which means happiness and joy. The name means gift and is appropriate for your daughter as she is also a precious gift to your family from God.

25. Hanuni

The name means the baby is always ‘happy and cheerful’. Such people are always satisfied with what they have.

26. Hoyam

It is a trendy baby girl’s name. The name means passionate love, it shows how parents boundlessly love their child.

27. Jahia

Every parent expects their kids to grow and be successful in life. People with such names are widely known and gain fame in life.

28. Jahmelia

Every girl is beautiful in her own way. You can use this name as it is one of the top-listed names. Girls with such names grow into beautiful ladies.

29. Jettie

Individuals with this name have an amazing personality. As the name implies, they always attract people around them and are the centre of attraction.

30. Julene

Parents always expect their kids to live life to the fullest. Therefore, this name is very suitable as it means ‘youth’ and naming her so will always keep the essence of being young in her.

31. Kabili

This is a commonly used name that means ‘one who is honest and brave’. These two features are very important to be there in a person in order to survive in this competitive era.

32. Kaikara

Does your family believe in religion a lot? Then this is the appropriate name for your daughter, Kaikara means ‘God’s traditional name’.

33. Kamirah

This beautiful and sophisticated name means ‘a lady who is big-hearted’. In life, such people help the poor and needy a lot and prove to be generous people.

34. Katlego

Parents wish for their children to succeed in whatever they do. So this is the most suggested name to you as in itself it means ‘success’.

35. Kecia

As said always that a baby is the bundle of joy for every couple and every family. To convey your thoughts to your daughter you can opt for this name as it means ‘joy’.

36. Keeya

A daughter is very pretty and delicate; naming her Keeya will be best as it means ‘a flower of the garden’. Moreover, floral names are in trend now.

37. Kendy

A baby is the life of a parent and is immensely loved. In order to convey your emotions go for this name as it means ‘one who is loved a lot’.

38. Kessie

This is one of the pretty African American girl names. It means ‘lion’; an individual with this name grows to be a great leader in their life.

39. Kinfe

The name means ‘wings’. Every girl has the right to fly high and gain success in life.

40. Kya

This is a short, sweet name which tells the value of the person. It means ‘a diamond in the sky’. In due course, these individuals shine in whatever field they choose.

41. Lesedi

It means ‘a ray of light’. These individuals generally help and support people in pain and need.

42. Lethabo

This is one of those African American girls’ names that means happiness. For every parent, a baby is a bundle of joy.

43. Lu’lu

A child is invaluable to her parents. Naturally, the name means ‘pearl,’ and it perfectly suits your daughter.

44. Malaika

This is a very commonly used name all over the world, which means ‘an angel from heaven’. Thus, it is also a highly suggested name.

45. Masara

This is one of the cute girl names which means ‘a magical woman’. Individuals with such names spread positive vibes wherever they go and are always loved and respected by all.

46. Melokuhle

This is a very strong name which points to the one who always stands for what is right. These people generally are aware of their surroundings and are helpful in nature.

47. Naserian

Luck plays a very important role in everyone’s life. To gift your daughter her luck, you can name her Naserian as it means ‘a lucky person’.

48. Nataki

All parents expect their children to have a successful and comfortable life. Therefore, this name is perfect as it means ‘one who is born royal’.

49. Yakini

This African American baby girl’s name means ‘a truthful, honest woman’. It is a very important quality to be a good person in the future.

50. Zahra

A floral name is always classy for baby girls; it suits their delicate nature. Thus, Zahra is one of the top listed names, which means ‘a flower’.

Beautiful and Cute African American Names for Girls

Here’s a list of beautiful and cute African American names for girls offering parents a wide range of options. These names are aesthetically pleasing and carry meaningful and significant cultural associations. From classic and timeless names to more modern and unique options, there are many different names enlisted here:

1. Abeba

An Ethiopian name meaning “purple flower”. It symbolizes a parent’s love and the beauty of a child blossoming like a flower.

2. Alheri

A Hausa name from Nigeria meaning “kindness” or “grace”. It reflects the hope for a compassionate and graceful daughter.

3. Anuli

An Igbo name from Nigeria meaning “happiness” or “joy”. It is given to celebrate a child as a source of cheer and positivity.

4. Buhle

A Zulu name from South Africa meaning “beauty” or “goodness”. It expresses the parents’ wish for a daughter who is both kind and graceful.

5. Chiamaka

This name has Igbo origin from Nigeria, meaning ‘God is beautiful’. This name speaks of divinity and belief in the beauty of God.

6. Chiondi

This name originates from Zimbabwe and means ‘grateful’. The significance of this name lies in the gratitude that parents have for their beloved baby.

7. Konjit

An Ethiopian name meaning “beautiful”. It reflects the hope for a daughter who is radiant both inside and out.

8. Mbalenhle

Zulu name from South Africa meaning “beautiful flower”. It reflects the hope that a daughter will blossom with beauty and grace.

9. Mia

A Latin name meaning “mine” or “beloved”. It is a popular choice that reflects deep love and affection for a cherished child.

10. Nora

A Latin name meaning “honour” or “light”. It is given to girls with the hope they will live honorably and shine brightly in life.

11. Sadie

A name of Hebrew origin, meaning ‘princess’. This name has a vintage feel to it and is often given to baby girls in admiration and love.

12. Thando

A name of Zulu origin from South Africa, meaning ‘love’. This name is given to baby girls by their  parents in the hope that they will grow up loving and kind-hearted.

13. Thema

This is a  name of South African origin, meaning ‘trust’. It is a culturally significant name in this community and reflects the spirit of reliance and good faith.

14. Willow

A name of English origin, meaning ‘graceful’. This name has become more popular in recent years and is often given to baby girls so they will grow up elegant and graceful.

15. Zuri

A name of Swahili origin, meaning ‘beautiful’. This name is often given to baby girls in pursuit of  beauty, both inside and out.

Popular African American Baby Girl Names

From traditional choices to more modern and unique options, several popular African-American baby girl names exist. Here’s a list of popular African American names with cultural significance, with roots in African languages or African-American history. 

1. Alexandra

A Greek name meaning “defender of mankind”. It reflects parents’ hope for a daughter who is strong, courageous, and protective of others.

2. Alexis

A Greek name meaning “defender” or “helper”. It reflects the wish for a child to grow with a supportive and caring nature.

3. Angel

A Spanish name meaning “messenger” or “angelic”. Parents choose it with the hope their daughter will bring comfort and guidance to others.

4. Aniyah

A name of Hebrew origin, meaning ‘God is gracious’. This name is chosen in aspirations of hope and prosperity for the child.

5. Chloe

A Greek name meaning “green shoot” or “blooming”. It reflects the hope for a daughter who grows vibrant and full of life.

6. Destiny

An English name meaning “fate” or “destiny”. It shows parents’ belief in life’s path and the importance of following one’s purpose.

7. Jayla

An American name meaning “to ascend” or “climb”. It symbolizes aspirations for a child to rise and achieve greatness.

8. Jordan

A Hebrew name meaning “to flow down” or “descend”. It represents hopes for a grounded child who moves through life with ease.

9. Kayla

An American name meaning “beloved” or “crown of laurels”. It reflects love, admiration, and joy for a cherished daughter.

10. Kennedy

An Irish name meaning “helmeted chief” or “leader”. Parents choose it to inspire strength and capable leadership.

11. Madison

An English name meaning “son of Matthew” or “gift of God”. It conveys gratitude for a precious child.

12. Magnolia

A Latin name meaning “flower”. It reflects the hope that a girl will bloom and flourish like a beautiful blossom.

13. Makayla

An American name meaning “who is like God?”. It shows faith and belief in divine power.

14. Nevaeh

An American name meaning “heaven”, spelled backwards. It symbolizes blessings and the hope for a fulfilling life.

15. Rosario

A Spanish name meaning “rosary” or “crown of roses”. It reflects devotion, faith, and spiritual grace.

16. Sydney

An English name meaning “wide island” or “wide meadow”. It expresses hopes for a life filled with opportunities and abundance.

17. Taylor

An English name meaning “tailor” or “to cut”. It represents creativity and shaping one’s own destiny.

18. Tiana

A Slavic name meaning “fairy queen”. It symbolizes beauty, magic, and personal power.

19. Trinity

A Latin name meaning “threefold”. It reflects faith in the Holy Trinity and spiritual strength.

20. Zenobia

A Greek name meaning “life of Zeus”. Inspired by the historic Queen Zenobia, it represents strength, power, and balance.

Unique African American Girl Names

Here are some of the choicest unique names for beautiful African American baby girls: 

1. Neve

Neve is a name of Irish origin, meaning ‘bright’ or ‘radiant’. This name signifies the hope they will shine in their lives and positively impact the world.

2. Nur

A name of Arabic origin, meaning ‘light’ or ‘enlightenment’. This name embodies a spirit of wisdom, knowledge, and the light of God in their lives.

3. Vale

A Latin name meaning “valley”. It reflects love for nature and symbolizes life’s ups and downs with strength and perseverance.

Strong African American Names for Girls

African American women are the epitome of strength and determination. History is witness to that and has seen some exemplary accounts of valour by African American women. If you are also determined to make your buttercup strong and independent, then these names are ideal options!

1. Aaliyah

Aaliyah is a name of Arabic origin meaning ‘intelligent’ or ‘logical’. It is popularised by the late singer Aaliyah

2. Billie

Billie is a unisex name with English roots, often associated with strength and independence. The meaning of the name is ‘strong-willed.’

3. Cleona

A unique name possibly derived from Celtic origins, Cleona means ‘warrior’ or ‘brave.’

4. Dashay

Dasahay is a modern baby name combining creativity and uniqueness, often representing individuality. The name means ‘wise,’ ‘strong,’ and ‘calm.’

5. Elois

Elois is a name of French origin, derived from the Germanic name “Helewidis,” which means ‘holy’ or ‘famous warrior.’

6. Frida

Ever heard of the artist Frida Kahlo? She made the name even more famous than before. This name has Germanic roots and means ‘peaceful ruler.’

7. Gabrielle

Gabrielle is an elegant, feminine name with Hebrew origins. It means ‘God is my strength,’ conveying resilience and faith.

8. Jasmine

A Persian name meaning “fragrant flower”. It symbolizes beauty, grace, and elegance, and is famously featured in Aladdin.

9. Karysha

Karysha is certainly a contemporary name possibly derived from various cultures, reflecting a blend of modernity and tradition.

10. Latoria

Latoria is a modern American name possibly derived from the name ‘Victoria,’ suggesting victory or triumph. This is ideal for girls aiming to become strong and powerful.

11. Michelle

Michelle is a popular French feminine name that means “who is like God?” and embodies the essence of strength and divine qualities.

12. Nina

Nina is an adorable baby name for girls of Spanish or Hebrew origin, meaning ‘little girl’ or ‘grace.’

13. Precious

Precious is an English term referring to something of great value or importance, often given to signify adoration

14. Raven

Raven is a classic, goth-style name for girls. This mystical and darkly beautiful name is inspired by the intelligent bird.

15. Serena

Derived from the Latin culture, Serena is a serene and elegant name, meaning “calm” or “peaceful

16. Toni

Toni is a gender-neutral version of the names Anthony or Antonia, electrifying the air with qualities like strength and determination..

17. Valeria

Valeria is a classic Roman name meaning ‘strength’ or valour,’ suggesting resilience and fortitude.

18. Winnie

Winnie is a vintage and retro-style baby name, a variant of Winifred or Winona, meaning ‘fair one’ or ‘blessed peace.’ exuding warmth and kindness

19. Yevette

Yevette is a variant of the French name Yvette, which means ‘yew wood’ or ‘archer,’ signifying precision and focus.

20. Zora

Representing new beginnings and enlightenment, Zora is a Slavic name meaning ‘dawn’ or ‘light.

Badass African American Names for Girls

African-American baby girl names have a long and rich history, often with powerful and inspiring meanings. From traditional names to modern and unique choices, there are plenty of badass options for parents looking to give their daughters a name that reflects strength and resilience. Here are a few badass African-American baby girl names: 

1. Alaska

A Native American name meaning “great land”. It reflects love for the outdoors and Alaska’s vast natural beauty.

2. Amazon

A Greek name meaning “warrior”. It symbolizes strength, courage, and fearlessness.

3. Artemis

A Greek name meaning “goddess of the hunt”. It represents independence, power, and harmony with nature.

4. Bristol

An English name meaning “place of the bridge”. It conveys adventure, travel, and new experiences.

5. Calixta

A Greek name meaning “most beautiful”. It reflects confidence, self-worth, and standing out boldly.

6. Devyn

An Irish name meaning “poet”. It expresses creativity, artistry, and the gift of expression.

7. Elektra

A Greek name meaning “amber” or “shining”. It is linked with strength, power, and independence.

8. Emersyn

An English name meaning “son of Emery”. It honors family heritage while embracing gender neutrality.

9. Eulalia

A Greek name meaning “well-spoken”. It reflects hopes for eloquence and persuasive communication.

10. Fallon

An Irish name meaning “leader” or “superior one”. It symbolizes confidence and inspiring leadership.

11. Jupiter

A Roman name meaning “god of the sky and thunder”. It conveys power, resilience, and majesty.

12. Lennox

A Scottish name meaning “elm grove”. It reflects strength, nature, and a link to heritage.

13. Liliana

A Latin name meaning “lily”. It symbolizes purity, beauty, and grace like the delicate flower.

14. Lux

A Latin name meaning “light”. It reflects hopes for a daughter who shines brightly and spreads joy and positivity.

15. Lyra

A Greek name meaning “lyre”, a harp-like instrument linked to Apollo and Orpheus. It symbolizes music, creativity, and artistic expression.

Classic Black Girl Names

Classic African-American baby girl names are timeless and elegant, with a cultural significance that spans generations. These names often have deep roots in African-American history and offer parents a way to connect their children with their heritage and ancestry. Here’s a list of some classic names:

1. Ambrose

A Greek name meaning “immortal”. Once used mainly for boys, it now reflects strength, resilience, and longevity for girls as well.

2. Athena

A Greek name meaning “goddess of wisdom and warfare”. It symbolizes intelligence, strategy, and strong leadership.

3. Azha

A name meaning “sunrise” or “star”. It embodies fresh beginnings, light, and celestial beauty.

4. Catalina

A Spanish name derived from Catherina, meaning “pure”. It reflects innocence, beauty, and timeless grace.

5. Cela 

An African name of Yoruba origin meaning “one who is from heaven”. It conveys beauty, grace, and spirituality.

6. Charity

An English virtue name meaning “generosity and kindness”. It represents compassion, empathy, and selflessness.

7. Daphne

A Greek name meaning “laurel tree”. In mythology, it symbolizes beauty, resilience, and strength.

8. Desdemona

A Greek name meaning “unlucky”. Known from Shakespeare’s Othello, it reflects love, loyalty, and tragedy.

9. Dinah

A Hebrew name meaning “judgment” or “vindicated”. It is associated with justice, righteousness, and inner strength.

10. Dolly

An English name, often a diminutive of Dorothy. It carries a sense of sweetness, innocence, and playfulness.

11. Dorina

A Romanian name meaning “gift”. It conveys generosity, kindness, and charm.

12. Flavia 

A Latin name meaning “blonde” or “yellow-haired”. It symbolizes grace, beauty, and quiet strength.

Famous African American Personalities Names for Girls

Many African-American baby girl names have been made popular by notable women throughout history. From iconic musicians to trailblazing civil rights activists, these names carry with them a sense of strength, inspiration, and accomplishment. Choosing a famous African-American baby girl’s name can be a way to pay tribute to these remarkable women and their contributions to society. Here’s a list of some famous African American names:

1. Ada Lovelace

A German name meaning “noble kind”. It was popularized by Ada Lovelace, a pioneering mathematician and writer often called the first computer programmer.

2. Althea Gibson

A Greek name meaning “healing”. It was made famous by Althea Gibson, the first Black athlete to win a Grand Slam tennis title in 1956.

3. Aretha Franklin

A Greek name meaning “virtuous”. It became iconic through Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul.

4. Condoleezza Rice

Inspired by the Italian con dolcezza meaning “with sweetness”. She is known as the first African American woman to serve as U.S. Secretary of State.

5. Ella Fitzgerald

An English name meaning “beautiful fairy woman”. It was made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, the legendary jazz singer known as the First Lady of Song.

6. Halle Berry

An Old English name meaning “from the hall meadow”. It gained popularity from Halle Berry, an Academy Award–winning American actress.

7. Michelle Obama

A French name meaning “Who is like God?” with Luo roots symbolizing strength. It is carried by Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States.

8. Mae Jemison

A Persian name meaning “pearl”. It was popularized by Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space in 1992.

9. Misty Copeland

An English name meaning “misty copse”. It was popularized by Misty Copeland, the first African American woman to become a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre.

10. Nadia Murad 

An Arabic name meaning “hope”. It gained recognition through Nadia Murad, a Nobel Peace Prize–winning human rights activist.

11. Oprah Winfrey

A Hebrew name meaning “fawn”. It is most associated with Oprah Winfrey, the iconic talk show host, actress, and philanthropist.

12. Rosa Parks

A Latin name meaning “rose”. It honors Rosa Parks, the civil rights activist whose actions sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

13. Sherly Swoops

An Old English name meaning “bright meadow”. It was popularized by Sheryl Swoopes, one of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time.

14. Serena Williams

A Latin name meaning “serene” or “calm”. It is most associated with Serena Williams, one of the greatest female tennis players in history.

15. Venus Williams

A Latin name meaning “love”. It is best known through Venus Williams, the legendary American tennis champion.

FAQs

1. Are there any naming ceremonies associated with African American names for girls?

Within African-American culture, names frequently carry significant meaning, often rooted in historical figures or spiritual significance. For example, the name Luther conveys the notion of a ‘warrior for the people,’ while Elijah embodies the powerful concept of ‘God’s strength.’ These names provide parents with an opportunity to select something deeply meaningful. Similarly, the name Nathan, derived from biblical origins, represents a ‘blessing from God,’ highlighting the profound religious ties within African-American families.

2. How do African American girl names reflect cultural heritage?

African American baby names often reflect deep connections to their cultural heritage, history, and personal identities. Names such as Autry, symbolizing ‘noble strength,’ and Gabriel, representing ‘God is my strength,’ embody traits of resilience and determination. Additionally, many names pay tribute to historical figures who fought tirelessly for change and equality. The rich diversity of these names highlights the multifaceted nature of African American culture and emphasizes the importance of embracing and celebrating different naming traditions.

This list is a collection of names with different meanings from the most suggested and beautiful names. We hope you have found the name you were looking for your precious daughter. These female African American names not only carry cultural depth but also symbolize strength, beauty, and individuality. Choosing the right name is a heartfelt decision, and with so many wonderful options, your little girl is sure to have a name that shines bright in every stage of her life.

Also Read:

Italian Baby Names for Girls
Scandinavian Girl Names
Brazilian Names for Baby Girls
Ethiopian Girl Names & Their Meanings

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