130 African American Names for Girls & Their 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. Selecting a name that reflects the family’s values, culture, and traditions while also considering factors such as pronunciation, uniqueness, and potential nicknames is crucial. Naming a baby also requires careful thought and consideration, and it is essential to take the time to research and 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.

African American (Black) Baby 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 be ‘a strong personality’ 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 out to a crowned person. People with such name 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 center 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, they 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 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 which 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 means, they always attract people around them and be the center of attraction.

30. Julene

Parents always expect their kids to live life 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 one of the commonly used names which 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 proves to be a generous person.

34. Katlego

Parents wish for the success of their children 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’, 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 girl names which 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 child 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

This name of Ethiopian origin means ‘a purple flower’. It is a beautiful and unique name that shows a parent’s love for their child, much like a flower blooms and grows.

2. Buhle

A Zulu name from South Africa, meaning ‘beauty’ or ‘goodness’. This name is often given to baby girls to reflect the parents’ desire to grow up to be beautiful, kind, and good-hearted.

3. Konjit

A name of Ethiopian origin, meaning ‘beautiful’. This name is often given to baby girls in association with their parents, hoping they will grow up to be beautiful inside and out.

4. Mia

A name of Latin origin, meaning ‘mine’ or ‘beloved’. This name has become very popular in recent years. It is chosen by parents showing a deep love for their children. It is a common name amongst firstborns or children born after many years of trying.

5. Nora

This name of Latin origin, meaning ‘honour’ or ‘light’ has been around for centuries and is often given to baby girls by parents who desire for them to be honourable and shine brightly in the world.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. Zuri

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

11. Alheri

A name of Hausa origin from Nigeria, meaning ‘kindness’ or ‘grace’. This name is very popular due to its philanthropic meaning and is given to girls hoping that they embody these traits.

12. Anuli

A name of Igbo origin from Nigeria, meaning ‘happiness’ or ‘joy’. African American communities thrive on joy and so do their babies. Hence, this name is give to foster the feelings of cheer and happiness in their babies.

13. Chiamaka

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

14. 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.

15. Mbalenhle

It is a name of Zulu origin from South Africa, meaning ‘beautiful flower’. African American parents love this name in hopes that their child will grow up to be beautiful and bloom like a flower.

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 name of Greek origin, meaning ‘defender of mankind’. This name is often given to baby girls to express their parents’ hope that they will be strong and courageous defenders of those around them.

2. Alexis

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘defender’ or ‘helper’. This name is chosen in pursuit of developing a  helpful and supportive nature of children towards members of their community.

3. Angel

This is a common name of Spanish origin and means ‘messenger’ or ‘angelic’. This name is often given to baby girls instilling their parents’ hope that they will provide comfort and guidance to those around them.

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 name of Greek origin, meaning ‘green shoot’ or ‘blooming’. This name is often given to baby girls to express their parents’ hope that they will grow up to be vibrant and full of life.

6. Destiny

A name of English origin, meaning ‘fate’ or ‘destiny’. This name oscillates the parents’ belief in the power of fate and the importance of following one’s own path in life.

7. Jayla

Yet another name of American origin, which means ‘to ascend’ or ‘climb’, reflects the parents’ aspirations of their child to climb to new heights and achieve great things in life.

8. Jordan

This name is of Hebrew origin and translates to  ‘to flow down’ or ‘descend’. This name aligns with the parents’ hope that they will be grounded and easily flow through life.

9. Kayla

A name of American origin, meaning ‘beloved’ or ‘crown of laurels’. This name carries the feelings of the parents’ love and admiration for their child.

10. Kennedy

Kennedy is a name of Irish origin and means ‘helmeted chief’ or ‘leader’. This name expresses the parents’ hope that their child will grow into a strong and capable leader.

11. Madison

A name of English origin, meaning ‘son of Matthew’ or ‘gift of God’. It is associated with the parents’ gratitude for their child.

12. Magnolia

is a name of Latin origin, meaning ‘flower’ and is often given to baby girls by parents hoping they will bloom and flourish like a beautiful flower.

13. Makayla

A name of American origin, meaning ‘who is like God?’. This name is given to baby girls embodying faith and belief in the power of God.

14. Nevaeh

A name of American origin, meaning ‘heaven’, spelt backwards. African American parents often choose this name in the hope that they will be blessed and lead a fulfilling life.

15. Rosario

A name of Spanish origin, meaning ‘rosary’ or ‘crown of roses’. It also relates to a spirit of faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary.

16. Sydney

A name of English origin, meaning ‘wide island’ or ‘wide meadow’. This name is often given to baby girls to express their parents’ hope that they will have a wide and fruitful life.

17. Taylor

A name of English origin, meaning ‘tailor’ or ‘to cut’. By giving this name, parents hope their child will be creative and innovative, able to shape their destiny.

18. Tiana

A name of Slavic origin, meaning ‘fairy queen’. This name may be given to baby girls in hope that they will be beautiful, magical, and powerful in their own way.

19. Trinity

A name of Latin origin, meaning ‘threefold’. This name is associated with the parents’ belief in the power of the Holy Trinity and the importance of faith.

20. Zenobia

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘life of Zeus’. This name reflects an admiration for strong and powerful women in history, such as the ancient Queen Zenobia of Palmyra. The name may also be associated with the concept of ‘zen’ and a peaceful, balanced way of living.

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

This name of Latin origin means ‘valley’. It is often given to baby girls to showcase their parents’ appreciation for nature and the beauty of the outdoors. It may also symbolise the ups and downs of life and the importance of perseverance through difficult times.

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 name of Native American origin, meaning ‘great land’. This name is often given to baby girls to express their parents’ love for the outdoors and Alaska’s vast, wild beauty.

2. Amazon

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘warrior’. This name is often given to baby girls hoping they will be strong, fierce, and unafraid to fight for what they believe in.

3. Artemis

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘goddess of the hunt’. This name reflects their parents’ admiration for powerful, independent women who are in touch with nature and their inner strength.

4. Bristol

A name of English origin, meaning ‘place of the bridge’. This name resonates with travel, adventure, and the desire to explore new places and experiences.

5. Calixta

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘most beautiful’. This name is often given to baby girls reflecting a hope that they will be confident in their own beauty and worth and not afraid to stand out from the crowd.

6. Devyn

A name of Irish origin, meaning ‘poet’. This name is often chosen by parents in appreciation for the arts and creativity and the hope that their child will express herself through writing, music, or other forms of artistic expression.

7. Elektra

The name Elektra means “amber” or “shining” in Greek. It is often associated with strength, power, and independence, as these were traits exhibited by the mythical character Elektra. It is possible that the name Elektra was adopted by African Americans due to its association with strength and independence. 

8. Emersyn

A name of English origin, meaning ‘son of Emery’. This name symbolises gender neutrality and breaking traditional gender norms while still honouring family heritage and tradition.

9. Eulalia

A name of Greek origin, meaning ‘well-spoken’. Babies with this often become articulate and persuasive communicators who can make a difference in the world.

10. Fallon

A name of Irish origin, meaning ‘leader’ or ‘superior one’. This name is chosen by parents in the hope that they will be confident, decisive leaders who can inspire others to follow.

11. Jupiter

A name of Roman origin, meaning ‘god of the sky and thunder’. This name is often given to baby girls as a way of expressing their parents’ admiration for the power and majesty of the natural world and the hope that their child will be as strong and resilient as a thunderstorm.

12. Lennox

This is a  name of Scottish origin, meaning ‘elm grove’. It reflects a strong appreciation for nature and trees’ beauty while honouring their Scottish heritage.

13. Liliana

This is a name of Latin origin, meaning ‘lily’ and resonates to a hope that they will be pure, beautiful, and graceful, like the delicate flower.

14. Lux

A name of Latin origin, meaning ‘light’, is often given to baby girls to express their parents’ aspirations that they will shine in their lives and bring positivity and joy to those around them.

15. Lyra

This is a unique name of Greek origin that means ‘lyre,’ a small harp-like instrument. In Greek mythology, the lyre was associated with the god Apollo and was often played by the legendary musician Orpheus. Lyra is not traditionally African-American, but it has gained popularity among parents of various backgrounds. Its association with music and creativity could make it a meaningful choice for parents who value those qualities in their children.

Classic Black Names for Girls

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

This is a unique name of Greek origin that means ‘immortal’. It was traditionally used for boys, but in recent years, it has also become more common for girls. The name is associated with strength, resilience, and longevity.

2. Athena

This is a classic name of Greek origin that means ‘goddess of wisdom and warfare’. In Greek mythology, Athena was a powerful and wise goddess often associated with wisdom, strategy, and justice. The name is associated with intelligence, strength, and leadership.

3. Azha

The name “Azha” encompasses the symbolism of “sunrise” and “star,” embodying the essence of a fresh beginning at the break of dawn and the luminosity and splendor attributed to celestial entities.

4. Catalina

This is a romantic name of Spanish origin that means ‘pure’. It is derived from the Latin name Catherina and is associated with qualities such as innocence, purity, and beauty. The name has been used in various cultures and languages throughout history, including in Spain, Italy, and Latin America.

5. Cela 

Cela is a unique name of African origin that means ‘one who is from heaven’. It is a popular name among the Yoruba people of Nigeria and is associated with beauty, grace, and spirituality.

6. Charity

Charity is a virtue name of English origin that means ‘generosity and kindness toward others’. It is associated with qualities such as compassion, empathy, and altruism. The name has been popular among African American families, particularly in religious communities, and is often seen as a positive and meaningful choice.

7. Daphne

Daphne is a classic name of Greek origin that means ‘laurel tree’. In Greek mythology, Daphne was a nymph who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape the advances of the god Apollo. The name is associated with beauty, strength, and resilience.

8. Desdemona

Desdemona is a unique name of Greek origin that means ‘unlucky’. It was made famous by the Shakespearean tragedy Othello, in which Desdemona is the wife of the titular character. The name is associated with tragedy, love, and loyalty.

9. Dinah

Dinah is a name of Hebrew origin that means ‘judgment’ or ‘vindicated’. It is associated with qualities such as justice, righteousness, and strength. The name has been used in various cultures and languages throughout history, including in African American communities.

10. Dolly

Dolly is a nickname of English origin often used as a shortened form of Dorothy. It is associated with qualities such as playfulness, innocence, and sweetness. The name has been popular among African American families, particularly in the southern United States.

11. Dorina

Dorina is a romantic name of Romanian origin that means ‘gift’. It is associated with qualities such as generosity, kindness, and beauty. The name has been used in various cultures and languages throughout history, including Romania and other parts of Eastern Europe.

12. Flavia 

This is a classic name of Latin origin that means ‘blonde’ or ‘yellow-haired’. It is associated with qualities such as beauty, grace, and strength. The name has been used in various cultures and languages throughout history, including in ancient Rome and among African American families today.

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. Mae Jemison

Mae Jemison is an African American baby girl name that means ‘pearl’. The Persian name was popularized by Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut to travel in space in 1992.

2. Ada Lovelace

Ada Lovelace is an African American baby girl name that means ‘noble kind’. The name has a German origin and was popularized by Ada Lovelace, an English mathematician and writer widely known for her work on Charles Babbage’s early mechanical general-purpose computer.

3. Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald is an African American baby girl name that means ‘beautiful fairy woman’. The name is English and was popularized by Ella Fitzgerald, a famous jazz singer often called the First Lady of Song.

4. Halle Berry

Halle Berry is an African American baby girl name that means ‘from the hall meadow’. The name is Old English and was popularized by Halle Berry, an American actress who won an Academy Award for her role in the film Monster’s Ball.

5. Misty Copeland

Misty Copeland is an African American baby girl name that means ‘misty copse’. The name is English and was popularised by Misty Copeland, an American ballet dancer who became the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre.

6. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey is an African American baby girl name that means ‘fawn’. The name is Hebrew and popularized by Oprah Winfrey, an American talk show host, actress, and philanthropist.

7. Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks is an African American baby girl name that means ‘rose’. The name has a Latin origin and was popularised by Rosa Parks, a civil rights activist who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

8. Sherly Swoops

Sherly Swoops is an African American baby girl name that means ‘bright meadow’. The name is Old English and was popularised by Sherly Swoopes, a retired American professional basketball player considered one of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time.

9. Venus Williams

Venus Williams is an African American baby girl name that means ‘love’. The name is Latin and was popularised by Venus Williams, an American professional tennis player considered one of the greatest female tennis players ever.

10. Althea Gibson

Althea Gibson is an African American baby girl name that means ‘healing’. The name has a Greek origin and was popularised by Althea Gibson, an American tennis player who was the first black athlete to win a Grand Slam title in 1956.

11. Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin is an African American baby girl name that means ‘virtuous’. The name is Greek and popularised by Aretha Franklin, an American singer and songwriter known as the ‘Queen of Soul’.

12. Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi is an African American baby girl name that means ‘beauty’. The name has a Sanskrit origin and was popularised by Indira Gandhi, an Indian politician who served as India’s first and only female Prime Minister.

13. Nadia Murad 

Nadia Murad is an African American baby girl name that means ‘hope’. The name is Arabic and was popularized by Nadia Murad, an Iraqi human rights activist awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018.

14. Serena Williams

Serena Williams is an African American baby girl name that means ‘serene, calm’. The name is Latin and was popularized by Serena Williams, an American professional tennis player considered one of the greatest female tennis players ever.

15. Condoleezza Rice

It is believed to have been created by combining the Italian musical term ‘con dolcezza’, which means ‘with sweetness’ and the French word ‘condoléance’, which means sympathy or condolence. Condoleezza Rice is also the name of a prominent African American political figure who served as the United States Secretary of State under President George W. Bush from 2005 to 2009. She was the first African American woman to hold this position.

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.