101 Ethiopian Girl Names & Their Meanings

Selecting a suitable name for your daughter that is unique, charming, yet timeless is challenging, especially when there are endless names to pick from. In the past few years, people gravitated towards names from cultures other than theirs to serve as inspiration. Ethiopia is one such beautiful place people find themselves drawn to. The nation is steeped in history and rich in culture, tradition, and beauty. Ethiopian girl names perfectly reflect this heritage, offering choices that are both meaningful and graceful. These names not only honor tradition but also carry a modern charm that makes them truly special.

Ethiopian names for girls are deep and meaningful. Still, it can be challenging to select one that aligns with your hopes and values while honouring your spirituality and doing justice to your baby girl’s personality! Whether you want to celebrate their culture or just like their sound, these Ethiopian names will inspire you to find the perfect moniker for your precious princess. So, we have curated a list of elegant Ethiopian female names, one of which might soon be your daughter’s name!

Popular Ethiopian Girl Names

Take a look at the top trending 80 Ethiopian unique names for girls:

1. Aida

Aida is a classic Ethiopian name meaning ‘happy.’ This lovely name is deeply associated with Verdi Opera, a tale of an enslaved Ethiopian princess who sacrificed her life to protect her people.

2. Afia

A unique and classic choice of name, which means ‘born on Friday,’ Afia is a short but cute name for your little girl!

3. Aleksandra

Aleksandra is a feminine version of the Latin name Alexander, and both names mean ‘protector of mankind.’

4. Annabel

Annabel is a combination of names of French and Hebrew origin. Anna is taken from Hebrew, while Belle is taken from French. The name means ‘favoured grace’ or ‘graceful beauty.’

5. Ayana

It is a charming name which means ‘a beautiful flower.’ It is pronounced ‘uh-ya-nuh’ and is an excellent choice for your little princess!

6. Baraka

Baraka is the feminine version of the name Barak. It means ‘blessing,’ it’s a popular name in Africa due to its beautiful meaning.

7. Bathsheba

A regal choice of name for your daughter, Bathsheba, was the name of the daughter of Eliam, one of David’s mighty warriors in the Bible. It means ‘daughter of the oath.’

8. Behati

Beatrice, a famous English name, falls in love with an African and births the lovely name ‘Behati!’ It means ‘she who brings happiness and joy.’

9. Belkis

An unconventional Ethiopian name meaning ‘Queen of Sheba.’ A royal touch to this delicate feminine name makes it all the more appealing!

10. Cheren

Cheren is a cute and unique Ethiopian name of a town in Eritrea—quite an unconventional name for those looking for exclusivity.

11. Dani

A lovely name for girls is the feminine version of the name Daniel. Similar names in this fashion include Danita, Dahnay, and Danielle.

12. Desta

Desta is a happy Ethiopian name for your daughter, meaning ‘happiness.’

13. Eda

Eda is a short and cute girl’s name, meaning ‘wealthy guardian.’ It is a good luck charm for both you and your baby girl!

14. Eshe

Eshe is a classic combination of the names Asha and Aisha. It means ‘life.’ It is a unique name that is sure to turn heads.

15. Faizah

An excellent pick for parents looking for exotic names for their daughters! Faizah is an Arabic and African name which means ‘victorious.’ It’s getting more popularity in the list of Ethiopian baby girl names.

16. Fana

A simple, feminine, delicate name apt for young baby girls! It means ‘jungle!’

17. Galina

Galina is a serene Ethiopian name for girls made for peaceful babies! It is an elegant name of Russian origin, meaning ‘peace’ and ‘tranquil.’

18. Genet

A well-known African-Ethiopian name meaning ‘heaven’ is a rare name that will make people take notice!

19. Halima

A beautiful choice of name for girls, meaning ‘gentle and humane.’ It’s an African Muslim name that refers to the nurse of Prophet Muhammed.

20. Heleri

Heleri is a name tailor-made to suit little girls who are future go-getters! It translates to ‘to be determined.’ 

21. Izara

Izara means ‘a section of a tree.’ Indeed, it is a beautiful rhythmic name for baby girls!

22. Inna

Inna is a classy name of Ukrainian origin that evokes feelings of serenity. It means ‘fast-flowing stream’.

23. Jahzara

Gift your little princess the bliss of a royal name with this classic name, Jahzara, meaning ‘beloved princess.’

24. Jamila

Jamila is a widely popular Arabic name that is famous in African countries. The name Jamila means ‘beautiful,’ just like your little princess!

25. Jazarah

Jazarah means ‘princess,’ It’s a trendy variation of the name Jahzara and is a regal name to bestow upon your little queen!

26. Kadida

Kadida is the Ethiopian version of the Arabic name Khadija, meaning ‘premature child.’ The famous bearer of this name includes Kadida Jones and Khadija of the Maldives, one of the earliest female rulers in a Muslim nation!

27. Kamali

A divine choice of name, Kamali, means an ‘African spirit that protects babies from illness.’ It’s a feminine version of the name Kamal.

28. Katariina

Katariina is an Estonian and Finnish version of the original name Katharine. It means ‘pure.’

29. Kayla

Kayla, originally an Arabic name, is now also popular in Ethiopia! Another famous bearer of the name is the fitness freak Kayla Itsines.

30. Kati

Kati is a short version of the name Katherina and also means ‘pure.’ This would also work as a nickname.

31. Liya

Liya is a Hebrew name which is also common among Ethiopians. It means ‘I am with God.’ Liya is also considered to be the Russian variant of the name Lily.

32. Lea

Lea is a gender-neutral name of Hebrew origin. It means ‘delicate’ and perfectly describes your porcelain angel!

33. Makda

Makda means ‘high tower.’ Makda is an African version of the Hebrew name Magda or Magdalene. It’s an exclusive and rare name you’ll ever come across!

34. Mariam

Mariam is an African and Arabic variation of Mary, one of the most beautiful bible names! The name Mary is going out of style these days, and instead, these beautiful variants are getting popular.

35. Maya

Another beautiful and elegant name is popular in Africa, Arabia, and India. The short and sweet name has gained popularity in recent years.

36. Neela

It is a traditional multi-lingual name that’s common in Ethiopia and India. The Sanskrit meaning of Neela is ‘sapphire blue.’

37. Qwara

A rare Ethiopian name starting with the letter ‘Q.’ Qwara was the ancient name of the Ethiopian tribe and the people of Ethiopia.

38. Senalat

A happy-go-lucky Ethiopian name meaning ‘happy.’ It’s one of the best names you can choose for your daughter.

39. Taci

A short, sweet, and exotic Ethiopian baby name would be an excellent choice if you’re looking for stylish names! The correct pronunciation of this name is ‘Tah-shee.’

40. Winta

A famous Swahili name which means ‘desire.’ Winta is common in many countries, including America, Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.

41. Zoya

Zoya means ‘dawn,’ an East African name well-known in African and Arab countries.

Common Ethiopian Names For Girls

When it comes to naming daughters, many parents in Ethiopia choose names that reflect faith, strength, and cultural pride. Common Ethiopian names for girls often carry deep meanings rooted in tradition, making them both timeless and beautiful. These Ethiopian girl names with meaning continue to be widely loved, blending heritage with everyday charm.

1. Airi

Airi is a beautiful girl’s name, which means ‘pearl’ or ‘affection.’ It is the perfect choice for your precious gem!

2. Aisha

A widely popular name owing to its charming feminine touch! Aisha was also the name of Muhammed’s favourite wife, which makes it all the more lovely and appealing.

3. Amara

It is a trendy feminine name that has been introduced as a name in recent years. It’s an elegant variation of the name Mary. It means ‘immortal’ in Sanskrit and ‘peaceful’ in Mongolian dialects.

4. Angelika

If your daughter has angel-like features and qualities, this name could be it. The name means ‘like an angel.’

5. Anna

Anna is an elegant Ethiopian baby girl name for your little one! It is a form of the Hebrew name Hannah and means ‘grace’ or ‘favour.’

6. Anika

An adorable Ethiopian girl’s name that means ‘sweetness of face.’ Your angel is sure to love this name!

7. Brita

This unconventional yet sassy girl’s name means ‘from Brittany,’ ‘from Great Britain,’ or ‘exalted one.’ 

8. Diarra

A daughter is a precious gift of god! What could be better than naming her with this beautiful Ethiopian name meaning ‘gift.’

9. Edna

A semi-biblical name, Edna was the name of the beloved mother of Apocrypha. It is a timeless classic that is well-recognised by all!

10. Gabra

It is an unusual Ethiopian name, which means ‘almighty is my strength’ or ‘gift of the offering.’

11. Heloisa

A strong and influential baby girl’s name means ‘famous warrior.’ Heloisa is a common Ethiopian name that has French and German origins.

12. Jaana

The name Jaana means ‘saint’ or ‘beloved’, encapsulating what your sweet one means to you!

13. Kristi

Kristi is a female Latin name meaning ‘follower of Christ.’ It is filled with blessings that are backed by your beliefs!

14. Lilian

Lilian is a pretty girl’s name of Latin origin. The name is derived from the floral name Lilium, meaning ‘lily’ or ‘purity.’

15. Louam

A cute, rhythmic Ethiopian baby girl’s name means ‘sleep well.’ It is a charming name that also voices the wish you make each sleepless night!

16. Maarja

Maarja is an Estonian name meaning ‘star of the sea’ or ‘rebelliousness.’ It is apt for babies who will go on to forge their path through life!

17. Marleen

Marleen is an eccentric name of Hebrew origin. It means ‘woman from Magdala’ or ‘star of the sea.’

18. Merili

Merili is an Ethiopian name meaning ‘to be determined.’ It has a melodic ring that you will never get tired of!

19. Melesse

Melesse is an excellent choice of name if you are looking for unique Ethiopian girl names starting with M. The name means eternal.

20. Monika

Monika is a Greek name meaning ‘advisor’ or ‘unique.’ Its variation, Monica, was made famous by a character in the sitcom, ‘Friends.’

21. Nuru

A quintessential feminine name derived from the name ‘Noor,’ it means ‘born during the day.’ This stylish name is embraced widely across many countries due to its simplicity and ease of pronunciation!

22. Nyala

An exotic Ethiopian baby girl name, which means ‘mountain goat.’ It’s an excellent choice as a rare Ethiopian name starting with ‘N.’

23. Piia

Piia is a contemporary and unconventional Ethiopian baby girl whose name means ‘pure’ or ‘pious.’ 

24. Rebeka

Rebeka is a variant of the name Rebecca, which means ‘moderator’ or ‘to tie or bind,’ and could be a name that expresses the unbreakable bond between parents and their baby girls!

25. Reet

Reet is a pretty easy name and pleasant to hear. This Ethiopian name means ‘to be determined.’

26. Riina

This Ethiopian girl’s name means ‘to be determined.’ Riina is a fun name that is befitting of your young achievers.

27. Selam

Introduce the bliss of peace in your little daughter’s life with this fresh Ethiopian name, meaning ‘peace.’

28. Sigrid

Sigrid is a popular Ethiopian female name meaning ‘victory.’ Sigrid is the name of a famous singer.

29. Silja

The Ethiopian name means ‘ghost.’ Parents looking for a unique name may find Silja a worthy option!

30. Subira

It is a pretty Ethiopian name meaning’ patience.’ Since it’s hardly common, it will be perfect if you seek rare and exclusive names.

31. Susanna 

Susanna is a joyful Ethiopian name. It means ‘water lily’ and is a charming name your bundle of joy will love!

32. Tenagne

Not everyone would agree that Tenagne is an exotic feminine name! Tenagne means ‘I was given gold.’

33. Thea 

Thea is a short version of the Greek name Dorothea, which means ‘gift of god.’ It aptly describes your blessings from above!

34. Tuuli 

This unique and unheard-of name is a gem of a name that means ‘wind.’ 

35. Veronika 

Veronika is a mighty name for your little warrior! In Ethiopia, it means ‘victory.’

36. Yeshi Emebet

A perfect pick for those looking for classic Ethiopian orthodox baby girl names, Yeshi Emebet essentially means ‘mistress of thousands of people.’

37. Zanah

Zanah is an Arabic name of Arabic origin popular in Africa and America. It means ‘gifted god.’

38. Zeenat

Zeenat is a traditional name with an Arabic origin and is popular among the Muslim population of India and Africa. Zeenat has many beautiful meanings like ‘decoration,’ ‘beauty,’ and ‘the number 8.’

39. Zeina

Zeina is a variation of the name Zena, which means ‘auspicious or good news.’ A cute nickname of Zee would go well with this name!

40. Zuri

It is a classic, attractive name common among Africans and Americans. The Swahili meaning of this name is ‘pretty’ or ‘beautiful.’

Unique Ethiopian Names for Girls

Ethiopia is a cultural potpourri that is full of beauty and vibrance. These unique Ethiopian names for girls take inspiration from this captivating nation and combine it with their culture and beliefs to bring you unique and unforgettable names!

1. Abeba

A pretty Ethiopian name that is sure to help your little girl blossom into a graceful young woman, Abeba translates to ‘flower.’ Fun fact: It is also a palindrome, meaning it reads the same whether you read it forward or backwards!

2. Abebech

Another name that evokes the joy of watching your little flower grow up, this name stands for ‘flourished’ or ‘she has flowered.’

3. Aberash

A stunning Ethiopian name for girls, Aberash is a befitting name for your ray of sunshine! It means ‘shining light’ or ‘giving off light.’

4. Adey

A highly culturally significant name, Adey refers to the Meskel flower, an Ethiopian daisy which blossoms in September, which is the month in which Ethiopians celebrate the New Year,

5. Adina

An Ethiopian name of Amharic origin, Adina stands for ‘she has saved.’ It is an ideal name for daughters whose presence in your life resembles that of a saviour.

6. Afework

Every word and every sound from your baby’s mouth sounds as sweet as honey, so it’s only fair that they have a name that reflects that! Afework stands for ‘golden mouth,’ ‘sweet sounds,’ and ‘speaker of pleasant things.’ 

7. Alem

A name that encapsulates what your baby girl means to you, Alem is an Amharic name that translates to ‘world’ or ‘universe.’

8. Alitash

Alitash is a beautiful name that expresses your prayers and wishes for your little one. It is Amharic for ‘may I never lose you,’ ‘I will always find you,’ and ‘my precious.’

9. Almaz

A precious name for your priceless gem, Almaz is an Ethiopian name of Amharic origin that means ‘diamond.’ It is also the name of Olympic gold medalist Almaz Ayana

10. Berhene

Berhene is a popular name in Ethiopia and Eritrea, borrowed from the Amharic and Tigrinya languages. It translates to ‘my light.’

11. Berknesh

With the meanings’ you are precious’ and ‘you bring joy,’ this is a no-brainer! Berkenesh is an Ethiopian name that always makes your baby girl feel loved!

12. Bertukan

Bertukan is an adorable name that is as cure as a button! It is Amharic for ‘orange’ and is a vibrant name for a baby girl!

13. Bezawit

A versatile name with varied meanings, Bezawit translates to ‘God is my protection,’ ‘one who sacrifices themselves to save others,’ ‘house of flags,’ ‘life,’ ‘pillar,’ ‘God is perfection,’ and ‘just.’

14. Biftu

Biftu is a name tailor-made for your ray of sunshine. It is an Ethiopian name for baby girls that stands for ‘sun’ and ‘dawn.’

15. Bilen

A cute Ethiopian name for the apple of your eye, Bilen translates to ‘pupil,’ which is a part of the eye that helps you see things,

16. Birkeye

Another name to describe how invaluable your baby girl’s presence is in your life is Birkeye, which means ‘precious.’

17. Bisrat

There is no better news than the arrival of your little girl into this world, so what better way to commemorate this occasion than to name your baby Bisrat, which means ‘good news?’

18. Bogalech

For all the fiery little warriors out there, Bogalech is the perfect name! It stands for ‘glowing’ or ‘she flared.’

19. Candance

An old Ethiopian name that has long been popular worldwide, Candace means ‘clarity’ and was used as a title by queens.

20. Debab

A cheerful name for happy and giggling babies, Debab translates to ‘excitement,’ ‘affection,’ and ‘joy.’

FAQs

1. What is the significance of Ethiopian names?

Ethiopian names draw inspiration from their rich history, culture, traditions, beliefs, and the nature that surrounds them. These names are significant and charming and have an elegant ring, making it the perfect choice for your little angel!

2. Do Ethiopian girl names have specific naming ceremonies or rituals?

While there is a naming ceremony amongst Orthodox Christian families in Ethiopia called ‘mahbär’ or ‘tsïwwa,’ there are no specific rituals about bestowing Ethiopian names on girls.

A name fuses a person with one’s identity and personality and helps them blossom and grow into it. We never get to choose our names; it’s a gift our parents bestow upon us! We hope this list has sparked excitement and served as inspiration on your journey to finding the perfect name for your precious princess! We wish you all the best on this exciting quest to discover the perfect name for your little one! Happy parenting!

Also Read:

Southern Names for Baby Girl
African Girl Names with Meanings
Persian Girl Names & Their Meanings
Filipino Girl Names with Meanings

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