If you’re looking for a Brazilian girl’s name to keep your heritage alive, or simply because you love the people and culture of Brazil, you have plenty of choices! Brazil has a variety of influences, and the names reflect the Portuguese, Italian, and Latin American influences on the country.
There are also beautiful indigenous names drawn from several different religions practiced in Brazil. Then since about 5,000 miles of the country is coastline, it’s no wonder that many names on our list suggest the sea! You can also find Brazilian girl names based on flowers and trees, celebrating the countries rich natural beauty.
Whatever your family’s values, you’re sure to find a baby girl’s name on this list that’s perfect for your little one!
100 Beautiful Brazilian Names for Girls
These Brazilian girl names invoke the beauty of this beautiful country.
Abai
Abai is a beautiful, exotic name that comes from the Nile River. It’s also an example of the influences of African culture on the country of Brazil. If you love the water, this is a great name for a baby girl!
- Origin: Ethiopian
- Meaning: The Nile River
- Popularity: Abai is an unusual name that is not very popular in Western countries.
Adriana
Adriana is a beautiful Brazilian name for girls, and since it’s less popular, it will likely be unique to your little girl. Because Adriana derives its name from the Adriatic Sea, it’s the perfect, pretty name for a little water baby!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Sea, water, of the Adriatic Sea, dark
- Variations: Adrianna
- Popularity: Adriana peaked in Brazil in 1970 and has been steadily decreasing since then.
- Namesakes: Adriana Lima, a Brazilian model, and actress who was a Victoria’s Secret Angel.
Alana
Alana originated in several different places, including Ireland and Hawaii, but always with meanings of beauty, harmony, or serenity. Although it isn’t currently a popular name in the U.S., there have been female characters named Alana in recent movies and shows, including Alana Beck in Dear Evan Hansen and Alanna Mosvani from the Wheel of Time series.
- Origin: Irish, Old High German, Hawaiian
- Meaning: Precious, awakening, beautiful offering
- Pronunciation: ah-LAH-nah
- Variations: Alanna, Alannah, Alaina, Alena
- Popularity: Alana is not in the top 100 most popular names in the U.S., making it rare.
Alandra
Alandra is a fun, modern way to shorten Alexandra or Alejandra. It’s also a fierce name for a little girl!
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Protector of mankind
- Pronunciation: a-land-ra
- Variations: Alejandra, Alexandra, Sandra, Sondra, Zandra
Alessandra
Alessandra is the Italian version of Alexandra – taking all the harsh consonants and replacing them with soft “s” sounds for a lovely-sounding name. It’s not one of the top 100 U.S. names, but it is in the top 1,000, so people could have heard it before, but she likely won’t be sharing a class with several others of the same name.
Ana
Ana’s connotations of grace and beauty make it a sweet choice for a baby girl. Actress Ana de Armas has helped make this name a popular one in the U.S. and elsewhere.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Favored, grace, beautiful
- Pronunciation: AHN-ah
- Variations: Anna, Ann, Anya, Annie, Anja, Hannah, Hanna
- Namesakes: Ana de Armas, an actress. Ana Gasteyer, a comedian and funny Saturday Night Live cast member.
- Popularity: Ana is at its highest popularity ever in Brazil. In the U.S., it just broke the top 200 and is rising in popularity.
Anita
Anita is a pretty name of grace and beauty for a little girl! Anita in West Side Story was a strong, sexy, sarcastic woman who was a fierce dancer and had a great sense of pride. Anita would make an excellent choice for an artistic, strong-minded girl.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Graceful
- Namesakes: Anita Hill, a lawyer. Anita O’ Day, a jazz singer.
- Popularity: Anita is a fairly popular name.
Antonia
Antonia was used as the name of the women in the Roman Antonius family (Mark Antony’s family), so it’s a regal name with many years of history behind it. There are many adorable variations of the name if parents want a shortened version for a little girl.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Priceless, valuable, praiseworthy, beautiful
- Variations: Antoinette, Antonella, Antonette, Antonija, Nela, Nettie, Toni, Tonia
- Namesakes: A.S. Byatt, a famous writer. Toni Collette, an Australian actress.
Aparecida
This beautiful, unusual name is native to Brazil and comes from a story of a statue of the Virgin Mary that was pulled from a river by a fisherman in the 1700s. Our Lady of Aparecida is the patron saint of Brazil. Aparecida is more common in Brazil, but would be a lovely, unique name in the United States.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Appeared
Arlette
Arlette is a French name but popular in some African countries and Brazill. This is a lovely name with religious connotations. Arlette invokes a principled, strong girl who will stand up for what she believes in.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Lioness of God, noble honor
- Pronunciation: Ar-LET
- Variations: Arlene, Arleta, Arleth, Arletta, Arlie, Lettie, Lett
Atiena
This is a wonderful and unusual name that will remind people of God’s goodness – especially since He blessed the world with your new baby girl!
- Origin: Portuguese; Swahili
- Meaning: God is bountiful, guardian of the night
- Popularity: Atiena is a very rare name.
Augustinha
Although you will occasionally find girls named Augustina, Augustinha is a unique name you’ll mostly find in Brazil. This is a fantastic pick if you’re looking for a traditional Brazilian girls’ name!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: To increase
- Pronunciation: AWG-ah-STEEN-ah
- Variations: Augustina, Augusta, Augustine, Austine
- Popularity: Augustinha is a very unusual name and not commonly used.
Aurea
Aurea is a version of Aurora, the Roman goddess of the dawn. Aurora became popular after it was given to the golden-haired Disney princess in “Sleeping Beauty.” This is a beautiful twist on the original name!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Golden
- Variations: Aurora
- Namesakes: Auria, queen of Pamplona. Aurea, a Portuguese soul singer.
- Popularity: Aurea is a very unusual name and not commonly used.
Ayiqueo
Ayiqueo is a wonderfully unique name. Although it means “soft-spoken” and “pleasant,” that doesn’t indicate that this girl would be a pushover! It’s possible to have a spine of steel while still being pleasant, which is a crucial trait for diplomacy and being able to help leaders agree with each other. A girl with these talents could be pretty powerful and successful one day!
- Origin: African, Brazilian
- Meaning: Soft-spoken, pleasant
Beatriz
Dante wrote ancient poetry about Beatrice, who was worthy of speaking for God. There are many variations of the name, and while the Spanish version is becoming more popular, it’s still a unique name in the U.S.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Brings joy, voyager, blessed
- Pronunciation: be-ah-TREES
- Variations: Beatrice, Beatrix, Bea, Betty, Trix, Trixie
- Namesakes: Bea Arthur, an actress best known for The Golden Girls. Bebe Neuwirth, a TV and Broadway actress. Beatrix Potter, the author of Peter Rabbit. Princess Beatrice of York, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II.
Belinda
Derived from the Italian word “bella,” Belinda is literally a beautiful name! While Belle and Bella are trendier names currently, Belinda is a unique, vintage-sounding name with a lovely connotation.
- Origin: Italian, Old German
- Meaning: Beautiful
- Pronunciation: buh-LIN-duh
- Variations: Belle, Bindy, Bella, Linda, Lindie
- Namesakes: Belinda Carlisle, a singer and lead vocalist of The Go-Go’s.
- Popularity: Belinda’s popularity in the U.S. peaked in the 1960s, and it is now a rare name.
Belmira
This beautiful name means “beautiful,” making it a perfect Brazilian girl’s name for a baby girl who is beautiful, both inside and out!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Beautiful woman
Benigna
This is a lovely name that means mild and gentle. It has fallen off the list of U.S. names for baby girls entirely, making it a wonderfully unique choice for a little girl.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Gentle, favorable, benign
- Pronunciation: Beh-NIHGN-aa
Bianca
This is a pretty, vintage Brazilian girl’s name that’s not unheard of but isn’t common, either. Bianca is a central figure in Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew play, so could be a perfect name for a literary family.
- Origin: Italian, Spanish
- Meaning: White, pure
- Pronunciation: bee-ahn-kah
- Namesakes: Bianca Jagger, an actress, social human rights advocate, and ex-wife of Mick Jagger. Bianca Lamblin, a French writer. Bianca Gascoigne, a British model, and TV personality.
Bibiana
A wonderful, life-giving name like this Brazilian girl’s name is an excellent choice! It’s ideal for parents who wish to raise a vivacious girl who loves adventuring and exploring and making her way through this messy big world we live in.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Alive, one who is full of life
Bosalicia
Flower names are always such sweet names for baby girls! Bosalicia is a beautiful, more unusual flower-inspired name than the standard ones you usually hear and makes a lovely alternative to the more common Rose.
- Origin: Mexican
- Meaning: One with the nobility of a rose
- Popularity: This is an unusual name in English-speaking countries.
Camila
Camila is the Spanish version of Camilla, a Roman maiden and warrior who served the goddess, Diana. It’s a beautiful, badass name for a girl who will grow into a strong woman! It has also surged recently, perhaps because of the popularity of singer Camila Cabello.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Helper to the priest
- Pronunciation: Cam-EE-la
- Variations: Cami, Camie, Millie, Milly, Kamila, Mila
- Namesakes: Camila Cabello, a Cuban pop singer. Camila Alves, a Brazilian-American model, and designer.
- Popularity: Camila was mildly popular in the 1960s, but has spiked again in recent years.
Carla
Carla indicates a free woman, and would be a great name for a girl who won’t let others take over or tell her what to do, but will forge her own way!
- Origin: Old German
- Meaning: Strong woman, free woman
- Pronunciation: KAR-la
- Variations: Carly, Karla, Karlee, Carlee, Carleigh, Karla
- Namesakes: Carla Gugino, an actress. Carla Bruni, an Italian-French singer-songwriter. Carla Suárez Navarro, a Spanish tennis player.
Celia
Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of musicians, making this a creative, artistic name for a little girl! Celia isn’t a common name in the U.S., but it has a classic sound that makes it perfect for parents who want a unique but vintage-sounding name.
Clarinda
Poetry lovers will appreciate that Clarinda is a character in the poem The Faerie Queene, written in the 1500s. It includes many of the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, making Clarinda a delightful medieval-feeling name, fit for a fairy princess.
Constanta
Constanta has its roots in the word constant, denoting a girl who will not be a pushover. It could be a wonderful fit for parents who hope to raise a strong, steadfast young lady who will stand up for what she believes in.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Constant, steadfast
- Variations: Constance, Connie, Constancia, Constanze
- Popularity: While Constanta is popular in Brazil and Romania, it is not in the U.S.
Corliss
Corliss is a poetic-sounding name that brings English countrysides and medieval castles to mind. It’s perfect for a carefree, happy-go-lucky little girl!
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Kindhearted, carefree
- Pronunciation: KOR-liss
- Variations: Carlesse, Karelees, Kareles, Corless, Korelees
- Popularity: After a spike in popularity, Corliss is now a rare name.
Daiane
If you’re looking for a name that is closely associated with Brazil, this is it! Daiane could be perfect for a tiny baby girl with a big future ahead of her.
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: Clever, beautiful
- Pronunciation: day-ANN
- Variations: Diane, Dianna, Diana, Deanna, Dyann, Dionne, Diandra
Daniela
Daniela is derived from Daniel – a discerning and honorable man of God in the Bible who was not swayed by the trends around him but stood firm. It’s a great pick for a girl who will grow up to be her own woman and won’t be easily persuaded to follow others instead of her own convictions.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my judge
- Variations: Danielle, Dani, Ella
- Popularity: Daniela is a popular name.
Diolinda
This charming name points to the beauty of God and would be an excellent choice for a Catholic family or for a family that feels incredibly blessed.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Beautiful God
- Variations: Delinda, Dalinda, Dalanda, Talinda, Dalynda, Deolinda, Delynda, Delonda
Dylla
Dylla is a shorter, unique name. It’s perfect for a girl whose family values self-sufficiency and wants to encourage her to be a strong, self-starting leader!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Self-reliant
- Pronunciation: DIL-ah
Efigênia
In Greek mythology, Efigênia is the daughter of Agamemnon who commanded the Greek forces in the Trojan War. It’s a perfect name for a family that loves history or Greek mythology and epic stories!
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Vigorous, sacrifice
- Pronunciation: ey-Fey-HHEY-Niy-aa
- Variations: Iphigenia, Iphigenie
- Popularity: Efigênia is a very rare name.
Elisa
Elisa is one of the many variations on Elizabeth, and is a shorter, modern take on the classic name. It’s a beautiful choice for a baby girl!
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Divine promise, God is a promise
- Pronunciation: Eh-lee-sah
- Variations: Elisabeta, Elisabeth, Eliza, Elle, Elsa, Isa, Isabella, Lisette, Liza
- Namesakes: Elisa Di Fracisca, an Italian foil fencer who was the Olympic champion in 2012. Elisa Toffoli, an Italian singersongwriter.
- Popularity: Elisa is a fairly popular name.
Fabiana
The Fabia family was an ancient, powerful Roman family, so this is a great choice for a girl who will grow up to be successful! Saint Fabius was a saint and martyr, and Saint Fabiola was a female physician, so your baby will be part of a long line of admirable people with this name.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: Lucky, bean grower
- Namesakes: Fabiana Beltrame, a Brazilian rower. Fabiana López, a Mexican fencer. Fabiana Udenio, an actress.
Fátima
Fátima is said to have been the favorite daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. Our Lady of Fatima is also a Catholic name for the Virgin Mary, making it a beautiful name for different faiths.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: To abstain from forbidden things, daughter of the prophet
- Variations: Ima, Ema, Tima
- Namesakes: Fatima Rainey, a Swedish pop singer. Fatima Robinson, a music video director, and choreographer. Fatima Siad, a Somali-American model.
Fernanda
Fernanda is a stunning choice for a go-getter girl! Since it means “adventurous,” it’s a great name choice if you hope to raise a girl who likes to grab life by the horns and get out there and explore.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Adventurous
- Variations: Nanda, Ferdinanda, Fernandina
- Namesakes: Fernanda Abreu, a popular Brazilian singer. Fernanda Castillo, a Mexican actress.
Francisca
Francisca is a lyrical, unusual name in many English-speaking countries, making it an excellent choice for someone looking for a unique baby name. It’s the female version of the more popular Francisco, but for some reason, it hasn’t caught on in the same way.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: From France, free one
- Variations: Francesca, Frances, Franny, Fran, Fanny, Sissy
- Popularity: Francisca peaked in popularity in Brazil in the 1960s and is declining now. It is considered a rare name in the U.S.
Gabriela
Gabriela denotes a woman of character and strength who knows she doesn’t need to worry about other people’s opinions because God is her strength. It’s a beautiful Brazilian name for a girl whose family is devout and wants to teach her to rely on God rather than people.
- Origin: Italian, Spanish
- Meaning: A strong woman of God, God is my strength
- Variations: Gabi, Gabriella, Gabriele, Gabrielle
- Namesakes: Gabriela Sabatini, an Argentine tennis player. Gabriela Mistral, a Chilean poet, and diplomat. Gabriela Spanic, a Venezuelan actress and singer.
Gilma
Because this name is Portuguese and is originally from Brazil, it’s a beautiful way to pay tribute to the country. Gilma would be perfect for a future leader!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Forward-looking
- Pronunciation: GIL-ma
- Popularity: Gilma is considered an unusual name in the U.S.
Guadalupe
Guadalupe is a cool, unisex name from Our Lady of Guadalupe and reminds people of two apparitions associated with the Virgin Mary. It’s also the name of a city in Mexico and is a fantastic way to signify strong ties with Latin heritage and sites.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: River of the wolf
- Pronunciation: gwah-dah-LOO-peh
- Variations: Lupe, Lupita
- Namesakes: Guadalupe Canseco, a Mexican Olympic diver. María Guadalupe Villalobos Vélez, known as Lupe Vélez, a Mexican actress who starred in many classic Hollywood films.
Hortência
Hortência is usually associated with gardening and vegetables, making it the perfect Brazilian girl’s name for a family that loves nature and getting outdoors. Your daughter could have the ultimate gardening green thumb with a start like this!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Gardener, a woman who grows vegetables
- Pronunciation: hor-t-en-see-ya
- Namesakes: Hortência Marcari, considered one of Brazil’s greatest female basketball players.
Iara
If the beauty of the water, and vast beauty of the wide ocean are things you treasure, this is a great Brazilian girl’s name for your little one!
- Origin: Brazilian Indigenous
- Meaning: Lady of the waters, water beauty
- Pronunciation: YAAR-aa
- Namesakes: Iara Ramos, a Brazilian model. Iara Dias dos Santos, a Brazilian singer and songwriter.
- Popularity: Iara is a very rare name.
Ifeya
This charming Brazilian female name is a great way to honor the country’s indigenous people! Of course, everyone will agree that a baby girl is undoubtedly lovable and worth cherishing.
- Origin: Brazilian, Yoruba
- Meaning: A lovable woman
Ileana
This lyrical name is a lovely way to show that you consider your little girl an answer to prayer. It’s one of the beautiful Brazilian names for girls!
- Origin: Hebrew, Greek
- Meaning: God has answered
- Pronunciation: i-lea-na
- Variations: Aileen, Eileen, Eliana
- Namesakes: Illeana Douglas, an actress. Princess Ileana of Romania. Ileana D’Cruz, an Indian actress.
- Popularity: Ileana is a pretty rare name.
Immaculata
Immaculata is a wonderful name with religious undertones, because Immaculata indicated the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. It’s a beautiful tribute to Catholicism, in particular.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Perfect, immaculate
- Popularity: Immaculata is an uncommon name.
Izabel
Izabel is a fascinating twist on the more common Isabel, making it a unique choice for a Brazilian girl’s name! It’s also a reminder of the goodness of God, and is a stunning choice for a Catholic family.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: God is bountiful
- Variations: Isabel, Elizabeth, Elisheba, Elisabel, Isabella, Isabelle
- Popularity: Although Izabel has never been very popular, it did spike upwards in the 1990s but is less popular now.
Jacey
Jacey sounds like a trendy, modern name, but it has been around for a long time! Because it’s associated with the hyacinth, it’s a perfect choice for a flower name, and the flower’s spicy scent is an excellent choice for a cute, spunky girl!
- Origin: Native American, Spanish, Greek
- Meaning: Beautiful, happy, hyacinth flower
- Popularity: Jacey is a somewhat rare name.
Janaína
Janaína comes from the Afro Brazilian indigenous religion of Candomblé, also known as the goddess Iemanjá in Portuguese- a strong woman who looks out for mothers and protects their children. She also embodies the sea, which is an exquisite name for a baby girl.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: Mother
- Pronunciation: ja-NAI-na
- Variations: Yemalla, Yemana
Juanita
Because Juanita was a more popular baby name several generations ago, there’s a good chance most babies won’t have the name, making it a great, unusual choice! It is also a beautiful message of faith.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: hwah-NEE-tah
- Variations: Jane, Juana, Junita, Nita, Wanetta, Wanita
- Popularity: Juanita is a popular name in Spain and Latin America and is more common in the U.S. among older generations.
Juliana
Juliana was the name of several early saints, making it a beautiful religious name for a baby girl. It also lends itself easily to being shortened when she’s younger, with several options for nicknames.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Youthful
- Pronunciation: JOO-lee-AH- nuh
- Variations: Julianna, Giuliana, Iuliana, Yuliana, Julia, Julie
- Popularity: Juliana was a popular name in Brazil in the early 1980s but has dropped off since then. In the U.S., it has been in the top 200 names since 2001.
Kiania
Kiania invokes images of a gorgeous morning sunrise, and symbolizes new beginnings and the hope of each new day. It’s a beautiful name for a nature-loving family, and a celebration of fresh starts!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Dawn
- Pronunciation: kee-AHN-ee-ah
Lara
Lara has several mythological roots – Lara was a beautiful nymph in Roman mythology who was a gossip and the mother of guardian deities who looked after households. Lara also comes from Larissa, known for having three sons with Poseidon, who ruled different areas of Greece.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Bright and famous, laurel leaf
- Pronunciation: LA-rah
- Variations: Laura, Laurel, Lauren, Larissa
Lia
Lia is the Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese version of Leah, the sister of Rachel and the mother of Judah from whom Jesus descended. Leah is seen as a symbol of a fruitful marriage – although her sister was considered the beauty and Jacob’s favorite wife, Leah was a faithful follower of God and produced most of the sons in the family.
- Origin: Hebrew, Greek
- Meaning: Languid, relaxed, bearer of good news
- Variations: Leah, Lea, Lya, Leia, Leah
- Namesakes: Lia Andrea Ramos, a Filipina model. Lia Finocchiaro, an Australian politician. Lia McHugh, an actress.
- Popularity: Lia is a popular name.
Lílian
Lílian is a beautiful floral name that has been a consistent favorite among girl names for a long time. It’s a sweet name with an old-fashioned, but not frumpy, feel.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Pure and innocent, lily flower
- Variations: Liliana, Lillian, Lilly, Lili, Lillie
- Namesakes: Princess Lilian of Belgium. Lillian Gish, an early film actress. Lilian Rolfe, an Allied secret agent in World War II.
Luana
Luana could perfectly encapsulate a cheerful girl who finds enjoyment in everything! It also invokes images of Hawaii, where it originated.
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Meaning: Enjoyment
- Pronunciation: loo-AHN-ah
- Variations: Anna, Ana, Louisa, Ann, Lula, Louanne, Lou, Lu, Lulu
Luara
Like the much more popular Laura, Luara indicates a strong sense of victory and success. However, it’s an unusual name that could be a special one for your baby girl!
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: Glorious winner
- Popularity: Luara is a very rare name.
Lygia
Lygia is a melodic-sounding name, which is perfect since it means “musical.” It would be an excellent choice for a family of musicians or artists who love song and dance and creative expression.
- Origin: Ancient Greek
- Meaning: Clear voice, musical
- Pronunciation: Lee-gee-ah
- Variations: Eligia, Ligia
- Popularity: Lygia is a rare name.
Manuela
Manuela is a variation of Emmanuel, which, as many people know from the Christmas season, means “God with us.” It’s a beautiful, year-round reminder of the goodness and presence of God and an excellent Brazilian girl’s name for a devout family!
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God with us
- Variations: Emmanuelle, Emmanuel
Marcela
Marcela is a pretty name for a strong little girl! The name has Mars, the god of war, at its root.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Little warrior
- Variations: Marcelina, Marceline, Marcella, Marcelle, Marcelyn, Marchelle, Marcie, Marcy
Márcia
Since Mars is the god of war, this is a great name for a fierce little girl who will grow up to be a strong woman!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Dedicated to Mars, warrior
- Pronunciation: MAR-see-ah
- Variations: Marcia, Marsha, Marcie
Margarete
Margarete is an attractive choice among our Brazilian girl names that shows your baby is your precious pearl. It also has a wide variety of variations, so she’ll have many nickname choices to choose from as she gets older.
Margarida
Name your precious girl Margarida, and display how much you treasure your newest addition to the family. Margarida also means “daisy flower” – a fresh, pretty, perky flower that brings everyone joy.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Pearl, daisy flower
- Variations: Margaret
- Popularity: Margarida is an uncommon name.
Maria
Many people use Maria as a variation of Mary, the mother of Jesus, so it’s a beautiful name for those belonging to the Christian faith. Although the name is rising in popularity in Brazil, it’s not in the top 100 most popular girl names in the U.S., making it an excellent choice for a less common name.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Of the sea, bitter, beloved, rebellious
- Pronunciation: Marh-REE-ah
- Variations: Maarja, Maleah, Mari, Mariah, Mariam, Marie, Mariya, Marja, Mary, Marya
- Namesakes: Maria Shriver, a journalist, former First Lady of California, and niece of JFK. Maria (Meryl) Streep, an American actress. Maria Sharapova, a Russian tennis player
- Popularity: Maria is a somewhat popular name.
Maya
Maya links to several origins, including Greek, where she was the mother of Hermes. It is also used in southern Mexico and Central America in honor of the indigenous Maya people, which may explain why it’s a popular Brazilian girl’s name!
- Origin: Greek, Sanskrit, Hebrew
- Meaning: Good mother, dream water
- Pronunciation: My-ah
- Variations: Maia, Maja
- Namesakes: Maya Angelou, a writer, and poet. Maya Rudolph, an actress, and comedian.
- Popularity: Maya has been a fairly popular name since the 1990s.
Miciela
Miciela is a beautiful, sparkling name perfect for a long-awaited baby girl who will be dearly treasured as a gift from God!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Blessed gift from God
- Pronunciation: mee-see-EL-a
- Popularity: This is a very unusual name.
Nathalia
Nathalia would be a fun and festive name for a baby girl born in December around the Christmas holidays! Especially if you’re looking for one of the more memorable and versatile Brazilian women names.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Born on Christmas Day
- Pronunciation: nuh-TAA-lee-uh
- Variations: Natalie, Nathalie, Natálie, Natalya
Neusa
Considering that a good amount of Brazil is along the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no wonder that many Brazilian female names have to do with water and the sea. Neusa brings to mind refreshing dips in the ocean in this delightful country!
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: One who can swim
- Namesakes: Neusa Maria Faro, a Brazilian actress.
- Popularity: Neusa is a very rare name.
Niceta
Niceta is a pretty-sounding name that indicates a winner and a victorious person! It’s a wonderful name for a girl who will achieve great things!
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: The victorious one
- Pronunciation: ni-SEH-ta
- Popularity: Niceta is a very rare name.
Noêmia
This is a Portuguese and Brazilian version of the more popular name Naomi. In the Bible, the story of Naomi and Ruth is a beautiful picture of a daughter’s love for her mother-in-law, and part of Ruth’s speech to Naomi is often used in weddings as an example of unconditional love.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Delight, sweetness, good
- Pronunciation: no-E-mia
- Variations: Noemie, Naomi
- Popularity: Noêmia is very rare in the U.S.
Olivia
Olivia may have first been seen in Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night, so this is a beautiful name for literature lovers that also brings nature and leafy green trees to mind.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Olive, Olive tree
- Pronunciation: oh-LIV-ee-uh
- Variations: Olyvia, Alyvia, Lyvia, Livia, Livie, Olive, Olivie
- Namesakes: Olivia Wilde, an actress and director. Olivia Culpo, a model. Olivia Goldsmith, an author, best known for The First Wives Club.
Paloma
Paloma brings peaceful vibes, especially since the dove symbolizes peace. It can also symbolize the Holy Spirit, who is often depicted as a dove, so it’s a beautiful spiritual name as well.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Dove
- Pronunciation: puh-LOW-muh
Patrícia
Patricia is a somewhat common name, especially among older generations, but Patrícia – the Spanish pronunciation – is unusual in the U.S. It’s a lyrical name with an honorable meaning.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Noble
- Pronunciation: pa-TREES-ee-ya
- Variations: Pat, Patsy, Patti, Pattie, Pati, Patty, Trish, Trisha, Tricia, Trixie
Pietra
Pietra comes from the Greek word for “rock” – Petra. It’s perfect for a little girl who will stand firm and not be moved in her values and convictions.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Rock
- Pronunciation: Pee-YEH-tra
- Variations: Petra, Pierette
- Popularity: Pietra is a very rare name in the U.S.
Pilar
Pilar came from the legend of the Virgin Mary appearing over a marble pillar, and so reminds people of Mary. It also reminds everyone that Mary is a pillar of the church. In Ernest Hemingway’s novel For Whom The Bell Tolls, Pilar was also a heroine, so could be a great pick for a literary family.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Pillar
- Pronunciation: pee-LAHR
Plácida
Plácida brings to mind the Pacific Ocean, and the rhyming vowels make it a beautiful, lyrical-sounding name. It also echoes the word “placid” – a serene girl who is not easily driven to panicking and causing drama. The world could use more of those!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Pacific
- Pronunciation: PLAH-see-dah
- Popularity: Plácida is an unusual name in English-speaking countries.
Quitéria
One theory is that Quitéria came from the Latin word for “calm” and “quiet.” Many people see quiet as a drawback in this busy day and age, but being a quiet, collected person in a sea of chaos is a very admirable trait.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: The red one, quiet
- Pronunciation: key-TER-ee-ah
- Popularity: Quitéria is a very rare name.
Raissa
Raissa can mean “rose,” a beautiful Brazilian name for girls that calls beauty and sweetness to mind. Since roses come in various colors, shapes, and types, this is also a great name to symbolize the uniqueness of your baby girl.
- Origin: Greek, Hebrew
- Meaning: Daughter or descendant of Hera, rose
- Pronunciation: Ray-sa
Raquel
Raquel is an exotic-sounding and interesting twist on the more common Rachel and is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a Brazilian girl’s name.
- Origin: Spanish, Portuguese
- Meaning: Peaceful woman, innocent, ewe
- Namesakes: Raquel Welch, an actress. Raquel Zimmermann, a Brazilian model. Raquel Chalfi, an Israeli poet.
- Popularity: Raquel peaked in the early 1970s when Raquel Welch was a popular actress. It is now a rare name.
Ricarda
Ricarda also means “princess,” but rather than focusing on the princess’s charm or beauty, this name values her strength and bravery. It’s the perfect Brazilian girl’s name for a brave girl.
- Origin: Old German
- Meaning: Strong and brave princess
- Variations: Ricca, Ricci, Ricki, Rickie, Richie, Rika, Ritchie
- Popularity: Ricarda is an uncommon name.
Rosário
Rosario is a gender-neutral name common in Latin American countries. It was popular in the U.S. in the middle of the 20th-century but has dropped now, making it a superb choice for a less-popular baby name.
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Rosary
- Pronunciation: roh-ZAHR-ee-oh
- Variations: Chayo, Rosa
- Namesakes: Rosario Dawson, an actress. Rosario Fernández, the Prime Minister of Peru.
Sabelly
Sabelly is an adorable twist on Isabelle or Isabelly, making it a quirky, fun name for a baby girl. Because it means “God is my oath,” it’s also a great religious name for a devout Catholic family.
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: God is my oath
- Variations: Isabelly, Isabelle, Isa
- Popularity: Sabelly is a rare name in the U.S.
Sabrina
Legend says Sabrina was a princess who was drowned by her stepmother and became a water nymph. Although the story is sad at first, Sabrina brings images of rivers, creeks, and babbling brooks to mind and is a wonderful, aquatic name for a baby girl! Sabrina was also the fictional character on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, a sitcom in the 90s based on a comic book series.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: A river
- Pronunciation: suh-BREE-nuh
- Variations: Sabrine, Brina
Sílvia
“One who lives in the forest” is such a delightful description that brings to mind fairies and woodland nymphs, and other nature-loving creatures. If you love the woods and trees and the mysterious natural world, this could be the perfect name for your little dryad.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: One who lives in the forest
- Variations: Sylvie, Sylvia
- Namesakes: Queen Silvia of Sweden. Silvia Monfort, a French actress. Sylvia Plath, a poet.
Sofia
Sofia has been a popular choice the last few years and has been at the forefront of vintage girls’ names, making a comeback in a big way. It pairs well with other, longer old-fashioned middle names, but it also sounds good with modern names to offset their newness.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Wise woman
- Variations: Sofi, Sofia, Sofie, Sophie
- Namesakes: Sofía Vergara, a Colombian model and actress. Princess Sofia, Duchess of Värmland.
- Popularity: Although Sophia has been the #1 girl’s name in the U.S. for several years, Sofia is also popular, remaining among the top 20 most popular girls’ names.
Susana
Susana is a fetching Brazilian girl’s name! It’s a great choice for a flower name, as lilies are known for their intoxicating fragrance.
- Origin: Egyptian, Persian
- Meaning: Lily, purity
- Variations: Susanna, Susannah, Susan, Susie, Suzanne, Sue
- Namesakes: Susana Chávez, a Mexican poet and activist. Susana Félix, a Portuguese entertainer. Susana Ferrari Billinghurst, an Argentine aviator.
- Popularity: Susana was popular in the mid-20th-century but is now a rare choice.
Talita
Talita is a popular name in Brazil, and is a version of Talitha. It comes from the story of Jesus bringing a little girl back to life, so it’s a beautiful religious name.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Little girl
- Pronunciation: ta-LEE-ta
- Popularity: Talita is a very rare name in the U.S.
Tania
Although Tania is Russian in origin, it’s a very popular name in Brazil and other Latin American countries. If her parents are literature-lovers, Titania, a form of Tania, is the Queen of the Fairies in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, so this might be a wonderful option for a baby girl!
- Origin: Russian
- Meaning: Fairy Queen
- Variations: Tatiana, Tanya, Tanja
- Namesakes: Tania Maria, a Brazilian artist, and singer.
Teresa
Teresa became a popular name after Mother Teresa’s good works became more widely known. It’s a gorgeous name to indicate philanthropy and selfless deeds.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Native of Tera, summer
- Variations: Theresa, Therese
- Namesakes: Theresa, Countess of Portugal and mother of the first king of Portugal. Teresa Carpenter, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Teresa Graves, an actress and singer. Mother Teresa, a saint, and nun who worked with Calcutta’s poor.
Uxia
Uxia is a unique “U” name indicating someone is of noble origin – a special choice for your little princess!
- Origin: Brazilian, Irish
- Meaning: Well-born, of noble origin
- Pronunciation: oo-SHE-ah
- Popularity: Uxia is an unusual name in the United States.
Valdirene
Valdirene is a beautiful twist on Irene and indicates a woman doing what women do well – making peace without giving away their power.
- Origin: Brazilian
- Meaning: Woman who has peacemaking power, one who governs with peace
- Popularity: Valdirene is a very rare name.
Vanessa
Vanessa was invented by the writer Jonathan Swift in the early 1700s, but it’s also tied to the goddess Venus. It means “butterfly,” so it has beautiful ties to nature.
- Origin: Anglo-Irish
- Meaning: Butterfly, Of Venus
- Pronunciation: vuh-NEH-suh
- Variations: Janessa, Nissa, Van, Vania, Vanita, Vannie
- Namesakes: Vanessa Hudgens, an actress, and singer. Vanessa Lachey, a TV host, and actress. Vanessa Redgrave, an English actress, and activist. Vanessa Williams, an actress and singer.
- Popularity: Vanessa peaked in 1985, so while you’ll find many adults named Vanessa, it’s a more unusual baby name currently.
Vânia
Everyone wants a baby girl who is blessed and gifted by God! Vânia is a popular Brazilian girl’s name and symbolizes truth and beauty, so it’s perfect for a special little girl.
- Origin: Hebrew, Spanish, Greek
- Meaning: Blessed and gifted by God, truth, butterfly
- Variations: Evangelina, Ivana, Ivanka, Jane, Vanessa
- Namesakes: Vânia Abreu, a Brazilian singer. Vania Vargas, a Guatemalan poet, and journalist. Vânia Fernandes, a Portuguese singer.
Vitória
Vitória is a pretty variation of Victoria that would be a lovely nod to Latin American roots. It means “winner” and calls to mind Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Victory, winner
- Variations: Victoria
- Popularity: This version of Victoria is unusual in English-speaking countries.
Walesca
While Valerie is more common, Walesca is an excellent, more unique take on the name. Add to that the fact that everyone wants their baby girl to be healthy, and it’s a great choice!
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Brave, healthy, full of health
- Variations: Valerie
- Popularity: Walesca is a very rare name.
Xerazade
Xerazade is a variation of Scheherazade, the heroine of the book One Thousand and One Nights. With Greek, Roman, and Persian mythologies coming back into fashion and popular best-sellers retelling these tales, is it possible Xerazade will spike along with the names of other Greek goddesses and heroines?
- Origin: Persian, Farsi
- Meaning: Daughter of the night, noble lineage
- Pronunciation: Shera-zah-jee
- Variations: Sherazade, Scheherazade
Xoana
Xoana has a beautiful, religious connotation that reminds people of the goodness of God. It comes from Galicia, an autonomous community in Spain, and is a beautiful, exotic-sounding name in the U.S.
- Origin: Galician
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: ZOW-nah
- Popularity: This is a very unusual name in the U.S.
Yara
This is the perfect Brazilian girl’s name for a little water baby! In the mythology of the Tupi (Brazilian indigenous) people, a Iara is a river spirit. The name is also given to a character in the Game of Thrones HBO series – Yara Greyjoy.
- Origin: Brazilian indigenous, Persian, Farsi
- Meaning: Lady of the water, mother of water, strength, courage
- Variations: Iara
- Namesakes: Yara Amaral, a Brazilian actress. Yara Tupinambá, a Brazilian artist.
Yolanda
Yolanda is a beautiful flower name that brings to mind the brightness and sweet smell of violets. It’s been the name of many women who, like violets, are tough and strong and able to weather the storms life throws at them.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Violet
- Variations: Violet, Iola, Yalonda, Yola, Yolande, Yulanda.
- Namesakes: Yolanda Adams, a gospel singer. Yolanda Griffith, a WNBA basketball player. Yolanda King, an activist and daughter of Martin Luther King Jr.
Zaíra
Zaíra is a lovely name that indicates beauty and radiance and can also mean “princess.” Your little princess can’t go wrong with a Brazilian girl’s name like Zaíra!
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Radiance
- Namesakes: Zaíra Bas, a Spanish beauty queen. Zaíra Wasim, an Indian beauty queen and Bollywood actress.
Zulmira
Zulmira is an unusual name, but who doesn’t think their baby is brilliant and sublime? It’s the perfect way to celebrate this tiny, cute bundle of potential that’s going to grow into a woman who will take on the world!
- Origin: Portuguese
- Meaning: Sublime, brilliant
- Popularity: Zulmira is a very rare name.
