Colors provide some simple yet stylish ways to name your baby. For parents who prefer a pigment that symbolizes happiness and friendship — why not pick pink?
Since the 1940s, pink has been associated with femininity and softness, but pink-themed names can be for everyone! That’s why we’ve searched the globe to collect as many interesting pink names as possible for boys and girls.
Keep it sweet as a peach and get the whole family in on the fun with these names that mean pink.
85 Beautiful Names Meaning Pink
Here are some of the most popular names that mean pink for boys and girls.
Afra
Afra is unique in the West with its Semitic roots. It comes from the Hebrew Aphrah, meaning “dust” or “clay,” hence it’s interpreted as “whitish pink” or “the color of earth.” Ancient Romans once used Afra as a nickname for a woman from Africa. Nowadays, it’s perfect for any baby girl.
- Origin: Arabic, Latin
- Meaning: Whitish red (pink), woman from Africa
- Pronunciation: UH-fruh, AF-rah
- Namesakes: Saint Afra, a patron saint of Augsburg, martyred during the Diocletian persecution.
- Popularity: Afra is most popular in Sudan and Bangladesh.
Almog
Almog is one of the stranger-looking names meaning pink. It means “coral,” which is both a sea growth and a pink-orange color. Already popular in Israel, Almog has potential in the West, but it might take some getting used to. A nickname like Allie might help this one feel more familiar. Give Almog a go — Jewish ancestry or otherwise.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Coral
- Pronunciation: AL-mog
- Namesakes: Almog Cohen, an Israeli professional football player.
- Popularity: Almog is most prevalent in Israel and doesn’t make the top 1,000 names in the U.S.
Altansarnai
Altansarnai uses the Mongolian elements “altan,” meaning “golden,” and “sarnai,” meaning “rose.” This one is perfect for parents with a preference for rose gold. For those unaware, rose gold is tied to affluence and success and has a romantic and refined aesthetic. Adorn your daughter with the cultural beauty of Altansarnai.
- Origin: Mongolian
- Meaning: Golden rose
- Pronunciation: AHL-tahn-sahr-neye
- Popularity: Altansarnai is most popular in Mongolia but is rare worldwide.
Annagul
Annagul is more commonly spelled as Annagül. It comes from the Turkmen word “anna,” meaning “Friday,” and the Turkish “gül,” meaning “flower” or “rose.” Annagul is uncommon outside of Eastern Europe. It’s among the few names that mean pink associated with a specific day. Not sure what to call your baby girl born on a Friday? The correct answer is Annagul.
- Origin: Turkmen
- Meaning: Friday rose, Friday flower
- Pronunciation: AN-a-GOOL
- Variations: Annagül
- Namesakes: Annagul Annamyradovna Annaguliyeva (Annakuliyeva), a Turkmen opera singer and film actress.
- Popularity: Annagul is most prevalent in Turkmenistan, Russia, and Kazakhstan, with about 72 bearers worldwide.
Apple
Apple is the English word for the fruit derived from the Middle English “appel” and Old English “æppel.” Apples aren’t only red or green but come in various shades and colors, including pink. Pink Lady apples have pretty rose-blush skin, and Pink Pearl apples have reddish-pink flesh. Apple could be ideal for the apple of your eye!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: An apple (fruit)
- Pronunciation: A-pl
- Namesakes: Apple Martin, the daughter of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Coldplay’s lead singer Chris Martin. Apple Hong, a Singaporean actress and singer.
- Popularity: Apple is most popular in the Philippines and doesn’t show up on U.S. charts.
Azalea
Azalea derives from the Greek word “azaleos,” meaning “dry.” Although it doesn’t directly mean pink, azaleas are beautiful shrubs with pink or red flowers, among other pretty colors. This contemporary floral pick feels classic and certainly has its fans. Azalea ranked twice on charts in England and Wales in 2020 and 2021. Two fashionable nickname options include Zay and Lea.
- Origin: Greek, English
- Meaning: Dry
- Pronunciation: uh-ZAY-lee-uh
- Variations: Azealia
- Namesakes: Azalea Thorpe, a Scottish-American weaver and textile designer. Azalea Quiñones, a Venezuelan painter and poet. Helen Azalea “Poppy” Baring, a 1920s Bright Young Thing.
- Popularity: Azalea appeared on U.S. charts in 2012, ranking 892nd, and peaked in 2022 at 404th.
Babe
Babe refers to a “baby,” used as a standalone nickname and as a diminutive of Barbara. Babies have long been associated with soft pink skin, and the medical term “pink and crying” refers to a healthy newborn. Though Babe has been primarily a male nickname for ages, it also works as a proper name today.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Baby
- Pronunciation: BAYB
- Namesakes: Babe London, born Jean Glover, an American actress and comedian.
- Popularity: Almost 13,000 people are called Babe worldwide.
Barbie
Cue Aqua’s “Barbie Girl.” Barbie is associated with pink because of the Mattel Barbie doll line but has been a diminutive for Barbara long before the dolls were released. This is another on our list of pink names that are only pink-related. But Barbie is such an adorable option that it would be a crime to leave it out.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Foreign, stranger
- Pronunciation: BAAR-bee, BAA-bee
- Variations: Barbe
- Namesakes: Barbie Wilde, a Canadian-born British actress and writer. Barbie Hsu, a Taiwanese actress, singer, and TV host.
- Popularity: Barbie peaked in the U.S. in 1964 at 756th and fell off after ranking 939th in 1968.
Bellarose
Bellarose is a combination of the Italian Bella and the English Rose. This has to be one of the best combos for pink-inspired names. It’s not popular worldwide, but Bellarose is adored beyond the U.S. It appeared on charts in England and Wales in 2011 and ranked 423rd in 2021. Your little girl can be pretty in pink with the elegant Bellarose.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Beautiful rose
- Pronunciation: BEH-luh-ROHZ
- Variations: Bella-Rose, Bellerose, Bellarosa
- Popularity: In 2020, Bellarose ranked 336th in the U.S., with about 54 bearers worldwide.
Blush
Blush is not only cute, but it’s different. This surname can double as a gender-neutral first, as it simply describes a shade of light or pastel pink. It gets its title from blushing due to embarrassment or exertion. In persons with lighter complexions, it causes the skin to redden involuntarily.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: To turn pink, blush (color)
- Pronunciation: BLUH-sh
- Namesakes: Heather Blush, a Canadian jazz singer.
- Popularity: There are about 30 known people called Blush worldwide.
Briallen
Briallen means “primrose,” a flower that comes in yellow, pink, white, or red. Welsh girl names can be challenging to pronounce, and Briallen is no exception. The double “L” sounds like both “H” and “L,” although more on the breathy side. Western parents shouldn’t be too hard on themselves to get it right, as it’s unlikely anyone will notice outside of Wales.
- Origin: Welsh, Cornish
- Meaning: Primrose
- Pronunciation: BREE-a-hen, breh-AHL-len
- Namesakes: Briallen Hopper, an American writer and literary scholar.
- Popularity: Briallen mostly shows up in Wales but is extremely rare worldwide.
Camillia
Camellia derives from the Latin Camillus, which comes from the Arabic word “kāmil,” meaning “complete” or “whole.” The Camellia is a plant named after the botanist Georg Kamel. It bears primarily white, pink, or red flowers, although yellow varieties can be found in South China and Vietnam. If your baby completes you, then Camillia is like the final touch.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Young religious attendant
- Pronunciation: kuh-MEEL-ee-uh, kuh-MEEL-yuh, kuh-MIHL-ee-uh
- Variations: Camilia, Camelia, Camellia, Kamilia, Kamillia, Kamelia
- Popularity: Camellia is most popular in the U.S. and Egypt, with about 1,609 global bearers.
Candy
Sweet and sassy Candy is a trendy taker. Due to cotton candy or fairy floss, the word “candy” has been associated with the color pink and other pastel colors. Not to mention, shades of red, including pink, are the most common candy color available. Candy has been around since the early ’40s, but it still feels fresh.
- Origin: Indian, French, English
- Meaning: Sweet
- Variations: Candi
- Namesakes: Candy Broad, an Australian politician. Candy Dulfer, a Dutch jazz and pop saxophonist.
- Popularity: Candy ranked 948th in the U.S. in 1990 but hasn’t ranked since.
Carnation
Carnation is from the Latin word “carn(e),” meaning “flesh,” and describes a flower. It was so-named because the original colors of the carnation in ancient times were predominantly peach and pink. Later, red, yellow, and purple were added to the roster. A pale red carnation signifies admiration and longing, while pink symbolizes gratitude. Grateful parents should give Carnation a try.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: (Color of) flesh
- Pronunciation: kaar-NAY-shn, kaa-NAY-shn
- Popularity: Carnation is extremely rare worldwide, with about 200 bearers.
Cerise
Cerise is the French word for cherry. It ranked once on French charts but isn’t common outside its homeland or the United States. Although cherries are known to be red, a hue on the color scale called cherry pink looks delicious! Cerise will allow you to call your baby cherry without being too ham-fisted.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Cherry
- Pronunciation: SUH-reez, suh-REES
- Namesakes: Cerise Lim Jacobs, a Chinese-Singaporean operatic librettist. Cerise Fukuji, an American producer, writer, and director.
- Popularity: In 2007, Cerise placed 416th in France.
Charaya
Charaya is a Khmer option from Cambodia. Pair pink-themed names with cultural nuggets from Southeast Asia, and you get Charaya. It’s one of those hidden gems that hasn’t spread far from its place of origin. The meaning behind this one is likely meant to describe a healthy baby.
- Origin: Cambodian
- Meaning: One who is pink and blue color
- Pronunciation: CHAA-reye-uh
- Namesakes: Charaya Thach, a South Vietnamese refugee based in Canada.
- Popularity: Charaya is quite rare worldwide.
Coral
Coral comes from the Greek “korallion,” ultimately from the Hebrew “goral” (small pebble). In the Torah, these were for casting lots; hence in modern Hebrew, “goral” means “fate/destiny.” Coral also denotes sea growths once deemed highly valuable and a pinkish-orange hue. Why not call your child of destiny Coral and watch her grow into a gorgeous gem?
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Sea growth, coral
- Pronunciation: KOR-uhl
- Namesakes: Coral Peña, an American actress known for a role on Apple TV+’s For All Mankind. Coral Atkins, an English actress. Coral Rumble, an English award-winning poet.
- Popularity: In 2012, Coral ranked 887th for the last time in England and Wales and placed 176th in Spain for the last time in 2010.
Coraline
Coraline is sometimes confused with Caroline, but it comes from the root word “coral.” This epithet was made popular by Neil Gaiman’s dark fantasy book and movie adaptation, Coraline. It has been around since at least the ’60s in France. Meanwhile, it first ranked on U.S. charts in 2012, making it comparatively fresh in the West.
- Origin: Greek, French
- Meaning: Coral, heart
- Pronunciation: KOR-uh-leyen, kor-uh-LEEN
- Namesakes: Coraline Vitalis, a French fencer. Coraline Thomas Hugue, a retired French cross-country skier.
- Popularity: Coraline ranked 676th in 2022 on U.S. charts but fell off in France after ranking 498th in 2010.
Diantha
Diantha’s claim to pink fame comes from the root dianthus. Dianthus is a plant genus encompassing over 300 species of flowers with colors ranging from shades of pink to white. Fictional namesakes in the Southern Vampire Mysteries series and the Pokemon X and Y games and TV series show off Diantha’s functionality.
- Origin: Greek, English, Dutch
- Meaning: Heavenly flower, divine flower
- Pronunciation: deye-AN-thuh, DEE-an-thuh
- Variations: Dianthus
- Namesakes: Zina Diantha Huntington Young, an American social activist and religious leader.
- Popularity: Diantha is most prevalent in the U.S. and the Netherlands, with a little over 1,000 international bearers.
Doja
Doja is Sino-Korean and a combination of the hanja for “do,” meaning “peach,” and “ja,” meaning “child.” In Western society, Doja is probably best associated with the singer and rapper Doja Cat, who took inspiration for her stage name from a strain of cannabis. Despite that connection, Doja remains cute as a peach.
- Origin: Korean
- Meaning: Peach child
- Pronunciation: DOH-ZHA
- Namesakes: Amalaratna Zandile Dlamini, stage name Doja Cat, an American rapper, singer-songwriter, and record producer.
- Popularity: Doja has just over 2,000 bearers globally.
Donda
Donda is of unconfirmed meaning in the United States, though it could be a combination of Don and Wanda. In India, Donda means “pinkish, small stones.” With its unusual appearance and sound, Donda is ideal for your one-in-a-million baby.
- Origin: Indian, American
- Meaning: Pinkish, small stones, combination name
- Pronunciation: DAHN-da, DON-da, DOHN-da
- Namesakes: Donda West, an American educator, and Kanye West’s mother.
- Popularity: Donda is most popular in India and Grenada, with about 2,821 bearers worldwide.
Eglantine
Eglantine is another term for the sweet briar plant, a fragrant Eurasian wild rose. It means “needle” or “prickly” from the Latin “aquilentum.” Eglantine was originally spelled Eglentyne and brought into English through Old French. This one sounds distinctly British, and although it makes a pretty first name, its length lends itself to the middle name spot.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Needle, prickly
- Pronunciation: EHG-lun-teyen, EHG-lun-teen
- Variations: Églantine
- Namesakes: Eglantine Rembauville-Nicolle, a French film actress active in French and British cinema. Églantine Éméyé, a French TV and radio presenter.
- Popularity: Eglantine is most popular in France, where it last ranked 495th in 2007.
Fuchsia
Fuchsia is a hot purplish-pink color that got its title from a flowering plant. This flower was discovered by the French monk and botanist Charles Plumier, who named it after the German botanist Leonhart Fuchs. The surname Fuchs means “fox,” making the vibrant Fuchsia lively and adorable.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Fuchsia (color), fox
- Pronunciation: FYOO-shuh
- Variations: Fuschia
- Namesakes: Fuschia Walker, an American actress and voice actress. Fuschia Sumner, an English actress, director, and the daughter of Sting.
- Popularity: Fuchsia is most common in the U.S. but is not in the top 1,000 names.
Gulabi
The Persian Gulabi means “pink” in the Urdu language. In India, the Gulabi goat is a breed named for the pinkish skin of its nose and ears, though its coat is milky white. This pure-looking animal is gentle and great for rearing as a pet. Gulabi is equally relevant for a soft, sweet little baby.
- Origin: Indian, Persian
- Meaning: Rose-colored, pink
- Pronunciation: goo-LA-bee
- Variations: Gulabo
- Namesakes: Gulabo Sapera, an Indian celebrity dancer.
- Popularity: Gulabi is most popular in India, Pakistan, and Nepal.
Gülizar
Gülizar is the Turkish form of the Persian Golzar. It consists of the Persian elements “gol,” meaning “flower” or “rose,” and “zar,” meaning “a place abounding in,” or “a garden” or “field.” Gülizar might also mean “golden flower/rose.” This Turkish option is quite pretty, if only for its floral associations.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Rose garden, a place full of flowers
- Pronunciation: GUU-LEE-zar, GEW-LEE-zar
- Variations: Gulzar, Golzar
- Namesakes: Gülizar Irmak, a Turkish actress, and writer. Gulizar Özil, mother of the German professional footballer Mesut Özil.
- Popularity: Gülizar is most popular in Russia and Uzbekistan.
Gulrukh
The Persian Gulrukh is commonly used in the Islamic faith and written in Arabic. Maybe your daughter has the rosiest cheeks you’ve ever seen, or perhaps you simply have a healthy-looking baby. Whatever the case, Gulrukh implies warmth and well-being. It’s uncommon in the West, but great pink names can flourish anywhere.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Rose-faced
- Pronunciation: GUUL-ruuk, GEWL-ruuk
- Variations: Gülrukh
- Namesakes: Gulrukh Begum, a Mughal princess, and daughter of the Mughal Emperor Babur.
- Popularity: Gulrukh is most popular in Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, with about 6,680 global bearers.
Hồng
Hồng is the Vietnamese version of the Chinese unisex Hong. In Chinese, “hóng” can be written with different characters to mean “rainbow,” “enlarge,” “vast,” or “great.” It may also mean “wild swan.” With so many meanings and a lack of distinguishing Chinese characters in English, English speakers can simply take their pick!
- Origin: Vietnamese
- Meaning: Pink, rosy
- Pronunciation: HONG, HUNG
- Variations: Hồng, Hong
- Namesakes: Hong Si-young, stage name Giriboy, a South Korean rapper, singer-songwriter, and record producer. Hong Su-yeon, stage name Chunja, a South Korean singer.
- Popularity: Hồng and Hong are the most popular in China and Vietnam.
Ichigo
Ichigo is a gender-neutral option from Japan that makes it easy to call your son “strawberry” without getting strange looks. Although admittedly, the meaning “protector of one (thing)” is more common for boys. This is a fairly popular epithet for anime protagonists. Examples include Ichigo Kurosaki from Tite Kubo’s series BLEACH and Ichigo Momomiya from Tokyo Mew Mew.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Strawberry, protector of one (thing)
- Pronunciation: EE-chee-goh
- Namesakes: Ichigo Takano, a Japanese manga artist known for her series, Orange. Ichigo Rinahamu, a Japanese singer and idol.
- Popularity: Ichigo is most prevalent in Japan but is still very rare.
Kamala
Kamala is Hindu Sanskrit, an alternative name for the Hindu goddess Lakshmi. The goddess once appeared seated on a lotus flower and was adorned in a garland of lotuses; hence she was called Kamala and Padma (both meaning lotus). The aquatic lotus only comes in shades of pink or white, so it really sticks to the pink theme.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Pale red, lotus
- Pronunciation: kuh-MAAL-uh, KA-muu-luh
- Variations: Kamalah
- Namesakes: Kamala Pujari, an Indian tribal woman known for promoting organic farming. Kamala Hampana, an Indian writer. Kamala Todd, a Canadian filmmaker and curator.
- Popularity: Kamala is most popular in India and Malaysia but is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S.
Kirby
Kirby is a habitational moniker from Kirkby, composed of the Old Norse “kirkja” (church) and “bȳ” (farmstead/village). It’s a pink name by association. The Japanese video game protagonist from Nintendo is probably the most famous Kirby. And what color is he? Cotton-candy pink! Although appearing in other colors, Kirby is most well-recognized in his original rosy hue.
- Origin: Norse, English
- Meaning: Farmstead village by a church, church settlement
- Pronunciation: KUR-bee
- Variations: Kirkby
- Namesakes: Kirby Morrow, a Canadian actor, comedian, and writer. Kirby Smart, an American football coach and former player. Kirby Larson, an American writer.
- Popularity: Kirby last ranked in 1996 at 972nd in the U.S. for boys.
Kolab
Kolab is a Cambodian Khmer language option originating from the Persian word “golab.” Because of its isolated roots, Kolab only has about 159 worldwide bearers. That’s good news for a young rose needing room to grow.
- Origin: Cambodian
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: koh-LAP
- Variations: Kulap
- Popularity: Kolab is rare worldwide but is most popular in India and Cambodia.
Koralia
Koralia has a regal atmosphere, perhaps because it stems from the ancient Greek “korallion,” meaning “coral.” Many agree that Koralia both looks and sounds quite gorgeous. It’s better for parents who want something sophisticated but not as old-timey as Coral. Greece tends to have a monopoly on Koralia, but that exclusivity only makes it all the more appealing.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Coral
- Pronunciation: KOH-rah-lyuh
- Namesakes: Koralia Karanti, a Greek actress.
- Popularity: Koralia is most popular in Greece, with about 703 global bearers.
Kulap
Kulap is a Thai moniker from the Persian root “golab.” It’s a cognate (having the same linguistic origin) of the Cambodian Kolab. Whether pink or red, a rose is a rose in any language. For those with Thai ancestry, Kulap just makes sense.
- Origin: Thai
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: koo-LAP
- Variations: Kolab
- Namesakes: Kulap Vilaysack, an American actress, comedian, and showrunner. Kulap Saipradit, pen name Siburapha, a Thai newspaper editor and novelist.
- Popularity: Kulap is most prevalent in Thailand and India.
Linnea
Linnea is a plant known as the twinflower, a pendulous pink-petaled flower species. It was the favorite of botanist Carolus Linnaeus, after whom the floret was named. Linnea is most popular in Scandinavian countries, last ranking on U.S. charts in 1955 at 984th. As Linnea is slightly antique in the West, this could be your opportunity to dust it off.
- Origin: Swedish
- Meaning: Twinflower, linden tree, lime tree
- Pronunciation: lin-AY-uh
- Variations: Linnaea, Linnaeus, Linnéa, Linnea
- Namesakes: Linnea Dale, a Norwegian singer. Linnea Sinclair, an American sci-fi, fantasy, and paranormal romance author. Linnea Ceder, a Finnish figure skater.
- Popularity: In 2022, Linnea ranked 32nd in Norway and 14th in Finland.
Lotus
Lotus is derived from the Greek word “lotos.” The term can refer to either the lotus tree or the aquatic lotus flower, but we’re referring to the latter in this context. The lotus flower’s soft pink petals symbolize purity and rebirth. The lotus also has medicinal purposes and has been shown to aid circulatory health.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Lotus (flower), lotus (tree)
- Pronunciation: LOH-tus
- Namesakes: Lotus O’Brien Silva Burnquist, daughter of the professional skateboarder Robert “Bob” Burnquist.
- Popularity: Lotus doesn’t rank on U.S. charts, but in 2020 placed 498th in the Netherlands.
Loxi
Loxi is a strange one. It’s a diminutive of uncertain origin, but it was used by the author Thelma Strabel in her novel turned film adaptation, Reap the Wild Wind. Loxi has been purported to mean “rose with a pink stem”; however, this etymology remains unconfirmed. Still, it’s a pretty cute epithet.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rose with a pink stem
- Pronunciation: LOK-see, LAHK-see
- Variations: Loxie
- Popularity: Loxi has about 121 bearers worldwide, primarily in the U.S. and India.
Magenta
Magenta is a bright purplish-pink color, similar to Fuchsia. It was once referred to as Fuchsine before acquiring the moniker of Magenta after a bloody battle in Magenta, Italy. This isn’t a popular option yet, but with the rise of color and gemstone names, it might have a shot at the charts.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Purplish-red color
- Pronunciation: muh-JEN-tuh
- Namesakes: Magenta Devine, born Kim Taylor, a British TV, journalist, and music promoter. Magenta Baribeau, a Canadian filmmaker.
- Popularity: Magenta is most prevalent in the U.S. and Liechtenstein but is still rare worldwide.
Magnolia
Magnolia comes from the surname of the French botanist Pierre Magnol, which is rooted in the Latin word “magna,” meaning “great.” The fragrant Magnolia is a large flower that comes primarily in white, pink, or purple shades. This is an exquisite pick for an equally beautiful daughter. Nicknames like Maggy or Nola give the refined Magnolia an approachable feel.
- Origin: French, Latin
- Meaning: Magnol’s flower
- Pronunciation: mag-NOH-lee-uh
- Variations: Magnole, Magnolya, Magnoly
- Namesakes: Maminydjama Maymuru, known as Magnolia Maymuru, an Aboriginal Australian actress and model.
- Popularity: Magnolia last ranked in Brazil in 1970 at 627th and ranked 151st in 2022 on U.S. charts.
Manik
Manik comes from the Sanskrit word “māṇika,” meaning “ruby.” It should be noted that the initial syllable (MA) has a long vowel sound. Manik can be written in many Indian language scripts, such as Marathi, Bengali, Kannada, and Gujarati. Regardless, it will remain the same shiny red gem.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Ruby
- Pronunciation: MA-neek
- Namesakes: Manik Sarkar, an Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Tripura. Manik Irani, an Indian actor known for playing Bollywood movie villains.
- Popularity: Manik is most common in India and Bangladesh.
Manikya
Manikya comes from the Sanskrit “māṇika,” meaning “ruby.” Although it could sound feminine to English ears, it’s a boys-only option. It may have also been a surname or patronymic, as seen with the Manikya dynasty. This was a ruling house of the Twipra Kingdom which later became the Tripura State.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Ruby
- Pronunciation: MA-neek-yuh
- Namesakes: Maharaja Bir Chandra Manikya Bahadur, a king of the Manikya Dynasty of Tripura, India.
- Popularity: Manikya is the most popular in India, with about 6,816 bearers worldwide.
Mauve
Mauve is both a pale purplish color and a plant with white, pink, or light purple flowers. The term comes from the Latin “malva,” meaning “mallow.” Because Mauve entered the English language via French, the epithet is prevalent in French-speaking territories.
- Origin: English, French, Latin
- Meaning: Pale purple color, violet-colored, mallow
- Pronunciation: MOHV, MAWV
- Popularity: Mauve is most common in France, Papua New Guinea, and the U.S.
Mawar
Mawar might not be most Western parents’ top pick, but it has potential. Meaning “rose,” Mawar is a floral epithet most popular in its homeland, Indonesia. Its two-syllable pronunciation lends itself to a middle name position.
- Origin: Indonesian, Malay
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: MA-war
- Namesakes: Mawar Eva de Jongh, a Dutch-born Indonesian actress.
- Popularity: Mawar is most popular in Indonesia and Malaysia but doesn’t make the top 1,000 names there.
Mio
Mio is used for males in Sweden and Norway, but it’s primarily feminine in Japan. Although Mio means “beautiful cherry blossom” in Japanese, it can also mean “beautiful thread,” among other things. “Mio” is also the Spanish word for “mine.” Mio might be the ideal option since your baby is your magnum opus!
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Beautiful cherry blossom
- Pronunciation: MEE-oh
- Namesakes: Mio Imada, a Japanese actress and model. Mio Narita, a Japanese competitive swimmer. Mio Isayama, a Japanese singer.
- Popularity: Mio is most prevalent in Japan and Hong Kong.
Momo
Momo can be found across cultures and is often used as a male nickname in other parts of the world. Momo is gender-neutral in Japan. Meaning “peach,” Momo doesn’t just sound adorable; it is cute to the core!
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Peach
- Pronunciation: MOH-MOH
- Namesakes: Momo Hirai, known as Momo, a Japanese singer, rapper, and dancer based in South Korea. Momo Tamaoki, a Japanese judoka (judo practitioner).
- Popularity: Momo does not place in Japan’s top 1,000 names.
Momohime
Momohime pairs two pretty pink or girly things: peaches and princesses. It combines the Japanese “momo” (peach) and “hime,” a suffix indicating something cute or small, or the word for “princess.” In the video game, Muramasa: The Demon Blade, Momohime is a playable character. If you have yourself a pretty pink princess, there’s no better pick than Momohime.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Peach princess
- Pronunciation: MOH-MOH-HEE-MEH
- Popularity: Momohime has one known bearer in Japan.
Momoi
Momoi is a Japanese surname that works just as well as a given name. It stems from a combination of “momo,” meaning “peach,” and “i” (well, pit, mine, shaft). You can shorten it to Momo (peach) or Momi, which means “fir tree” in Japanese, and “pearl” in Hawaiian.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Peach well
- Pronunciation: MOH-MOH-EE
- Namesakes: Hitomi Momoi, a J-pop singer and songwriter.
- Popularity: Momoi doesn’t make the top 1,000 names in the U.S. or Japan.
Momoko
Momoko, like other Japanese girl names ending with “ko,” is a slightly vintage option for girls. The element “momo” is often written with either the kanji for “peach,” “one hundred,” or “apricot.” The final element, “ko,” simply means “child.” Momoko isn’t often used in the West, but it’s a sweet pick that shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Peach child
- Pronunciation: MOH-MOH-KOH
- Namesakes: Momoko Abe, a Japanese actress, model, and beauty pageant titleholder. Momoko Hirata, a Japanese principal ballet dancer.
- Popularity: Momoko is the most popular in Japan, with about 20,269 bearers worldwide.
Morganite
Morganite is a gemstone originally called pink beryl but was later styled after the financier J.P. Morgan. This darling gem symbolizes innocence, love, and sweetness and often comes in champagne, peach, or soft pink tones. Morganite is an impressive choice for parents searching for dignified names that mean pink.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Pink beryl
- Pronunciation: MAW-guh-neyet, MAWR-guh-neyet
- Popularity: Morganite has one known bearer in England.
Nasrin
Nasrin is Persian (Iranian) and means “wild rose.” This epithet has many forms, from the Arabic Nesreen to the Turkish Nesrin. No matter how you spell it, Nasrin is a lovely pick among names that mean pink. Nasrin can also be found as a surname, most commonly in Bangladesh. This is the case for the Bangladeshi-Swedish writer, and feminist activist, Taslima Nasrin.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Wild rose
- Pronunciation: nas-REEN, NAZ-reen
- Variations: Nesrin, Nasreen, Nesrine
- Namesakes: Nasrin Rahimieh, an Iranian-American literary critic and educator. Nasrin Sotoudeh, an Iranian human rights lawyer. Nasrin Soltankhah, an Iranian politician and former vice president of Iran.
- Popularity: Nasrin is popular in Bangladesh, Iran, Pakistan, and India.
Neeraj
Neeraj is a Hindu moniker and another spelling of Niraj, with roots in the Marathi and Gujarati language groups. This Indian epithet refers to the pink or white lotus flower associated with the Hindu goddess Lakshmi and the god Vishnu. This makes Neeraj both culturally and spiritually significant.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Water-born lotus
- Pronunciation: NEE-ruj, NEE-raj
- Variations: Niraj
- Namesakes: Neeraj Chopra, an Indian track and field athlete and javelin throw Olympic Champion. Neeraj Kabi, an Indian film and theater actor. Neeraj Shridhar, an Indian singer-songwriter.
- Popularity: Neeraj is most common in India, ranking near the top 1,000 names.
Nurgül
Nurgül could be perceived as strange-sounding to Anglophones, but this Arabic epithet has a stunning meaning. It’s a combination of the Arabic word “nur,” meaning “light,” and the Persian “gol,” meaning “flower” or “rose.” Trend-setting parents worldwide can bless their little rays of light with this exotic botanical option.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Radiant rose, bright rose
- Pronunciation: nohr-GOOL
- Variations: Nurgul
- Namesakes: Nurgül Yeşilçay, a Turkish actress.
- Popularity: Nurgül last ranked in Turkey in 1989 at 100th place.
Peach
Peach is both a fruit and a related light orange-pink color. It derives from the Middle English word “peche” from the Latin “persica” (Persian plum). Although its roots suggest the fruit comes from Persia, it actually originated in China. Peach is commonly a surname, but it’s increasingly being shown love as a first.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: A peach
- Pronunciation: PEECH
- Variations: Peche, Peech, Peach
- Namesakes: Peach Reasoner, born Patricia Elaine Reasoner, an American blues and jazz artist.
- Popularity: Peach has about 780 worldwide bearers. It is most popular in the U.S. but doesn’t make the top 1,000 names.
Pembe
Pembe is quite pretty. It’s a sweet little color name from Turkey with the qualities of a classic — simplicity, catchiness, and cuteness. With approximately 13,334 bearers worldwide, Pembe is already quite popular, so your darling shouldn’t feel lonely.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Pink
- Pronunciation: PEM-beh
- Namesakes: Pembe Nihal Munsif, known as Nil Burak, a Turkish-Cypriot pop singer and actress.
- Popularity: Pembe is popular in Turkey and Northern Cyprus.
Peony
Peony is derived from Pæon (also spelled Paean), an ancient Greek god of medicine. This connection was made due to the belief that the peony flower held healing qualities. The most popular peony varieties are blush pink, cream, white, and bright red. Peony is a rare option that deserves more love.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Thanksgiving hymn, healer
- Pronunciation: PEE-uh-nee
- Popularity: Peony is most common in the U.S., with about 516 global bearers.
Pingalaksha
Pingalaksha is a Hindu word that means “pink-eyed.” While the term pink eye doesn’t conjure images of good health, it could imply someone with rose-tinted glasses on. If you hope your baby has a positive outlook on life, Pingalaksha has potential. Although, due to the length and possibility of mispronunciations, perhaps reserve this one for the middle name spot.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Pink-eyed
- Pronunciation: ping-GALAK-sha
- Popularity: Pingalaksha is extremely rare as it doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Pink
As far as pink-themed names go, Pink doesn’t seem very creative. Most people associate it with the American singer P!nk — and if your baby has a voice on them, that’s perfect! Especially since Pink was once a nickname for a “chirpy person.” The etymological origin in Middle English, “pink(e)/pinch,” stems from Old English “pinc(a),” meaning “chaffinch.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Pink (color)
- Pronunciation: PINGK
- Namesakes: Alecia Moore Hart, stage name Pink (stylized P!nk), an American singer-songwriter and actress.
- Popularity: Pink last ranked on U.S. charts in 1909 at 893rd.
Pinkerton
Pinkerton is a habitational surname for someone originating from Pinkerton, Scotland. Though its etymology is unclear, it may come from the Scottish “pincern,” meaning “butler” and “tun” (farm/holding/settlement). It doesn’t mean “pink,” but Pinkerton has the word “pink” in it, so we think it qualifies.
- Origin: English, Irish, Scottish
- Meaning: Butler’s town
- Pronunciation: PING-kr-tn, PING-kuh-tn
- Variations: Pynkertone
- Namesakes: Allan J. Pinkerton, a Scottish-American cooper, abolitionist, detective, and spy.
- Popularity: About 27 people are called Pinkerton worldwide.
Pinky
Pinky is English but is most popular in India. It’s sometimes used to denote someone with a pink complexion. Surprisingly, Pinky is used for girls and boys, so nobody feels left out. However, in the West, Pinky is more suited to girls. Because of associations with the pinky finger, Pinky could also work well for your youngest child.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: A pink complexion
- Pronunciation: PING-kee
- Variations: Pinki
- Namesakes: Pinky Maidasani, an Indian folk rapper and singer. Pinky Agnew, an actress, author, and social commentator. Pinky Pal Rajput, an Indian voice-dubbing actress.
- Popularity: Pinky is not in the U.S. top 1,000 names.
Poppy
Poppy is rooted in the Old English “popæg,” from the Latin word “papaver.” It refers to an annually blooming flowering plant associated with hope and remembrance. Despite coming in yellow, green, purplish-pink, and even blue, some of its most famous species produce vibrant red petals. Poppy is a cheerful pick, straight from the flower garden.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Red flower
- Pronunciation: POP-ee, PAH-pee
- Variations: Popi, Poppie
- Namesakes: Poppy Gilbert, a Swedish-born British actress. Poppy Ackroyd, a British composer, pianist, and violinist. Poppy King, an Australian entrepreneur.
- Popularity: Poppy placed 17th in England and Wales from 2019 to 2021; in 2022, it came 29th in New Zealand and 338th in the U.S.
Primrose
Primrose comes from the Latin “prima” (first) and “rosa” (rose.) This could be great for your first daughter. Fictional namesakes include Primrose, Katniss Everdeen’s younger sister in the Hunger Games series. As the motivation for Katniss’ actions, she is ultimately the reason for the book’s plot. Diminutives like Rose and Rosie are old news. Nowadays, Prim is in.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: First rose
- Pronunciation: PRIM-rohwz
- Namesakes: Lady Primrose Potter, an Australian socialite, philanthropist, and arts administrator. Dorothea Primrose Campbell, a Scottish poet and novelist. Primrose Cumming, a British children’s book writer.
- Popularity: In 2021, Primrose ranked 162nd in England and Wales but didn’t make the U.S. charts.
Raisa
Raisa is Yiddish for “rose.” It’s also an unrelated Russian epithet from the Greek Herais, which possibly means “hero,” “warrior,” or “chosen.” In Arabic, Raisa is the feminine form of Rais, meaning “chief” or “leader.” Don’t let these strong meanings fool you, though. Each one is feminine.
- Origin: Yiddish
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: reye-EE-sah, ruh-EE-suh, ra-EE-sah
- Variations: Raisel
- Namesakes: Raisa Akhmatova, a Chechen poet. Raisa Blokh, a Russian poet. Raisa Surnachevskaya, a Soviet WWII fighter pilot and squadron commander.
- Popularity: In 2021, Raisa placed 901st in England and Wales, while in Latvia, it ranked for the last time in 1965 at 94th.
Rhoda
Rhoda stems from the Greek “rhodon,” likely meaning “rose.” Rhoda could also mean “from Rhodes,” a Greek island heavily associated with the thorny flowering plant. In the Bible, Rhoda was a member of the Christian congregation and a servant of Mark’s mother, Mary. With these ancient associations, Rhoda seems to be firmly rooted.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: ROHW-duh
- Variations: Rhode
- Namesakes: Rhoda Scott, an American jazz organist, and singer. Rhoda Abbott (née Hunt), the only female passenger in the sinking of the RMS Titanic to survive.
- Popularity: Rhoda placed 777th in 1975 before disappearing from U.S. charts.
Rhodes
Rhodes is a Greek island possibly named after the nymph Rhodos, wife of the god Helios. These may derive from the Greek word “rhodon,” meaning “rose,” which became the island’s symbol — possibly due to the wild roses that grow there. Rhodes was originally a surname but has become popular as a male-given name.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Cleared land, rose
- Pronunciation: ROHDS, ROHWDS
- Variations: Rhoads, Rhoades, Roades, Rodes
- Namesakes: Sir Rhodes Boyson, an English educator, author, and politician. Rhodes Robert Hedlund, son of actress Emma Roberts.
- Popularity: Rhodes made the U.S. charts for the first time at 922nd in 2022.
Rhosyn
Rhosyn resembles Rosalyn, but it’s actually the modern Welsh form of the diminutive Irish Róisín, meaning “little rose.” Unlike its root, Rhosyn is easier to spell without acute accents. It also sounds quite different, with a heavier emphasis on the first syllable.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Rose, little rose
- Pronunciation: RO-sin
- Variations: Roisin
- Popularity: Rhosyn is borne by about ten people across England, Wales, and the U.S.
Rohesia
Rohesia is a Latinization of the medieval English Rohese (also spelled Roese), which then became the term for “rose.” It was introduced to the English language by the Normans. With its melodious ring, Rohesia is the type of epithet you would find in a Shakespearean play or other poetic literary work.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rose, a famous type
- Pronunciation: roh-HAY-see-ah
- Variations: Rohese, Roese
- Popularity: Rohesia has about five international bearers.
Róise
Róise comes from the Irish root “rós,” meaning “rose.” It’s an alternative spelling of the Irish Róis (ROHSH). Unsurprisingly, Róise is most popular in Ireland but remains extremely rare internationally. With such a pretty sound, we think Róise deserves some TLC.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: ROH-shuh
- Variations: Róis, Roise
- Namesakes: Róise Ní Bhaoill, an Irish author.
- Popularity: In 2022, Róise placed 79th in Northern Ireland.
Roos
To Westerners, Roos appears quite masculine. However, this Dutch option is both a toponymic (based on a place) surname and a female first name. It means “rose” in Dutch, Low German, Estonian, and Swiss German. Roos is also a Dutch nickname for feminine names starting with “ros,” like Rosalin or Rosemarie. On the other hand, Roosje is a diminutive of Roos.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: ROHS, ROOZ
- Namesakes: Roos Abels, a Dutch fashion model. Roos Hoogeboom, a Dutch professional racing cyclist. Roosje (Roos) Vonk, a Dutch university professor, author, and motivational speaker.
- Popularity: Roos ranked 154th in Belgium in 2021 and 39th in the Netherlands in 2022.
Roosevelt
Roosevelt is a toponymic (based on a place) surname from Van Rose(n)velt, also spelled Roosevelt, Ruyssevelt, or Roysevelt. These are based on the Dutch elements “roos,” meaning “rose,” and “veld,” meaning “field.” Many parents choose Roosevelt to honor the 26th U.S. president, Theodore Roosevelt. Or perhaps it’s a nod to the longest-serving U.S. president, Franklin Roosevelt.
- Origin: Dutch, English
- Meaning: Rose field
- Pronunciation: ROHWZ-uh-vehlt
- Variations: Rosenfeld
- Namesakes: Roosevelt Harrell III, known as Bink, an American hip-hop producer. Roosevelt Brown, an American professional baseball player.
- Popularity: Roosevelt last appeared on U.S. charts in 1993 at 964th place.
Rosaleen
Rosaleen is a variant of Rosaline from Rosalind, introduced to the English via the Normans. It initially meant “gentle horse” based on the Old German elements “hros” (horse) and “lind” (soft/tender). At some point, it was influenced by the Latin “rosa linda,” meaning “beautiful rose,” and the new etymology stuck.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Beautiful rose, gentle horse
- Pronunciation: ROHWZ-uh-leen, RAHZ-uh-lin
- Variations: Rosaline, Rosalyn, Rosalin, Rosalind
- Namesakes: Rosaleen Linehan, an Irish stage and screen actress. Rosaleen Love, an Australian science journalist and writer.
- Popularity: In Ireland, Rosaleen ranked once in 1964 at 80th and again in 1967 at 99th.
Rosamel
Co-opted by the Spanish, Rosamel is a primarily masculine moniker that started life as a French surname. It’s composed of the elegant Latin “rosa,” meaning “rose,” and the warm, golden goodness of Greek “mel,” meaning “honey.” How can something sound so delicious yet so refined?
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Rose and honey
- Pronunciation: ROHZA-mehl
- Popularity: Rosamel is most popular in Chile and Argentina but doesn’t rank on U.S. charts.
Rosamund
Rosamund was originally a surname made up of the German “hros,” meaning “horse,” and “mund/munt,” meaning “protection.” Like Rosalind, Rosamund became associated with Latin. The phrases that influenced its meaning were “rosa munda,” (pure rose) and “rosa mundi” (rose of the world). Borne by queens, actresses, and authors alike, Rosamund has many noble and skilled namesakes to aspire to.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Pure rose, rose of the world, horse protector
- Pronunciation: ROHZA-mund
- Variations: Rosamond, Rosmunda, Rosemonde
- Namesakes: Rosamund Bartlett, a British scholar, lecturer, and translator. Rosamund Clifford, a medieval English noblewoman and mistress of King Henry II of England. Rosamund Pike, a British actress.
- Popularity: Rosamund is most popular in England, with about 3,599 bearers worldwide.
Rosanna
Although Rosanna looks like Hosanna, the two are unrelated. Rosanna is a combination of Rosa, meaning “rose,” and Anna, meaning “grace” or “favor.” Because these elements can be found independently, the nicknames Rosie and Annie are on the table. But honestly, Rosanna is already so beautiful; there may be no need to shorten it.
- Origin: Italian, English
- Meaning: Gracious rose, graceful rose
- Pronunciation: ROHWZ-anuh, ROHZ-anuh
- Variations: Rosannah
- Namesakes: Rosanna Arquette, an American actress. Rosanna Davison, an Irish entertainer, writer, model, and beauty queen. Rosanna Eriksdotter Munter, a Swedish actress and singer.
- Popularity: Rosanna last ranked in the U.S. in 1989 at 954th but continued to rank in England and Wales, where it was 616th in 2021.
Rose
Ah, the classic Rose! This is usually at the top of most parents’ lists of pink-themed names — for good reason! Related to the Latin “rosa,” it was introduced to medieval England by the Normans as Rohese and Roese. These originally meant “famous type” but eventually came to refer to the flowering woody perennial we now call the rose.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Rose flower
- Pronunciation: ROHWZ, ROHZ
- Variations: Rosa
- Namesakes: Rose Abdoo, an American actress and comedian. Rose Arbuthnot-Leslie, a Scottish actress known for her role in Game of Thrones. Rose Laurens, a French singer-songwriter.
- Popularity: In 2022, Rose was 56th in Scotland, 48th in Northern Ireland, and 120th in the U.S.
Rosebud
Rosebud should take the prize for the cutest pink name. It simply refers to the bud of the rose flower. Although Rosebud is usually used as a nickname, there are about 1,533 bearers worldwide. It even neared the top 1,000 names in the U.S. in the ’20s. Not too popular yet, but there’s plenty of potential for growth!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: A rosebud
- Pronunciation: ROHWZ-bud, ROHZ-bud
- Namesakes: Rosebud Denovo, an American protester and activist.
- Popularity: Rosebud is most common in Ghana and the U.S. but doesn’t crack the top 1,000 names.
Rosetta
Most people will recognize the Rosetta Stone, a stele (wood or stone slab) inscribed with a decree issued in ancient Egypt. Not as many know that Rosetta is the Italian diminutive of Rosa — Latin for “rose.” That makes Rosetta a “little rose.” How sweet!
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Little rose
- Pronunciation: roh-ZEH-tah, ROH-seh-ta
- Variations: Rosella
- Namesakes: Rosetta Cattaneo, an Italian sprinter. Rosetta Hightower, an American singer and girl group member. Rosetta Pampanini, an Italian soprano.
- Popularity: In the U.S., Rosetta placed 998th in 1973 before falling off the charts.
Rozovo
Though it looks Italian or Spanish, Rozovo is the Bulgarian word for “pink.” So far, it has barely made any impact as a name. Still, it looks and sounds like other pink names, Rose and Roz. The only difference is that Rozovo has a uniqueness and exotic flair that’s hard to match.
- Origin: Bulgarian
- Meaning: Pink
- Pronunciation: rohwz-OH-voh
- Popularity: Rozovo doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Ruby
Your glittering gem requires a title as precious as she is. That’s why Ruby makes the list. Ruby comes from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning “red.” Although most rubies are indeed red, it’s a lesser-known fact that they can also be violet and, yes, even pink! Ruby continues to be a much-loved classic in many parts of the world.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Red, red precious stone
- Pronunciation: ROO-bee
- Variations: Rubee, Rubi, Rubie
- Namesakes: Ruby Myers, stage name Sulochana, an Indian silent film actress. Ruby Wright, an American country music singer-songwriter. Ruby Stokes, an English actress.
- Popularity: In 2021 and 2022, Ruby placed 62nd in the U.S. after hitting its peak in 1911 at 22nd.
Saindhava
Saindhava is the Hindi word for pink Himalayan rock salt. It means different things in other Indian languages and cultures. However, in Hindu myth, Saindhava is one of the legendary king Bharata’s sons. Saindhava was also a medieval Indian dynastic house that ruled what is now present-day Gujarat, India. Saindhava might be a mouthful, but it seems worth it.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Pink Himalayan rock salt
- Pronunciation: SIN-da-va
- Popularity: Saindhava doesn’t show up on any popularity charts.
Sakura
Sakura is a well-known Japanese option beyond the Land of the Rising Sun. Because this word means “cherry blossom,” Sakura is always associated with pink. In anime, popular namesakes include pink-haired Sakura Haruno from Naruto and Sakura Kinomoto (usually adorned in frilly pink dresses) from Cardcaptor Sakura. Sakura is popular in fiction as much as it is in reality.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Cherry blossom
- Pronunciation: SA-KOO-RAH
- Namesakes: Sakura Ando, a Japanese actress. Sakura Tange, a Japanese voice actress and singer. Sakura Mori, a Japanese table tennis player.
- Popularity: Sakura is most prevalent in Japan as a given name and surname.
Sakurako
Sakurako isn’t as popular as Sakura despite their similarities. Still, it’s quite at home in its birthplace of Japan. Meaning “cherry blossom child,” Sakurako is deeply tied to the color pink. Anime namesakes include Sakurako Yonehara from Detective Conan and Sakurako Kujō from the anime of the same name. If saying Sakurako gets too tedious, simply shorten it to Sakura.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Cherry blossom child
- Pronunciation: SA-KOO-RA-KOH
- Namesakes: Sakurako Okubo, a Japanese actress. Sakurako Kimino, a Japanese novelist who wrote Strawberry Panic! and Love Live!. Sakurako Ohara, a Japanese actress and pop singer.
- Popularity: Sakurako is most popular in Japan but is rare worldwide.
Salmon
Salmon comes from the Hebrew root “salma,” meaning “mantle” or “robe.” In the Bible, Salmon was a son of Nahshon and the father of Boaz by Rahab of Jericho. In terms of color, Salmon is a shade of pink, named after a fish with pink flesh. However, salmon is actually pinkish-orange, nearer the lighter side of coral.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Peace
- Pronunciation: SAL-mun, SA-mun
- Popularity: Salmon has about 24,336 international bearers.
Sango
Sango looks related to the English words “sing” and “song.” Despite its musical appearance, this one has nothing to do with holding a tune. Sango simply means “coral.” One popular fictional namesake is Sango from the Japanese anime InuYasha. Outside of Japan, Sango also appears in the Yoruban and Xhosa languages, where it’s masculine.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Coral
- Pronunciation: SAANG-go
- Namesakes: Sango Tajima, a Japanese-American theater performer, writer, and filmmaker.
- Popularity: Sango is most popular in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Japan.
Sarnai
Sarnai is the perfect pink name for young ladies as it’s not overstated and looks attractive. It’s one famous bearer excels in both beauty and grace. If anyone else is suited to these qualities, it’s your baby girl. Sarnai gets mispronounced by Westerners quite often, though, so remember to take flashcards to your baby shower.
- Origin: Mongolian
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: SAHR-neye
- Namesakes: Sarnai Amar, a Mongolian fashion model and beauty pageant titleholder of Miss World Mongolia 2010.
- Popularity: Sarnai is most common in Mongolia, with about 2,064 global bearers.
Varda
Varda is a variant of the Hebrew Vered, meaning “rose” or “pink,” and the Arabic Wardah/Wardaa meaning “flower/flowery” or “rosy.” It’s great for babies born in June, the month of the Rose Moon. This full moon is named after the color of ripening wild strawberries during the American summer. Varda also works for a child with especially rosy cheeks or Jewish ancestry.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Rose, flower, rosy
- Pronunciation: VAAR-duh, WAAR-duh
- Variations: Vardah, Vered, Wardaa, Wardah
- Namesakes: Agnès Varda, born Arlette Varda, a Belgian-born French film director, screenwriter, and artist.
- Popularity: Varda is most popular in India and the U.S. but doesn’t make the top 1,000 names.
Vered
Vered is Hebrew for “rose,” but may originally stem from an Iranian language. Those with Jewish or Semitic heritage can look to this unique rose-pink option for use or inspiration. It’s more popular than its diminutive counterpart, Varda, but it looks less charming. Although, Vered has the word “red” in it, so it’s slightly more on-brand.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Rose
- Pronunciation: VEH-red, WEH-red
- Namesakes: Vered Borochovski, a former Israeli swimmer. Vered “Didi” Benami, an American singer-songwriter. Vered Bouskila, an Israeli Olympic sailor.
- Popularity: Vered is most prevalent in Israel.
