Filipino baby names for girls and boys alike are so diverse– a testament to the intricate interplay of cultural, religious, and linguistic influences that have shaped our nation’s history. Spanish and American colonization have undoubtedly exerted a significant influence on the manner in which we choose to name our children.
A Sparse Selection of Local And Unique Filipino Baby Girl Names
It is noteworthy to mention, though, that even prior to the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, our names were already heavily influenced by Indians, Chinese, and Arabs who had arrived on our shores long before the Spaniards did. Needless to say, they all left their mark on our naming practices.
Thus, finding a myriad of authentic and unique Filipino baby girl names can be a challenge. Nonetheless, if you aim to give your children indigenous Filipino names, here are some homegrown baby name options you can try:
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Indigenous and Unique Filipino Baby Names for Girls
Tala
Bright star
Amihan
Wind or winter storm
Diwa
Spirit
Alon
A wave or swell of water
Mutya
Jewel
Hiraya
Imagination
Luwalhati
Glory
Maya
A bird
Luningning
To shine
Ligaya
Happiness
Mayumi
Gentle or refined in manners
Adlao
A visionary or unique
Diwata
A fairy
Dalisay
Pure
Luzviminda
The name is coined from the three major islands of the Philippines– Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao
But for Filipino parents who want classic names and feel that indigenous names sound less appealing, you can explore foreign names that are traditional but still has a touch of timeless appeal.
Unique Baby Girl Names for Filipinos
Anwen
The name is of Welsh origin, meaning “very beautiful and gracious” the name connotes a woman who moves through life with an ethereal grace and exquisite beauty.
Mireya
A Spanish name which means “a woman worthy of admiration and respect.”
Thessaly
A region within ancient Greece, possessing a captivating essence of poetry and lyrical charm.
Marceline
French name in origin which conveys a sense of valor and resilience.
Eilis (pronounced “AY-lish”)
A name imbued with profound significance denoting a solemn dedication to the the Almighty: “pledged to God.”
Róisín ( pronounced as “ro-SHEEN”)
It means a delicate bloom or little rose in French
Sigrid
The name connotes the essence of womanhood, effortlessly merging fortitude and elegance within her very existence.
Amara
The name “Amara” finds its origins in a multitude of languages, carrying diverse meanings. It can signify grace in Arabic and beloved in Latin, reflecting its rich linguistic heritage.
Thyra
The name signifies a powerful and fearless woman.
Elva
Tracing its origins to the Old Norse term denoting “river,” evoking the ever-shifting currents and sublime elegance of water.
Eliana
In Hebrew, the name signifies “God has intervened” or “God has answered.”
Keira
An Irish name which carries a significance tied to its origins, meaning “dark-haired,” “dark-eyed,” or “graceful”
Nuria
It means grace or light in Spanish
Hannah
A Hebrew name which means grace or favor.
Ayumi
A name of Japanese origin. It means “gentle” or “sweet” in Japanese. An ethereal symphony of sweetness and grace.
Talia
The name bears Hebrew origins, meaning “dew from heaven” or “lamb.”
Annika
From a land steeped in Scandinavian heritage, the name carries the profound essence of elegance and grace.
Esme
The name has multiple meanings in various languages. It can mean “beloved” in Old French and “esteemed” in Persian.
Michal [[pronounced as Mikhal]
This is one of the most beautiful names I came across with. A Hebrew name which means strength and royalty.
Atara
Atara is derived from the Hebrew language and holds significant meaning. In English, it translates to “crown” or “garland.”
Tamar
The name emerged as a profound presence in the Old Testament, known for her resilience and wisdom. It refers to a woman of indomitable spirit and profound sagacity.
Yael
In Hebrew, the name Yael, which means “mountain goat,” embodies the essence of agility, self-reliance, and unyielding resolve.
Yonina
The name Yonina, derived from the Hebrew word for ‘dove,’ connotes peace, purity, and gentleness
Abijah
The name appears in the Old Testament. It means “my father is Yahweh” or “Yahweh is my father.” It signifies a strong connection to God.
Serah
Serah is derived from the Hebrew word “Sarah,” which means “princess” or “noblewoman.” Serah appears in the Bible as a minor character, the daughter of Asher and granddaughter of Jacob.
Avital
Avital was one of King David’s wives and was associated with the idea of “father” or “source” of dew, representing freshness and vitality.
Jemima
An ancient Hebrew name- embodies the qualities of peace, innocence, and beauty.
Yaela
A Hebrew name rooted in ancient traditions. It means a mountain goat or God’s strength in Hebrew. Just as the agile goat fearlessly climbs the heights, this name encompasses the unwavering strength of God, instilling in its bearers an indomitable spirit to overcome life’s hurdles with steadfast resolve.
Siran
Meaning “lovely” or “charming,” Siran conveys a sense of elegance and attractiveness.
Linnea
This name is derived from the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus and refers to the twinflower plant, known for its delicate beauty.
Elysia
The name is of Greek origin which evokes the essence of bliss and radiance, symbolizing both serenity and the illuminating brillliance of sunlight
Azalea
A flower name embodying feminine essence and delicate nature.
Althea
Someone with a healing power
Arabella
The name Arabella is of Latin origin—it has a classic and elegant sound to it. The name means “yielding to prayer” or “prayerful.” A feminine given name that has gained popularity in English-speaking countries.
Aveline
The name Aveline, derived from the Old Germanic name Avila or Avilo, holds multiple interpretations. It can mean “longed for,” or be associated with freedom and grace through its connection to the Latin word “avis,” meaning “bird.”
Liara
A combination of the names “Lily” and “Clara,” representing beauty and clarity
Keziah
This name means “cassia tree” or “cinnamon-like fragrance.” Keziah is associated with beauty, grace, and preciousness.
Solene
French name, meaning “dignified” or “solemn”
Milcah
A Hebrew name that evokes regality and sagacity. It epitomizes a name that exudes grandeur and discernment.
Tabitha
Tabitha, a woman whose name signified grace and delicacy reminiscent of a gazelle or roe deer, was celebrated for her benevolent gestures that touched the lives of many.
Dana
A Hebrew name which means an “arbiter” or “God is my judge”
Noam
An Hebrew name which signifies beauty and contentment
Noa
A beautiful Hebrew name for baby girls and boys. It means, “motion” or “movement” in Hebrew. The name carries within its essence the embodiment of dynamic energy.
Other Uncommon Names for Filipino Children
Sadie
Maud
Carlene
Eseld
Eunice
Cosette
Hermione
Albertine
Arwen
Ballade
Alcina
Cadence
Ellery
Janie
Henriette
Brielle
Ashlyn
Corinne
Adley
Sybil
Estelle
Amalie
Naomi
Everleigh
Beatrice
Freya
Noelle
Julane
Arianne
Clea
Ellery
Alyssa
Helena
Carlene
Cosette
Bennet
Haisley
Ellery
Leanne
We recognize the profound importance of embracing names that bind us to our cultural origins and inheritance; a way to honor our ancestors and keep our family traditions alive.
However, we also understand that in our interconnected world, many parents find joy in selecting foreign names for their babies, symbolizing their appreciation for diverse cultures. It is in this spirit of exploration that we must respect the freedom to select names that resonate with us whether they hail from our homeland or afar.
Some of these rare or uncommon baby girl names may not be to your liking. What may sound beautiful to someone is inherently subjective, as individual tastes and preferences can greatly vary.
If none of the names mentioned above strike a chord, delving into an array of sources like literature, nature, or family history, can help uncover an array of rare, beautiful and unique Filipino baby names for girls.