Girl Names That Start with A

A names for girls open with a bright vowel that makes them sound light and lyrical. Several have ancient roots. Anna comes from a Hebrew name meaning grace and has been used across Europe for centuries, and Abigail is a wise and resourceful woman in the Hebrew Bible. Amelia comes from a Germanic word for work, and Audrey from Old English words meaning noble strength. Aaliyah is an Arabic name meaning exalted or lofty.

Other choices show how much A names have changed over time. Aubrey began as a boy's name derived from a Germanic word for elf ruler, and Ashley, an English place name meaning ash tree meadow, was once used mostly for boys. Addison and Allison come from English and Norman surnames. Aria is the Italian word for a solo song in opera, and Ariana and Arianna have Italian and Greek roots. Alexa comes from a Greek name meaning defender, and Alyssa is linked to the alyssum flower.

Many A names end in a soft a sound, which can create a sing-song effect if your surname also begins or ends with a vowel. Spelling is another consideration, since Ariana and Arianna are both common and are easily confused. Say the full name aloud with your surname to hear how the two flow together.