Baby girl names beginning with "M" have long been synonymous with grace, strength, and timeless beauty. Old-world classics like Mary, Margaret, and Madeline have been cherished for generations, while modern favorites like Mia, Mila, and Maya bring a fresh, cosmopolitan feel. "M" names often have a musical, flowing sound, making them easy to pronounce yet deeply meaningful. Whether you're drawn to the regal sophistication of Matilda or the sweet simplicity of Molly, "M" names provide a wide variety of styles—from vintage revival to international chic. If you want a name that’s both classic and current, "M" names remain a top choice for parents worldwide.
Baby Girl Names That Start With M
Mysterious, melodic, and meaningful — baby girl names that start with M capture hearts with their elegance, nature, strength, and spiritual beauty. From beloved classics like Maria and Mila to rare gems like Meliora and Mystique. This list of 50 girls' names that begin with M helps you unlock a treasure trove of poetic and powerful naming inspiration.
See All the Names1. Mia
Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: Mine, beloved
Description: Mia is a sparkling global favorite that radiates warmth in just three letters. Its sweet simplicity and affectionate meaning make it endlessly appealing across cultures. The name has maintained consistent popularity thanks to its perfect balance of familiarity and distinctive "M" beginning, offering nickname potential like "Mi" or "Mimi."
2. Maya
Origin: Sanskrit
Meaning: Illusion, dream
Description: Maya is an ethereal name that floats between spiritual depth and modern style. Its crisp two-syllable sound and mystical meaning create universal allure. Pronounced "MY-ah," this name works beautifully worldwide, appealing to parents who value both cultural richness and effortless elegance.
3. Madeline
Origin: French
Meaning: High tower
Description: Madeline is a timeless classic that stands with Parisian grace. Its flowing three syllables and strong meaning evoke both literary charm ("Madeline" books) and architectural strength. The nickname "Maddie" adds playful versatility to this eternally sophisticated choice.
4. Mila
Origin: Slavic
Meaning: Gracious, dear
Description: Mila is a melodic name that shines with understated beauty. Its vowel-rich sound and affectionate meaning create instant warmth. Pronounced "MEE-la," this name has surged in popularity for its perfect blend of European elegance and approachable simplicity.
5. Maria
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Of the sea
Description: Maria is a sacred name that flows with timeless purity. Its biblical significance and multicultural adaptability make it globally cherished. The name offers countless variations (Marie, Mary, etc.) while maintaining its essential grace and spiritual depth.
6. Margot
Origin: French
Meaning: Pearl
Description: Margot is a vintage jewel that's regained its luster with modern parents. Its chic French flair and gemstone meaning create sophisticated charm. Pronounced "MAR-go," this name offers old-world elegance with contemporary cool, perfect for artistic families.
7. Melody
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Song
Description: Melody is a lyrical name that sings with musical joy. Its flowing three syllables and artistic meaning create harmonious beauty. A perfect choice for creative parents or music lovers seeking a name that's both meaningful and melodious.
8. Miranda
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Admirable
Description: Miranda is a Shakespearean name that shines with literary grace. Its strong meaning and elegant "-anda" ending create poised beauty. While traditionally feminine, its similarity to unisex "Mira" gives it modern flexibility for all children.
9. Morgan
Origin: Welsh
Meaning: Sea-born
Description: Morgan is a mystical unisex name that rides the waves of popularity. Its Celtic roots and aquatic meaning create fluid strength. Perfect for parents seeking a gender-neutral name with legendary connections (Morgan le Fay) and natural power.
10. Matilda
Origin: German
Meaning: Mighty in battle
Description: Matilda is a vintage powerhouse making a triumphant return. Its strong meaning and sweet nickname potential ("Tilly," "Mattie") create perfect balance. The name offers old-world charm with feminist strength, appealing to parents who value both tradition and substance.
11. Marina
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Of the sea
Description: Marina is an elegant name that flows with aquatic grace. Its crisp three syllables and nautical meaning create serene beauty. Pronounced "mah-REE-nah," this name works beautifully across languages, offering both sophistication and natural charm.
12. Marigold
Origin: English
Meaning: Golden flower
Description: Marigold is a sunny botanical name blooming with vintage charm. Its cheerful floral associations and "-gold" ending create radiant warmth. A fresh alternative to Rose or Lily for parents seeking a nature name with distinctive character.
13. Magnolia
Origin: French
Meaning: Magnolia flower
Description: Magnolia is a lush Southern belle of a name with timeless appeal. Its elaborate syllables and fragrant floral meaning create graceful beauty. The nickname "Maggie" or "Nola" adds versatility to this elegant choice.
14. Maeve
Origin: Irish
Meaning: She who intoxicates
Description: Maeve is a fierce Celtic name with mythic power. Its single-syllable punch and legendary queenly associations create bold elegance. Pronounced "MAYV," this name offers Irish heritage with modern minimalism and strength.
15. Maisie
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: Pearl
Description: Maisie is a cheerful vintage nickname that's all sweetness and light. Its "-sie" ending adds playful charm to the precious gemstone meaning. This name has charmed its way back into popularity for its perfect blend of retro spunk and timeless appeal.
16. Melina
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Honey
Description: Melina is a golden name that drips with sunny warmth. Its smooth three syllables and sweet meaning create gentle beauty. Pronounced "meh-LEE-nah," this name offers Greek heritage with approachable elegance and natural charm.
17. Monica
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Advisor
Description: Monica is a classic name that stands with quiet intelligence. Its strong meaning and crisp sound create grounded elegance. While 90s-popular, this name is ripe for revival as parents rediscover its sophisticated, soulful quality.
18. Milena
Origin: Slavic
Meaning: Gracious
Description: Milena is an elegant European name that flows with melodic grace. Its "Mila" beginning and "-ena" ending create harmonious beauty. Pronounced "mee-LEH-nah," this name offers continental sophistication with universal appeal.
19. Muriel
Origin: Celtic
Meaning: Bright sea
Description: Muriel is a vintage name that shimmers with aquatic mystique. Its flowing syllables and luminous meaning create poetic charm. Pronounced "MYOO-ree-el," this rare gem is perfect for parents seeking something both old-fashioned and ethereal.
20. Myra
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Myrrh
Description: Myra is a sacred name that glows with spiritual fragrance. Its crisp two syllables and biblical connections create timeless elegance. A beautiful choice for parents valuing names with both historical depth and simple beauty.
21. Maren
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Sea
Description: Maren is a minimalist name that flows with aquatic calm. Its clean Scandinavian sound and oceanic meaning create serene strength. Pronounced "MAH-ren," this name offers understated elegance for parents who love nature names with European flair.
22. Maris
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Of the sea
Description: Maris is a spiritual name that moves with liquid grace. Its crisp two syllables and marine meaning create peaceful beauty. While traditionally feminine, its similarity to unisex "Marius" gives it modern flexibility for all children.
23. Maia
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Mother, great
Description: Maia is a mythic name that radiates nurturing power. As the Greek goddess of spring, it carries natural renewal and maternal strength. Pronounced "MY-ah," this name offers timeless elegance with celestial connections.
24. Maxine
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Greatest
Description: Maxine is a bold vintage name that's roaring back with feminist energy. Its powerful meaning and "-ine" ending create retro glamour. The nickname "Max" adds unisex edge to this strong, sophisticated choice.
25. Mireille
Origin: French
Meaning: To admire
Description: Mireille is a romantic French name that dazzles with rare beauty. Its flowing three syllables and flattering meaning create poetic elegance. Pronounced "mee-RAY," this name is perfect for parents seeking something both distinctive and effortlessly chic.
26. Mariella
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Star of the sea"
Description: Mariella is a melodic and elegant name that transcends gender, blending celestial beauty with oceanic mystery. Derived from the Latin stella maris, it carries a timeless, poetic quality perfect for parents seeking a name with lyrical grace and depth. Whether inspired by the sea or the stars, Mariella suits any child with a spirit of wonder, offering a harmonious balance of strength and delicacy.
27. Marlowe
Origin: English
Meaning: "Driftwood"
Description: Marlowe is a modern, gender-neutral name with a poetic, free-spirited vibe. Evoking imagery of driftwood carried by the tides, it symbolizes resilience and adaptability—ideal for a child who embraces life’s journeys. With its literary ties (thanks to playwright Christopher Marlowe) and effortless cool, this name is a stylish pick for parents who love nature-inspired, unisex names.
28. Mavis
Origin: French
Meaning: "Songbird"
Description: Mavis, a vintage gem with lyrical charm, is a beautifully gender-neutral choice for music-loving families. Inspired by the Old French word for "song thrush," it carries a sweet, melodic strength. Once popular in the early 20th century, Mavis is making a comeback as a unique, nature-inspired name that sings with timeless elegance.
29. Meadow
Origin: English
Meaning: "Grassy field"
Description: Soft, serene, and unisex, Meadow is a nature-loving name that evokes open skies and tranquil landscapes. Perfect for parents drawn to earthy, peaceful names, it embodies growth, freedom, and calm. Whether for a boy, girl, or nonbinary child, Meadow offers a fresh, organic alternative to traditional gender-specific names.
30. Marcelline
Origin: French
Meaning: "Little warrior"
Description: Marcelline is a fierce yet elegant name that defies gender norms, blending French sophistication with unshakable strength. Its meaning, "little warrior," makes it a powerful choice for any child destined to stand tall. With vintage charm and modern appeal, Marcelline is a rare but striking pick for parents seeking a name with both grace and grit.
31. Mireya
Origin: Spanish
Meaning: "Miracle"
Description: Mireya, a romantic and luminous name, is a gender-neutral treasure meaning "miracle." With Spanish roots and an ethereal quality, it’s perfect for a child who feels like a wondrous gift. Flowing and poetic, Mireya suits any family seeking a name that sparkles with hope and beauty.
32. Magdalena
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: "From Magdala"
Description: Magdalena is a grand, biblical name with a timeless elegance that transcends gender. Often associated with Mary Magdalene, it carries sacred depth while remaining adaptable for modern, gender-neutral use. With its melodic rhythm and strong roots, Magdalena is a majestic choice for parents seeking a name with spiritual weight and universal grace.
33. Mabli
Origin: Welsh
Meaning: "Lovable"
Description: Sweet and gender-neutral, Mabli (pronounced MAHB-lee) is a Welsh gem meaning "lovable." Its cozy, whimsical sound makes it perfect for a child with a warm, affectionate spirit. Rare yet easy to embrace, Mabli is a charming alternative to more common unisex names, offering softness and originality.
34. Marcella
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Warlike"
Description: Marcella is a bold, elegant name that defies gender norms, blending ancient strength with modern sophistication. Derived from Mars, the Roman god of war, it’s a powerful yet refined choice for any child. With its vintage revival appeal, Marcella suits parents who love unisex names with a warrior’s heart and a timeless edge.
35. Minerva
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Goddess of wisdom"
Description: Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategy, is a striking gender-neutral name for a child destined to shine intellectually. Mythical and commanding, it carries a divine gravitas while feeling fresh and unconventional. Ideal for parents seeking a name that embodies brilliance, creativity, and strength beyond binary labels.
36. Malia
Origin: Hawaiian
Meaning: "Calm, peaceful"
Description: Malia, a serene and unisex Hawaiian name, evokes ocean breezes and tranquil shores. While traditionally feminine, its soothing simplicity and meaning ("calm") make it a versatile pick for any child. Flowing and gentle, Malia is perfect for parents drawn to nature-inspired names with island-inspired harmony.
37. Magda
Origin: German
Meaning: "Woman from Magdala"
Description: Short, strong, and effortlessly cool, Magda is a gender-neutral twist on Magdalena. With vintage European flair and a punchy rhythm, it’s a standout for parents who love minimalist yet meaningful names. Whether for a boy, girl, or nonbinary child, Magda feels both classic and contemporary.
38. Mahalia
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: "Tenderness"
Description: Mahalia (or Mahali) is a spiritual, rare name that radiates compassion, making it a beautiful gender-neutral choice. Linked to the Hebrew word for "gentleness," it’s ideal for a kind-hearted child. With its melodic sound and soulful roots (think gospel legend Mahalia Jackson), this name carries warmth and depth.
39. Maritza
Origin: Spanish
Meaning: "Of the sea"
Description: Flowing and passionate, Maritza is a unisex name inspired by the ocean’s boundless energy. Its rhythmic cadence and aquatic meaning make it a poetic pick for water-loving families. Whether for a boy or girl, Maritza shimmers with vitality and a touch of exotic charm.
40. Maelle
Origin: French
Meaning: "Chief, prince"
Description: Maelle (pronounced my-ELLE) is a sleek, modern unisex name with Breton roots. Meaning "chief" or "prince," it balances strength and grace, perfect for a child with natural leadership. Gender-neutral in France, Maelle is gaining global appeal for its refined, minimalist elegance.
41. Millicent
Origin: German
Meaning: "Strong in work"
Description: Millicent, a vintage noble name, is ripe for gender-neutral revival. Meaning "strong in work," it’s a spirited choice for a resilient, determined child. With nickname options like Milo or Millie, it’s adaptable and rich in history—ideal for parents who love classic names with unisex potential.
42. Manon
Origin: French
Meaning: "Bitter, beloved"
Description: Chic and minimalist, Manon is a French unisex name (though traditionally feminine) with quiet sophistication. Its duality—meaning both "beloved" and "bitter"—adds intriguing depth. Perfect for parents seeking a short, stylish name with European flair, Manon feels both timeless and contemporary.
43. Meliora
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Better"
Description: Meliora, a luminous gender-neutral name, means "better" in Latin—symbolizing hope and progress. With its optimistic vibe and refined sound, it’s a unique alternative to names like Amara or Aurelia. Ideal for parents who want a name that inspires growth and positivity.
44. Malou
Origin: French
Meaning: "Bitter + famous"
Description: Playful and fresh, Malou (pronounced mah-LOO) is a quirky French hybrid of Marie and Louise. Its whimsical, gender-neutral charm makes it a darling choice for creative families. Effortlessly cool and full of Parisian zest, Malou dances to its own beat.
45. Marceline
Origin: French
Meaning: "Little warrior"
Description: Marceline is a fiercely romantic unisex name, blending French elegance with mythical strength. Popularized by Adventure Time’s vampire queen, it’s a bold pick for a child with a dramatic, artistic spirit. Both delicate and powerful, Marceline is a name that lingers.
46. Marcelina
Origin: Spanish
Meaning: "Little warrior"
Description: Lush and lyrical, Marcelina is the Spanish cousin of Marceline, with the same warrior heart but a sunnier, melodic twist. Gender-neutral in some cultures, it’s a vibrant choice for parents who love names with rhythm, resilience, and a touch of fiery passion.
47. Minette
Origin: French
Meaning: "Kitten"
Description: Minette is a playful, gender-neutral name meaning "kitten"—purrfect for a spirited, mischievous child. Soft yet spunky, it’s a rare French gem that feels both cuddly and chic. Ideal for cat-loving families or those seeking a name with whimsical charm.
48. Mirabella
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Wonderful beauty"
Description: Mirabella is a fantastical unisex name that shimmers with fairy-tale allure. Meaning "wonderful beauty," it’s a regal yet whimsical pick for a child with a vibrant imagination. Gender-neutral in modern use, it’s perfect for parents who love names with a touch of magic.
49. Monet
Origin: French
Meaning: "To be heard"
Description: Artistic and rare, Monet (like the painter) is a gender-neutral name that speaks to creativity and expression. With its soft sound and profound meaning ("to be heard"), it’s ideal for a child destined to make their mark—whether through art, voice, or individuality.
50. Mystique
Origin: French
Meaning: "Mystery"
Description: Darkly elegant and gender-neutral, Mystique is a name wrapped in allure and intrigue. Inspired by the X-Men character and the French word for "mystery," it’s perfect for a child with an enigmatic, magnetic personality. A bold choice for parents who love names with edge and sophistication.
