20 Powerful and strong girl names

When it comes to choosing a baby name, "strength" is among the most common meanings that expectant parents search out. It makes sense: When we look ahead to a time when our children are grown, we hope they're happy and loved, and that they have the strength to follow their own paths and to stand up for the things that they believe in. For daughters especially, a name that embodies power and resilience can be a beautiful gift. Strong girl names often draw inspiration from mighty goddesses, historical warriors, or simply carry meanings related to courage, determination, and inner fortitude. Names like Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare, Valerie, meaning "strength" or "health," and Matilda, meaning "battle-mighty," all convey a sense of empowerment. Other powerful choices include Audrey, meaning "noble strength," Brianna, meaning "strong, virtuous, and honorable," and Valencia, meaning "brave, strong." Whether you prefer classic names with powerful meanings or more contemporary choices that sound bold and confident, there are countless options to bestow upon your little warrior princess that will inspire strength throughout her life.

20 strong, powerful girl names

Adira: Hebrew Name Meaning Strength

The name Adira beautifully embodies strength and power through its Hebrew origins. As the feminine form of the masculine name Adir (a name for God meaning "great one"), Adira directly translates to "strong" and "powerful" - perfect for parents seeking a name with formidable meaning. This distinctive name gained visibility through Disney's Tangled: The Series, where Adira appears as a mysterious martial arts master, further enhancing its association with strength and capability. With its melodic sound and profound significance, Adira offers a perfect balance of uniqueness and meaningful heritage for modern parents seeking an empowering name for their daughter.

Atlas: Bearer Of Mighty Worlds

The name Atlas originates from Greek mythology, where Atlas was the Titan condemned to hold up the celestial heavens for eternity. Traditionally masculine, Atlas has recently emerged as a compelling gender-neutral option for girls, symbolizing extraordinary strength and endurance. This powerful name literally means "to carry" or "to endure," perfectly embodying resilience and fortitude. As a girl's name, Atlas breaks conventional naming norms and bestows a sense of mythological grandeur and cosmic significance. Parents choosing Atlas for their daughter often appreciate its distinctive sound, impressive cultural legacy, and the message it conveys about facing life's challenges with unwavering strength. Girls named Atlas tend to grow into their powerful namesake—becoming natural leaders with the capacity to shoulder responsibility while maintaining their unique identity in a world that admires strength in all its forms.

Audrey: Noble and Powerful Leader

Audrey means "noble strength" in Old English, deriving from the ancient name Etheldred. This powerful name carries the weight of leadership and dignity throughout history. The legendary Audrey Hepburn embodied this strength through her remarkable transformation from acclaimed actress to dedicated UNICEF ambassador. Her timeless performances in Breakfast at Tiffany's, Roman Holiday, and My Fair Lady showcased her grace, while her humanitarian work revealed her true inner strength. Today's Audrey inherits not just a beautiful name but a legacy of elegant resilience, intelligence, and nobility that stands the test of time. The name continues to rank among parents' favorites for daughters destined for both grace and formidable character.

Aurora: Radiant Dawn Of Power

Aurora originates from the Latin word for 'dawn' and represents the Roman goddess of sunrise who renews herself each morning by flying across the sky. This magnificent name embodies illumination, rebirth, and inherent power. Aurora has maintained popularity across generations, appearing in classic literature and folklore worldwide. The name gained further recognition through Disney's Sleeping Beauty princess character, yet it transcends mere fairy tale associations to represent genuine strength and resilience. Notable bearers include pioneering journalist Aurora Karamzin, who was an influential philanthropist and social reformer in the 19th century, and award-winning actress Aurora Perrineau. Girls named Aurora often demonstrate natural leadership qualities, creative brilliance, and an ability to bring light to difficult situations. The name's melodic sound paired with its powerful symbolism of daily renewal makes it ideal for parents seeking a name that combines ethereal beauty with formidable inner strength.

Brianna: Strong, Virtuous, and Honorable

The feminine form of the Irish name Brian, Brianna carries powerful meanings of 'high,' 'noble,' and 'strength.' This distinguished name first gained literary recognition when sixteenth-century British poet Edmund Spenser introduced Briana (spelled with one 'n') as a character in his epic poem The Faerie Queen. Throughout centuries, Brianna has maintained its association with virtue and honor across various cultures. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its melodic sound combined with its strong historical roots and empowering connotations. The name continues to rank among popular choices for parents seeking a name that projects both strength and femininity.

Bridget: Exalted One with Inner Strength

Bridget is a name with Celtic origins that carries significant historical weight and meaning. Derived from the Irish word meaning "exalted one" or "strength," this powerful name has been borne by many influential women throughout history, including Saint Bridget of Ireland. The name can be spelled in various ways including Brigid, Brigitte, or the French variation Bridgette, each maintaining its powerful essence. In popular culture, the character Bridget Jones brought a contemporary resonance to the name, portraying a woman finding her inner strength and voice in a complex world. Parents choosing this name for their daughters bestow upon them a legacy of resilience, independence, and spiritual fortitude that has transcended centuries and cultures.

Carla: Strong and Feminine Warrior

Carla derives from the Old English name Carl or Charles, meaning "free man" or "strong one." This powerful feminine name carries a rich heritage that dates back to the era of King Charlemagne (Charles the Great), one of history's most formidable rulers. Popular throughout Europe, especially in Italy and Spain, Carla embodies both strength and sophistication. Notable bearers include Carla Bruni, former First Lady of France and successful model and musician, and Carla Gugino, the acclaimed actress known for her powerful performances. Girls named Carla often grow up to be confident, determined individuals who command respect while maintaining their feminine identity. The name's beautiful sound paired with its powerful meaning makes it perfect for parents seeking a name that balances traditional femininity with inherent strength.

Eloise: Noble Warrior Princess

Eloise originates from Old French and Germanic roots, combining elements meaning "famous warrior" and "noble." This elegant yet powerful name carries historical significance as it was borne by several medieval nobility figures. Eloise represents a perfect balance of refinement and inner strength, making it increasingly popular for modern parents seeking a name with substance. The name gained literary fame through the beloved children's book character who resided at the Plaza Hotel in New York, adding a touch of whimsical independence to its strong foundation. Notable bearers include actresses Eloise Mumford and Eloise Smyth, who exemplify the name's sophisticated charm. Girls named Eloise often develop into confident, thoughtful individuals with natural leadership abilities. Its melodious sound paired with its warrior heritage makes Eloise ideal for parents desiring a name that combines classical femininity with an unmistakable sense of power and dignity.

Emerson: Brave And Fearless Protector

Emerson is a powerful name of English origin meaning "brave" or "powerful" and traditionally translates to "son of Emery." Originally used as a surname and masculine given name, Emerson has evolved into a distinctive choice for girls, representing strength and independence. The name carries the gravitas of notable figures like philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, infusing it with intellectual prowess and wisdom. In modern usage, Emerson has gained popularity among parents seeking a name that breaks gender conventions while maintaining sophistication. Girls named Emerson often develop confident, fearless personalities that match their name's bold character. The name's versatility allows for cute nicknames like "Emmy" or "Emery," providing flexibility throughout life's stages. With its combination of strength, intelligence, and distinctive sound, Emerson perfectly embodies the spirit of a modern, empowered girl ready to make her mark on the world.

Emery: Courageous Leader Of Many

Emery originates from the Germanic name Emmerich, meaning "home ruler" or "brave and powerful." This distinctive name carries an aura of authority and leadership that has grown increasingly popular for girls in recent years. With its roots in medieval nobility, Emery conveys strength while maintaining a modern, elegant sound. The name has crossed gender boundaries, becoming particularly favored for girls who embody determination and resilience. Notable bearers include rising actresses and athletes who exemplify the name's powerful connotations. Children named Emery often display natural leadership qualities and a courageous approach to challenges. The name's combination of strength and sophistication makes it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that suggests both capability and grace, preparing a daughter to command respect in any path she chooses.

Everett: Brave as a Wild Boar

The name Everett literally translates to "strong" or "brave" and, remarkably, also means "wild boar" - a symbol of courage and ferocity in many cultures. With Germanic origins from the name Eberhard, Everett carries a distinguished quality that works beautifully as a powerful girl name. Once primarily used as a surname or boy's name, it has joined names like Mackenzie, Morgan, and Quinn in crossing gender boundaries. Its strong consonants and elegant ending make it perfect for parents seeking a name that conveys strength while maintaining sophistication. As gender-neutral naming trends continue, expect to see more little girls named Everett in classrooms over the coming years.

Grace: Fierce Elegance In Motion

Grace originates from the Latin word "gratia," meaning divine favor or blessing, and has evolved to represent elegance combined with inner strength. Throughout history, this powerful name has been associated with dignity, poise, and an understated power that commands attention without demanding it. Grace has been beloved by royal families and common folk alike, transcending social barriers with its timeless appeal. Notable women named Grace include Grace Kelly, the iconic actress who became the Princess of Monaco, exemplifying both regal bearing and artistic talent, and Grace Hopper, the pioneering computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral who helped shape modern computing. Girls named Grace often grow up embodying a perfect balance of gentleness and determination, with the quiet confidence to overcome challenges while maintaining composure. The name's combination of soft sounds with powerful meaning makes it ideal for parents seeking a feminine name that doesn't compromise on strength and character.

Jaiyana: Victory and Divine Power

Jaiyana is a magnificent name of Urdu origin that embodies strength, victory, and divine power. This melodious name carries both grace and fortitude, making it perfect for parents seeking a powerful identity for their daughter. With its beautiful cadence and international appeal, Jaiyana offers versatility in nicknames while bestowing a sense of resilience and determination. Girls named Jaiyana are often destined to become natural leaders who command respect through their innate confidence and unwavering spirit.

Kendrick: Royal Power and Leadership

Kendrick is a distinguished name with deep historical roots, derived from either Welsh origins meaning "greatest champion" or Anglo-Saxon roots signifying "king" or "ruler." This powerful name embodies strength, leadership, and royal authority, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that conveys confidence and determination. While traditionally used for boys, Kendrick has been increasingly embraced as a bold, boundary-breaking option for girls. The name first gained popularity in the United States during the 1960s and has maintained a steady presence among the top 500 names. Contemporary recognition of the name has been bolstered by Grammy-winning artist Kendrick Lamar, whose success has associated the name with creativity and artistic excellence. For a daughter, the name Kendrick suggests a future leader who breaks conventions and charts her own path.

Kenzo: Strong and Healthy

Kenzo has its origins in Japanese culture and carries the powerful meaning of "wise and healthy." This versatile name offers multiple interpretations depending on the Japanese characters used, including connotations of humility, wisdom, and strength. Though traditionally used for boys in Japan, Kenzo has gained popularity as a gender-neutral option with its energetic sound and positive associations. The name has been elevated in the creative world by notable figures like the renowned fashion designer Kenzo Takada, founder of the luxury brand bearing his name. For parents seeking a powerful, international name with positive qualities, Kenzo offers both cultural depth and contemporary appeal.

Maeve: Warrior Queen Of Destiny

Maeve originates from Irish mythology, where she was known as Queen Medb of Connacht, a fierce warrior queen renowned for her strength and determination. The name means "she who intoxicates" or "she who brings great joy," reflecting both her powerful presence and captivating nature. Throughout Celtic history, Maeve has symbolized independence, courage, and female sovereignty. The name has gained popularity in recent years for its perfect balance of feminine elegance and inherent power. Notable bearers include Maeve Binchy, the beloved Irish novelist, and the compelling character Maeve Wiley in the hit series Sex Education. Girls named Maeve often grow into confident leaders with strong personalities and an intuitive understanding of their own worth. Its distinctive sound and rich historical associations make it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that embodies female strength and regal heritage.

Matilda: Mighty in Battle

Matilda is a timeless name of German origin meaning "mighty in battle." This powerful moniker has gained renewed popularity thanks to Roald Dahl's beloved literary heroine who demonstrated extraordinary intelligence and courage. In the famous story, Matilda showcases her remarkable abilities by teaching herself to read at an incredibly young age and developing telekinetic powers that she uses to overcome adversity. Beyond fiction, the name has historical significance, carried by powerful women throughout the ages, including queens and noblewomen. With its combination of strength and feminine charm, Matilda offers versatile nickname options like Tilly, Mattie, or Tilda, making it perfect for a girl destined to change the world through her intellect and determination.

Millie: Determined Spirit Of Strength

Millie originated as a diminutive of names like Millicent, Amelia, or Camilla, with roots meaning "determined," "industrious," or "work strength." This charming yet powerful name has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in popularity, embodying a perfect blend of vintage appeal and modern spirit. Notable bearers include British actress Millie Bobby Brown, who rose to fame through her commanding performance in Stranger Things, and Millie Mackintosh, the influential entrepreneur and television personality. Girls named Millie often display remarkable determination and resilience while maintaining a gentle approachability. The name carries an inherent duality – sweetness paired with inner fortitude – making it ideal for parents seeking a name that suggests both warmth and unwavering strength of character. Millie's melodic sound and strong historical foundations provide a beautiful foundation for a girl destined to make her mark on the world.

Nova: Brilliant Explosion Of Light

Nova originates from the Latin word meaning "new" and refers to a star that suddenly becomes thousands of times brighter and then gradually fades to its original intensity. As a name, Nova represents an explosive burst of energy and brilliance, embodying cosmic power and celestial light. Gaining popularity in recent years, this striking name combines modern appeal with a sense of natural wonder. Notable individuals with this name include rising young actress Nova Foxx and professional athlete Nova Meierhenry. Girls named Nova tend to be dynamic, creative, and naturally stand out in a crowd. The name's astronomical connection suggests limitless potential and bright futures, making it perfect for parents seeking a contemporary name with powerful connotations and luminous significance for their daughter.

Rowan: Mighty Guardian Of Strength

Rowan originates from Celtic and Gaelic roots, meaning "little red one" or "tree with red berries," traditionally associated with protection and strength. In Celtic mythology, the rowan tree was considered sacred and possessed powerful protective qualities against evil forces. As a gender-neutral name that has gained popularity for girls, Rowan carries an aura of resilience and natural power. Notable bearers include actress Rowan Blanchard, known for her advocacy and strong voice beyond her acting career. Girls named Rowan often develop independent spirits and determined personalities, embracing both their strength and sensitivity. The name's distinctive sound and powerful symbolism make it an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that embodies protection, wisdom, and inner fortitude while maintaining a connection to nature's enduring strength.