Ever wonder why princess names have such a special place in our hearts?
There’s something truly magical about them that captures our imagination from childhood and stays with us forever.
Whether you’re expecting a little one or just fascinated by royal culture, princess names offer a blend of elegance, strength, and timeless appeal that’s hard to resist.
Princess Names
Looking for the perfect princess name? I’ve rounded up gorgeous options that carry that special royal sparkle! These names have graced both storybooks and royal courts throughout history, giving them an extra touch of magic. Whether you’re expecting a little princess of your own or just love exploring beautiful names, this list has something for everyone.
1. Adelaide – German origin meaning “noble type.” Once popular among European royalty and now making a stylish comeback.
2. Alexandra – Greek origin meaning “defender of mankind.” A strong yet feminine name used by many royal families.
3. Amalia – Germanic origin meaning “work” or “industrious.” Common in Dutch and Spanish royal families.
4. Anastasia – Greek origin meaning “resurrection.” Famous as the name of a Russian grand duchess.
5. Athena – Greek origin meaning “goddess of wisdom.” While not traditionally royal, it carries divine princess energy.
6. Beatrice – Latin origin meaning “she who brings happiness.” A favorite in the British royal family.
7. Caroline – Germanic origin meaning “free woman.” Used across European royal houses for centuries.
8. Catherine – Greek origin meaning “pure.” One of the most enduring royal names in history.
9. Charlotte – French origin meaning “free man.” Currently popular thanks to the young British princess.
10. Diana – Latin origin meaning “divine.” Forever associated with the beloved Princess of Wales.
11. Eleanor – Provençal origin meaning “bright, shining one.” A classic medieval royal name.
12. Elizabeth – Hebrew origin meaning “God’s promise.” Perhaps the quintessential queenly name.
13. Eugenie – Greek origin meaning “well-born.” Currently used in the British royal family.
14. Genevieve – Germanic origin meaning “tribe woman.” Has a fairy tale princess quality.
15. Helena – Greek origin meaning “bright, shining light.” Used in various European royal houses.
16. Isabella – Hebrew origin meaning “pledged to God.” A royal name in Spain and other countries.
17. Josephine – French origin meaning “God will add.” Napoleon’s empress made this name royal.
18. Leonora – Greek origin meaning “light.” A variation used in several royal families.
19. Margaret – Greek origin meaning “pearl.” A classic royal name throughout European history.
20. Mathilde – Germanic origin meaning “mighty in battle.” Used in Belgian royalty among others.
21. Maud – Germanic origin meaning “powerful battler.” Popular among medieval royalty.
22. Philippa – Greek origin meaning “lover of horses.” Has graced many royal women.
23. Rosalind – Germanic origin meaning “gentle horse.” Has a romantic, fairy tale quality.
24. Sophia – Greek origin meaning “wisdom.” A favorite royal name, especially in Eastern Europe.
25. Tatiana – Latin/Russian origin meaning “fairy queen.” Associated with Russian royalty.
26. Theodora – Greek origin meaning “gift of God.” Used in Byzantine imperial families.
27. Valentina – Latin origin meaning “strong, healthy.” Has been used by European nobility.
28. Victoria – Latin origin meaning “victory.” Forever associated with the powerful British queen.
29. Wilhelmina – Germanic origin meaning “resolute protection.” The name of a beloved Dutch queen.
30. Zara – Arabic origin meaning “princess” or “flower.” Used in modern British royalty.
If you’re drawn to names with deeper meanings related to leadership, you might also like names that mean protector or guardian.
Princess Names For Girls
If you’re hunting for the perfect princess name for your little girl, this list combines traditional royal choices with some fresh options. Each carries that special regal quality while still working beautifully for everyday use. I’ve always thought giving a child a name with royal connections offers them a bit of that princess magic right from day one!
1. Aurora – Latin origin meaning “dawn.” Known as Sleeping Beauty in the fairy tale.
2. Cordelia – Celtic/Latin origin meaning “daughter of the sea” or “heart.” Has a Shakespearean royal connection.
3. Cosima – Greek origin meaning “order, beauty.” Used in European aristocratic families.
4. Delphine – Greek origin meaning “dolphin.” Has been used in French royal circles.
5. Elodie – Germanic origin meaning “foreign riches.” Has a melodic, princess-like sound.
6. Emmeline – Germanic origin meaning “work.” Combines royal bearing with vintage charm.
7. Estelle – Latin origin meaning “star.” Currently used in the Swedish royal family.
8. Evangeline – Greek origin meaning “bearer of good news.” Has a fairy tale princess quality.
9. Fiona – Gaelic origin meaning “fair.” Made famous as a princess in the Shrek films.
10. Giselle – Germanic origin meaning “pledge.” Associated with ballet and fairy tales.
11. Isabeau – French variation of Elizabeth meaning “God’s promise.” Used by French royalty.
12. Jessamine – Persian origin meaning “jasmine flower.” Evokes Princess Jasmine.
13. Juliet – Latin origin meaning “youthful.” Shakespeare’s tragic young heroine.
14. Kalila – Arabic origin meaning “beloved.” Has an exotic princess quality.
15. Liliana – Latin origin meaning “lily flower.” Floral names were popular among royalty.
16. Lorelei – Germanic origin meaning “alluring enchantress.” Has a mythical, regal quality.
17. Madeleine – Hebrew origin meaning “tower.” Used in the Swedish royal family.
18. Marigold – English origin meaning “golden flower.” Has been used by British aristocracy.
19. Nicolette – Greek origin meaning “victory of the people.” Has a French princess charm.
20. Odette – French origin meaning “wealthy.” The princess turned into a swan in ballet.
21. Olympia – Greek origin meaning “from Mount Olympus.” Used in Greek royalty.
22. Penelope – Greek origin meaning “weaver.” Has a subtle royal quality.
23. Rosalina – Latin origin meaning “beautiful rose.” Combines royal bearing with natural beauty.
24. Seraphina – Hebrew origin meaning “fiery ones.” Has an ethereal, princess-like quality.
25. Sienna – Italian origin meaning “reddish-brown.” Has been used by European nobility.
26. Talitha – Aramaic origin meaning “little girl.” Has an exotic princess feel.
27. Thalia – Greek origin meaning “to flourish.” One of the Greek muses.
28. Valerie – Latin origin meaning “strength, health.” Has been used in European royal houses.
29. Vivienne – Latin origin meaning “alive.” Has a French aristocratic flair.
30. Zephyrine – Greek origin meaning “west wind.” Rare name used in European nobility.
For names that share the magical quality of princesses but focus on inner light, check out names that mean light.
Disney Princess Names
Disney has given us some of the most beloved princess names of all time! This list includes the official Disney Princesses plus other fantastic royal characters from the Disney universe. I still remember being totally enchanted by these names as a kid – they just sounded so magical compared to the names I heard every day at school.
1. Snow White – English origin meaning “pure as snow.” The very first Disney Princess from 1937.
2. Cinderella – French origin meaning “little ashes.” Her rags-to-riches story remains timeless.
3. Aurora – Latin origin meaning “dawn.” Also known as Sleeping Beauty or Briar Rose.
4. Ariel – Hebrew origin meaning “lion of God.” The curious mermaid princess.
5. Belle – French origin meaning “beautiful.” The book-loving princess who saw inner beauty.
6. Jasmine – Persian origin meaning “gift from God” or “jasmine flower.” The independent princess of Agrabah.
7. Pocahontas – Native American origin meaning “playful one.” Based on a historical figure.
8. Mulan – Chinese origin meaning “magnolia.” Though not royal by birth, included in the lineup.
9. Tiana – Greek origin meaning “princess.” The hardworking New Orleans princess.
10. Rapunzel – German origin meaning “rampion” (a vegetable). Known for her magical golden hair.
11. Merida – Celtic origin possibly meaning “merit” or “honorable.” The Scottish archer princess.
12. Moana – Polynesian origin meaning “ocean.” The voyaging chieftain’s daughter.
13. Raya – Southeast Asian origin meaning “celebration.” The newest Disney Princess.
14. Elsa – Germanic origin meaning “noble.” The ice queen from Frozen.
15. Anna – Hebrew origin meaning “grace.” Elsa’s optimistic sister.
16. Kida – Created by Disney for Atlantis, possibly meaning “alive” in some languages.
17. Giselle – Germanic origin meaning “pledge.” From Enchanted.
18. Eilonwy – Welsh origin name created for The Black Cauldron.
19. Megara – Greek origin meaning “pearl.” Called Meg in Hercules.
20. Nala – African origin meaning “successful.” The lioness from The Lion King.
21. Esmeralda – Spanish origin meaning “emerald.” The Roma heroine from The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
22. Jane – Hebrew origin meaning “God is gracious.” Tarzan’s sophisticated love interest.
23. Melody – Greek origin meaning “song.” Ariel’s daughter from the sequel.
24. Kiara – Irish origin meaning “dark.” Simba’s daughter from The Lion King II.
25. Vanellope – Made-up name from Wreck-It Ralph, revealed to be a princess.
26. Sofia – Greek origin meaning “wisdom.” From Sofia the First.
27. Elena – Greek origin meaning “bright, shining light.” From Elena of Avalor.
28. Tinker Bell – Created by J.M. Barrie, a fairy with royal status in Disney Fairies.
29. Mia – Italian origin meaning “mine.” From The Princess Diaries.
30. Nancy – Hebrew origin meaning “grace.” Becomes princess at the end of Enchanted.
If you’re enchanted by magical characters like these Disney Princesses, you might enjoy exploring names that mean magic.
Warrior Princess Names
Who says princesses can’t be fierce? These warrior princess names combine royal heritage with strength and courage. I love the idea of a princess who can both rule a kingdom and lead an army – talk about girl power! These names would be perfect for a strong-willed little one or a powerful character in a story.
1. Artemis – Greek origin meaning “butcher” or “safe.” Greek goddess of the hunt.
2. Athena – Greek origin meaning “wise.” Goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare.
3. Boudicca – Celtic origin meaning “victory.” Famous warrior queen who led a rebellion against the Romans.
4. Brienne – Celtic origin meaning “strong, virtuous, honorable.” Has a knightly quality.
5. Camilla – Latin origin meaning “young ceremonial attendant.” A warrior maiden in Roman mythology.
6. Diana – Latin origin meaning “divine.” Roman goddess of the hunt.
7. Éowyn – Created by Tolkien, meaning “horse joy” in Old English. Famous literary warrior princess.
8. Freya – Norse origin meaning “noble woman.” Goddess associated with war and death.
9. Gordana – Slavic origin meaning “hero.” Used in eastern European nobility.
10. Hippolyta – Greek origin meaning “horse releaser.” Queen of the Amazons.
11. Isolde – Celtic origin meaning “ice ruler.” Legendary princess and warrior.
12. Kenna – Scottish origin meaning “born of fire.” Has a fierce quality.
13. Lagertha – Norse origin, legendary shield-maiden and ruler.
14. Leona – Latin origin meaning “lioness.” Suggests royal strength.
15. Lysandra – Greek origin meaning “liberator.” Has a freeing, warrior quality.
16. Matilda – Germanic origin meaning “mighty in battle.” Used by various royal houses.
17. Maeve – Irish origin meaning “she who intoxicates.” Legendary warrior queen.
18. Minerva – Latin origin meaning “of the mind.” Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare.
19. Mulan – Chinese origin meaning “magnolia.” Famous warrior who fought disguised as a man.
20. Nemis – Greek origin related to “righteous anger.” Suggests justice.
21. Octavia – Latin origin meaning “eighth.” Name of Roman nobility with a strong sound.
22. Orla – Celtic origin meaning “golden princess.” Used by Irish royalty.
23. Rhiannon – Welsh origin meaning “great queen.” Associated with horses and power.
24. Sabra – Hebrew origin meaning “prickly pear” but associated with native strength.
25. Seraphina – Hebrew origin meaning “fiery ones.” Suggests passion and power.
26. Thalia – Greek origin meaning “to flourish.” One of the Muses.
27. Valkyrie – Norse origin meaning “chooser of the slain.” Female figures who chose who lived and died in battle.
28. Xena – Greek origin meaning “guest” or “stranger.” Made famous by the warrior princess character.
29. Zenobia – Arabic origin meaning “father’s ornament.” Historical warrior queen.
30. Ziva – Hebrew origin meaning “radiance, brilliance.” Has a powerful sound.
For more names that embody strength and protection like these warrior princesses, explore names that mean warrior.
Royal Princess Names
These names have actual royal connections, having been used by princesses throughout history. There’s something special about choosing a name that has genuine royal heritage – it carries centuries of tradition and dignity. My history teacher once told us that names are one of the ways royal families maintain their connections to the past.
1. Alexandra – Greek origin meaning “defender of mankind.” Used across European royal families.
2. Alexia – Greek origin meaning “defender.” Currently used in Dutch royalty.
3. Amalia – Germanic origin meaning “work.” Used in Dutch and Spanish royal families.
4. Anne – Hebrew origin meaning “grace.” Used extensively in British royalty.
5. Astrid – Norse origin meaning “divinely beautiful.” Used in Swedish and Belgian royalty.
6. Beatrice – Latin origin meaning “she who brings happiness.” Current British royal.
7. Caroline – Germanic origin meaning “free woman.” Used in Monaco and other royal houses.
8. Catherine – Greek origin meaning “pure.” Used across many royal families.
9. Charlotte – French origin meaning “free man.” Current young British princess.
10. Christina – Greek origin meaning “follower of Christ.” Used in Spanish and Swedish royalty.
11. Elizabeth – Hebrew origin meaning “God’s promise.” One of the most enduring royal names.
12. Eugenie – Greek origin meaning “well-born.” Current British royal.
13. Ingrid – Norse origin meaning “beautiful, beloved.” Used in Scandinavian royalty.
14. Irene – Greek origin meaning “peace.” Used in Greek and Spanish royalty.
15. Isabella – Hebrew origin meaning “pledged to God.” Used in numerous royal houses.
16. Joséphine – French origin meaning “God will add.” Used in Swedish and Danish royalty.
17. Leonor – Greek origin meaning “light.” Current heir to Spanish throne.
18. Louise – Germanic origin meaning “famous warrior.” Used in British royalty.
19. Madeleine – Hebrew origin meaning “tower.” Current Swedish princess.
20. Margaret – Greek origin meaning “pearl.” Used extensively in British royal history.
21. Maria – Hebrew origin meaning “bitter or beloved.” Common across European royalty.
22. Mary – Hebrew origin meaning “bitter or beloved.” Used in British and Danish royalty.
23. Mathilde – Germanic origin meaning “mighty in battle.” Current Queen of Belgium.
24. Máxima – Latin origin meaning “greatest.” Current Queen of the Netherlands.
25. Sibylla – Greek origin meaning “prophetess.” Used in Swedish royalty.
26. Sofia – Greek origin meaning “wisdom.” Current Spanish and Swedish royal.
27. Sonja – Russian diminutive of Sophia meaning “wisdom.” Norwegian queen.
28. Stephanie – Greek origin meaning “crown.” Used in Monaco.
29. Victoria – Latin origin meaning “victory.” Used in Swedish royalty and British history.
30. Zara – Arabic origin meaning “princess” or “flower.” Current British royal.
For names that reflect the fortune and prosperity often associated with royalty, you might like names that mean lucky.
Viking Princess Names
Vikings may be known for their warriors, but they also had powerful princesses and queens! These Norse and Scandinavian names carry that perfect blend of strength and beauty that makes them stand out. I’ve always thought Viking names have such a cool, adventurous feel to them – like the person carrying the name might go off on an epic quest at any moment!
1. Astrid – Norse origin meaning “divinely beautiful.” A popular name among Scandinavian royalty.
2. Bodil – Norse origin meaning “battle remedy.” Suggests healing power.
3. Dagmar – Norse origin meaning “day maiden.” Used in Danish royalty.
4. Eerika – Norse variation of Erica meaning “eternal ruler.”
5. Estrid – Old Norse origin meaning “beautiful goddess.” Used by Danish royalty.
6. Freya – Norse origin meaning “noble woman.” Goddess of love, beauty, and war.
7. Gertrud – Germanic origin meaning “spear of strength.” Used in Scandinavian countries.
8. Gunhild – Norse origin meaning “war battle.” Name of several Viking queens.
9. Helga – Norse origin meaning “holy, blessed.” Associated with royalty.
10. Hillevi – Norse origin meaning “happy in battle.” Combines joy and strength.
11. Inga – Norse origin meaning “protected by Ing” (a Norse god). Used by royalty.
12. Ingrid – Norse origin meaning “beautiful, beloved.” Used in Scandinavian royal families.
13. Kára – Norse origin meaning “wild, stormy.” A valkyrie in Norse mythology.
14. Liv – Norse origin meaning “life, protection.” Simple yet powerful.
15. Ragna – Norse origin meaning “advice, counsel.” Suggests wisdom.
16. Ranveig – Norse origin meaning “beautiful divine power.” Strong regal name.
17. Revna – Norse origin meaning “raven.” Ravens were associated with wisdom.
18. Signe – Norse origin meaning “new victory.” Used in Scandinavian royalty.
19. Sigrid – Norse origin meaning “beautiful victory.” Name of several queens.
20. Solveig – Norse origin meaning “strong house” or “daughter of the sun.”
21. Svanhild – Norse origin meaning “swan battle.” Combines grace and strength.
22. Thyra – Norse origin meaning “Thor’s struggle.” Name of Danish royalty.
23. Torunn – Norse origin meaning “Thor’s love.” Connected to the god of thunder.
24. Ulfhild – Norse origin meaning “wolf battle.” Suggests fierce protection.
25. Valborg – Norse origin meaning “fortress of the slain.” Connected to valkyries.
26. Vigdis – Norse origin meaning “war goddess.” Powerful female name.
27. Ylva – Norse origin meaning “female wolf.” Suggests leadership.
28. Yrsa – Norse origin meaning “wild, she-bear.” Name from Norse sagas.
29. Åsa – Scandinavian origin meaning “goddess.” Used by Swedish royalty.
30. Ødis – Old Norse possibly meaning “wealth goddess.” Rare royal name.
If you’re drawn to the powerful nature imagery in these Viking names, you might enjoy exploring names that mean thunder for more inspiration.
Aztec Princess Names
The Aztec civilization had complex nobility systems with powerful princesses and queens. These names carry ancient Mexican heritage and often connect to nature, deities, or admirable qualities. What I find fascinating about Aztec names is how they often describe a specific quality or natural phenomenon – they tell a story in just a few syllables!
1. Ahuiliztli – Nahuatl origin meaning “joy, pleasure.” A name fit for a happy princess.
2. Citlali – Nahuatl origin meaning “star.” Connected to celestial royalty.
3. Coszcatl – Nahuatl origin meaning “jewel, precious thing.” Indicates royal value.
4. Cuicatl – Nahuatl origin meaning “song.” Music was highly valued in Aztec culture.
5. Erendira – Purépecha origin meaning “smiling.” A princess with a positive disposition.
6. Huitzilihuitl – Nahuatl origin meaning “hummingbird feather.” Delicate yet royal.
7. Itotia – Nahuatl origin meaning “dancer.” Dancing was an important royal ceremony.
8. Itzel – Mayan/Nahuatl origin meaning “unique” or “rainbow lady.”
9. Mazatl – Nahuatl origin meaning “deer.” An animal associated with nobility.
10. Metztli – Nahuatl origin meaning “moon.” Associated with the moon goddess.
11. Nenetl – Nahuatl origin meaning “doll or baby.” A term of endearment.
12. Nochipa – Nahuatl origin meaning “forever.” Suggests eternal rule.
13. Ollin – Nahuatl origin meaning “movement.” Symbolizes energy and change.
14. Papan – Nahuatl origin meaning “butterfly.” Symbol of transformation.
15. Quetzalli – Nahuatl origin meaning “precious feather.” Associated with Quetzalcoatl.
16. Tenoch – Nahuatl origin meaning “prickly pear cactus fruit.” Royal foundation name.
17. Tepin – Nahuatl origin meaning “conquered one.” Historical significance.
18. Teyacapan – Nahuatl origin meaning “firstborn.” Important in royal succession.
19. Tlaco – Nahuatl origin meaning “half or middle.” Balance was important.
20. Tlanextli – Nahuatl origin meaning “light.” Suggests enlightenment.
21. Tochtli – Nahuatl origin meaning “rabbit.” An important calendar sign.
22. Tonalnan – Nahuatl origin meaning “mother sun.” Solar connections were royal.
23. Xihuitl – Nahuatl origin meaning “year” or “comet.” Cosmic significance.
24. Xiuhcoatl – Nahuatl origin meaning “fire serpent.” Powerful royal symbol.
25. Xochitl – Nahuatl origin meaning “flower.” A popular Aztec princess name.
26. Xoco – Nahuatl origin meaning “younger sister.” Family position name.
27. Yaotl – Nahuatl origin meaning “warrior.” For a princess who might lead.
28. Yaretzi – Nahuatl origin meaning “you will always be loved.” Tender royal name.
29. Yolotli – Nahuatl origin meaning “heart.” Central to Aztec spirituality.
30. Zeltzin – Nahuatl origin meaning “delicate.” For a refined princess.
For more names with celestial connections like some of these Aztec princess names, check out names that mean star.
African Princess Names
Africa’s rich history includes countless kingdoms and queendoms, each with their own royal naming traditions. These names come from various regions across the continent and reflect the diverse cultures and languages. A friend of mine chose an African royal name for her daughter, and I love how it connects her to such a powerful heritage!
1. Adeola – Yoruba origin meaning “crown of honor.” Perfect for royalty.
2. Amara – Igbo origin meaning “grace.” Used in various African cultures.
3. Aminata – Mandinka origin meaning “trustworthy.” An important royal quality.
4. Ayotunde – Yoruba origin meaning “joy returns.” Celebration name.
5. Boipelo – Tswana origin meaning “pride.” Fitting for a princess.
6. Chioma – Igbo origin meaning “good God.” Divine connection important for royalty.
7. Dalila – Swahili origin meaning “gentle.” Shows royal composure.
8. Eniola – Yoruba origin meaning “person of wealth.” Reflects royal status.
9. Eshe – Egyptian origin meaning “life.” Life-giving force was revered.
10. Folami – Yoruba origin meaning “respect and honor me.” Command fitting for royalty.
11. Hasina – Malagasy origin meaning “good” or “cultured.” Royal quality.
12. Imani – Swahili origin meaning “faith.” Spiritual strength.
13. Iman – Arabic/North African origin meaning “faith.” Used by nobility.
14. Kesia – Ethiopian origin meaning “cinnamon tree bark.” Valuable spice connection.
15. Makeda – Ethiopian origin meaning “magnificent.” Name of the Queen of Sheba.
16. Nala – African origin meaning “successful.” Famous from The Lion King.
17. Nia – Swahili origin meaning “purpose.” Suggests destined to rule.
18. Nkosazana – Zulu origin literally meaning “princess.” Direct royal title.
19. Nyah – Various African origins meaning “purpose” or “resolve.”
20. Oni – Yoruba origin referring to a monarch or ruler. Direct royal meaning.
21. Rehema – Swahili origin meaning “compassion.” Important royal virtue.
22. Safiya – Arabic/North African origin meaning “pure, best friend.” Used by royalty.
23. Sanaa – Swahili origin meaning “artwork” or “masterpiece.” Suggests divine creation.
24. Sade – Yoruba origin meaning “honor confers crown.” Directly royal meaning.
25. Thema – Egyptian origin meaning “queen.” Direct royal title.
26. Titilayo – Yoruba origin meaning “eternal happiness.” Blessing name.
27. Udo – Igbo origin meaning “peace.” Important quality for leadership.
28. Zaire – African origin meaning “river.” Named after the mighty Congo River.
29. Zahara – Swahili origin meaning “flowering.” Suggests blossoming beauty.
30. Zola – African origin (multiple languages) meaning “quiet, tranquil.” Royal composure.
If you appreciate the peaceful qualities expressed in some of these African royal names, you might enjoy names that mean calm.
Egyptian Princess Names
Ancient Egypt had some of history’s most powerful royal women! These names connect to one of the world’s oldest and most magnificent civilizations. I remember being absolutely fascinated by Egyptian princesses when I visited a museum exhibit as a kid – their names seemed to carry all the mystery and majesty of the pyramids themselves.
1. Ahset – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “Isis,” the powerful goddess.
2. Aneksi – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “she lives.”
3. Ankhesenamun – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “her life is of Amun.” Royal wife of Tutankhamun.
4. Bastet – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the cat goddess, protector of home.
5. Cleopatra – Greek origin meaning “glory of the father.” Famous Egyptian queen.
6. Ebony – While not originally Egyptian, refers to the dark wood prized by royalty.
7. Eshe – Egyptian origin meaning “life.” Life was sacred in Egyptian culture.
8. Hathor – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of love and beauty.
9. Hatshepsut – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “foremost of noble women.” A female pharaoh.
10. Isetnofret – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “beautiful Isis.” Name of a queen.
11. Keket – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of darkness.
12. Kemet – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “black land,” what Egyptians called their fertile country.
13. Kiya – Ancient Egyptian origin, a queen of Akhenaten.
14. Lotus – Sacred flower in ancient Egypt, symbol of rebirth.
15. Mereneith – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “beloved of Neith.” Early female ruler.
16. Merit – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “beloved.” Used in royal naming.
17. Nefertari – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “beautiful companion.” Famous queen.
18. Nefertiti – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “the beautiful one has come.” Famous queen.
19. Neith – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of war and weaving.
20. Nephthys – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of death and night.
21. Nitocris – Ancient Egyptian origin, possibly meaning “Neith is excellent.” Possibly a female pharaoh.
22. Nofret – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “beautiful.” Common royal name element.
23. Safiya – Arabic/Egyptian origin meaning “pure.” Used in modern Egyptian naming.
24. Satra – Ancient Egyptian variation possibly related to Hathor.
25. Seshat – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of writing and knowledge.
26. Tauret – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the hippopotamus goddess of fertility.
27. Taweret – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of childbirth.
28. Tefnut – Ancient Egyptian origin naming the goddess of moisture and rain.
29. Twosret – Ancient Egyptian origin meaning “powerful woman.” A female pharaoh.
30. Zuberi – Egyptian origin meaning “strong.” Strength was vital for royalty.
If you’re intrigued by the powerful, mystical quality of these Egyptian names, you might also enjoy exploring names that mean mystery.
Princess Last Names
Looking for the perfect surname to pair with a princess first name? These last names carry that royal energy, whether for character creation or just for fun. I’ve always thought that the right last name can really complete the princess vibe – it’s like adding the crown to the royal ensemble!
1. Astor – Germanic origin meaning “hawk.” Associated with nobility and wealth.
2. Beaumont – French origin meaning “beautiful mountain.” Used by European nobility.
3. Cambridge – English origin, used by the British royal family.
4. Castell – Latin origin meaning “castle.” Direct royal connection.
5. Crown – English word origin, literal royal meaning.
6. De Bourbon – French origin, famous royal dynasty of France.
7. De Medici – Italian origin, powerful Renaissance family.
8. Devereux – French origin meaning “from Evreux.” Old Norman nobility.
9. Fairchild – English origin meaning “beautiful child.” Fairy tale quality.
10. Fitzroy – Norman origin meaning “son of the king.” Literally royal.
11. Habsburg – German origin, one of Europe’s most influential royal houses.
12. Harrington – English origin meaning “estate of the gray-haired one.” Noble English family.
13. Imperial – Latin origin meaning “of the empire.” Directly royal meaning.
14. Kensington – English origin, associated with royal London residence.
15. Lancaster – English origin, historical royal house of England.
16. Montrose – French/Scottish origin meaning “pink mountain.” Scottish noble family.
17. Noble – Latin origin meaning “notable or highborn.” Direct status indicator.
18. Orleans – French origin, royal house of France.
19. Pembroke – Welsh origin, title in the British peerage.
20. Regalia – Latin origin referring to royal emblems and rights.
21. Romanov – Russian origin, the last imperial dynasty of Russia.
22. Rothschild – German origin meaning “red shield.” Famous banking dynasty.
23. Royal – French origin meaning “kingly.” Directly indicates status.
24. Savoy – Italian origin, royal house of Italy.
25. Spencer – English origin meaning “dispenser.” Family of Princess Diana.
26. Sterling – English origin referring to high-quality silver. Indicates value.
27. Tudor – Welsh origin, famous English royal house.
28. Valencia – Spanish origin meaning “brave, strong.” Spanish royal connection.
29. Windsor – English origin, current British royal house name.
30. York – English origin, historical royal house of England.
For names that reflect the magical qualities often associated with princesses and fairy tales, explore names that mean dream.
What Are Princess Names?
Princess names are those associated with royalty, fairy tales, and of course, those beloved animated characters who’ve graced our screens for generations. They range from classic royal names passed down through monarchies to fictional creations that have become cultural icons.
Growing up, many of us dreamed of being princesses or meeting one. These names carry a certain sparkle – they’re not just labels but gateways to worlds of adventure, romance, and courage.
The popularity of princess names has skyrocketed in recent years. Parents looking for names with meaning often turn to these regal options to give their daughters a name with character and history. From playground to palace, these names stand out while maintaining a timeless quality.
In this article, we’ll explore the enchanting world of princess names from Disney’s beloved characters to real-life royalty. We’ll dig into their meanings, origins, and cultural significance – and maybe help you find the perfect princess name along the way!
Looking for names that radiate warmth and positivity? Check out names that mean blessing for more inspiration.
The Most Famous Princess Names: Disney Princesses
When most of us think of princesses, Disney’s royal lineup springs to mind first. These characters have shaped how we view princesses and have made certain names synonymous with courage, kindness, and adventure.
The official Disney Princess lineup has grown over the decades to include 13 remarkable characters, each with her own unique story and cultural background.
| Princess Name | Movie | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| Snow White | Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs | 1937 |
| Cinderella | Cinderella | 1950 |
| Aurora | Sleeping Beauty | 1959 |
| Ariel | The Little Mermaid | 1989 |
| Belle | Beauty and the Beast | 1991 |
| Jasmine | Aladdin | 1992 |
| Pocahontas | Pocahontas | 1995 |
| Mulan | Mulan | 1998 |
| Tiana | The Princess and the Frog | 2009 |
| Rapunzel | Tangled | 2010 |
| Merida | Brave | 2012 |
| Moana | Moana | 2016 |
| Raya | Raya and the Last Dragon | 2021 |
A Closer Look at Each Disney Princess
Snow White – The original Disney Princess whose kindness toward all creatures makes her name fitting. Snow White’s innocence and purity are reflected in her name, which evokes the pristine white of freshly fallen snow.
Cinderella – Her name comes from sitting among the cinders of the fireplace. Despite her humble name origin, Cinderella’s character shows that true nobility comes from within. Her story of transformation from servant to princess continues to inspire.
Aurora – Named after the dawn, Princess Aurora (also known as Briar Rose) lives up to her radiant name. Her story of falling into an enchanted sleep and awaiting true love’s kiss has become one of Disney’s most iconic tales.
Ariel – This curious and adventurous mermaid princess has a name meaning “lion of God” in Hebrew. Her fiery red hair and bold personality match her powerful name perfectly as she challenges the boundaries between sea and land.
Belle – Meaning “beautiful” in French, Belle proves that true beauty comes from intelligence, compassion, and bravery. She’s known for her love of books and willingness to see past appearances.
Jasmine – Named after the fragrant flower, Princess Jasmine yearns for freedom and the chance to make her own choices. Her determination to marry for love rather than political advantage was groundbreaking for Disney princesses.
Pocahontas – With a name meaning “playful one” or “mischievous,” Pocahontas lives up to her name with her free-spirited nature. Her story emphasizes harmony with nature and understanding between different cultures.
Mulan – Though not technically a princess by birth, Mulan earned her place in the lineup through heroic deeds. Her name means “magnolia” in Chinese, symbolizing purity and nobility – qualities she embodies throughout her journey.
Tiana – The hardworking princess from New Orleans has a name derived from the Russian name Tatiana, meaning “fairy queen.” Tiana’s determination and entrepreneurial spirit make her a modern role model.
Rapunzel – Named after a type of lettuce in the original fairy tale (yes, really!), Disney’s Rapunzel embodies curiosity, artistic talent, and resilience despite her sheltered upbringing.
Merida – Her name likely comes from the Latin “meritus” meaning “deserving.” This fiery Scottish princess defies convention with her archery skills and desire to forge her own path.
Moana – Her name means “ocean” in many Polynesian languages, perfectly capturing her deep connection to the sea and her voyaging spirit. Moana’s journey of self-discovery resonates with audiences worldwide.
Raya – The newest addition to the lineup, her name means “celebration” in Malay. Raya’s quest to restore harmony to the fractured land of Kumandra showcases her bravery and belief in unity.
When ranked by cultural impact and popularity, Belle, Ariel, and Cinderella often top the lists, with Elsa from Frozen following closely (though technically Elsa is a queen, not a princess!).
If you love names that embody nobility and honor, you might also like names that mean noble.
Origins and Meanings of Popular Princess Names
The magic of princess names goes deeper than their characters – their cultural origins and meanings add rich layers to their stories.
Cultural Origins of Famous Princess Names
Snow White – German origin, from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “Schneewittchen.” The German tale emphasizes her contrast: skin white as snow, lips red as blood, and hair black as ebony.
Cinderella – French origin from Charles Perrault’s “Cendrillon,” though variations of the story exist across cultures. The name literally describes her living conditions – sitting in cinders.
Aurora – While Sleeping Beauty has French origins, Aurora’s name comes from Roman mythology – she’s the goddess of dawn. This symbolizes her “awakening” from the curse.
Ariel – Though the original Hans Christian Andersen mermaid had no name, Disney chose “Ariel,” which has Hebrew origins and celestial connections (Ariel is also the name of one of Uranus’s moons).
Belle – French origin from “La Belle et la Bête,” the name directly translates to “beautiful,” creating an interesting contrast as Belle values brains over beauty.
Jasmine – Persian origin, named after the sweet-smelling flower. In Middle Eastern culture, jasmine represents divine hope and happiness.
Pocahontas – Native American origin (Powhatan tribe), her actual historical name was Matoaka, with Pocahontas being a nickname meaning “playful one.”
Mulan – Chinese origin, based on the legendary Hua Mulan from the poem “The Ballad of Mulan,” written during the Northern Wei dynasty.
Tiana – American origin for the character, though the name has Russian roots and variations across many cultures.
Rapunzel – German origin from the Brothers Grimm, though earlier versions came from Italy. The original story named her after the rapunzel plant (a type of campanula or lettuce).
Merida – Scottish origin created by Disney/Pixar, though the name has Latin roots.
Moana – Polynesian origin, specifically designed to honor Pacific Islander cultures and navigation traditions.
Raya – Southeast Asian origin, drawing from cultures across the region including Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, and Malaysia.
How Names Reflect Character Traits
The brilliance of princess naming often lies in how perfectly the name captures the character’s essence:
Snow White’s name reflects her purity and innocence, central themes in her story of maintaining goodness despite jealousy and attempts on her life.
Cinderella’s humble name contrasts with her inner nobility, emphasizing that true worth isn’t determined by titles or circumstances.
Aurora literally brings light after darkness, awakening not just from sleep but bringing joy back to a kingdom that had been in mourning since her christening.
Belle’s name creates an interesting tension – while she’s physically beautiful, it’s her inner beauty, intelligence, and compassion that truly define her character.
Jasmine’s floral name suggests delicacy, but like the flower that can grow in harsh conditions, she shows remarkable strength and determination.
Mulan’s floral name (magnolia) contrasts with her warrior spirit, representing the blend of traditional feminine qualities with courage and strength.
If you’re drawn to names with deeper meanings about personal journeys, you might find names that mean transformation interesting to explore.
Royal and Historical Princess Names
Beyond animation, real-world royalty has given us some truly spectacular names that have shaped our concept of what makes a “princess name.”
Historically Significant Princess Names
Mary – One of the most enduring royal names in history, borne by Mary Queen of Scots and many other royal Marys throughout European history. The name comes from Hebrew origins meaning “bitter” or “beloved.”
Margaret – A perennial royal favorite meaning “pearl,” used across European royal families in England, Scotland, Denmark, Norway, and more. Margaret of Anjou and Margaret Tudor are among the most famous.
Nefertiti – Though technically a queen rather than a princess, this Egyptian royal’s name means “the beautiful one has come,” reflecting her renowned beauty and power as co-ruler with Pharaoh Akhenaten.
Philippa – Meaning “lover of horses,” this royal name has graced queens of England, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. Philippa of Hainault, wife of Edward III of England, was particularly influential.
Sophie – Meaning “wisdom,” this name has been especially popular among Russian and Scandinavian royals. Sophie of Württemberg and Sophie of the Netherlands are notable bearers.
Stephanie – Derived from the Greek for “crown,” this name literally means “the crowned one,” making it perfectly suited for royalty. It’s been used by royal families in France, Belgium, and Monaco.
Victoria – Perhaps the quintessential royal name meaning “victory,” it’s forever associated with Queen Victoria, whose 63-year reign defined an era. The name continues to be used in royal families today.
Elizabeth – With a meaning of “pledged to God,” this name has been borne by some of history’s most powerful queens, including Elizabeth I of England and Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch.
Catherine/Katherine – Meaning “pure,” this name has graced numerous royal women, from Catherine de Medici of France to Catherine the Great of Russia to the current Princess of Wales.
Isabella – A royal variation of Elizabeth meaning “pledged to God,” famous bearers include Isabella of Castile, who sponsored Columbus’s voyages, and numerous princesses across European royal houses.
Royal Legacy and Impact
Many of these names carry incredible historical weight:
Mary’s royal associations go back centuries, with Mary Queen of Scots being one of the most tragic and romantic royal figures. The name has represented both Catholic and Protestant royal traditions.
Victoria single-handedly revived the popularity of her name – before Queen Victoria, the name was unusual, but during her long reign, it became one of the most popular girls’ names across the British Empire.
Elizabeth represents the golden ideal of royal naming – Queen Elizabeth I’s strong rule during England’s Golden Age and Elizabeth II’s record-breaking reign have cemented this name as synonymous with dignity and duty.
Catherine shows how royal names adapt across cultures while maintaining their regal associations – from the Russian Ekaterina to the Spanish Catalina, this name has maintained its royal status across borders.
If you’re fascinated by names that convey a sense of fate and destiny like many royal lineages, check out names that mean destiny.
Modern Trends in Princess Names
Today’s parents often look to both Disney and real royal families for naming inspiration, putting a modern twist on traditional princess names.
Current Popularity of Princess Names
Since Kate Middleton married Prince William, names like Charlotte and George have seen major popularity spikes. Charlotte jumped into the top 10 baby names in many countries after Princess Charlotte’s birth in 2015.
Disney continues to influence naming trends too. After the release of “Frozen,” Elsa saw a 240% increase in popularity, while Anna climbed the charts too. Similarly, “Moana” triggered interest in Polynesian-inspired names.
Recent royal baby names like Archie and Lilibet (from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle) have also sparked renewed interest in vintage names with royal connections.
Unique Princess Names Gaining Traction
Parents seeking less common princess names are turning to:
Eulalia – A Spanish royal name meaning “well-spoken”
Theodora – Meaning “gift of God,” borne by Byzantine princesses
Zara – Meaning “princess” in Arabic, also the name of Princess Anne’s daughter
Ameerah – Literally means “princess” in Arabic
Chiyo – Japanese name meaning “eternal” or “thousand generations,” used by imperial families
Sarai – Hebrew name meaning “princess,” the original name of Biblical Sarah
Isolde – Celtic princess from the medieval tale of Tristan and Isolde
These unique options offer the princess feeling without being as immediately recognizable as Elsa or Aurora.
For parents looking for names with a sense of royalty and leadership, names that mean protector or guardian might be worth exploring.
Fun Facts and Trivia About Princess Names
Let’s dive into some fascinating tidbits about princess names that might surprise you!
Disney Princess Name Secrets
- Tiana was originally going to be named Maddy (short for Madeline), but Disney changed it after receiving feedback.
- Aurora speaks only 18 lines in Sleeping Beauty, making her the Disney Princess with the fewest lines despite being the title character.
- Merida is the only Disney Princess with a Scottish accent and the only Pixar princess.
- Cinderella’s actual birth name is never mentioned in the Disney films – Cinderella is her nickname.
- Moana means “ocean” in many Polynesian languages, but the movie was renamed “Vaiana” in some European countries due to trademark issues.
- Belle is the only person in her village who wears blue, symbolizing her outsider status.
- Snow White is only 14 years old in the Disney film, making her the youngest Disney Princess.
Royal Name Traditions Around the World
- In British royal naming tradition, royal babies typically receive 3-4 names, all with historical family significance.
- Japanese imperial princesses often have names ending in “-ko” which means “child.”
- In Thailand, royal princesses receive the title “Chaofa” which translates to “Lady of the Sky.”
- Swedish princesses traditionally receive names connecting to the country’s history, like Victoria, Estelle, and Silvia.
- Moroccan princesses often have names beginning with “Lalla,” a title of respect.
- In Jordan’s royal family, many princesses have names related to light, like Noor (“light”) and Iman (“faith”).
- Spanish princesses typically have María as one of their names, honoring the Catholic tradition.
Evolution of Princess Names in Media
Princess naming in books, movies, and TV shows has evolved dramatically:
In early fairy tales, princesses often had simple, virtue-based names (Snow White, Sleeping Beauty) or no names at all.
Mid-20th century princesses gained more distinctive names but were still traditionally European (Aurora, Ariel).
Modern fictional princesses often have names reflecting diverse cultural origins (Moana, Raya, Tiana) or strength (Merida, Leia from Star Wars).
Recent trends show princess characters with shortened, spunky names (Fiona from Shrek, Elsa from Frozen) rather than formal traditional names.
For those who love names that reflect brightness and optimism like many modern princess characters, names that mean bright offers wonderful options.
How to Choose the Perfect Princess Name
Finding the ideal princess name involves balancing tradition with personal meaning. Here are some tips to guide your royal naming journey:
Tips for Selecting a Princess Name
- Consider the meaning – Look beyond popularity to find a name whose meaning resonates with the qualities you hope for your child.
- Explore cultural connections – Princess names from your cultural heritage can create a meaningful link to family traditions.
- Balance uniqueness and recognition – Uncommon princess names like Eulalia or Theodora offer royal flair without being immediately associated with a specific character.
- Think about nicknames – Many princess names come with built-in nicknames (Elizabeth → Beth, Ellie, Lizzy; Victoria → Tori, Vic).
- Pair with a more casual middle name (or vice versa) – Balance is key! Augusta Jane or Emma Alexandrina gives flexibility.
- Consider the initials – Make sure the initials don’t spell anything unintended.
- Say it out loud – Practice calling the name to make sure it feels right for everyday use, not just on paper.
Popular Princess Name Combinations
Some beautiful pairings that balance royal elegance with approachability:
- Charlotte Rose – Combining the name of a current British princess with a classic floral middle name
- Ariel Victoria – Merging Disney magic with royal history
- Isabella Grace – Spanish royal tradition with a virtue middle name
- Eleanor Jade – Medieval royal name with a modern gem name
- Sophia Elise – Greek “wisdom” with a shortened form of Elizabeth
- Aurelia June – Golden-meaning royal name with a simple, sweet middle
- Josephine Belle – French royal heritage with a nod to Beauty and the Beast
For those who love the magical quality of princess names but want something more nature-inspired, names that mean butterfly might offer the perfect blend of wonder and natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
Princess names carry a special kind of magic – they connect us to stories of courage, kindness, and transformation that have inspired generations. Whether you’re drawn to the animated princesses of Disney, the historical royals who shaped our world, or the modern princesses making their mark today, these names offer something truly special.
The enduring appeal of princess names lies in their ability to blend tradition with imagination. They remind us that there’s power in a name – power to inspire, to connect to history, and to dream of bright futures.
Whether you’re naming a child, a character in a story, or simply exploring the fascinating world of names, princess names offer a treasure trove of beautiful options with rich histories and meanings. From Aurora to Zara, these names continue to enchant us with their royal sparkle and timeless appeal.
After all, what could be more magical than sharing a name with someone whose story has touched hearts around the world?