85 magical Finnish girl names with meanings (2024)
Are you looking for a unique and meaningful name for your little girl?
In this blog post, I’ll share with you the best Finnish girl names that are not only distinctive but also have beautiful meanings connected to nature and the world around us.
I’ll guide you through their meanings and give you a hand with the pronunciations, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your daughter.
Let’s take a look.
Read next: 229 cute Scandinavian baby names
Table of Contents
About Finnish girl names
Finnish girls names have a charm that feels close to nature and the stories of old Finland.
They’re easy to say, with a rhythm that rolls off the tongue, like the gentle flow of Finnish lakes.
Unlike the Viking vibes of Swedish or Norwegian names, Finnish names like “Satu” (fairy tale) or “Kukka” (flower) give a nod to the simple beauty of the Finnish landscape and culture.
Read next: 93 beautiful Finnish boy names with meanings
🇫🇮 Popular Finnish girl names
First, let’s take a look at the most popular Finnish names for girls.
1. Maria
Maria is a timeless name with Latin roots meaning “star of the sea.” It has stayed atop the popularity charts in Finland for years.
- Pronunciation: MAH-ree-ah
2. Emilia
Emilia, connected to the Roman family name Aemilius, implies industriousness and striving.
- Pronunciation: eh-MEE-lee-ah
3. Sofia
Sofia is the Finnish variation of Sophia, meaning “wisdom,” a name that carries a classical grace.
- Pronunciation: SOH-fee-ah
4. Aino
Aino comes from Finnish folklore, meaning “the only one,” and it’s as unique as it sounds.
- Pronunciation: AI-no
5. Ainikki
Ainikki is derived from Finnish mythology, signifying a figure associated with forests and meadows.
- Pronunciation: Eye-nee-kee
6. Eevi
Eevi is the Finnish form of Eve, signifying “life” or “living one,” and is quite favored in Finland.
- Pronunciation: EH-vee
7. Venla
Venla, a name rooted in Finnish tradition, is thought to have connections to the word for “peace.”
- Pronunciation: VEN-lah
8. Ella
Ella’s a name that’s not just popular in Finland; it’s beloved worldwide for its simplicity, meaning “light” or “beautiful fairy.”
- Pronunciation: EL-lah
9. Aada
Aada draws from an ancient Germanic word, meaning “noble,” and it’s got a strong, concise sound.
- Pronunciation: AAH-dah
10. Saara
Saara is the Finnish form of Sarah, denoting “princess” or “lady,” an evergreen choice.
- Pronunciation: SAH-rah
11. Siiri
Siiri might remind you of the English name Siri, and in Finland, it carries the meaning of “beautiful victory.”
- Pronunciation: SEER-ee
12. Lotta
Lotta is a diminutive form of Charlotte, and it has an air of strength and diminutive energy about it.
- Pronunciation: LOT-tah
13. Matilda
Matilda is a name with strength at its core, literally meaning “battle-mighty” or “powerful in battle.”
- Pronunciation: mah-TIL-dah
14. Emma
Emma is a universally adored name in Finland and elsewhere, with a meaning that encompasses “whole” or “universal.”
- Pronunciation: EM-mah
15. Olivia
Olivia could be derived from Latin for “olive tree,” symbolizing peace or victory.
- Pronunciation: o-LEE-vee-ah
16. Iida
Iida is the Finnish variant of Ida, meaning “industrious one.”
- Pronunciation: EE-dah
17. Vilma
Vilma is a name that could be a shortened version of Wilhelmina, which means “resolute protection.”
- Pronunciation: VIL-mah
18. Kerttu
Kerttu is the Finnish form of Gertrude, signifying “a strong spear,” a nod to warrior-like strength.
- Pronunciation: KER-ttu
19. Anni
Anni is a Finnish diminutive of Anna, meaning “grace.”
- Pronunciation: AN-nee
20. Iina
Iina is a unique Finnish name likely connected to the name Anna, which carries the tender meaning of “grace.”
- Pronunciation: EE-nah
🇫🇮 Finnish girl names with unique meanings
21. Satu
Satu is a whimsical Finnish name meaning “fairy tale,” evoking images of folklore and enchanting stories passed down through generations.
Pronunciation: SAH-too
22. Kukka
Kukka is a nature-inspired Finnish name that translates to “flower,” reflecting the country’s appreciation for the simple beauty of flora.
Pronunciation: KOOK-kah
23. Sini
Sini is a serene Finnish name meaning “blue,” reminiscent of Finland’s vast, clear skies and numerous lakes.
Pronunciation: SEE-nee
24. Metsä
Metsä is a Finnish name that brings to mind the dense, green forests covering much of Finland, as it means “forest.”
Pronunciation: MET-sah
25. Lumi
Lumi is a luminous Finnish name meaning “snow,” a nod to the country’s picturesque, snowy winters.
Pronunciation: LOO-mee
26. Kielo
Kielo is the Finnish name for “lily of the valley,” a flower known for its delicate appearance and sweet fragrance.
Pronunciation: KYEH-lo
27. Orvokki
Orvokki is a Finnish name meaning “pansy,” the vibrant flower associated with thoughtful reflections and memories.
Pronunciation: OR-vok-kee
28. Pihla
Pihla is a Finnish name derived from the rowan tree, known for its bright red berries and protective myths in Finnish folklore.
Pronunciation: PEE-hlah
29. Tuuli
Tuuli is a breezy Finnish name that means “wind,” capturing the essence of the brisk and clean Finnish air.
Pronunciation: TOO-lee
30. Aarni
Aarni is a Finnish name with a mystical edge, meaning “treasure” or “forest,” hinting at hidden riches and the mystique of woodland realms.
Pronunciation: AHR-nee
31. Taika
Taika is a magical Finnish name meaning “magic,” conjuring images of the enchanting northern lights and the country’s mythical tales.
Pronunciation: TAI-kah
32. Vellamo
Vellamo is a Finnish name that comes from mythology, belonging to the goddess of the sea, reflecting the nation’s deep connection with water.
Pronunciation: VEH-lah-mo
33. Meri
Meri is a Finnish name that means “sea,” symbolizing the vast and beautiful Baltic coastline that shapes Finland’s geography.
Pronunciation: MEH-ree
34. Suvi
Suvi is a bright and cheerful Finnish name that means “summer,” representing the season of endless daylight and nature in full bloom.
Pronunciation: SOO-vee
35. Lilja
Lilja is the Finnish word for “lily,” a name that brings to mind purity and the elegant beauty of this beloved flower.
Pronunciation: LIL-yah
36. Taimi
Taimi is a Finnish name meaning “sapling,” suggestive of new growth and the potential for life’s natural renewal.
Pronunciation: TAI-mee
37. Helmi
Helmi is a Finnish name that translates to “pearl,” a term of endearment reflecting something precious and valued.
Pronunciation: HEL-mee
38. Viola
Viola is a Finnish name that means “violet,” a flower that symbolizes modesty and faithfulness in the Finnish tradition.
Pronunciation: VEE-oh-lah
39. Lehto
Lehto is a Finnish name meaning “grove,” indicative of a peaceful and tranquil woodland clearing.
Pronunciation: LEH-toh
40. Sinikka
Sinikka is a variation of the Finnish name Sini, and it also implies the color “blue,” embodying the calmness and depth of Finnish landscapes.
Pronunciation: SEE-nik-kah
🇫🇮 Sami girl names
Sami names often reflect the nature and culture of the Sami people who inhabit northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. You’ll find that these names carry meanings tied to the Sami way of life and the rugged landscapes they live in.
41. Áilu
Áilu is a Sami name that encapsulates the essence of a unique and exotic cultural identity.
- Pronunciation: AHY-loo
42. Elle
Elle is traditionally a name that symbolizes the otherworldly beauty found in the Sami regions and carries a certain elegance.
- Pronunciation: EL-le
43. Ingá
In Sami culture, Ingá is a name that may relate to the concept of a guarded, protected area, similar to the Finnish ‘Inga’.
- Pronunciation: EENG-ah
44. Iŋgá
Iŋgá, a variant of Ingá, maintains the same cultural significance and can be an exotic choice when you’re exploring Finnish Names.
- Pronunciation: EENG-kah
45. Issát
With Issát, you’re choosing a name that carries an air of strength and resilience, something vital in the cold climates of Sweden and beyond.
- Pronunciation: EES-saht
46. Juovlla
Juovlla is one of those unique Sami names that resonate with the Sami’s deep connection to their traditions.
- Pronunciation: YOH-vllah
47. Liiná
The name Liiná offers a gentle nod to nature, much like many Finnish names that often embody natural elements.
- Pronunciation: LEE-nah
48. Lemet
Picking Lemet, you’re embracing a name that’s intertwined with the Sami’s storied past and rich culture.
- Pronunciation: LE-met
49. Máret
Máret is an enchanting name that might remind you of the broad and wild northern landscapes.
- Pronunciation: MAH-ret
50. Nilla
The name Nilla speaks to a heritage that’s as vast and unique as the Nordic region itself.
- Pronunciation: NEEL-lah
51. Risten
Risten could be your choice if you’re looking for something that stands apart but feels familiar, a common trait among exotic names.
- Pronunciation: REES-ten
52. Sárá
Sárá is a name with a melody that resonates with the quiet but enduring beauty of the Sami homelands.
- Pronunciation: SAH-rah
53. Solbárg
In choosing Solbárg, you’re selecting a name that’s original and brings to mind the clear, bright skies of the Arctic.
- Pronunciation: SOL-barg
54. Ulda
Ulda is both exotic and profound; it’s a name that carries with it the whisper of northern winds.
- Pronunciation: OOL-dah
55. Vuokko
Vuokko stands out as a floral name that’s deeply ingrained in the culture and could beautifully represent your unique heritage.
- Pronunciation: VOO-kko
🇫🇮 Rare Finnish girl names
Finnish names often reflect the country’s nature and deep cultural roots.
If you’re searching for a unique Finnish girl name, this list explores several rare options, each with its significance and charm.
56. Aamu
Aamu means “morning” in Finnish, symbolizing a fresh start. It’s a modern choice that’s gained popularity in the 21st century.
- Pronunciation: Ah-moo
57. Anneli
Anneli is derived from Anna, meaning “grace.” It’s a classic with a Finnish twist.
- Pronunciation: Ahn-neh-lee
58. Eerika
Eerika is the Finnish feminine form of Eric, meaning “ever ruler” or “eternal ruler.”
- Pronunciation: Eh-ree-kah
59. Hannele
Hannele is a diminutive of Johanna, which implies “God is gracious.”
- Pronunciation: Hahn-neh-leh
60. Ilta
Ilta translates to “evening” in Finnish, capturing the peace of dusk.
- Pronunciation: Eel-tah
61. Kaino
Kaino stands for “modest” or “demure” in Finnish, a name that’s as unique as it is noble.
- Pronunciation: Kye-noh
62. Lahja
Lahja means “gift,” symbolizing the joy and blessing a child brings into the world.
- Pronunciation: Lah-yah
63. Saima
Named after Finland’s largest lake, Saima evokes the beauty and tranquility of Finnish nature.
- Pronunciation: Sy-mah
64. Nuutti
Though traditionally a male name related to Knut, its unique sound makes it an interesting choice, symbolizing “knot” or “tie.”
- Pronunciation: Noo-ttee
65. Varpu
Varpu means “twig” or “small branch,” symbolic of growth and new beginnings.
- Pronunciation: Var-poo
66. Raakel
Raakel is the Finnish version of Rachel, meaning “ewe” or “one with purity.”
- Pronunciation: Rah-kel
67. Sade
Sade, pronounced like the English word “sawed,” means “rain” — a name that’s both poetic and grounded.
- Pronunciation: Sah-deh
68. Sanelma
Sanelma means “the one who defines” or “settler” in Finnish, suggesting determination and clarity.
- Pronunciation: Sah-nel-mah
69. Taimi
Taimi signifies “sapling” or “young tree” in Finnish, carrying connotations of growth and new life.
- Pronunciation: Tie-me
70. Hilja
Hilja signifies “silence” or “tranquility,” reflecting the peaceful aspects of Finnish nature.
- Pronunciation: Hill-yah
71. Unelma
Unelma means “dream” in Finnish, perfect for a child born of your dreams.
- Pronunciation: Oo-nel-mah
72. Vellamo
Vellamo is the name of a sea goddess in Finnish mythology, representing the mystery and power of the sea.
- Pronunciation: Vel-lah-mo
73. Vilhelmiina
Vilhelmiina is the Finnish feminine form of William, meaning “resolute protection.”
- Pronunciation: Vil-hel-mee-nah
74. Virva
Virva means “will-o’-the-wisp” in Finnish, hinting at something elusive and flickering.
- Pronunciation: Veer-vah
75. Ylva
Ylva is a name of Swedish origin, popular in Finland too, meaning “female wolf.”
- Pronunciation: Ull-vah
76. Aava
Aava translates to “open” or “wide” like the open sea, embodying freedom and space.
- Pronunciation: Ah-vah
77. Esteri
Esteri is the Finnish version of Esther, possibly meaning “star” or “myrtle leaf.”
- Pronunciation: Es-teh-ree
78. Hilla
Hilla stands for “cloudberry” in Finnish. It’s a sweet name, as berries are cherished in Finnish culture.
- Pronunciation: Hill-ah
79. Veera
While more common, Veera is still relatively unique internationally and means “brave,” reflecting strength and courage.
- Pronunciation: Vee-rah
80. Minttu
Minttu, which refers to “mint,” is a name that’s fresh and modern just like the herb it represents.
- Pronunciation: Mint-too
81. Päivi
Päivi means “day” in Finnish, suiting a child who brings light into your life.
- Pronunciation: Pie-vi
82. Rauha
Rauha means “peace” in Finnish, a tranquil and serene choice.
- Pronunciation: Row-hah
83. Sisko
Sisko translates to “sister” in Finnish, ideal for your family’s newest addition.
- Pronunciation: Sis-ko
84. Sirja
A rare name that could be interpreted as a variation of Sirius, bringing to mind brightness and starry skies.
- Pronunciation: Seer-yah
85. Tuuli
Tuuli stands for “wind” in Finnish, a name that’s as free-spirited as it is lively.
- Pronunciation: Too-lee
FAQ – Finnish names for girl
What is the typical Finnish girls name?
A typical Finnish girl’s name is often nature-inspired and has a melodic quality. Names like Aino, Emma, and Sofia are common in Finland.
What is the rarest girl’s name in Finnish?
The rarity of Finnish girl names can vary over time and by region, but names like “Aamu” (meaning “morning”) and “Meri” (meaning “sea”) are considered less common.
What is the Finnish version of Katherine?
The Finnish version of Katherine is “Kaarina”. Other Finnish variants include “Katariina”, “Katri”, “Kaija”, “Kaisa”, and “Katja”.
Which girl’s name means happy in Finnish?
The Finnish girl’s name “Onni” means “happiness” or “luck”.
While traditionally a male name, it can also be used for girls in modern naming practices.