There’s a reason newborns are referred to as “bundles of joy” — the optimism and hope that come with new life are universal feelings that transcend language and culture. When naming such blessings, many parents want to find a way to express that glee in an accessible but distinctive way — but how?
Finding a joyful baby name is easier than one might think. First start with names that bring to mind sunshine and optimism. Names likes Maisie, Lark, and Clover make one think of a warm spring day spent out in the sunshine. They remind us of how much pleasure there is in appreciating the everyday beauty of the world around us.
Another way to think of joyful baby names is to think of names that sort of pop. Names like Belle, Clementine, and even, that's right, Poppy, sort of have a happy bounce to their sound. And nothing is better than a bouncing bundle of happiness! Happy baby names are important in the world. Think about it, a happy baby girl name is a sure start to a good life for the little one. She's bound to be full of hope, optimism, and even perhaps a little bit of virtue.
These 15 names vary in their histories and styles, but all of them embody the feeling of happiness. Whether virtuous, botanical, retro, or modern, mom and dad are sure to find a joyful name that suits their taste. Take a look!
JOY
This word name is short, sweet, and upbeat, ideal for parents who want an unadulterated expression of happiness in their child’s name.
BONNIE
From the Scottish word for “pretty,” itself derived from the French bon, Bonnie is a bright and shining choice.
MAISIE
While Maisie originally developed as a nickname for Margaret, it’s now standing out as a lovely name in its own right — thanks especially to Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams.
LARK
An historic symbol of the dawn, the lark is also associated with the positive idioms “on a lark,” referring to carefree fun, and “happy as a lark,” inspired by its pleasant song.
POPPY
Another favorite in the UK, Poppy is a charming floral option that may appeal to fans of Lily, Violet, or Scarlett.
DULCIE
It’s derived from the Latin dulcis, meaning “sweet,” and its popularity in the 19th century gives the name a beautiful vintage vibe.
FELICITY
This virtue name exudes optimism and elegance, thanks to its lilting melody and Puritanical roots.
CLOVER
A name style that is botanical but not flowery — think Hazel, Sage, or Olive — pretty Clover might be right up the alley of a mom who wants something not too frilly. The plant has long been associated with luck and prosperity, and the name feels fresh and unexpected.
BELLE
Though Isabelle and Annabelle are well-used, old-fashioned Belle has become more appealing for its simplicity and meaning — it’s the French word for “beautiful.”
MERCY
A literary favorite, Mercy combines compassion and strength in one graceful package.
BLYTHE
Originally a surname meaning “cheerful,” Blythe has become an amiable, feminine choice ideal for an intrepid namer.
DAISY
The name offers something for everyone, from links to the natural world to literary and historical namesakes to a pleasant yet vibrant sound.
CLEMENTINE
Cute Clementine comes from the Latin clemens, meaning “merciful,” and it was fairly popular at the turn of the 20th century, too.
AMITY
Another virtue name, Amity fits in aurally with playground favorites like Emily or Serenity, while maintaining its own warm personality.
SUNNY
Once just an adorable vintage nickname, Sunny jumped back onto the popularity charts this year — perhaps the series A Series of Unfortunate Events is to blame? Radiant in form and style, Sunny is a name that’s sure to bring a smile to mom and dad's face.
