AHEAD: The ultimate list of C names for girls… and which could go viral in 2025.

If you’re looking for beautiful girl names starting with C, you’re in the right place!

I’ve rounded up every C name that’s even the slightest bit modern and cool.

Below you’ll find over 90 names, their meanings, and current popularities.

You’ll also find a shortlist of C names poised to go viral in 2025.

Related: Boy Names that Start with C

“C” names trending in 2025

These girls’ names starting with C are climbing the charts right now!

Calliope 🔥

• Name meaning: Beautiful voice.
• Popularity: #492 (↑94)

Capri 🔥

• Name meaning: Italian island.
• Popularity: #572 (↑79)

Carolina

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: #424 (↑53)

Carter

• Name meaning: Transporter.
• Popularity: Carter ranks #510 (↑40) for girls and #48 for boys.

Cataleya

• Name meaning: Type of orchid.
• Popularity: #294 (↑47)

Cecilia or Cecelia 🔥

• Name meaning: Blind.
• Popularity: Cecilia ranks #137 (↑8) and Cecelia ranks #497 (↑21)

.Celeste

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: #275 (↑17)

Celine

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: #300 (↑42)

Chana

• Name meaning: God has favored me.
• Popularity: #713 (↑94)

Chandler

• Name meaning: Maker or seller of candles or household items.
• Popularity: This Friends-reminiscent C name ranks #897 (↑30) for girls and #687 for boys.

Cielo

• Name meaning:
• Popularity: #859 (↑137)

Clementine

• Name meaning: Mild and merciful; or citrus fruit.
• Popularity: #543 (↑14)

Cleo

• Name meaning: Pride or glory.
• Popularity: #608 (↑55)

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Clover

• Name meaning:
• Popularity: #675 (↑82)

Collins 🔥

• Name meaning: Victory of the people.
• Popularity:  #237 (↑10)

More on 2025 viral predictions in just a bit.

Popular girl names starting with C

These modern girl names starting with C are ranked in the top 1000.

Callie or Cali

• Name meaning: Beautiful.
• Popularity: Callie ranks #179 and Cali ranks #447.

Camila or Camilla

• Name meaning: Religious servant.
• Popularity: Camila ranks #13 and Camilla ranks #336.

Camille

• Name meaning: Religious servant.
• Popularity: #268

Caroline

• Name meaning: Free woman or strong.
• Popularity: #83

Catalina

• Name meaning: Pure.
• Popularity: #147

Charlotte

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: #3

Related: Middle Names for Charlotte

Chloe

• Name meaning: Plant sprout.
• Popularity: #26

Related: Middle Names for Chloe

Claire or Clare

• Name meaning: Clear or bright.
• Popularity: Claire ranks #67 and Clare ranks #991.

Clara

• Name meaning: Clear and bright.
• Popularity: #99

Cora

• Name meaning: Maiden.
• Popularity: #93

Gender-neutral names starting with C

These nonbinary names starting with C would work for a boy or a girl.

Camden

• Name meaning: Winding valley.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #181 for boys.

Camryn or Cameron

• Name meaning: Crooked nose.
• Popularity: Camryn ranks #494 and Cameron ranks #480 for girls. (Cameron ranks #58 for boys).

Carrington

• Name meaning: A place in the UK.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for either gender.

Casey

• Name meaning: Vigilant.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #316 for boys.

Charlie  (or 4 variations!)

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: Charlie ranks #125, Charlee ranks #358, Charli ranks #435, Charleigh ranks #606, and Charley ranks #729. (Charlie ranks #175 for boys).

Chesney

• Name meaning: Oak grove.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for either gender.

Colby

• Name meaning: From the coal village.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #604 for boys.

Cove

• Name meaning: Coastal inlet.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking for either gender.

If you like gender-neutral names starting with the letter “C” you’ll like these edgy names.

Vintage girl names starting with C

These classic girl names that start with C bring back the magic of another era.

Catherine

• Name meaning: Pure.
• Popularity: #332

Celia

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: #829

Cynthia

• Name meaning: Moon goddess.
• Popularity: #873

Cornelia

• Name meaning: Horn.
• Popularity: This vintage C name isn’t ranking.

Cordelia

• Name meaning: Daughter of the sea.
• Popularity: This classic C name isn’t ranking.

Cassandra

• Name meaning: Shining person.
• Popularity: #639

Candace

• Name meaning: Queen mother.
• Popularity: This royal girl’s name hasn’t ranked since 2005.

Carrie

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: This C name hasn’t ranked since 2008.

If you like these old-fashioned girl names starting with C you’ll like this full list of vintage names.

Timeless girl names starting with C

These names starting with C have been more popular in the past but aren’t necessarily out of style either.

Cadence

• Name meaning: Rhythm or flow.
• Popularity: #951

Cara

• Name meaning: Beloved.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Carly

• Name meaning: Free woman.
• Popularity: #784

Carmen

• Name meaning: Garden or fertile land.
• Popularity: #434

Cassidy

• Name meaning: Curly-haired.
• Popularity: #496

Cayla

• Name meaning: Slender or narrow.
• Popularity: This C name hasn’t ranked since 2009.

Chanel

• Name meaning: Canal.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Chelsea

• Name meaning: Landing place or chalk.
• Popularity: #710

Cheyenne

• Name meaning: Supplanter or incoherent speaker.
• Popularity: #790

Christina

• Name meaning: Christian.
• Popularity: #703

Cierra

• Name meaning: Mountain range or saw.
• Popularity: This C name hasn’t ranked since 2008.

Colette

• Name meaning: People of victory.
• Popularity: #442

Coraline

• Name meaning: Diminutive of coral.
• Popularity: #724

Corinne

• Name meaning: Girl or maiden.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Courtney

• Name meaning: Short.
• Popularity: This C name hasn’t ranked since 2017.

If you like these timeless C girl names you might like these Victorian girl names.

Unique girl names starting with C

Here are some unique baby names starting with C that are uncommon without being too out there…

Calista

• Name meaning: Most beautiful.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Cambria

• Name meaning: From Wales.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Carmel

• Name meaning: Garden. Also a scenic beach city in Northern California.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Cassia

• Name meaning: Cinnamon spice.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Castalia

• Name meaning: Divine spring.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Celestia

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Celestine

• Name meaning: Heavenly.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Charlize

• Name meaning: Free person.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Chaya

• Name meaning: Life.
• Popularity: #607

Cherie

• Name meaning: Sweetie.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

Christabel

• Name meaning: Beautiful Christian.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Coralie

• Name meaning: Coral of the sea.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Cosette

• Name meaning: Victorious or little thing.
• Popularity: This C name isn’t ranking.

If you like unique girl names with C as the first letter, you might like this list of space names for babies.

Additional “C” girl names

Most of these C names peaked in popularity in previous decades and, while definitely still usable, may feel less fresh than other options.

👉🏼 Jump ahead to 2025 viral predictions if you wish.

Will any girl names starting with C go viral in 2025?

Yes, I believe so!

There are four stand-out names poised for dramatic growth (and one honorable mention).

👉🏼 Jump ahead to nicknames and middle names if you wish.

Capri

Among girl names starting with C, Capri shows the strongest indicators for viral potential in 2025.

After entering the rankings at #681 in 2020, it has shown explosive momentum, particularly in 2023 where it jumped 79 spots to reach #572—its highest ranking ever and largest single-year gain.

In 2023, 518 baby girls were named Capri, representing 0.030% of total female births—the name’s strongest showing in history.

The name has improved its ranking every single year with accelerating gains: #681 (2020) → #619 (2021) → #651 (2022) → #572 (2023).

The C-initial name recently gained fresh celebrity power when model Chanel Iman and NFL player Davon Godchaux chose it for their daughter Capri Summer in 2023, building on its existing association with Kobe Bryant’s daughter Capri Kobe Bryant (born 2019).

Capri hits multiple sweet spots: it’s a luxury place name (like rising stars Florence and Paris), it’s short with an ‘i’ ending (like viral names Remi and Ari), and it’s immediately recognizable while still feeling special.

Its current position in the 500-600 range is historically ideal for dramatic growth.

Collins

Collins demonstrates one of the most impressive trajectories in recent naming data, rising 724 ranking positions since its debut in 2012 at #961 to reach #237 in 2023—marking an extraordinary 75% improvement in just 11 years.

The C name’s recent momentum is particularly telling: it jumped 81 spots between 2021-2022 (from #328 to #247), followed by another 10-spot gain in 2023.

Its current position in the 200-300 range often precedes explosive growth, as demonstrated by similar crossover names like Parker (now #121) and Sawyer (#278).

Collins hits multiple current trends: it’s a surname-as-first-name (like Morgan, #247), features the fashionable two-syllable structure with an ‘s’ ending (like Brooks), and follows the growing pattern of traditionally masculine names crossing to girls.

The -ins ending aligns with contemporary favorites like Quinn (#452), while carrying the preppy, sophisticated feel that’s increasingly appealing to parents.

Calliope

Calliope stands out among girl names starting with C with its powerful meaning (“beautiful voice”) and impressive momentum.

Since entering the rankings at #941 in 2016, it has climbed 449 spots, with its largest single-year gain (94 spots) occurring in 2023—suggesting acceleration rather than plateau.

The success of other Greek names provides context: Penelope has reached #23, while Iris sits at #78, showing strong appetite for mythological names.

Calliope’s current position (#492) mirrors where many dramatic risers begin their steepest climbs.

The accessible nickname Callie (#179) adds versatility, while exposure through popular media like “God of War” and VTuber Mori Calliope broadens its cultural footprint.

The name benefits from both the Greek mythology trend and the growing preference for longer, elaborate names with built-in nicknames.

Cecilia

Cecilia (#137) shows strong potential for significant growth, with multiple indicators suggesting continued momentum ahead.

The traditional spelling dominates its alternate form Cecelia (#497) and shows impressive global strength—ranking #5 in Brazil, #36 in Italy, and #56 on the trend-predictive Nameberry charts.

The C name hits multiple current trends: four-syllable feminine names ending in ‘ia’ (like #4 Amelia), musical connections (Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of music), and the ultra-current nickname “Cece”.

It carries strong cross-cultural appeal while maintaining the classical elegance that’s driving many current naming trends.

While its relatively high current ranking may limit truly explosive growth, Cecilia’s strong showing in multiple countries indicates broad cultural momentum that could push it into the top 100 by 2025.

Clementine (Honorable Mention)

Since re-entering the top 1000 in 2014 at #940, Clementine has shown remarkable staying power, climbing steadily to #543.

While its recent 14-spot jump from 2022-2023 might seem modest, the name’s international performance tells a more dramatic story: in England & Wales, it has skyrocketed from #686 in 1996 to #180 in 2022.

The name hits a unique trifecta: antique appeal, playful nickname potential (“Clem”), and three-syllable femininity that parents currently favor.

Its style elements align perfectly with current trends: it’s a nature name (like #78 Iris), has Victorian charm (like #521 Florence), and features the fashionable -ine ending (like #64 Josephine).

While its U.S. climb has been more gradual than typical pre-viral names, Clementine’s sustained upward momentum and cross-cultural success suggest it could be building toward a tipping point, though perhaps not as dramatically as the girl names starting with C we discussed above.

👉🏼 Jump ahead to nicknames and middle names if you wish.

What about the other girl names starting with C?

While these girl names that start with C may not be heading for viral status, several show promising growth patterns worth watching:

In particular, Celine and Cataleya show the strongest potential for significant growth, given their current rankings, consistent momentum, and strong cultural tailwinds.

Celine (#300):
Reached highest position ever in 2023, climbing 647 spots since 2012. Strong international presence and luxury brand association support continued growth, though likely steady rather than viral.

Cataleya (#294):
Showing consistent acceleration since entering top 1000 in 2012, climbing 186 positions in last decade. Strong international presence and botanical connection support continued growth, but pattern suggests gradual rather than viral trajectory.

Carolina (#424):
Shows stable but not explosive movement, with steady presence in 400-500 range. While international strength (top 10 in Portugal, top 100 in Spain) provides good foundation, its pattern suggests gradual growth rather than viral potential.

Carter (#510 for girls):
Made a significant 40-spot jump in 2023, with potential boost from Beyoncé’s upcoming “Cowboy Carter” album. However, having previously peaked at #457, it’s more likely to see steady growth than viral explosion.

Celeste (#275):
Up 17 spots from 2022, with strong international rankings (#48 in Italy). While showing healthy growth, its decelerating gains (34 spots in 2021, 26 in 2022, 17 in 2023) suggest steady rather than viral trajectory.

Chana (#713):
Made impressive 94-spot jump in 2023, but lacks the explosive trajectory typically seen in viral names. Strong in Israel but missing mainstream cultural catalyst needed for viral growth.

Chandler (#897):
30-spot improvement from 2022, but low ranking and previous 1990s peak (influenced by “Friends”) suggest minimal viral potential.

Cielo (#859):
Jumped 137 spots from 2022 after re-entering rankings, boosted by Michael Bublé’s daughter. However, low ranking and already-absorbed celebrity influence suggest modest rather than viral growth ahead.

Cleo (#608):
Climbed 360 spots since 2019, with 55-position jump in 2023. While showing strong momentum and celebrity validation (Christina Ricci’s daughter), lacks overwhelming cultural catalyst needed for viral status.

Clover (#675):
Made significant 82-spot jump in 2023, benefiting from nature name trend and cottagecore aesthetic. While showing impressive momentum, current ranking suggests steady growth rather than viral explosion.

Nicknames starting with “C”

These are great if you love long names but want a shorter C-starting nickname.

👉🏼 Jump ahead to middle name ideas if you wish.

Cat

Short for: Catherine, Catalina, Catrina, Catarina

Callie

Short for: Caroline, Calista, Callista, Calliope

Cami

Short for: Camilla, Cameron, Camille, Camryn

Carrie

Short for: Caroline, Carol, Carolyn, Carmen

Casey

Short for: Cassandra, Acacia, Cassia

Cassie

Short for: Cassandra, Cassia, Cassidy, Castalia

Charlie

Short for: Charlotte, Charlene, Charlize, Charley

Cherry

Short for: Cheryl, Charity, Cherie

Chrissy

Short for: Christina, Christine, Christabel

Cindy

Short for: Cynthia, Lucinda

Coco

Short for: Colette, Nicole, Nicolette, Coraline

Connie

Short for: Constance, Concetta

Cora

Short for: Cordelia, Coraline, Corinne

Cece

Short for: Cecilia, Cecelia, Celestine, Celeste

Middle name ideas for “C” girl names

Here are some beautiful first + middle name combinations for a girl’s name with C as the first letter.

More baby names for girls

• 95 Beautiful Names for Rainbow Babies [Girls Edition]
• 99 Gorgeous Three-Syllable Girl Names
• 100 Gorgeous Long Girl Names
• 100 Badass Girl Names + Meanings + Current Popularity

The source for popularity data is SSN.

This article was originally published on Nov 15, 2021 and was updated on Jan 11, 2025.

Baby Girl Names Starting with C