Choosing a name for your baby is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy. If you’re looking for a name that evokes wonder and brightness, a name meaning “little star” could be the perfect fit for your little one.
What are some names that mean little star?
Here are some beautiful baby name options that mean “little star”:
- Aster – Of Greek origin meaning “star”.
- Esther – A Persian name meaning “star”.
- Hester – An English variant of the name Esther.
- Starla – An English name meaning “little star”.
- Stella – A Latin name meaning “star”.
- Astra – A name with Latin and Greek roots meaning “star”.
- Seren – A Welsh name meaning “star”.
- Danica – A Slavic name meaning “morning star”.
- Hoshiko – A Japanese name meaning “star child”.
- Najma – An Arabic name meaning “star”.
What other star-related names are there?
In addition to names that directly translate to “little star,” there are many other celestial and star-inspired names that could be fitting for your bright little one:
- Luna – Meaning “moon” in Latin.
- Celeste – Meaning “heavenly” or “celestial”.
- Nova – Referring to a bright star that suddenly increases in brightness.
- Aurora – Meaning “dawn” – the time when stars fade from view.
- Soleil – Meaning “sun” in French.
- Elio – An Italian and Spanish variant of the name “Helios”, referring to the Greek sun god.
- Alya – An Arabic name meaning “sky” or “heaven”.
- Sierra – Meaning “mountain range”, referring to starry night skies.
- Phoebe – Meaning “bright, shining one” in Greek mythology.
- Lyra – Named after the lyre-shaped constellation in the night sky.
What culture or origin fits a “little star” name?
Names with “little star” meanings can come from a variety of cultures and origins:
- Greek – Aster, Helios
- Latin – Stella, Luna, Lyra, Nova
- Persian – Esther
- Arabic – Najma, Alya
- Welsh – Seren
- Japanese – Hoshiko
- English – Starla
- French – Celeste, Soleil
- Spanish/Italian – Elio
- Slavic – Danica
So whether you are looking to honor your cultural heritage or just love the sound of a name, there are “little star” options that could work!
What are the most popular “little star” names?
Based on US Social Security Administration data, here are some of the most popular baby names that mean “little star” or are star-related:
| Girl Names | Popularity Ranking |
|---|---|
| Stella | #38 |
| Esther | #178 |
| Celeste | #240 |
| Luna | #23 |
| Lyra | #209 |
| Boy Names | Popularity Ranking |
| Elio | #445 |
| Aster | #981 |
As you can see, Stella and Luna are currently the most popular star-meaning names for girls. Esther, Celeste, and Lyra are also within the top 250. Elio is gaining traction for boys.
What are some cute nickname possibilities?
One fun thing about names that mean “little star” is that many of them have cute built-in nickname options or ways to shorten them:
- Stella – Ella, Ellie
- Esther – Essie, Estie
- Celeste – Cece, Cele, Lestie
- Luna – Lulu
- Lyra – Ly, Lydie
- Elio – Eli
- Aster – Astor
Nicknames can give your child options as they grow up for how they want to identify. A shorter or more casual nickname can also be used on a daily basis.
How can I determine if a “little star” name fits my baby?
If you’re considering a name with stellar meaning, here are some tips for deciding if it’s the right fit:
- Say it out loud – Do you like how it sounds with your last name?
- Imagine calling for your child at the park – Does the name seem to suit them?
- Picture introducing your baby – Does their name seem to match their personality?
- Check meanings and origins – Make sure you know any important cultural reference.
- Consider nicknames – Come up with options so your child can choose.
Trust your instincts about what name feels right. While a name’s meaning is important, you want it to feel natural when you call your baby by name for the first time and always.
Conclusion
A baby name meaning “little star” is full of sweet symbolism about brightness and wonder. From options like Stella and Esther to rarer picks like Aster and Hoshiko, there are names from a mix of origins and cultures tied to the night sky. Look for a name you love that suits your family and fits your new baby’s personality as perfectly as a constellation in the heavens.