Vintage Nicknames for Girls

Too fiscal.

Barra is a Gaelic-speaking island in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, that’s been inhabited since the Neolithic era. A male nickname for Finbarr in Ireland, as well as a stand-alone name, Barra was used by George R.R. Martin as a girl’s name. It means ‘fair-haired’.

Tib and Tibb originated in the 13th century as nicknames for Theobald (for boys) and Isabel and Isabella (for girls). As Isabel grew in popularity, Tib(b) was used more often on girls. By the 16th century, Tib was a term for a young girl, much like Tom was for young boys.

Vintage short form of Bridget, very rarely still heard in Irish Catholic communities.

Viney (and Viny) is an antiquated nickname for names with the "vin" component, such as Lavinia and Melvina.

An old-fashioned nickname that hasn't been heard in ages--Cute and unusual, but lacking the legs to stand on its own. Maybe save it for your kitten.

A rarely seen member of the Beatrice clan, with its own distinctive charm.

Moll is one of those names that is used all the time as a nickname for a nickname, but rarely put on the birth certificate. Moll Flanders is an eponymous 18th century novel by Daniel Defoe, the author of Robinson Crusoe,

Debbie is decidedly out, the original Deborah lovely, and other short forms -- Deb, Debs -- for occasional use only.

A Pam for the modern age, improved by a harder edge and a tad less prissiness.

Some parents might like this energetic diminutive for Dorothy used in the Bush family, though the traditional Dottie and Dot seem to be coming back.

Uncommon choice too reminiscent of "bidet". Try Bridie instead.

A Charlotte nickname heard much more often in Britain than here--American parents might prefer Charlie or Lottie.

An old-school nickname for a rare biblical gem. Hetty is a more favorable option.