Olivia is one of the top US baby names as well as a popular girls’ name in English-speaking and European countries around the world. In fact, it’s the second most popular name for girls behind Emma. The only tricky part is finding the perfect middle names for Olivia that play well with it. Because Olivia has four syllables, it’s best to pick a middle name that’s short and sweet. One-syllable names work best here.
Records of the name Olivia exist from as far back as 13th century England, but the name was popularized after Shakespeare chose it for the name of the countess in Twelfth Night. Olivia is based on the Latin word oliva, meaning “olive.” In ancient Greece, the olive was a token of peace and fertility, and olive wreaths were awarded at the Olympic games. We got a request for the best middle names for Olivia and the community certainly delivered! Let’s take a look at some excellent middle names that fit with this traditional, beloved name for girls! Here are 75 middle names for Olivia that prove a peaceful and harmonious balance is possible.
Check Out These Stunning Middle Names for Olivia!
Bea
Of all the middle names for Olivia, Bea feels extra special. Bea is a diminutive form of Beatrice, a Latin name, meaning “she who brings happiness.” Who could be mad about that?
Fern
A wonderful botanical name, Fern feels like a fresh vintage find that works well with Olivia. Olivia itself is already a nature name so it feels right to amp it up with yet another appellation that nods to nature. This English name comes from “fearn,” a word used to describe someone who lives among the ferns.
Jay
Jay is a name with Latin origins that refers to the “jaybird.” Jay is more closely associated with boys these days, but this name has historically been a gender-neutral one. Olivia Jay sounds like a winner to us!
Eve
A Hebrew name meaning “life,” Eve feels appropriate next to such a stately name as Olivia. Both names are ancient which makes them a sensible match.
Joy
An English word-name, Joy feels like a perfect, happy middle appellation to stand next to Olivia. With a middle name like Joy, you will bless your child with a life full of laughter and love!
Pearl
Pearl seemed like a logical choice for Jake Owen who has a daughter named Olivia Pearl. Pearl is a vintage charmer that is enjoying a bit of a renaissance these days. This gem name has Latin origins and it means exactly what you think it does.
Noor
A popular name among Muslim parents around the world, Noor comes from Arabic and means “light.” The name enjoyed its most popular year ever last year in the US and we do not see the momentum behind this appellation slowing any time soon.
Rue
Rue is a Greek name, that refers to the herb of the same name. It’s also a word-name meaning “regret” in English and “street” in French. Olivia Rue sounds so utterly perfect, doesn’t it?
Rose
We really love this double botanical name pairings as they really deliver all the natural goodness. The word “rose” comes from Latin and it has always referred to the flower. This name smells so sweet!
Ruth
A beloved Hebrew name, Ruth means “friend.” Ruth has a delightful bluntness to it which balances out the lyrical sound of Olivia. Ruth has been a popular name in the US since records began in the 1880s. For religious parents, Ruth could be one of the best middle names for Oliva.
Dot
Dot is an old treasure that deserves to be dusted off and put on display! Dot comes from the name, Dorothy, and means “God’s gift.” The name is English but comes from the Greek name, Dorothea. Olivia dot sounds like a blast!
Maeve
Fancy a little mystery and drama in your baby’s name? Maeve proves the perfect option for parents looking for a name with the “it factor.” Maeve is an Irish name meaning “she who intoxicates.” In Irish myth, the name refers to a queen of the fairies.
Mae
Mae is a shortened form of Margaret, meaning “bitter.” Mae sounds both sweet and sophisticated making it one of the best middle names for Olivia that does not overshadow it.
Wren
Wren comes from English and means “small bird.” In Ireland, the bird is especially beloved as a “magician.” The name first found favor in the US in 2012 and its popularity has only grown in recent years.
Lux
Olivia Lux might be the name of a drag queen who competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race, but we think your baby girl can live up to that fabulousness. Lux comes from a Latin word meaning “light.”
Gwen
Gwen is a splendid Welsh name that’s understated and plays extremely well with others. The mythological name means “white ring.” This soft name works so well as a middle name for almost any first, so keep it in your back pocket if you are not completely set on Olivia as a first.
Reign
For fans of the Kardashians, Reign might be one of the most appealing middle names for Olivia. Reign is an English word-name that refers to a noble’s tenure. It’s been a popular first name in the US since 2016.
Blue
Olivia Blue has a right to! Blue is yet another English word-name, referring to the color. The name was made a possibility by Beyonce and Jay-Z who chose the name Blue Ivy for their daughter.
RELATED: 125 Cute Middle Names for Girls
Maude
When you think of middle names for Olivia off the top of your head, you might not immediately land on Maude, but it sounds pleasant next to Olivia. Maude is a Germanic name, meaning “ready for battle.”
Dove
If you love a V in a name, Olivia Dove gives you a proper double dose. Dove is a word name that refers to the pretty bird. It’s been used as a given name since the 17th century!
Tess
Tess is a diminutive form of Theresa and means “to harvest.” Olivia Tess sounds casual and unfussy which should appeal to many parents.
Lou
At one time, Lou was a hot-ticket middle name cropping up next to Mary and Betty on birth certificates across the country. Lou began to lose its luster in the 1960s before tanking in popularity today. Lou is a shortened form of Louise, which means “renowned warrior.” Olivia Lou contains a lovely double-L that will sound like you really put a lot of thought into the name.
Jinx
One of the most energetic middle name for Olivia, Jinx feels lively and fresh next to the appellation. Jinx is a word name meaning “bad luck” but you should not be superstitious, Jinx is delightful!
Jude
Jude is a unisex name that’s a perennial favorite among new parents. Jude is a shortened form of Judah and means “praised.” It’s the new Judy or Judith!
Joan
Joan is alternative form of Johanna, meaning “God is gracious.” Olivia Joan sounds rock-solid as the combination of names represents appellations that have been treasured for centuries.
More Middle Names for Olivia!
Wynn
Wynn is one of the most versatile middle names for Olivia that will sound great sandwiched between Olivia and just about every surname out there. Wynn has Welsh origins and means “fair.”
Lake
Lake is a refreshing and cool middle name option that more parents are turning to. If you love nature names, you could find no better option than this word for a body of water.
Bay
We move on to yet another body of water, sort of. Yes, Bay refers to an inlet, but it has roots in Latin as a word and name meaning “berry.” It refers to the herb and bay laurel tree.
Clove
One of our favorite nature middle names for Olivia, Clove offers some serious spice! Olivia and Clove share many of the same letters so they seem to just naturally fit together.
Prue
If you liked the idea of Rue but want a more established appellation, Prue could be the perfect choice for your Olivia. Prue is a shortened form of the virtue name, Prudence, meaning “caution.”
Pax
Pax represents a new crop of ancient names being reimagined for today. Pax comes from Latin and means “peace.” The name belonged to a Roman goddess of peace. If you are looking for chill middle names for Olivia, be sure to add this one to your shortlist.
Cruz
Like Pax, Cruz is a secular name with religious undertones. Cruz means “cross” and comes from Spanish origin. While this appellation is more closely associated with little boys today, the name was once a very popular choice for girls in the 1920s and 1930s.
Spring
If a seasonal name appeals to you, Spring could be the fresh moniker you’re after. Spring, unlike Summer and Winter and Autumn, has never enjoyed the same favor even though it’s the ideal season (don’t come for us).
Zen
Zen is a Buddhist, spiritual concept that originated in Japan, emphasizing the importance of mediation and intuition. Olivia Zen sounds so zesty and bright!
Poe
You can go with Poe, which is an English surname, meaning “peacock.” It’s a gem next to Olivia! But, if Edgar Allen Poe vibes are not the ones you’re after, go with the Po spelling. Po refers to a long river in Northern Italy.
March
Another one of the seasonal middle names for Olivia, March is wonderfully vintage in style. If you’re a fan of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, you could do no better than this subtle nod to the March sisters.
Gray
Not one of our personal favorite middle names for Olivia, Gray was recommended by the community and we see its merits. It’s inoffensive and will add a touch of color to your daughter’s name. We see the appeal but we prefer vibrant names.
Britt
Many people consider Britt a shortened form of Brittany, however, the name is a standalone Swedish appellation that is another form of Brigit. With mythological flare, this moniker means “high goddess.” Set those high expectations from the very start with this middle name!
Kat
Cat and Kat are simply shortened forms of Catherine or Katherine. We love them both but Kat is one of the few middle names for Olivia that will give you the initials O.K. As with Kate (put a pin in that name), this Kat means “pure.”
Ash
Ash is an English name that means “ash tree.” The name is wildly popular for boys today but we love it as one of the most original nature middle names for Olivia.
Bird
Bird is an English word for the flying creatures but it is also an Established Swedish name. It was once a popular choice for girls in the US in the late 19th century. We think it’s time to bring Bird back!
Bliss
One of the sweetest middle names for Olivia that was suggested by the community is Bliss. Can you think of a happier middle name than this one?
Bess
Bess is a polarizing name! it’s okay if it’s not your cup of tea but we think it’s a little dusty but overall exceptional. Bess is a shortened form of Elizabeth, a name from Hebrew, meaning “pledged to God.”
Bloom
One of the sweetest flower middle names for Olivia we received is Bloom. Bloom is a warm and inviting middle name that sounds somehow prim next to Olivia.
Tate
Tate is a Norse name that means “cheerful.” Despite this appellation going almost exclusively to boys, we think it’s one of the most charming middle names for Olivia. We love the balance it brings the ultra femme Olivia.
Gem
Gem is a word name that refers to precious stones but it’s also an established Italian name that comes from Gemma. Olivia Gem has got to be one of the sparkliest names on this list!
Jeanne
Jeanne is a French name that is related to Jean and Joan. Jeanne was once one of the most popular names in the US for girls but it has declined sharply in recent decades. Jeanne is one of the safest middle names for Olivia. It means “God is gracious.”
Kerr
Do you have Scottish roots? Kerr is one of the few middle names for Olivia on this list that can claim Scottish origin. It means “from the wet ground.”
Tai
Tai is a name of Chinese origin that has only appeared in the US top 1000 for one year, in 1980. This is one of the few Chinese middle names for Olivia on this list so if you have Chinese ancestors, it could be a logical choice for your baby. The name means “big” and “extreme” in Chinese tradition. In Vietnam, however, the appellation is said to mean “talented one.”
Max
Olivia Max sounds like a superhero, right? Max comes from a Roman family name, meaning “greatest.” Is Max the “greatest” one of these middle names for Olivia? We feel it’s a strong contender!
Even More Middle Names for Olivia!
Quinn
Quinn is a wonderful gender-neutral name that’s emerged as a popular choice for baby girls. The name has Irish origins and means “descendant of Conn” or “chief.” Olivia Quinn is a winning combination and we’re so happy people suggested this pairing.
Kate
Kiss me, Kate! Kate is an amenable name that fits with many others. Olivia Kate has plenty of charm while still sounding stately and traditional. Kate is a shortened form of Katherine and it means “pure.” It’s one of our favorite middle names for Olivia.
Sage
Olivia Sage certainly sounds herbaceous, like the ingredients for the perfect recipe! Sage, of course, refers to the wonderful herb, but also connotes “wisdom.” This would be a bold choice, but we wouldn’t be mad about it.
Layne
Layne or Lane are fantastic middle names for Olivia that add some alliteration when paired with it. Olivia Lane is a remarkable moniker! Lane has English origins and means “path.”
Reese
The name Reese has exploded in popularity for boys and girls over the past decade. The Welsh name means “ardor.” Olivia Reese has a breezy, casual feel. Reese helps bring out the playful coolness of a name like Olivia.
Bryn
We’ve got another Welsh hit on our hands! Bryn hails from Wales as well and means “hill.” Olivia Bryn sounds like a magical name. You’ll also find this name spelled with two N’s. Bryn and Brynn are both totally fine as middle names for Olivia or as standalone names.
Brooke
The English name Brooke means “near a small stream.” Olivia Brooke manages to sound extremely strong yet serene, which is probably why so many people suggested the pairing. We love this name!
Kay
As far as baby girl middle names go, you can’t go wrong with Kay. Kay goes with just about every other name and is short and sweet. If you have a unique last night name, Kay is simple enough to not complicate it further. Kay is short for Katherine and means “pure.”
James
Okay, here us out! James was suggested by just a couple of members, but we think it’s perfect. Olivia James is a star. Not sure about the name James for a girl? Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds shocked the world by choosing it for their eldest daughter in 2014. Be bold with middle names for Olivia, parents, it pays!
Sky
As a name, Sky was first used in Norse and it means “cloud.” Olivia Sky is a perfectly ethereal name that manages to be bold while still floating on air. Alternatively, you could throw an “E” on the end to give this word-name a bit more pizazz. Skye or Sky both work!
Rain
While Rain is a beautiful nature-inspired name, it was also used as a nickname for Regina (which means “queen”) in Roman times. Olivia Rain is such a poetic name and we absolutely love this recommendation. Also, people suggested the alternative spelling Reign which is something to consider.
Hope
The Puritans helped popularized Hope as a name for girls. As you’ve probably guessed, this virtue name means… “hope.” Be forewarned, Olivia Hope sounds awfully similar to the character Olivia Pope from Scandal so you might want to consider some other middle names for Olivia.
Jo
Olivia Jo was an interesting suggestion, and we must admit, we’re on the fence with the pairing. Jo is a fine name with French, Hebrew, and Latin origins that’s a diminutive of Josephine or Joanna. It’s Hebrew root suggests that the name means “Jehovah increases.”
Shay
Shay or Shea are both wonderful ways to spell these chill middle names for Olivia. Shay feels both classic and contemporary. When paired with Olivia, it gives the name a singsongy, rhyming quality. The name has Irish origins and means “dauntless one.” Olivia Shae slays all day!
Rose
Olivia Rose has a certain ring to it. Rose is such a beautiful and romantic name that works well with so many first names. Rose, of course, is an English name that refers to the pretty flower.
Paige
We’re not sure if this was intentional, but a lot of people suggested the middle name, Paige. Not only does it sound great, but it also gives the name a fun meaning. Olivia means “peace” and Paige means “helper.” So, you’ve got a little one who helps bring peace. Of these middle names for Olivia, it’s one of our favorites.
Anne
Oh, the versatility of the name Anne! Anne is a shortened form of Hannah which has Hebrew origins and means “grace.” A truly beautiful name. Olivia Anne sounds like a winner!
Blake
Olivia is such a lyrical name that the bluntness of Blake helps bring contrast. Blake is an English name that means “dark.” Olivia Blake sounds literary like a name from your favorite English novel. We highly recommend Blake as one of the best middle names for Olivia.
Mae
For a baby girl born in May, you could do no better. Spell it however you wish! Mae or May are both acceptable!. Many responders suggested this springtime name. Olivia Mae sounds as sweet as can be. The month of May is named for Maia, the Roman earth goddess.
Marie
Marie was one of the few 2-syllable names suggested. In fact, it’s the only multiple syllable name to make this list. Marie is the French form of Mary and it means “drop of the sea” or “bitter.” Bitterness belies the sweetness of a name pairing of Olivia Marie.
Jane
Some mothers answered with their own daughters’ names. Olivia Jane is a popular choice and some even explained that they chose Jane because of their admiration for novelist Jane Austen. Jane is a form of John and means “God is gracious.”
Faye
Want to incorporate a little magic into your girl’s name? Go with, Olivia Faye. While this name isn’t front of mind for us, we love the suggestion and think it’s absolutely beautiful. Faye has English origins and means “fairy.” Before 2014, Faye was completely absent on the baby name popularity charts. Now, it’s a hit once more.
RELATED: 25 Best First and Middle Name Combos for Girls That Are Delightful Matches
June
Names that start with “J” were some of the most suggested by the community. Partly, because you can call your daughter “OJ” for short. Just kidding! For a summer baby, June makes for one of the finest middle names for Olivia. The Latin baby name means “young.”
Grace
Grace is a classic virtue name that means “gracious.” It’s perfect. Which is probably why so many in the community suggested it as a match for Olivia. Grace is a name that plays very nicely with others. So, if you find yourself choosing a tricky name like Olivia or Amelia, Grace is a smart pairing.
Jade
Today we learned about the perceived medicinal purposes of this ornamental stone. The name is derived from the Spanish piedra de la ijada, which means “stone of the colic.” There was a belief that when jade was placed on the stomach, it could cure colic in babies. Who knew? Jade sounds excellent next to Olivia and it helps bring the sweet name a little edge. This was, by far, one of the most suggested middle names for Olivia. We love it!
There you go! 25 middle names for Olivia! The Mamas Uncut community never fails to deliver the goods, especially when it comes to helpful suggestions like what middle names for Olivia will work best. Moms know! We love each of these names and hope you feel inspired or even found the right one for your daughter!
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.
Baby Name Generator
No baby name sounding good? Want a quick way to generate unique baby name ideas? Try our baby name generator below!
Set your terms (sex of the baby, number of letters, popularity, etc.) and then get a list of names that meet your criteria. Maybe the perfect name is just waiting to be generated for you.