Middle Names, Last Names, and Nickname News

The focus of these news stories are middle names, last names, and nicknames: the newest trends and most recent usage updates. Topics include fresh middle names choices, how to turn last names into first names, and which nicknames are moving in and out of style. For more on these topics, see our complete lists of Middle Names, Last Names, and our ultimate guide to Nicknames.

Mon Sep 09 2024

Vintage Surname Names Come Back Around

Vintage surname names? Yes, this modern trend isn't so modern after all. See the top surname names from a century ago, along with unique choices from our secret source.

Fri Jul 26 2024

Vintage British Nicknames

A fascinating compilation of lively, almost-forgotten old diminutives that deserve a new look, by Eleanor Nickerson aka Elea of the blog British Baby Names.

Sun Jul 07 2024

Rare Names With Popular Nicknames

If you want to use a popular nickname like Ellie or Joe, there are more options for full names than you might think.

Tue Jun 18 2024

Don't Name Your Daughter Harper

Harper is a fine name, but after a decade near the top of the list, it's time to look to the next generation of surname names for girls, Goodbye Harper, Madison, Riley, and hello Hollis, Madigan, and Ripley!

Fri Jun 14 2024

Middle Names: The Ultimate Guide

Millennial parents are getting creative with their children's middle names. These are the top trends in middle names for 2024 and beyond.

Sun Jun 09 2024

Grandpa Names: The Ultimate Guide

Grandpa names — the names that grandchildren call their grandfathers — are more creative than ever before. Bye-bye, Grandpa and hello, Biggie? Zippo? Grady? The choice is yours!

Wed Jun 05 2024

Vintage Nicknames Refresh Classic Names

Traditional names that need a style revival can find it with an unexpected vintage nickname. These retro short forms will make you reconsider all of the classics.

Tue May 07 2024

Secret Celebrity Middle Names

What are the most unique celebrity middle names? We'll introduce you to the A-list celebs who claim (or hide) Mungo, Delight, and Joan of Arc as their middles.

Sun May 05 2024

Grandma Names: The Ultimate Guide

Grandma names — the names that grandchildren call their grandmothers — are more creative than ever before. Bye-bye, Grandma and hello, Glamma? Zuzu? Honey? The choice is yours!

Thu Mar 21 2024

Nicknames: The Ultimate Guide

Nicknames are one of the most fun parts of naming, as they often take on a life of their own. Whether you are planning your child's nickname carefully or leaving it to chance, you'll find inspiration here to suit all styles.

Fri Mar 01 2024

Italian Last Names with Meanings

The most common Italian surnames include patronymics, occupational names, and descriptive names.

Tue Feb 27 2024

Last Names as First Names: Welcome to the Next Wave

Each generation has its own favorite surname baby names. Meet the next wave of up-and-coming last names, and discover cool, fresh alternatives to the popular choices.

Wed Jan 24 2024

100 Most Common Last Names in the US

100 most common last names in the US are collected here, with their origins and meanings. Is yours on the list?

Fri Jan 19 2024

Unique Middle Names You Didn't Even Know Were Names

Middle names are a safe space to have fun and let your imagination soar. Take a look at some of the quirky and unique middle names used by celebrities and non-famous parents alike. We bet you didn't even know some of them could be names!

Wed Jan 17 2024

Nicknames for Babies Have Never Been Cooler

Nicknames for babies: would you consider putting one on the birth certificate? Our newly updated lists of cool and unique nicknames might just inspire you!

Sat Jan 13 2024

Last Names for Boys: Cool and Fresh Choices

If you love names like Mason, Hunter and Brooks but are looking for something less popular, we've got you covered. Surname names for boys are an ever-growing trend, but there are still plenty of underused options, whether you like occupational names, rockstar heroes, or a last name with a cute nickname.