Birthday Names
By Pamela Redmond · Updated September 2026
Across 6 pages
of 6
Tree name
Birch is a rarely used nature name that calls to mind the lovely image of the tall, strong but graceful white-barked tree. The best known bearer of the name is former high-ranking Democratic Senator…
Japanese
"first son; harmonious man"
A familiar choice in Japan, Kazuo is known more globally due to award winning writer, Kazuo Ishiguro, whose works include Never Let Me Go , The Remains of the Day , and Klara and the Sun . He won the…
Hebrew
"to arise; dawn"
This Old Testament name, borne by a son of Judah and the twin of Perez, was once considered a masculine name, however, in recent years it has also been used for girls, likely inspired by its…
Greek, first letter of the alphabet
The first letter of the Greek alphabet ande the brightest star in every constellation, this would make an interesting choice for a first daughter, though it does give off some spectral sci-fi…
Welsh
"snowdrop"
This ethereal Welsh word name has a sound as pretty and delicate as its floral namesake. Pronounced with a bright IRE sound like in Iris or an AYR sound like in air, depending on region, Eirlys…
French surname
Though it's close to the German and French form of Matthew, Mathis, this name of the great artist can work as well for girls.
"hope"
Appreciated by religious Jews for its connection to "Hatikva," the Israeli national anthem.
Greek
"young goat"
Often found as a brand name in the hi-tech and industrial worlds.
English surname
"goat estate"
Although it's more commonly seen as a surname, Haviland is occasionally used as a first name, particularly for girls. The hircine meaning makes Haviland an appropriate name for a baby Capricorn.
"firstborn son"
Ichiro is a good classic choice for the first boy in a Japanese family.
English, Norse
"love again, renewal"
Idony is a Medieval variation of Idonea, itself an English form of Iðunn, the Norse goddess of spring and eternal youth. She was notable for carrying, keeping, and guarding the box of apples from…
Turkish and Azerbaijani
"first"
Authentically spelled İlkin, this would be an unusual (to English speakers) pick for a firstborn boy.
"first-born"
Japanese-born fashion designer Issey Miyake, known for his techno-clothes, could provide baby naming inspiration.
Finnish
Ensio derives from the Finnish word ensimmäinen , meaning "first one."
Latin
"doorway"
The meaning of this ancient Roman god's name relates to transitions, hence its connection to the name of the first month of the new year, a time of fresh beginnings. Janus is usually depicted as a…
French word name
"January"
Used in France as a male name, this would make an appealing and unusual choice, as would two other Gallic month names, Avril and Mai.
Cornish
A modern Cornish word name, similar in sound to Kenzie, Kerensa, and Keziah, Kenza would make an excellent choice for a first-born daughter. The name has been given to around 50 babies since the late…
"wave"
St Dwynwen is the Welsh patron saint of lovers, and her feast day on January 25 is the equivalent of Valentine's day in Wales. The short form Dwyn may be more manageable for the non-Welsh.
Hindi astrology name
"Capricorn"
Charismatic choice among January baby names .
Masculine variation of Clara, Latin
"bright, clear"
One of the few masculine names to derive from a feminine name — in this case, Clara. Clarus is the name of a French saint, the patron saint of tailors.
