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Potential Dog Names

  1. Albus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "white, bright."

    • Description:

      The ancient name Albus has modern currency as the first name of the headmaster of Harry Potter's Hogwarts, more formally known as Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. Can Albus work if you're missing the long white beard and the magic wand? Maybe, though it might be a heavy mantle for a Muggle child to wear.
  2. Alfie

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alfred, English

    • Meaning:

      "wise counselor"

    • Description:

      Alfie is a Top 20 name throughout the British Isles, where retro nickname names are mega-popular, but it hasn't really been picked up in the US yet. Both Alfie and rising star Archie are spunky nickname possibilities with a bit of an English accent.
  3. Almond

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Gwyneth Paltrow's Apple has opened the world of botanical names beyond flowers to trees, herbs, fruits, and — why not — nuts. Cayley and Brandon Jenner have a daughter named Joan Almond.
  4. Apollo

    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name

    • Meaning:

      "destroyer"

    • Description:

      With mythological names rising, the handsome son of Zeus and god of medicine, music, and poetry among many other things might offer an interesting, if high-pressure, option.
  5. Arbor

    • Origin:

      Nature name

    • Description:

      Arbor is an original unisex tree-related choice we're sure to hear more of. Highly unusual now, Arbor takes its place alongside other new arborial names ranging from the mighty Oak (or Oakley) to the more delicate Birch to the more flowery Juniper, Acacia, and Hazel.
  6. Archer

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "bowman"

    • Description:

      Archer is an Anglo-Saxon surname that feels more modern than most because of its on-target occupational and Hunger Games associations. And it's a nice way to bypass the clunky Archibald to get to the cool nickname Archie.
  7. Arden

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "valley of the eagle; high"

    • Description:

      Arden, the name of the magical forest in Shakespeare's As You Like It, is a stylish A name with a strong, straightforward image. Another reason to love Arden: its similarity to "ardent." Arden is solidly unisex, with the current gender distribution running about 60 percent girls and 40 percent boys.
  8. Arley

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "from the rabbit meadow"

    • Description:

      Abbreviated form of Harley that might also be spelled, for girls, Arleigh or Arlee.
  9. Arlise

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "pledge"

    • Description:

      This feminine form of Arliss, is familiar via the recent HBO series. But why not just use Arliss?
  10. Arliss

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "pledge"

    • Description:

      Arliss is most famous as the name of a few high-profile male characters, though it can just as easily work for a baby girl.
  11. Arwen

    • Origin:

      Literature, Sindarin, Welsh

    • Meaning:

      "noble maiden; fair, blessed"

    • Description:

      Best known as the princess of the Elves in Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, Arwen is a fantasy-inspired choice that feels perfectly down to earth. In 2022, it entered the UK Top 400, making it one of the fastest rising names, more than doubling in use from the previous year.
  12. Ashby

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "ash tree farm"

    • Description:

      Ashley substitute with a slightly more unisex feel; it was picked for her daughter by TV host Nancy O'Dell.
  13. Aspen

    • Origin:

      Nature and place-name

    • Meaning:

      "a poplar tree that quakes in the breeze"

    • Description:

      Aspen is part of two groups of stylish and unique baby names: nature names and place-names. The name of a graceful tree in the poplar family with heart-shaped leaves so delicate they quiver in the gentlest breeze, Aspen is also the name of a trendy Colorado ski resort. Aspen started as a unisex name possibility but now is much more frequently worn by girls.
  14. Atlas

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "bearer of the heavens"

    • Description:

      Atlas is one of those names that was previously thought too powerful for a baby boy, who would have to be strong enough to carry the world on his shoulders. Now Atlas has joined the pantheon of Greek and Roman god and goddess names in the realm of possibility, along with Mars, Zeus and Apollo.
  15. Atticus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Attica"

    • Description:

      Atticus, with its trendy Roman feel combined with the upstanding, noble image of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird, is a real winner among boy names. Atticus entered the US Top 1000 in 2004 and is a firm Nameberry favorite.
  16. Auden

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "old friend"

    • Description:

      The poetic, soft-spoken Auden has recently started to be considered as a first name option, used for both sexes, appreciated for its pleasing sound as well as its link to the distinguished modern Anglo-American poet W.H. Auden.
  17. Avalon

    • Origin:

      Celtic

    • Meaning:

      "island of apples"

    • Description:

      Avalon, an island paradise of Celtic myth and Arthurian legend--it was where King Arthur was taken to recover from his wounds-- and also the colorful capital of the California island of Catalina-- makes a heavenly first name. Actress Rena Sofer and British musician Julian Cope used it for their daughters.
  18. Axel

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Absalom

    • Meaning:

      "father of peace"

    • Description:

      A classic in its native Scandinavia, Axel has a cool rock 'n' roll flavor in the US, thanks to Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose (born William). With its distinctive letter 'x', it has an effortlessly cool vibe about it, and is currently growing in popularity.
  19. Azalea

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "azalea, a flower"

    • Description:

      Azalea is one of the fresher flower names, along with Zinnia and Lilac, that are new to the name bouquet — in fact, it entered the Social Security list for the first time in 2012. So if Lily and Rose are too tame for you, consider this brilliant pink springtime blossom with a touch of the unusual that has been growing in popularity.
  20. Aragorn
    • Arlisle
      • Atreyou
        • Balin

          • Origin:

            Hindi

          • Meaning:

            "mighty sword"

          • Description:

            Unusual Asian option, and also the name of the Dwarf Lord from Lord of the Rings.
        • Bardot

          • Origin:

            French surname

          • Description:

            Bardot joined the first and last names of other glamour girl icons such as (Jean) Harlow when David Boreanaz chose the surname of '50s French sex symbol Brigitte Bardot for his daughter. Bardot debuted in the US charts in 2022.
        • Basil

          • Origin:

            Greek

          • Meaning:

            "royal"

          • Description:

            Although Greek in origin--in the fourth century, a bishop by that name established the principles of the Greek Orthodox Church--Basil for years took on the aura of aquiline-nosed upper-class Britishness of Sherlock Holmes portrayer Basil Rathbone, then spiced with the fragrant aroma of the herb that entered with the Pesto generation.
        • Beau

          • Origin:

            French

          • Meaning:

            "handsome"

          • Description:

            Beau suggests someone devilishly handsome, with a large measure of southern charm—a nice image to bestow on your boy. Often solely a nickname in the past, it's now standing firmly on its own. Beau has been on the Social Security list non-stop since 1969.
        • Bellamy

          • Origin:

            English and Irish from French

          • Meaning:

            "fine friend"

          • Description:

            Bellamy is emerging as an up-and-coming girls' name, an Irish surname-y riff on the super-popular Bella series of names. While the Bella connection makes Bellamy sound a little trendier and more popular than it really is, we see the name possibly rising through the ranks for both genders in the coming years.
        • Bellamy

          • Origin:

            English and Irish from French

          • Meaning:

            "fine friend"

          • Description:

            Bellamy is a surname name with an admirable meaning and upbeat rhythm, similar to jovial choices like Rafferty, Barnaby and Willoughby.
        • Berenger

          • Origin:

            German

          • Meaning:

            "warrior fighting with a spear"

          • Description:

            Last-name-first-name with a romantic but dangerous edge.
        • Bosco

          • Origin:

            Italian saint name

          • Description:

            Also, unfortunately, better known as a chocolate syrup. Borden and Bosco could play well together.
        • Bran

          • Origin:

            Diminutive of Brandon

          • Meaning:

            "broom-covered hill"

          • Description:

            A little heavy on the fiber content; we prefer Bram. But Bran is also the Celtic god of the underworld, whose symbol is the raven.
        • Bronx

          • Origin:

            Place name

          • Description:

            Rockers Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz put a new baby name on the map when they chose this downscale New York borough name for their son. The Bronx, the place, was named for early Dutch settler Jonas Bronck. Might Bronx become the next Brooklyn? We'd be surprised if it did.
        • Burke

          • Origin:

            French

          • Meaning:

            "from the fortress"

          • Description:

            Simple, usable surname choice.
        • Byron

          • Origin:

            English

          • Meaning:

            "barn for cows"

          • Description:

            For centuries, this name had a romantic, windswept image due to its strong connection to the poet Lord Byron, who inspired its use as a first name. It is one of those surprise names that's appeared on the Top 1000 every year since 1880.
        • Calla

          • Origin:

            Greek

          • Meaning:

            "beautiful"

          • Description:

            Calla is a botanical name that is much more distinctive than popular Lily or similar Callie. Rarely heard today, it did appear in the popularity lists in the last decades of the nineteenth century.
        • Cato

          • Origin:

            Latin

          • Meaning:

            "all-knowing"

          • Description:

            Cato conjures up images of ancient Roman statesmen and southern antebellum retainers; it could have revival potential, with its 'O' ending and the current interest in the names of Greek and Roman antiquity.
        • Cedar

          • Origin:

            English and French from Latin tree name

          • Meaning:

            "cedar tree"

          • Description:

            Cedar is, like Ash, Oak, Pine and Ebony, one of the new tree/wood names that parents are starting to consider; this one is particularly aromatic.
        • Cedric

          • Origin:

            Celtic

          • Meaning:

            "bounty"

          • Description:

            Cedric was invented by Sir Walter Scott for the noble character of the hero's father in Ivanhoe, presumed to be an altered form of the Saxon name Cerdic. The name was later also given to Little Lord Fauntleroy, the long-haired, velvet-suited, and lace-collared boy hero of the Frances Hodgson Burnett book, who became an unwitting symbol of the pampered mama's boy.
        • Chauncey

          • Origin:

            Latin

          • Meaning:

            "chancellor"

          • Description:

            A name halfway between its old milquetoast image and a more jovial Irish-sounding contemporary one.
        • Clancy

          • Origin:

            Irish

          • Meaning:

            "red-haired warrior"

          • Description:

            Clancy, one of the original crossover Irish surname names, is as energetic and appealing as ever — full of moxie, more distinctive than Casey, and also one of the less obvious of the red-headed names.
        • Clio

          • Origin:

            Greek

          • Meaning:

            "glory"

          • Description:

            Clio is the name of the ancient Greek mythological muse of history and heroic poetry, one that is rich with modern charm and would make an intriguing choice, especially thanks to its dynamic o-ending.
        • Coco

          • Origin:

            Spanish and French pet name

          • Description:

            Coco came to prominence as the nickname of the legendary French designer Chanel (born Gabrielle) and has lately become a starbaby favorite, initially chosen by Courteney Cox for her daughter Coco Riley in 2004. At first it was the kind of name that the press loves to ridicule, but we predict Coco's heading for more broad acceptance and even popularity.
        • Cocoa

          • Origin:

            Color and food name

          • Description:

            Do everyone a favor and spell it Coco, an up-and-coming choice.
        • Cooper

          • Origin:

            English occupational name

          • Meaning:

            "barrel maker"

          • Description:

            The genial yet upscale and preppy Cooper was one of the first occupational last names to catch on -- and Cooper remains a pleasing option.
        • Cormac

          • Origin:

            Irish

          • Meaning:

            "charioteer"

          • Description:

            Both offbeat and upbeat, this evocative traditional Irish name that runs through Celtic mythology is known here via award-winning novelist Cormac McCarthy (born Charles). The author's adopted name is related to Cormac Mac Airt, one of the great legendary high kings of Ireland.
        • Cosmo

          • Origin:

            Italian, English, Greek

          • Meaning:

            "order, beauty, universe"

          • Description:

            With a touch of celestial power, a hint of clunky charm, and the totally cool -o ending, Cosmo may well be finally shaking itself free of both the Seinfeld association (which made it a punchline of a joke) and the cartoon fairy association from The Fairly OddParents. In fact, it is in the Top 1000 in the UK and a favorite on Nameberry.
        • Cypress

          • Origin:

            Nature name

          • Description:

            Lovely entry into the tree name genre, joining Juniper, Oak, and Willow.
        • Cyrus

          • Origin:

            Persian

          • Meaning:

            "sun"

          • Description:

            Cyrus is one of those surprising names that have always ranked among the Top 1000 boy names in the US. On an upward trend since the mid-90s, Cyrus now sits in that comfortable place between too popular and too unusual.
        • Daenerys

          • Origin:

            Literary name

          • Description:

            Daenerys is yet another girls' name invented by "Game of Thrones" author George R. R. Martin that is beginning to gain some traction in real life. Daenerys was used for 67 baby girls in 2013 while one of the character's titles, Khaleesi, was given to 241 baby girls. And the name Arya, also from the hyper-popular series, is one of the fastest growing girls' names in the country.
        • Daisy

          • Origin:

            Diminutive of Margaret or flower name, English

          • Meaning:

            "day's eye"

          • Description:

            Daisy, fresh, wholesome, and energetic, is one of the flower names that burst back into bloom after a century's hibernation. Originally a nickname for Margaret (the French Marguerite is the word for the flower), Daisy comes from the phrase "day's eye," because it opens its petals at daybreak.
        • Darwin

          • Origin:

            English

          • Meaning:

            "dear friend"

          • Description:

            Enough parents have found naturalist Charles Darwin, the father of the theory of evolution, a worthy hero to keep Darwin relatively consistently in the Top 1000 (it dropped off in 2021 but is back in 2022)—though some might just like its trendy two-syllable sound. It has a lovely meaning too—"dear friend."
        • Deveraux

          • Origin:

            French

          • Meaning:

            "of Evreux; riverbank"

          • Description:

            Swashbuckling name worthy of a hero in a romance novel. Deveraux or Devereaux is drawn from the town of Evreux in France and combined with the prefix de- denoting it likely referred to a noble of that area.
        • Dierk

          • Description:

            Dierk is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning as a variant of Dirk or Dietrich. The name Dietrich derives from the Old High German elements 'theud' meaning 'people' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power,' hence conveying 'ruler of the people.' Dierk represents a less common spelling variation that maintains the strong, concise sound of the original. Popular in Germanic countries, particularly in northern Germany and the Netherlands, Dierk remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. The name carries associations of strength and leadership due to its etymological roots. With its compact, distinctive sound and European heritage, Dierk offers a strong yet uncommon option for parents seeking a name with traditional roots but an uncommon presence.

        • Digby

          • Origin:

            Norse

          • Meaning:

            "town by the ditch"

          • Description:

            Digby is a place-name in Lincolnshire turned surname turned quirky first name that is starting to get some attention.
        • Dior

          • Origin:

            French surname

          • Meaning:

            "golden"

          • Description:

            Dior has joined Chanel and Armani on the fashionista hit parade of names, appealing due to its designer quality, its succinct sound, and contemporary air. Nearly 400 baby girls were named Dior in the US last year.
        • Dirk

          • Origin:

            Flemish and Dutch, contracted form of Derek

          • Description:

            A perennial classic in the Netherlands, short-and-sweet Dirk is starting to feel like a fresher alternative to cousin Derek.
        • Draco

          • Origin:

            Greek from Latin

          • Meaning:

            "dragon"

          • Description:

            For as long as we all shall live, Harry Potter's sneering nemesis.
        • Digsby
          • Dwyer
            • Embry

              • Origin:

                English surname

              • Meaning:

                "flat-topped hill"

              • Description:

                Though Embry became famous as the name of a boy werewolf in Twilight, we think its Em- beginning and -y ending make it perfectly appropriate for a girl. You might consider it as an alternative to Emma, Emily, or Aubrey. Embry or Embury is an established English surname.
            • Eowyn

              • Origin:

                Literary name

              • Meaning:

                "horse lover"

              • Description:

                A literary name created by J. R. R. Tolkien for a Lord of the Rings noblewoman of Rohan. Properly spelled with an accent over the first E – Éowyn – it would make an interesting choice for literature lovers or fans of names like Elowen and Evelyn.
            • Eros

              • Origin:

                Greek

              • Meaning:

                "desire"

              • Description:

                The name of the Greek winged god of sexual love may seem a lot to live up to, but like other deity names, it's on the rise. He appears in DC comics as an ally of Wonder Woman, and is the alias of Marvel's Starfox character. Eros is also the name of an asteroid in our solar system. The name is more popular in Italy, where it's been in the Top 200 in recent years,
            • Errol

              • Origin:

                Scottish, spelling variation of Earl

              • Description:

                Errol was a swashbuckling name in the Errol Flynn era, which still has a trace of jazz cool.m thanks to jazz pianist Erroll Garner.
            • Fallon

              • Origin:

                Irish

              • Meaning:

                "leader"

              • Description:

                Fallon was one of the first of the unisex surname names, but thanks to "Dynasty" in the 1980s it now has a feminine image. For a boy, try Phelan instead.
            • Finn

              • Origin:

                Irish

              • Meaning:

                "fair or white"

              • Description:

                Finn is a name with enormous energy and charm, that of the greatest hero of Irish mythology, Finn MacCool (aka Fionn mac Cuumhaill), an intrepid warrior with mystical supernatural powers, noted as well for his wisdom and generosity.
            • Fitz

              • Origin:

                Scottish

              • Meaning:

                "son of"

              • Description:

                Any number of Fitz names -- Fitzgerald, Fitzpatrick, Fitzroy, Fitzwilliam -- have been used as Christian names, in fact Fitzwilliam was the given name of the dashing Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. Fitz can be a short form of any of them and is often, like Mac, a nickname drawn from a surname.
            • Fletcher

              • Origin:

                English occupational name

              • Meaning:

                "arrow-maker"

              • Description:

                Fletcher is a common surname with a touch of quirkiness; it definitely fits into the So Far Out It's In category--and moving further in all the time along with other occupational names from Parker to Forester.
            • Flora

              • Origin:

                Latin

              • Meaning:

                "flower"

              • Description:

                Flora, the name of the Roman goddess of flowers and spring, who enjoyed eternal youth, is one of the gently old-fashioned girls' flower names we think is due for a comeback— alongside cousins Cora and Dora. Florence, Fiorella, Fleur, and Flower are translations, but we like Flora best of all.
            • Foster

              • Origin:

                English occupational name

              • Meaning:

                "forester"

              • Description:

                Foster is one commonly heard last name that makes a fine first. The word foster means "to nourish" — as in "fostering hope", or "fostering a relationship". The only problem with Foster might be its association with "foster child."
            • Fox

              • Origin:

                Animal name

              • Description:

                Fox is one animal name backed by a longish tradition, and then popularized via the lead character Fox Mulder on X Files. Fox is simple, sleek, and a little bit wild, and could make an interesting middle name.
            • Fraser

              • Origin:

                Scottish from French

              • Meaning:

                "strawberry"

              • Description:

                Though TV's "Frasier" made the name famous, and Frazier is a well-used variation, Fraser is the original, used mostly in Scotland.
            • Frodo

              • Origin:

                Literary name

              • Description:

                An admirable meaning, with roots in a Germanic word meaning wisdom, but we fear it will never be detached from the hobbit hero of The Lord of the Rings.
            • Fili
              • Gaius

                • Origin:

                  Latin

                • Meaning:

                  "to rejoice"

                • Description:

                  Stately Gaius (pronounced GUY-us) was in the name of many ancient Romans, including Julius Caesar. Little-used before the year 2000, it now feels like a fresh possibility in the revival of Latin boys' names like Atticus and Cassius. Caius and derivatives like Caio come from the same root, and in ancient Roman times Caius was probably pronounced as Gaius. You could also see Gaius as a male version of the earth-goddess name Gaia.
              • Gatsby

                • Origin:

                  German surname and literary name

                • Meaning:

                  "from Gaddesby"

                • Description:

                  Gatsby is one of the most famous literary surnames, borne by the titular character of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. The book's Jay Gatsby gussied up his surname from Gatz, whose meaning is given variously as left-handed, cat, God, and person from Gat. As a first name, it's got a lot of energy and that great literary pedigree.
              • Gray

                • Origin:

                  Color name, also diminutive of Grayson

                • Description:

                  The girls have Violet and Scarlet and Ruby and Rose, but for the boys there's a much more limited palette of color names. Gray (or Grey), is one exception, which could make for a soft and evocative--if slightly somber-- choice, especially in the middle. Kaitlin Olson and Rob McElhenney recently named their son Leo Grey.
              • Gray

                • Origin:

                  Color name

                • Description:

                  This color name, spelled either Gray or Grey is rapidly catching on. Actress Jenny von Oy recently called her daughter Gray Audrey.
              • Grover

                • Origin:

                  English

                • Meaning:

                  "lives near a grove of trees"

                • Description:

                  Forget the furry blue Muppet, forget corpulent President Cleveland (not too difficult), and consider this name anew. We think it's spunky, a little funky, and well worth a second look.
              • Gryphon

                • Origin:

                  Mythological animal name or form of Griffin, Welsh

                • Meaning:

                  "strong lord"

                • Description:

                  Rare but rising, Gryphon is an intriguing name that combines several stylish associations. The Gryphon spelling relates directly to the fierce legendary creature that's eagle in front, lion behind. But there's also the authentic boys' name Griffin, a name that's maintained consistent popularity for a quarter century without getting too popular.
              • Grier
                • Hagrid

                  • Origin:

                    Literary name

                  • Description:

                    Gentle giant Rubeus Hagrid is the groundskeeper at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter novels (probably after Hagrid Rubes, the equally kind ancient Greek mythological giant), but that's not the only reason this name could prove a playground liability.
                • Harbor

                  • Origin:

                    Word name

                  • Description:

                    If you like names that are not really names -- some say, the wave of the future -- Harbor has an attractive sound as well as an appealing meaning and image.
                • Harley

                  • Origin:

                    English

                  • Meaning:

                    "hare clearing"

                  • Description:

                    You can ride one, you can use it as a baby name – or, as is often the case, both! Harley is currently trending up for girls and down for boys in the US, although it remains predominantly masculine in the UK. A lesser-used -ley ending choice for boys, Harley has a current sound but an old-school biker appeal.
                • Harley

                  • Origin:

                    English

                  • Meaning:

                    "the long field"

                  • Description:

                    Once a macho biker name, Harley is now showing its softer side. In the UK, Harley is predominantly masculine, but it's currently more popular for girls than boys in the US.
                • Harlow

                  • Origin:

                    English surname

                  • Meaning:

                    "rock hill or army hill"

                  • Description:

                    Jean Harlow (born Harlean Carpenter), the original platinum blonde bombshell, was a symbol of 1930s glamour, a factor that first Patricia Arquette and then Nicole Richie and Joel Madden probably had in mind when they gave their daughters the distinctive surname name Harlow.
                • Haven

                  • Origin:

                    Word name, English

                  • Meaning:

                    "a place of safety"

                  • Description:

                    Haven is a recently invented safe-harbor name that appeals to an increasing number of parents who don't want to voyage quite as far as Heaven.
                • Hedwig

                  • Origin:

                    German

                  • Meaning:

                    "war"

                  • Description:

                    An ancient German saint's name – and most famously the name of Harry Potter's snowy owl – but the combination of "head" plus "wig" feels a little too literal in English.
                • Hermes

                  • Origin:

                    Greek mythology name

                  • Meaning:

                    "cairn, pile of stones, boundary marker"

                  • Description:

                    These days, some may think of Hermes as an upscale brand name like Chanel and Porsche, or a strange choice thanks to the parcel delivery company. However, with names from Greek mythology very much in style, it is possible there will be plenty who link it to the Green messenger god.
                • Holmes

                  • Origin:

                    English

                  • Meaning:

                    "from the island in the river"

                  • Description:

                    Possible middle name for devotees of detective Sherlock...or the actress Katie.
                • Homer

                  • Origin:

                    Greek

                  • Meaning:

                    "security, pledge"

                  • Description:

                    Homer is a name that has traveled from the ancient Greek scribe of the great classical epics to Bart Simpson's doltish dad, and has also become the surprise hot celebrity pick of such parents as Richard Gere (his father's name), Bill Murray, and Anne Heche. Simpsons creator Matt Groening has both a father and a son named Homer.
                • Honor

                  • Origin:

                    English word and virtue name

                  • Meaning:

                    "honor"

                  • Description:

                    Honor is a somewhat more straight-laced virtue name than Hope or Grace, placing a high standard on any girl carrying it, but it's a goal worth setting. By choosing Honor for her daughter, Jessica Alba brought it very much into the modern world.
                • Hudson

                  • Origin:

                    English place-name and surname

                  • Meaning:

                    "Hugh's son"

                  • Description:

                    Hudson has risen quickly up the charts over the past 30 years, getting a lot of its style value from New York's Hudson River. That makes it a nature name and a place name that's also got the fashion gloss of New York City.
                • Iker

                  • Origin:

                    Basque

                  • Meaning:

                    "visitation"

                  • Description:

                    Long an extremely popular name in Spain, Iker (usually pronounced EE-kuhr in the English speaking world) is the rare Basque name that's starting to make it big in the States also, thanks to soccer player Iker Casillas. Indeed, it's been one of the fastest growing boys' names of the decade.
                • Isla

                  • Origin:

                    Scottish place-name or Spanish

                  • Meaning:

                    "island"

                  • Description:

                    Isla is a hit name throughout the English-speaking world but hasn't found the same popularity in other western countries, perhaps because its spelling and pronunciation don't make sense for those whose native language is not English. Think island without the final two letters.
                • Jericho

                  • Origin:

                    Biblical place-name

                  • Description:

                    A biblical place name with trumpeting verve and strength.
                • Jeter

                  • Origin:

                    French or German surname

                  • Description:

                    Jeter, which of course is used as a first name only because of Yankee star Derek, rhymes with Peter and may be derived from the French surname Jette, which was often bestowed on foundlings because it means "thrown out," or the German Jetter, an occupational name meaning "weeder." If your husband insists on Jeter, counter with Percival.
                • Juno

                  • Origin:

                    Latin

                  • Meaning:

                    "queen of the heavens; young"

                  • Description:

                    Juno is an ancient name that feels as fresh as if it had been minted, well, not yesterday, but in 2007. Since the release of the popular indie film Juno, this lively but strong Roman goddess name has held new potential as a baby name. Currently in the UK Top 500 and used in The Netherlands too, Juno is on the rise in the US - and is 15 times more popular than it was before the release of the film.
                • Kaia

                  • Origin:

                    Latin, Scandinavian, or Hawaiian

                  • Meaning:

                    "to rejoice or sea"

                  • Description:

                    The new Maia, the next Kayla, Kaia has been on the charts since the year 2000. You might see it as a female form of the also-rising Kai, which means sea in Hawaiian and is sometimes used for girls as well, or as a Kardashianization of the ancient goddess name Caia.
                • Kaiser

                  • Origin:

                    German

                  • Meaning:

                    "Emperor"

                  • Description:

                    Kaiser, as in roll and Wilhelm, appeared for the first time on the US Top 1000 in 2017. It fits the two-syllable -er ending style that's all the rage, and it lends itself to the short form Kai. But we hope this Germanic version of what is essentially a title rather than a name doesn't keep rising on the charts.
                • Keller

                  • Origin:

                    German occupational name

                  • Meaning:

                    "cellar master"

                  • Description:

                    Keller is a German surname that originated as an occupational name for a cellar or store master, which seems to be the background of several of the most stylish new German names for boys. One of the stylish new two-syllable -er ending names for boys, Keller is rising up the ranks heading for the Top 1000. It may be an honorific for Helen Keller.
                • Khaleesi

                  • Origin:

                    Literature

                  • Meaning:

                    "warlord"

                  • Description:

                    Khaleesi is an invented name introduced to the world by inventive and prolific author George R. R. Martin for his wildly popular Game of Thrones series—it's Dothraki for "queen" and is one of the titles of the character Daenerys. It entered the US Top 1000 in 2014.
                • Kingsley

                  • Origin:

                    English

                  • Meaning:

                    "king's meadow"

                  • Description:

                    Kingsley is a sophisticated Harry Potter name that entered the US Top 1000 in 2013.
                • Kira

                  • Origin:

                    Russian feminine variation of Cyrus

                  • Meaning:

                    "throne"

                  • Description:

                    Though such cognates of Kira as Keira, Kyra, and Ciara are increasingly popular throughout Europe and in the U.S., this Cyrus relative has a different root. As with all the many variations of this appealing name, there is often confusion around spelling and pronunciation -- does the first syllable rhyme with ear or eye?
                • Knox

                  • Origin:

                    Scottish

                  • Meaning:

                    "round hill"

                  • Description:

                    Knox is an old Scottish surname that Brad Pitt (whose great-great-grandfather was named Hal Knox Hillhouse) and Angelina Jolie took out of the back cupboard, dusted off, and elevated to coolness--to the point where it entered the popular baby names list in 2009. Knox now ranks among the most influential celebrity baby names.
                • Kili
                  • Leander

                    • Origin:

                      Greek

                    • Meaning:

                      "lion-man"

                    • Description:

                      Leander was once an almost unknown name, however, with the popularity of Leo and the rise of Leandro, it now feels like a perfectly accessible alternative to Leon or Alexander. In Greek legend, Leander was the powerful figure who swam across the Hellespont every night to visit his beloved Hero, a priestess of Venus.
                  • Luca

                    • Origin:

                      Italian variation of Luke and Lucas

                    • Meaning:

                      "man from Lucania"

                    • Description:

                      The related Lucas and Luke are both hugely popular boy names in the US and internationally, and now Luca has joined them on boys' popularity lists around the world.
                  • Ludo

                    • Origin:

                      German

                    • Meaning:

                      "famous"

                    • Description:

                      This cool and quirky short form of the suave Ludovic could be an even-more-adventurous spin on Nico and Hugo.
                  • Luna

                    • Origin:

                      Latin

                    • Meaning:

                      "moon"

                    • Description:

                      The name of the Roman goddess of the moon, Luna is derived straight from the Latin word for moon, luna. Luna may be the name most likely to surprise someone from an older generation by its Top 10 status in the US and its widespread international popularity.
                  • Lorien
                    • Lumos
                      • Mabel

                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Amabel, Latin

                        • Meaning:

                          "lovable"

                        • Description:

                          Mabel is cuddly Victorian favorite rising in popularity in the US, after a 50-year nap If you love offbeat old-fashioned names like Violet or Josephine, only sassier and bubblier, Mabel is one for you to consider. It is currently in the US Top 200 and the UK Top 50.
                      • Macon

                        • Origin:

                          French place-name

                        • Description:

                          What with Mason scooting up the charts, this attractive place-name, with its thick Georgia accent, could make a more distinctive alternative.
                      • Maddox

                        • Origin:

                          Welsh

                        • Meaning:

                          "son of Madoc"

                        • Description:

                          Maddox, a previously obscure Welsh family name with a powerfully masculine image, suddenly came into the spotlight when Angelina Jolie chose it for her son in 2003. By the following year it was in the middle of the Top 1000, and it has risen since.
                      • Marlowe

                        • Origin:

                          Variation of Marlow, English

                        • Meaning:

                          "driftwood"

                        • Description:

                          Is it Marlo, Marlow, or Marlowe? Suddenly they all seem very much in the air, in tune with rhyming cousins Harlow and Arlo. It all started when Margaret Julia Thomas began being known as Marlo (after being previously nicknamed Margie and Marlow). More recently, Jason Schwartzman used the e-ending version for his young daughter, Marlowe Rivers, as did Sienna Miller for her baby girl Marlowe Ottoline.
                      • Maverick

                        • Origin:

                          American

                        • Meaning:

                          "independent, nonconformist"

                        • Description:

                          It's ironic that the name Maverick is not such a maverick anymore. Heard first in a 1950s James Garner western TV series, and then as the Tom Cruise character in Top Gun, Maverick symbolizes an unfettered, free spirit.
                      • Montgomery

                        • Origin:

                          Norman

                        • Meaning:

                          "man power"

                        • Description:

                          This image of this distinguished Anglo-Scottish surname, drawn from the French place name of the ancient castle of Saint Foi de Montgomery, is rapidly shifting from fusty and formal to cool. And dashing short form Monty (or Monte) nudges it to cute.
                      • Moss

                        • Origin:

                          English

                        • Meaning:

                          "descendant of Moses"

                        • Description:

                          This evocative green nature name, heard much more frequently as a surname, is associated with playwright Moss Hart (born Robert), who co-wrote (with George S. Kaufman) such enduring Broadway comedies as The Man Who Came to Dinner and You Can't Take it With You.
                      • Murdock

                        • Origin:

                          Surname name

                        • Description:

                          Rupert Murdoch has helped make the "ch" spelling more recognizable, but this one has a long history as well. Probably works better as a middle name than a first name, even if you're a big Fox News fan.
                      • Murphy

                        • Origin:

                          Irish

                        • Meaning:

                          "sea warrior"

                        • Description:

                          This jaunty Celtic surname -- the most common family name in both Ireland and the US -- is totally viable as a first. The arguably most famous Murphy is TV's Murphy Brown, and indeed the name is twice as common for baby girls as for baby boys today. But still, it's solidly gender neutral and works equally well for all sexes.
                      • Mycroft
                        • Nala

                          • Origin:

                            African, meaning unknown

                          • Description:

                            A Disney name—Nala was the friend who became the wife of Simba, hero of The Lion King. It debuted on the US Top 1000 in 2015.
                        • Nash

                          • Origin:

                            English

                          • Meaning:

                            "by the ash tree"

                          • Description:

                            Nash is an English surname whose sound puts it right in step with currently trendy names like Cash, Dash and Ash. It first came to prominence via TV character Nash Bridges, portrayed by Don Johnson in the late nineties, and also via mathematician John Nash, played by Russell Crowe in the acclaimed film A Beautiful Mind.
                        • Newt

                          • Origin:

                            English

                          • Meaning:

                            "a small salamander"

                          • Description:

                            Rarely used on its own and irrevocably tied to former House Speaker Gingrich -- who was christened Newton.
                        • Nona

                          • Origin:

                            Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "ninth"

                          • Description:

                            Nona is a name sometimes given to the ninth child -- but unlikely to serve that purpose today. Musical cred: the name of a song by Motley Crue.
                        • Noor

                          • Origin:

                            Arabic; Dutch variation of Eleonora

                          • Meaning:

                            "light"

                          • Description:

                            An interesting name associated with the elegant American-born Queen Noor of Jordan. Noor is very popular among modern Muslim parents around the world and is beginning to cross over, perhaps because of its simplicity and its resemblance to the stylish Western Nora. It appeared in the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2015.
                        • Norman

                          • Origin:

                            English

                          • Meaning:

                            "northerner, Norseman"

                          • Description:

                            Norman, perhaps because it sounds so much like the word 'normal', conjures up the image of a normal-looking guy with a normal kind of job-- not necessarily an image many modern parents seek for their sons. But though it's been off the national popularity list for several years, Norman is Number 694 on Nameberry. It was a Top 100 name for more than half a century, hitting a high in 1931 at Number 36, but today it's nowhere near one of the most popular boy names starting with N.
                        • Norton

                          • Origin:

                            English

                          • Meaning:

                            "northern town"

                          • Description:

                            Forever the upstairs neighbor on The Honeymooners.
                        • Nova

                          • Origin:

                            Latin

                          • Meaning:

                            "new"

                          • Description:

                            Nova has the feel of both newness, from its meaning, and great energy as an astronomical term for a star that increases suddenly in brightness before fading.
                        • Nyx

                          • Origin:

                            Greek mythology name

                          • Meaning:

                            "night"

                          • Description:

                            In Greek mythology, Nyx was a powerful goddess and the embodiment of the night, but when spoken, its negative meaning can't be ignored.
                        • Nox
                          • Oakley

                            • Origin:

                              English

                            • Meaning:

                              "oak wood or clearing"

                            • Description:

                              As sturdy as Oak, but with stronger roots as a first name, Oakley ticks lots of boxes for modern trends. With its unisex vibe, it's nature-based meaning, it's surname-y feel, and it's popular -lee ending, it's not wonder Oakley is on the rise.
                          • Odysseus

                            • Origin:

                              Greek mythology name

                            • Meaning:

                              "wrathful"

                            • Description:

                              The name of the brave, resourceful hero of Homer's epic saga has almost always been considered too weighty for a child to bear, but at this point, some brave, resourceful parents out there might be willing to take it on.
                          • Padme

                            • Origin:

                              Modern invented name

                            • Description:

                              Padmé Amidala, played by Natalie Portman, was one of the main characters in the Star Wars prequels, the mother (with Anakin Skywalker) of Luke and Leia. Enough time may have passed for it to be conceivable as a first name IRL.
                          • Pallas

                            • Origin:

                              Greek

                            • Meaning:

                              "wisdom"

                            • Description:

                              This rarified Greek name -- in classical mythology Pallas Athena was the goddess of wisdom and the arts -- might appeal to literary-minded parents. Among the raft of stylish girl names that start with P, Pallas is one rare choice that is often overlooked....but shouldn't be.
                          • Pascal

                            • Origin:

                              French; English

                            • Meaning:

                              "of the Passover; Easter"

                            • Description:

                              The French-accented Pascal was historically used for sons born at Easter, and can make an interesting choice for a boy with Gallic roots arriving around that holiday.
                          • Paxton

                            • Origin:

                              Latin and English

                            • Meaning:

                              "peace town"

                            • Description:

                              Paxton stands out from a lot of other two-syllable surname names for two reasons: the dynamic letter X in the middle, and its admirable peace association, providing the great nickname Pax.
                          • Piper

                            • Origin:

                              English occupational name

                            • Meaning:

                              "pipe or flute player"

                            • Description:

                              Piper is a bright, musical name that entered the list in 1999, one year after the debut of the TV series Charmed, which featured a Piper, and it's been a consistent riser since. Piper Kerman is the memoirist whose prison experiences provided the basis for the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black.
                          • Pippa

                            • Origin:

                              English, diminutive of Philippa

                            • Meaning:

                              "lover of horses"

                            • Description:

                              Pippa, a peppy condensation of Philippa that turns it from serious to sprightly, has come into the public eye in a big way via the former Kate Middleton's sister.
                          • Plato

                            • Origin:

                              Greek

                            • Meaning:

                              "broad-shouldered"

                            • Description:

                              The name of one of the greatest Western philosophers is often used as a first name in its land of origin, Greece, and would make a really interesting, thought-provoking choice here. It is remembered here as the nickname of the memorable character played by Sal Mineo in the classic film "Rebel Without a Cause."
                          • Poppy

                            • Origin:

                              English from Latin

                            • Meaning:

                              "red flower"

                            • Description:

                              Poppy, unlike most floral names which are sweet and feminine, has a lot of spunk. Long popular throughout the rest of the English-speaking world, Poppy is finally starting to rise toward the top in the US, where it entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2016.
                          • Panzer
                            • Pria
                              • Quinn

                                • Origin:

                                  Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "descendant of Conn, chief leader, intelligence"

                                • Description:

                                  Quinn is one of the first popular Irish unisex surnames, a strong and attractive choice on the rise for girls but still popular for boys. Quinn was used for about 3000 baby girls and 700 boys in the US last year.
                              • Quinn

                                • Origin:

                                  Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "descendant of Conn, chief leader, intelligence"

                                • Description:

                                  Quinn is an engaging Celtic surname that is still on the rise for girls but beginning to flag for boys. As a female name, Quinn is in the Top 100, used for over 3000 baby girls last year, but toward the bottom of the Top 500 for boys, given to 700 baby boys.
                              • Rainier

                                • Origin:

                                  German

                                • Meaning:

                                  "wise army"

                                • Description:

                                  European royal name, and to Americans a place-name evoking the majestic mountain in Washington state.
                              • Raleigh

                                • Origin:

                                  English

                                • Meaning:

                                  "meadow of roe deer"

                                • Description:

                                  Attractive North Carolina place-name and surname of explorer Sir Walter Raleigh. Distinctive, classy-but-approachable choice for either sex.
                              • Reece

                                • Origin:

                                  Welsh

                                • Meaning:

                                  "ardor"

                                • Description:

                                  Reece is a less popular respelling of Reese, made famous by actress Witherspoon. Reese is the most popular spelling for girls and Rhys for boys, with Reece given to about four times as many boys as girls.
                              • Reese

                                • Origin:

                                  Welsh

                                • Meaning:

                                  "ardor"

                                • Description:

                                  The sassy, steel magnolia appeal of Oscar-winning Reese (born Laura Jeanne—Reese is her mother's maiden name) Witherspoon has single-handedly propelled this formerly boys’ name into girls' popularity.
                              • Reign

                                • Origin:

                                  English word name

                                • Meaning:

                                  "rule"

                                • Description:

                                  Reign is one of a new, ahem, kingdom of word names that suggest a high-born child, joining Royal, Lorde, Titan, Saint, King, Princess, and Noble. We predicted this kind of defining name to be the Number 1 baby name trend of 2015...two weeks before Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick named their third child, a boy, Reign.
                              • Rhys

                                • Origin:

                                  Welsh

                                • Meaning:

                                  "ardor"

                                • Description:

                                  Less than ten percent of the babies named Rhys are girls, whereas Reese is given five times more often to girls than to boys, thanks to Ms. Witherspoon. It's a sleek and attractive name, but one that benefits from two accepted spellings that help clarify its gender identity.
                              • Rigby

                                • Origin:

                                  English

                                • Meaning:

                                  "ridge farm"

                                • Description:

                                  Rigby is a rather stiff British surname, which might call to mind the Beatles "Eleanor Rigby" or, from the recent past, Cathy Rigby, the first American woman to win a medal in World Gymnastics competition. The problem with Rigby may be its similarity to the word "rigid."
                              • Roux

                                • Origin:

                                  French from Latin

                                • Meaning:

                                  "russet"

                                • Description:

                                  Roux is the name of the dashing Johnny Depp character in Chocolat. Roux is French from a Latin word meaning russet or brownish red; it's also a cooking term for a mixture of flour and butter that forms the foundation of many gravies or sauces. Most of today's children with this name, pronounced roo, will actually spell it Rue, for the female character in The Hunger Games.
                              • Rowan

                                • Origin:

                                  Scottish and Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "rowan tree; little redhead"

                                • Description:

                                  Stylish, gentle, and rustic at the same time, Rowan is a name that falls into various categories. Unisex and cool, mystical and woodsy, with the feel of both Rose and Riley, Rowan is a fresh but familiar choice.
                              • Rowan

                                • Origin:

                                  Scottish and Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "rowan tree; little redhead"

                                • Description:

                                  With its gentle sounds and earthy vibes, the name Rowan feels like a fusion of different styles. A word name, a surname, and a gender-neutral name, Rowan is rustic but trendy, blending the vibes of both Owen and Oakley.
                              • Rowena

                                • Origin:

                                  Welsh

                                • Meaning:

                                  "white spear or famous friend"

                                • Description:

                                  A fabled storybook name via the heroine of Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe (1819), which featured a heroine called Rowena of Hargottstanstede, and also a Harry Potter name, as Rowena Ravenclaw, founder of one of the Hogwarts houses..
                              • Ryder

                                • Origin:

                                  British surname

                                • Meaning:

                                  "cavalryman, messenger"

                                • Description:

                                  Ryder, one of the current favorite er-ending boys’ names, has been in the spotlight since Kate Hudson and her rocker husband Chris Robinson chose it for their son in 2004. Very popular in several provinces of Canada, Ryder was chosen by John Leguzamo for his son and adorns Boy Meets World star Ryder Strong.
                              • Sabel

                                • Origin:

                                  Latin

                                • Meaning:

                                  "sand; sable"

                                • Description:

                                  Sabel as a masculine name is an uncommon choice with multiple possible origins. It may be related to the Latin 'sabulum' meaning 'sand' or could be a variant of Sable, referring to the dark-furred animal or the color. Some linguists connect it to medieval Spanish and Portuguese naming traditions. As a masculine name, Sabel remains quite rare in most countries, though it has seen occasional use in parts of Europe and Latin America. The name has a soft yet distinctive sound, balancing strength and sophistication. Its rarity gives it an exotic quality while remaining relatively simple to pronounce across different languages. Sabel also occasionally appears as a surname or place name, adding to its versatility and historical connections.

                              • Sable

                                • Origin:

                                  English animal name

                                • Description:

                                  Sable is often associated with the Dynsaty soap opera, but it is actually a type of animal historically hunted for its fur. Sable is also used as a word for a warm, rich black color. Both associations carry hints of luxury.
                              • Sage

                                • Origin:

                                  Herb name, Latin

                                • Meaning:

                                  "wise and knowing"

                                • Description:

                                  Sage is an evocatively fragrant herbal name that also connotes wisdom, giving it a double advantage. It entered the Top 1000 at about the same time for both genders in the early 1990s, but it has pulled ahead for the girls. Toni Collette named her daughter Sage Florence.
                              • Sansa

                                • Origin:

                                  Sanskrit

                                • Meaning:

                                  "praise, charm"

                                • Description:

                                  Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin is a master namer, and this unusual choice from India is beginning to be heard in nurseries as well as on television. Sansa was perhaps slower to catch on than other names such as Arya and Khaleesi as Sansa Stark was in the first seasons of the show a weak and compromised character.
                              • Scarlett

                                • Origin:

                                  English

                                • Meaning:

                                  "scarlet, red"

                                • Description:

                                  Scarlett Johansson is doing more for this sparky southern name than Scarlett O'Hara ever did. Since the turn of the 21st century, Scarlett has gone from an obscure literary name to one of the most popular girls' names starting with S, right after longtime favorites Sophia and Sofia.
                              • Seger

                                • Description:

                                  Seger is a masculine name with Germanic and Dutch origins, derived from words meaning 'victory' or 'conqueror.' As a surname, it's been established for centuries in Northern European countries. In America, some may associate it with famous musician Bob Seger, giving the name a rock-and-roll connection. This short, strong name fits contemporary preferences for brief, impactful boys' names with historical roots. While uncommon as a first name, Seger offers uniqueness without seeming invented or difficult to pronounce. It projects confidence and strength with its meaning and crisp sound. For parents seeking a name that's distinctive yet accessible, with masculine qualities and subtle musical associations, Seger represents an intriguing option.
                              • Severus

                                • Origin:

                                  Latin

                                • Meaning:

                                  "stern"

                                • Description:

                                  Though it has literary credentials--making an appearance in Jane Austen's Mansfield Park and as the mean-spirited teacher Severus Snape in the Harry Potter books, most modern parents would find it too--well--severe.
                              • Sheba

                                • Origin:

                                  Hebrew, short variation of Bathsheba

                                • Meaning:

                                  "daughter of an oath"

                                • Description:

                                  This biblical place-name for the region now known as Yemen started to feel fresh again as the name of the heroine of Zoe Heller's Notes on a Scandal, played on screen by Cate Blanchett.
                              • Sirius

                                • Origin:

                                  Latin from Greek

                                • Meaning:

                                  "burning"

                                • Description:

                                  Yes, it's the name of the brightest star in the sky, but can't you just hear people saying, "Are you serious?" Singer Erykah Badu used it as a middle name for son Seven.
                              • Sloane

                                • Origin:

                                  Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "raider"

                                • Description:

                                  Sloane is a sleek, sophisticated surname name that has gradually morphed over to the girls' side. With its distinctive and intriguing sound, Sloane has been in the US Top 1000 since 2009, and in 2022, it made its first appearance in the UK charts, jumping more than 400 places in a single year.
                              • Sloane

                                • Origin:

                                  Irish

                                • Meaning:

                                  "raider"

                                • Description:

                                  An Irish surname-name that's used almost exclusively for girls these days, given last year to nearly 2000 baby girls in the US vs. 23 baby boys.
                              • Stamos

                                • Origin:

                                  Greek

                                • Meaning:

                                  "stop"

                                • Description:

                                  Has a dark, brooding image, thanks in large part to actor John Stamos.
                              • Storm

                                • Origin:

                                  Word name

                                • Description:

                                  The name of one of the most powerful Marvel superheroes — and the first major black female comic book heroine — is certainly a big one to live up to! Portrayed in the live-action X-Men movies first by Halle Berry and then by Alexandra Shipp, Storm is a mutant descended from a long line of African witch-priestesses, who can bend the weather and atmosphere to her will.
                              • Sunday

                                • Origin:

                                  Day name, English from Latin

                                • Meaning:

                                  "day of the Sun"

                                • Description:

                                  Sunday is among the most usable of the day names with its sunny first syllable, its sweet sound, and its potential to be both a sassy or a spiritual choice. The name initially made headlines in 2008 when Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban chose it for their daughter, Sunday Rose. Although it had been widely written that Kidman and Urban named their baby after art patron Sunday Reed, Kidman says this was a myth, they just liked the name.
                              • Sutton

                                • Origin:

                                  English

                                • Meaning:

                                  "from the southern homestead"

                                • Description:

                                  Swanky sound via New York's ritzy Sutton Place. It fits with current popular boys’ names, due to its two syllables and -on ending. It debuted in the US Top 1000 for boys in 2015, though it is currently more popular for girls.
                              • Strider
                                • Thayer

                                  • Origin:

                                    French variation of Taylor

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "tailor"

                                  • Description:

                                    Thayer is an affable, less-common alternative to Taylor, with a much more indirect connection to its occupational source. Actor Thayer David (born David Thayer: Thayer was his father's first name) was known for his roles in Rocky and Dark Shadows.
                                • Thoreau

                                  • Origin:

                                    French

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "strength of a bull"

                                  • Description:

                                    A dashing French surname name most famously borne by Henry David Thoreau, an American naturalist, writer and philosopher who influenced such notable figures as Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. The most common modern American pronunciation is "thor-OH", with emphasis on the final syllable, although Thoreau himself pronounced it "THOR-oh".
                                • Thorin

                                  • Origin:

                                    Norse and Scandinavian

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "thunder or brave and daring"

                                  • Description:

                                    Some sources give Thorin as a variation of the thunder god name Thor, equivalent to Thoren, while others says it comes from the verb að þora, meaning "to dare." This is a dwarf's name that first appeared in the thirteenth century mythology compilation Prose Edda, which, along with the Poetic Edda, represents nearly all of pagan Scandinavian mythology. Tolkien later used the name for character Thorin II Oakenshield of The Hobbit.
                                • Titus

                                  • Origin:

                                    Latin, meaning unknown, possibly "title of honour"

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "title of honour"

                                  • Description:

                                    Titus, once seen as a slightly forbidding Roman, New Testament, and Shakespearean name, was brought back to contemporary life in the USA by the TV series Titus 2000, increasing in popularity along with other revived ancient names like Linus and Silas.
                                • Tucker

                                  • Origin:

                                    English occupational name

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "fabric pleater"

                                  • Description:

                                    Tucker has more spunk than most last-name-first-names, and also a positive, comforting ("Tuck me in, Mommy") feel.
                                • Tulip

                                  • Origin:

                                    Flower name, from Persian

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "turban"

                                  • Description:

                                    One of the most unusual flower names, Tulip is cute but tough to pull off as a first. It has some celebrity cred via Charlie Tamara Tulip, twin daughter of Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell. It derives from Persian dulband "turban", due to the distinctive shape of the flowers.
                                • Ursula

                                  • Origin:

                                    Latin

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "little female bear"

                                  • Description:

                                    A saint's name with a noteworthy literary background, including uses by Shakespeare in Two Gentlemen of Verona and Much Ado About Nothing, by Ben Johnson, Walter Scott, Longfellow, D. H. Lawrence and Neil Gaiman. In real life, her two most well known representatives are writer Ursula Le Guin and actress Ursula Andress. In literature, there is also Ursula Iguaran, a key, long-lived character in Gabriel Garcia Marquez's major work, One Hundred Years of Solitude.
                                • Vera

                                  • Origin:

                                    Russian

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "faith"

                                  • Description:

                                    Vera was the height of fashion in 1910, then was for a long time difficult to picture embroidered on a baby blanket. Now, though, it has come back into style along with other old-fashioned simple names such as Ada and Iris.
                                • Willow

                                  • Origin:

                                    English nature name

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "willow tree"

                                  • Description:

                                    An ancient tree that figures in literature from Shakespeare to Harry Potter and is believed to possess magical powers, Willow is a lovely name, as graceful as its inspiration.
                                • Winslet

                                  • Origin:

                                    English surname and place-name

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "Wynn's channel or stream"

                                  • Description:

                                    Winslet is one of a legion of surnames newly considered fair game as first names. The inspiration may be British star Kate, but she's not the only reason parents are attracted to Winslet, one of those British girl names that sounds at once classy and winning. Yet be warned that if you choose this, people will forever assume you are major fans of the actress. Other Win- beginning names up for new consideration: Winslow, Winston, Wynton, Winifred and Winnie, along with just plain Win or Wyn or Wynn.
                                • Winston

                                  • Origin:

                                    English

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "wine's town"

                                  • Description:

                                    Long associated with the Churchill family and common in the West Indies, the distinguished Winston has tended to be neglected here. The exception was during the World War II period, when Winston Churchill was a towering figure and his name reached Number 234. It's now enjoying something of a renaissance.
                                • Winter

                                  • Origin:

                                    Word name

                                  • Description:

                                    Fresher, brisker and, yes, cooler than Summer or Autumn or Spring, Winter is now a full-fledged female choice, especially since Nicole Richie and Joel Madden used it for daughter Harlow's middle name, and Gretchen Mol picked it as her daughter's first, as did media mogul Sean Parker. Winter continues to be the preferred spelling and has risen in popularity significantly over the past few years.
                                • Xander

                                  • Origin:

                                    Diminutive of Alexander, Greek

                                  • Meaning:

                                    "defending men"

                                  • Description:

                                    Xander is a diminutive of Alexander, the Latin variation of the Greek Alexandros. Its meaning, "defending men," is taken from the Greek roots aléxein, "to defend," and andros, "men." Zander, pronounced the same way, is an alternate spelling.
                                • Yves
                                  • Zander

                                    • Origin:

                                      Diminutive of Alexander

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "defending men"

                                    • Description:

                                      On the rise as an independent name: Zander and Xander are both widely used can increasingly be found as characters in movies and on TV.
                                  • Zelda

                                    • Origin:

                                      Diminutive of Griselda

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "gray fighting maid"

                                    • Description:

                                      Classified as an early beauty, Zelda has long and often been used as such for characters in books and films. Since 1986, Zelda has been a prime Nintendo name, as in the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
                                  • Zephyr

                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "west wind"

                                    • Description:

                                      If you're looking for a name that's light and breezy, this could be it. A name from mythology: Zephyrus/Zephyr was the Greek god of the west wind, and with its similarity in sound to the likes of Stefan or Seth, its zippy Z initial and cool Y, it is primed to rise up the US charts.