Boys and Girls Names

Astrid has been a Scandinavian royal name since the tenth century, and many people associated it with the Swedish author of the Pippi Longstocking stories, Astrid Lindgren. Astrid is derived from the name Ástríðr, which is made up of the Old Norse elements that mean "god" and "beautiful."

Combining the sounds of Colton and Toby, Colby has been in the US Top 1000 since the 70s. It peaked in 2021, entering the Top 100 thanks to Colby Davidson's appearance on reality TV show, Survivor that same year. Currently on the rise in the UK, in the US, its popularity has been shaky, dipping one year, rising the next. Given to around 490 boys in 2024, it is also chosen for around 50 girls each year.

Hermione's costarring role in Harry Potter has made this previously ignored, once stodgy name suddenly viable. Hermione could really take off once today's children start having kids of their own.

Lay is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple origins. As an English name, it evolved as a short form of names like Layfield or as an occupational surname for someone who worked with 'leys' (meadows). In Chinese contexts, it appears as a transliteration of several Chinese characters. Though uncommon as a first name in English-speaking countries, it has seen occasional use throughout the 20th century. The name carries a simple, straightforward quality with its single syllable and easy pronunciation. In recent years, Lay has gained some recognition through notable bearers, including members of popular music groups, giving the name a contemporary appeal despite its traditional roots.

Before the young Irish actress Saoirse Ronan made her mark in the films Ladybird and The Lovely Bones, few of us had heard this name, let alone known how to pronounce it. But now it is slowly way edging its way into the mainstream, particularly, of course, with parents who have Irish roots. It made its first appearance in the US Top 1000 in 2016, when it was the third-fastest-rising girls' name.

Tace is a cute, cool short form of the rather august-sounding Tacita.