Television Show Names

  1. Abby
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Abigail, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "my father is joyful"
    • Description:

      Gently old-fashioned stand-alone nickname that owes its popularity to mega popular Abigail.
  2. Abigail
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "my father is joyful"
    • Description:

      Abigail has been in for so long -- the name has ranked in the US Top 100 since the late 1980s -- it's amazing that it isn't more out by now. But Abigail's biblical and historic roots make it a fashionable classic rather than a passing fad.
  3. Adam
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "son of the red earth"
    • Description:

      Adam -- a primal Old Testament name -- was revived as a 1960s cowboy name. Adam is not as popular as it once was and feels ready for a respite, replaced by newer A names like Aidan/Aiden, Avery and Axel. Its most prominent current bearers include Adams Sandler, Levine, Brody and Driver -- who plays a character named Adam on Girls.
  4. Adrian
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "man of Adria"
    • Description:

      Adrian is one of those names that’s easy to picture on all kinds of people. From an active and energetic five-year-old to your great grandpa, from the coolest, breeziest guy you know, to the quiet, serious one, it’s no wonder Adrian has always made the US Top 500 since the early 20th century.
  5. Alan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "handsome, cheerful"
    • Description:

      In its three most popular spellings -- Alan along with Allen and Allan -- this midcentury favorite has tended to skew older. It was a Top 100 name from 1938 to 1971, peaking at Number 40 in 1951. Alan has had leading roles on recent TV, in shows like Two and a Half Men, 24 and Boston Legal.
  6. Alejandro
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Alexander
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      Softer and smoother than Alexander, this classic Spanish name for boys has made a seamless transition to this culture. Adding to its current impact: the Lady Gaga song Alejandro .
  7. Alex
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alexandra or Alexis
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      One of the most evenly divided unisex names these days; strong and energetic, if overused, for both genders.
  8. Alex
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alexander, Alexis
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      The independent Alex has become a classic in its own right. One of the truest unisex names, Alex is used almost equally for both sexes. Alex is used both on its own and as a short form of formal names of both genders, such as Alexander, Alexandra, and Alexis.
  9. Alexis
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "defender"
    • Description:

      Alexis, a one-time exclusively-boys’ name, was more popular than its sister Alexandra for quite a while, but in recent years Alexandra has overtaken it once again. Alexis was a Top 20 girls’ name from 1994-2010 but has experienced a decline in popularity in recent years, though now it's one of the top unisex names.
  10. Amara
    • Origin:

      Igbo, Sanskrit, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "grace, immortal, tribe"
    • Description:

      Strong, attractive, and stylish, Amara is a true multicultural choice enjoying some popularity in both the US and the UK. In the US Top 1000 since the turn of this century, Amara has been holding steady in the rankings between overly popular and obscure.
  11. Amy
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "beloved"
    • Description:

      Amy is the English variation of the Old French name Amée—Aimée in modern French. Amée was a translation of the Latin name Amata, which derived from amatus, meaning "beloved." Other spelling variations include Amie and Ami.
  12. Andrew
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "strong and manly"
    • Description:

      During its Top 10 heyday in the late 90s and early oughts, Andrew was one of the "cooler" classic boy names, an update on the old guard Roberts and Richards.
  13. Andy
    • Description:

      Andy as a feminine name typically functions as a diminutive of Andrea, Alexandra, or Miranda, though it has established itself as an independent given name as well. Derived ultimately from the Greek 'andrós' meaning 'man' or 'warrior,' Andy has transcended its masculine origins to become a popular unisex choice. For girls, the name gained traction in the mid-20th century alongside the trend toward gender-neutral nicknames. Andy projects a casual, friendly quality with its short, approachable sound. The name carries associations with independence and a straightforward personality. Its simplicity and familiarity make it accessible across cultures, while still maintaining a slightly unconventional edge for girls. Andy's tomboyish charm appeals to parents seeking a name that is unpretentious yet distinctive.

  14. Anna
    • Origin:

      Variation of Hannah, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "grace"
    • Description:

      Anna has become the dominant form of the Ann family, offering a touch of the international to English speakers and a bit more style than the oversimplified Ann or Anne.
  15. Anthony
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from Antium"
    • Description:

      Substantial, strong, and enduring, Anthony has remained a perennially popular name over the last century. With just a hint of playfulness and just a touch of clunky-coolness, Anthony is a versatile choice that seems comfortable anywhere.
  16. April
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "to open"
    • Description:

      Once the most popular month names, April has been overtaken by June (for girls) and August (for boys), as well as the charmingly old-fashioned May. Literary reference: the heroine of the book and movie Revolutionary Road, and there have been Aprils on Parks and Recreation, Glee, and The Vampire Diaries. Trivia note: comedian Ralphie May named his daughter April June May.
  17. Ari
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Ariel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "lion of God"
    • Description:

      Ari, the short form of Ariel (or any other Ari- beginning name, such as Aristotle) stands up better as a boys’ name than its progenitor does. It is also short for Aristotle, as in Onassis, and is a prominent character on TV's Entourage -- the uberagent Ari Gold.
  18. Arielle
    • Origin:

      French variation of Ariel
    • Meaning:

      "lion of God"
    • Description:

      While not as popular as the Ariel spelling of Little Mermaid fame, this rendition has achieved popularity in its own right.
  19. Asher
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "fortunate, blessed, happy one"
    • Description:

      Asher—an excellent, soft and sensitive Old Testament choice—is a baby boy name on the rise, and is a Nameberry biblical favorite.
  20. Babette
    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Barbara
    • Description:

      A less common relic of the Claudette-Paulette-Annette era.
  21. 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.
  22. Biff
    • Origin:

      American nickname
    • Description:

      The quintessential midcentury nickname, famously found in Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman."
  23. Billy
    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of William
    • Meaning:

      "resolute protection"
    • Description:

      Cute kid with freckles, bouncing a Spalding ball. Cool couple Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton put the name Billy Burton on their son's birth certificate. While the classic William, name of the future king of England, may in fact be German, the nickname Billy along with such other classic short forms as Jim and Joe are authentically English names for boys.
  24. Brad
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Bradley
    • Description:

      Pitt is the prototypical blond Brad.
  25. Bradley
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "wide meadow"
    • Description:

      An English surname name, Bradley has a long history, dating way back to at least 1086, but as a first name it actually succeeded in the US before it reached England--though Dickens used it in his novel Our Mutual Friend. Bradley Cooper is one namesake.
  26. Breena
    • Description:

      Breena is a feminine name with Irish and Gaelic roots. It's derived from the word 'braon' meaning 'drop of rain' or 'teardrop.' Sometimes considered a variant of Breanna or Sabrina, the name carries a gentle, melodic quality that reflects its liquid meaning. While not among the most common names, Breena has maintained a steady presence in English-speaking countries, particularly among families with Irish heritage. Its soft sound and meaningful origin make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that is distinctive without being unusual. The name evokes images of gentle rainfall and carries connotations of refreshment and natural beauty.

  27. Brian
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "strong, virtuous, and honorable"
    • Description:

      The origins of the name Brian are not entirely clear, but it is suspected that it evolved from an Old Celtic word related to nobility. In Ireland the name is associated with Brian Boru, the most famous of all Irish warrior-kings, credited with driving the Vikings out of Ireland around the year 1000.
  28. Bridget
    • Origin:

      Anglicized variation of Gaelic Brighid
    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"
    • Description:

      Bridget is the Anglicized form of Brigid, an Irish-Gaelic name that was derived from the word brígh, which means "strength."
  29. Bruce
    • Origin:

      Scottish and English from French
    • Meaning:

      "from the brushwood thicket"
    • Description:

      Bruce is a Norman place name made famous by the Scottish king Robert the Bruce, who won Scotland's independence from England in the fourteenth century. It's perennially popular in Scotland, but has been rarely used here for a generation -- though the impact of Bruces Lee, Springsteen, Dern and Willis, as well as Batman's Bruce Wayne -- still lingers. At one time Bruce was so widespread in Australia, it became a nickname for any Ozzie man. An interesting alternative is Brix, the Normandy place name where the Bruce family originated.
  30. Badger
    • Bootsy
      • Bruce
        • Caesar
          • Origin:

            Latin
          • Meaning:

            "cut"
          • Description:

            Caesar, the name of the greatest Roman of them all, is rarely used outside Latino families, where the Cesar spelling is preferred —as in activist Chavez and Dog Whisperer Millan. Its original meaning is debated — either "long-haired", "blue-gray" (as in eyes), or "cut" (because Julius Caesar was supposedly born by cesarian section) — it came to be the title to denote all Roman emperors and it is from the name Caesar that many other European royal titles are derived, including Kaiser and Tsar.
        • Caitlin
          • Origin:

            Irish variation of Catherine
          • Meaning:

            "pure"
          • Description:

            An Irish and Welsh form of Catherine, Caitlin was a boom name of the eighties, rocketing from obscurity (Americans first heard it via the wife of doomed poet Dylan Thomas) to the height of popularity in the space of a decade. The original name was gradually eclipsed by its myriad spelling variations -- Katelyn and Kaitlyn both soon topping it on the popularity lists.
        • Carol
          • Origin:

            English, feminine variation of Charles
          • Meaning:

            "free man"
          • Description:

            A Caroline abbreviation that was wildly popular with Mom's generation...or Grandma's. At one time it was a name for baby girls born at Christmas. because of its association with Christmas carols.
        • Carole
          • Description:

            Carole is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the masculine name Charles, ultimately from Germanic roots meaning 'free man' or 'strong.' Popularized in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, Carole reached its peak popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, boosted by celebrities like Carole Lombard. The spelling with an 'e' ending gives it a distinctly French flair compared to the variant Carol. Though less common for newborns today, Carole retains a classic, elegant image. The name carries musical associations through the tradition of Christmas carols and gained recognition through famous bearers like singer-songwriter Carole King. Its timeless quality balances tradition with a warm, approachable character.

        • Carrie
          • Origin:

            Diminutive of Carol or Caroline, French
          • Meaning:

            "free man"
          • Description:

            Carrie lives on mainly on the screen, as the new/old antiheroine of Stephen King's classic Carrie, as turn-of-the-21st-century diva Carrie Bradshaw of Sex & The City, and as Claire Danes' Emmy-winning character Carrie Mathison of Homeland.
        • Cate
          • Origin:

            English diminutive of Catherine
          • Meaning:

            "pure"
          • Description:

            Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.
        • Catherine
          • Origin:

            Greek
          • Meaning:

            "pure"
          • Description:

            Catherine is one of the oldest and most consistently well-used girls’ names, with endless variations and nicknames. The Catherine form feels more gently old-fashioned and feminine than the more popular K versions. Most stylish nickname for Catherine right now: Kate...or Cate, a la Blanchett.
        • Chad
          • Origin:

            English
          • Meaning:

            "battle warrior"
          • Description:

            Despite all the "hanging," "dangling," and "pregnant" chad jokes of the 2000 election, this saint's name and remnant of the Brad-Tad era didn't get a boost in popularity. But Chad still holds some surfer-boy appeal for a number of modern parents.
        • Chelsea
          • Origin:

            London and New York place-name
          • Description:

            Chelsea is still being used, with about 400 baby girls named Chelsea in the US last year. But it was much more popular a few decades ago, peaking at Number 15 in 1992.
        • Chris
          • Origin:

            English nickname for Christian, Christopher
          • Meaning:

            "one who carries Christ"
          • Description:

            Chris is a long-running nickname used almost equally for boys and girls. While past its prime, Chris stands out as sounding completely appropriate for both sexes, perhaps because of its widespread use as a short form of both the popular Christopher and Christine. Chris manages to retain its crisp appeal even though its fashion moment is over.
        • Christina
          • Origin:

            Greek
          • Meaning:

            "a Christian"
          • Description:

            Christina, a pretty and feminine, crystal clear classic, may be trending downward, but it's never out of style. Christina's short forms Chris, Christie, and Tina all seem dated—making the royal Christina best used in its full glory.
        • Christopher
          • Origin:

            Greek and Latin
          • Meaning:

            "bearer of Christ"
          • Description:

            Christopher derived from the Greek Christophoros, which is composed of the elements Christos, referring to Christ, and phero, meaning "to bear."
        • Clara
          • Origin:

            Latin
          • Meaning:

            "bright, clear"
          • Description:

            Clara is a strong, lovely girls' name that's always ranked among the US Top 1000 girl names but has been climbing since the turn of this century. It now ranks right around Number 100, making it a modern classic that's neither too popular nor unfamiliar.
        • Claudia
          • Origin:

            Feminine variation of Claude
          • Meaning:

            "lame; enclosure"
          • Description:

            Claudia is a classic name with ancient Roman roots. Never truly in or truly out, Claudia feels like a strong, modern choice that hits the sweet spot between too popular and too unusual..
        • Colin
          • Origin:

            English diminutive of Nicholas or Irish and Scottish
          • Meaning:

            "people of victory; pup"
          • Description:

            Thanks to its dashing Anglo-Irish image — due partly to Colins Firth and Farrell — and its C-initialed two-syllable sound, Colin and its cousin Collin have enjoyed a long run of popularity, reaching as high as Number 84 in 2004.
        • Cristine
          • Description:

            Cristine is a feminine name, a variant spelling of Christine, which derives from the Latin 'Christinus,' meaning 'follower of Christ.' This elegant name has been used across many European cultures for centuries, with various spellings including Kristine, Christine, and Christina. During the medieval period, it gained popularity due to various saints bearing the name. Cristine offers a slightly modernized spelling while retaining the classic sound. The name saw peaks of popularity in the 1960s and 1970s but has become less common in recent decades, giving it a distinctive quality today. Cristine combines timeless elegance with religious significance.

        • Danny
          • Origin:

            Short form of Daniel, Hebrew
          • Meaning:

            "God is my judge"
          • Description:

            A diminutive of Daniel that's been immortalized in odes ranging from 'Danny Boy' to 'Danny's Song.'
        • Dave
          • Origin:

            Short form of David, Hebrew
          • Meaning:

            "beloved"
          • Description:

            Dave is the ultimate good guy name, but where father name David is still holding onto a spot in the Top 20, Dave -- widely used as an independent name in the middle of the last century -- dropped off the Top 1000 a few decades ago and shows no signs of a comeback. Baby Davids today, often named for dad or grandpa, are more likely to be called David than Dave.
        • Davey
          • Origin:

            Short form of David, Hebrew
          • Meaning:

            "beloved"
          • Description:

            Davey and Davy are frequently used for little boys but rarely appear on the birth certificate, Davy Crockett exempted.
        • David
          • Origin:

            Hebrew
          • Meaning:

            "beloved"
          • Description:

            David is an enduring worldwide classic, used from ancient times to the present day.
        • Dean
          • Origin:

            English
          • Meaning:

            "church official"
          • Description:

            Dean may sound to some like a retro surfer boy name, but it is once again climbing up the popularity chart in the USA. For decades it was associated with Dean (born Dino) Martin; more recent representatives include Dean Cain, Dean McDermott and Dean Koontz -- not to mention Jared Padalecki's dreamy Dean Forester in Gilmore Girls.
        • Delilah
          • Origin:

            Hebrew or Arabic
          • Meaning:

            "delicate"
          • Description:

            Melodic and lively, Delilah has cut itself (mostly) free from its treacherous past to become a contemporary favorite.
        • Devon
          • Origin:

            English place-name
          • Description:

            This spelling of Devon, as opposed to Devin or Devan, makes it a pretty and popular British place-name, evoking the beautiful county of farmlands and dramatic seascapes and moors in southwest England. A stylish ambi-gender name particularly well used in the early nineties, Devon remains an attractive option--though be aware that at this point in time, it is used more frequently for boys.
        • Dolores
          • Origin:

            Spanish
          • Meaning:

            "lady of sorrows"
          • Description:

            Though it's related to the Virgin Mary, this name was once perceived as the height of sensuality, a role since taken over by nicknames Lola and Lolita.
        • Donald
          • Origin:

            Scottish
          • Meaning:

            "proud chief"
          • Description:

            Donald has been used for centuries in Scotland, where the Macdonald clan is one of the most ancient and where there have been six early Scottish kings by that name. Donald was a Top 20 name throughout most of the early twentieth century.
        • Donna
          • Origin:

            Italian
          • Meaning:

            "lady"
          • Description:

            Literally meaning "lady" in Italian, Donna was the perfect ladylike housewife mom name on The Donna Reed Show in the fifties and sixties. And there were plenty of namesakes: Donna was in the Top 10 in 1964. These days we'd be more likely to associate it with the emanciatpated clothes of Donna Karen than as a baby name.
        • Doug
          • Description:

            Doug is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Douglas, a Scottish surname meaning 'dark water' or 'dark stream,' derived from the Gaelic elements 'dubh' (dark) and 'glas' (water). While Douglas has been used as a given name since the late Middle Ages, Doug emerged as a standalone name in the mid-20th century. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, conveying a friendly, approachable quality. Doug has a straightforward, unpretentious character that embodies mid-century American values. Though its usage has declined significantly since its peak, the name retains a certain classic appeal. Doug conveys a sense of reliability and straightforwardness, with many perceiving it as friendly and trustworthy.

        • Doyle
          • Origin:

            Irish
          • Meaning:

            "black stranger"
          • Description:

            Dark horse Irish surname.
        • Dakin
          • Derrial
            • Drella
              • Ed
                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Edward et al
                • Meaning:

                  "wealthy"
                • Description:

                  The most minimalist of names, Ed is decidedly out -- though that usually means it's due to swing back in. More stylish these days: Ned or even Ted.
              • Eddie
                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Edward et al
                • Meaning:

                  "wealthy"
                • Description:

                  Most parents today call their Edwards Edward -- and we tend to think that's the right call. But it's worth noting that Eddie has been in the Top 1000 every year since records began in 1880; indeed, it was a mainstay on the Top 100 through the 1950s.
              • Edward
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "wealthy guardian"
                • Description:

                  Unlike perennials William, John and James, Edward is a classic that moves in and out of fashion. This royal Anglo-Saxon standard has benefited in recent years from the popularity of the hot hero of the vampire sensation Twilight — Edward Cullen — who has given his name a new infusion of cool.
              • Edwina
                • Origin:

                  Feminine variation of Edwin
                • Meaning:

                  "wealthy friend"
                • Description:

                  Edwina may still be taking tea in the parlor, but we can see her joining friends like Matilda and Josephine for a comeback, especially if pronounced like Edwin rather than Edween.
              • Eleanor
                • Origin:

                  English variation of French Provencal Alienor, meaning unknown
                • Description:

                  Eleanor's straightforward feminine image combined with its royal medieval history is striking just the right note for parents in search of a girls' name that combines substance and style.
              • Elizabeth
                • Origin:

                  Hebrew
                • Meaning:

                  "pledged to God"
                • Description:

                  Elizabeth is one of the most popular girls' names of all time, the female equivalent of James or William. Yet Elizabeth has so much going for it—rich history, broad appeal, and timeless style—that no matter how many little girls are named Lizzie, Eliza, and Beth, you can still make Elizabeth your own.
              • Ellie
                • Origin:

                  English, diminutive of Eleanor and Ellen
                • Meaning:

                  "bright shining one"
                • Description:

                  Ellie first took off in the UK—yes, in this nickname form—and this warm and friendly name has also become hugely popular here. In 2011, Ellie entered the US Top 100 girl names for the first time and has remained near the top of the charts ever since.
              • Emily
                • Origin:

                  Feminine variation of Emil, Latin
                • Meaning:

                  "rival"
                • Description:

                  Emily may have dropped somewhat in the current standings, but it was the most popular girls' name for over a decade because it appeals on many levels: Emily is feminine, classic, simple, pretty, and strong. Emily is Number 1 among Gen Z names. It also has those nice literary namesakes, like Emily Dickinson and Emily Brontë.
              • Ethan
                • Origin:

                  Hebrew
                • Meaning:

                  "strong, firm"
                • Description:

                  Ethan is a name that succeeds in being at once classic and fashionable, serious and cheery, strong and sensitive. Given a big boost via the name of the Tom Cruise character in the Mission Impossible film series, Ethan has fallen from its peak at Number 2 in 2009 and 2010, but is still popular in the US along with several other countries.
              • 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.
              • Floyd
                • Origin:

                  Welsh
                • Meaning:

                  "gray-haired"
                • Description:

                  Floyd was a Top 100 name from the 1880s to the 1940s that somehow developed an almost comical hayseed persona along with a touch of retro jazz cool; it's beginning to appeal to parents with a strong taste for the quirky.
              • Fran
                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Frances
                • Meaning:

                  "from France or free man"
                • Description:

                  This short form has been pretty much replaced by Frankie, however, it could fit in with other clunky but charming names, like Peggy, Bess, and Enid.
              • Francie
                • Origin:

                  Diminutive of Frances, English from Latin
                • Meaning:

                  "from France; free man"
                • Description:

                  Francie is one of the most neglected nicknames for Frances, despite having more style value than Franny and Fanny and being more unique than Frankie. We'd love to see it get more use, whether as a Frances short form or as an independent name.
              • Francine
                • Origin:

                  French diminutive pet form of Francoise
                • Meaning:

                  "from France or free man"
                • Description:

                  With the advent of Pope Francis, all forms of this ancient and saintly name came up for a fresh look. Along with most other -een and -ine (when pronounced like -een) names for girls, Francine has a dated midcentury Mad Men feel. But its choice for their daughter by modern glamour couple Casey Neistat and Candice Pool, respectively a video star and a jewelry designer, has made Francine chic again.
              • George
                • Origin:

                  Greek
                • Meaning:

                  "farmer"
                • Description:

                  Iconoclasts though we may be, we like Fred, we like Frank, and we like George, which was among the Top 10 from 1830 to 1950, when the number of little Georges started to decline. Solid, strong, royal and saintly, yet friendly and unpretentious, we think that George is in prime position for a comeback, especially since it was chosen by Britain's royal couple.
              • Georgia
                • Origin:

                  English, feminine variation of George
                • Meaning:

                  "farmer"
                • Description:

                  Georgia is so rich, lush and luscious, it's almost irresistible. Georgia's now a rising star among the feminizations of George, helped by associations with the southern state (named for British King George II) and painter Georgia O'Keeffe, with the Ray Charles song "Georgia On My Mind" or maybe "Sweet Georgia Brown" playing in the background.
              • GG
                • Gil
                  • Origin:

                    Hebrew
                  • Meaning:

                    "happiness"
                  • Description:

                    Pronounced zheel, it's a dashing conquistador; as gill, it's the nice and slightly boring guy down the street.
                • Gina
                  • Origin:

                    Diminutive of Regina, Angelina, Luigina, Georgina, Eugenia, Virginia and similar
                  • Description:

                    A short form for a whole variety of names, this short form has been used across Europe as a stand-alone since the 1920s. It spiked in popularity in the 1950s, owing to the fame of Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida but faded out of use in the 2000s. A sweet and sparky name akin to Nina and Mina, some parents in English speaking countries may be concerned about teasing potential, though it was still given to around 115 girls in the US in a recent year. Popular in Spain, it is borne by martial artist Gina Carano, and actresses Gina Gershon, Gina Rodriguez, Gina Torres, and Gina McKee.
                • Gisele
                  • Description:

                    The French variation of Giselle was made famous by the spectacular Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen.
                • Glenn
                  • Origin:

                    Scottish
                  • Meaning:

                    "valley"
                  • Description:

                    Glenn appealed to a lot of post-World War II parents for its cool, leafy image, also calling up the Big Band sounds of Glenn Miller and the calm, composed image of actor Glenn Ford, whose name at birth was the Welsh Gwyllyn. It could possible be in line for a comeback in the more nature-evoking spelling of Glen, as used by Glen Campbell, or possibly even the Welsh Glyn.
                • Grant
                  • Origin:

                    Scottish from French
                  • Meaning:

                    "large"
                  • Description:

                    One-time beach-boy compadre of Glenn, Greg, and Gary that originated as a nickname for a tall person, Grant has become a no-nonsense, career-oriented grown-up and one that is seeing new appreciation. It was chosen for his son by actor Morris Chestnut. It has cultural cred via artist Grant Wood, whose best known painting is 'American Gothic.'
                • Gregg
                  • Description:

                    Gregg is a masculine name that originated as a variant spelling of Greg, which itself is a diminutive form of Gregory. The name Gregory comes from Greek origins meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant.' Gregg gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1960s and 1970s. The double 'g' spelling variation gives the name a slightly more substantial appearance than the single-g version. While traditionally used as a given name, Gregg has also become common as a surname. The name has a friendly, approachable quality and conveys reliability and straightforwardness. Though less frequently given to newborns today than in previous decades, Gregg maintains a classic, unpretentious appeal.

                • Gregory
                  • Origin:

                    Greek
                  • Meaning:

                    "vigilant, a watchman"
                  • Description:

                    The Greek name of sixteen popes and fifteen saints, the gregarious Gregory became big in the United States with the emergence of admirable actor Gregory Peck (born Eldred) in the late 1940s. From 1950 to 1973, it was in the Top 30, with nickname Greg becoming a Cool Dude name.
                • Griffin
                  • Origin:

                    Welsh, variation of Griffith
                  • Meaning:

                    "strong lord"
                  • Description:

                    Griffin is one of the newer and most appealing of the two-syllable Celtic surnames. In English, griffin is the name of a mythological creature, half eagle, half lion. It re-entered the list in 1983 after an absence of 75+ years.
                • Gypsy
                  • Origin:

                    English
                  • Meaning:

                    "wanderer"
                  • Description:

                    Gypsy, long associated with the intellectual stripper Gypsy Rose Lee and the musical that was made about her life, was used by Drea de Matteo and Shooter Jennings as the middle name of their daughter Alabama. Be aware, however, that the word gypsy is now considered an ethnic slur when used for the Romani, or Roma, people.
                • Harriett
                  • Origin:

                    English
                  • Meaning:

                    "home ruler"
                  • Description:

                    This alternative spelling of Harriet has always ranked in the England top 1000, reaching as high as the top 50 in the late 1800s. The extra T changes nothing about the pronunciation but adds a little flair and balances out the double R's in the middle of the name.
                • Harry
                  • Origin:

                    Diminutive of Henry
                  • Meaning:

                    "estate ruler"
                  • Description:

                    Harry is the medieval English form of Henry, which derived from the Germanic name Heimrich, meaning "estate ruler." Harry was the nickname of all eight King Henrys; it is also a diminutive of Harold and Harrison.
                • Henry
                  • Origin:

                    German
                  • Meaning:

                    "estate ruler"
                  • Description:

                    Henry is back. The classic Henry climbed back onto the Top 10 in the US in 2021 for the first time in over a century, and now stands at Number 8.
                • 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.
                • Hanlin
                  • Hoban
                    • Inara
                      • Origin:

                        Arabic, Basque, mythology, "shining light, enlightenment; sunray; goddess"
                      • Meaning:

                        "shining light, enlightenment; sunray; goddess"
                      • Description:

                        Inara is an appealing choice with multiple origins, currently in the Top 500 in the UK and the Netherlands. Gentle looking but bright in feel, it is also on the rise in the US, possibly owing to its use in Joss Whedon's hit sci-fi series Firefly, featuring main character, Inara Serra.
                    • Isabella
                      • Origin:

                        Spanish and Italian variation of Elizabeth, Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "pledged to God"
                      • Description:

                        Isabella has been a Top 10 name for girls in the US for two decades now. The Latinate form of Isabel, a variation of Elizabeth which originally derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba, Isabella reigned as Number 1 in 2009 and 2010.
                    • Jackson
                      • Origin:

                        English
                      • Meaning:

                        "son of Jack"
                      • Description:

                        Jackson is one of those names that's much more popular than you think, coming in near the top of our annual Playground Analysis, which ranks names by grouping all their spellings together. Last year, nearly 17,000 baby boys were named Jackson -- along Jaxon, Jaxson, Jaxxon, Jaxen, Jaxyn, Jaxsen, and Jaxsyn -- which counted together makes it the Number 3 boys' name.
                    • Jacqui
                      • Description:

                        Jacqui is a feminine name primarily used as a diminutive or nickname form of Jacqueline, which itself is the feminine version of Jacques, the French form of James. Ultimately deriving from the Hebrew name Ya'akov (Jacob), it carries the meaning 'supplanter' or 'holder of the heel'. Jacqui emerged as a standalone name in the mid-20th century, particularly gaining popularity in the 1960s and 1970s in English-speaking countries. The spelling with an 'i' ending gives it a playful, modern feel compared to alternatives like 'Jackie' or 'Jacky'. People named Jacqui are often perceived as having approachable, friendly personalities, with the name striking a balance between casual warmth and professional credibility.

                    • Jake
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew, diminutive of Jacob
                      • Meaning:

                        "supplanter"
                      • Description:

                        This unpretentious, accessible, and optimistic ("everything's jake" -- meaning OK) short form of the top name Jacob is itself widely used, though more parents these days are opting for the full name Jacob. Jake (born Jacob) Gyllenhall is its most prominent current bearer.
                    • Janel
                      • Description:

                        Janel is a feminine name generally considered a variation of Jane or Janet, with French influences. Derived ultimately from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' Janel emerged as a distinct name in the mid-20th century. The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, reaching its peak usage in the early 1970s. Janel offers a more modern twist on traditional Jane while maintaining its classic elegance. The name has a concise, professional sound while remaining feminine. Though never among the most common names, Janel has maintained steady if modest usage, appealing to parents seeking a recognizable yet not overused name with both traditional roots and contemporary style.
                    • Janet
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Jane
                      • Meaning:

                        "God is gracious"
                      • Description:

                        Janet started as a pet form of Jane but has long been used independently. Jane is a feminine form of John, which derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan. Janet can also be considered a variation of Jeannette, a derivative of Joan and another feminization of the name John.
                    • Jared
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "he descends"
                      • Description:

                        Jared is an Old Testament name that has been popular for decades--it was revived in the sixties via TV westerns-- and is still an appealing option.
                    • Jason
                      • Origin:

                        Greek
                      • Meaning:

                        "to heal"
                      • Description:

                        Jason, the Number 3 name for the entire decade of the 1970s -- thus the title of our original baby-naming book, Beyond Jennifer & Jason -- is more likely to be dad's name now than baby's, but it's still a widely used name.
                    • Jean
                      • Origin:

                        English and Scottish, from French variation of Johanna
                      • Meaning:

                        "God is gracious"
                      • Description:

                        Originally a feminine of John, Jean was popular in Scotland long before it found favor elsewhere, and had its most shining moment here in the era of Jean Harlow (born Harlean), ultimate symbol of silver screen glamour. Now, though there are many grandmas and even moms with the name, it doesn't seem all that baby-friendly. Though that could change, and Jean could join Jane.
                    • Jed
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Jedidiah, Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "beloved of the Lord"
                      • Description:

                        Cowboyish short form that's both macho and cool. Got prime time exposure on The West Wing.
                    • Jennifer
                      • Origin:

                        Cornish variation of Welsh Guinevere
                      • Meaning:

                        "white shadow, white wave"
                      • Description:

                        Jennifer is the Cornish variation of Guinevere, which ultimately derived from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar. It has been in use in the English-speaking world since the 18th century but came to prominence in the 20th. Playwright George Bernard Shaw chose Jennifer for the name of his leading lady in his play The Doctor’s Dilemma, which drew more attention to the name.
                    • Jenny
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Janet, Jane, Jean, and Jennifer
                      • Description:

                        At the height of the Jennifer craze, many parents were cutting straight to the nickname and putting Jenny on the birth certificate. But now that Jennifer is the mom rather than the daughter, Jenny, which has been somewhat replaced by Jenna, has faded as well.
                    • Jess
                      • Description:

                        This short form of Jesse has an androgynous, cowperson feel. It's Jess rather than Jesse or Jessie that can be considered among the truly androgynous baby names
                    • Jessica
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "behold or wealthy"
                      • Description:

                        When Jennifer finally gave up her Number 1 place on the girls' popularity list, her crown was passed to Jessica, who reigned for not one but two decades. Jessica was the Number 1 name in both the mid-1980s and 1990s, never sounding quite as trendy as its predecessor, maybe because of its classic Shakespearean pedigree.
                    • Jethro
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "excellence"
                      • Description:

                        Jethro, though the biblical father-in-law of Moses, has suffered for a long time from a Beverly Hillbilly image, but some really adventurous parents might consider updating and urbanizing it and transitioning it into the hip o-ending category.
                    • Jewel
                      • Origin:

                        Word name
                      • Description:

                        Just like Flora is for botanicals, Jewel is the generic gemstone name, not used much since the early twentieth century, when it was seen as a symbol of how precious a daughter could be. The French version, Bijou, feels more modern, as do Pearl and Ruby.
                    • Jill
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Gillian or Juliana
                      • Meaning:

                        "youthful"
                      • Description:

                        Probably due to its nursery rhyme association, Jill has the perpetual air of a rosy-cheeked tot -- even though it is one of the oldest names on the roster, a medieval variation on the Roman Julia. The pairing of Jack and Jill to connote a generic boy and girl goes back at least to the fifteenth century. But can knowing Jill's history keep it from sounding like a cute mid-twentieth century invention? There may be some possibility of Jill making it back up the hill.
                    • Jimmy
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of James
                      • Meaning:

                        "supplanter"
                      • Description:

                        Every other little kid's name in 1957 but few Jameses are called Jimmy today; they're more often James or Jamie.
                    • John
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "God is gracious"
                      • Description:

                        John reigned as the most popular of all boys' Christian names for 400 years, from the time the first Crusaders carried it back to Britain until the 1950s. Then American baby namers finally seemed to tire of this straight-arrow, almost anonymous John Doe of names, replacing it with fancier forms like Jonathan and the imported Sean and Ian.
                    • Jon
                      • Origin:

                        Variation of John or Jonathan
                      • Meaning:

                        "God is gracious; or gift of Jehovah"
                      • Description:

                        Streamlined version of the classic boys' names, sometimes a short form of Jonathan, which is in fact an entirely different name from John attached to a different Biblical personage. Jon feels more modern than the traditional John, but some may find it an overly slight variation on an already slim name. Jon Snow is a popular character on HBO's Game of Thrones.
                    • Jordan
                      • Origin:

                        English from Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "flowing down"
                      • Description:

                        Originally used for children baptized in holy water from the river Jordan, it became one of the leading androgynous names of the nineties. As the balance tips toward the boys' side, it's slipping on the girls' popularity chart. Alternate spelling Jordyn is now more popular for girls.
                    • Josh
                      • Description:

                        Josh is a friendly, approachable masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Joshua, which comes from Hebrew meaning 'God is salvation.' While Joshua has biblical significance as the successor to Moses, Josh emerged as a standalone name in the 20th century, embodying a casual, down-to-earth quality. It gained significant popularity in the 1970s through the 1990s in the United States, ranking consistently in the top 100 names. Josh conveys an accessible, unpretentious character with its brief, one-syllable structure. The name suggests a straightforward, trustworthy personality and has maintained steady usage without seeming dated or trendy. Josh represents a perfect balance of familiarity and timelessness in contemporary naming practices.

                    • Josiah
                      • Origin:

                        Hebrew
                      • Meaning:

                        "God supports, heals"
                      • Description:

                        Josiah—a biblical name with lots of quaint, old-fashioned charm—makes a much fresher sounding alternative to either Joseph or Joshua, combining the best of both. Josiah is among the several Biblical boys' names that have been on the rise this decade.
                    • Jayne
                      • Kaley
                        • Description:

                          Kaley is a feminine name with Irish roots, related to the surname Cayley or Kaley, which derived from a place name meaning 'woodland clearing.' It gained significant popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, partly due to actress Kaley Cuoco. The name offers a modern take on traditional Irish and Celtic naming elements, with a fresh, contemporary sound. Kaley is often seen as a variant of Kaylee or Cailey, all sharing similar melodic qualities. It strikes a balance between being recognizable and not overly common. The name has a light, breezy quality that suggests a bright, cheerful personality. Parents often choose Kaley for its appealing blend of familiarity and distinctiveness.

                      • Kate
                        • Origin:

                          English, diminutive of Katherine
                        • Meaning:

                          "pure"
                        • Description:

                          Kate, in the headlines via Catherine Middleton aka the Princess of Wales, has been as pervasive as Kathy was in the 1950s and 1960s, both as a nickname for Katherine and Kaitlyn and as a strong, classic stand-alone name.
                      • Katey
                        • Description:

                          Katey is a feminine name functioning primarily as a diminutive or variant spelling of Katherine/Catherine. This friendly, approachable variation maintains the charm of the original while creating a more casual, modern feel. Katherine itself derives from the Greek name Aikaterine, possibly meaning 'pure.' Katey gained modest popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century as parents sought less formal versions of traditional names. It offers the perfect balance between familiarity and uniqueness—recognizable without being overly common. The spelling with an 'e' before the 'y' distinguishes it slightly from the similar nickname 'Katie,' giving it a somewhat distinctive written appearance while maintaining the same warm, friendly pronunciation.
                      • Kathleen
                        • Origin:

                          Anglicized form of Irish Caitlin
                        • Meaning:

                          "pure"
                        • Description:

                          Kathleen is the early Irish import version that came between Katherine and Kaitlin, and which hasn't been used in so long it's almost beginning to sound fresh again. It was a surprise pick by one of the hip Dixie Chicks, Martie Maguire. Kathleen was a Top 10 name from 1948 to 1951, and it is the subject of several old sentimental songs, such as "I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen."
                      • Kathy
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Katherine and Kathleen
                        • Meaning:

                          "pure"
                        • Description:

                          There are lots of Kathy moms and grandmas but very few babies, most of whom are now called Kate or Katie.
                      • Katie
                        • Origin:

                          English, diminutive of Katherine
                        • Meaning:

                          "pure"
                        • Description:

                          Friendly mega-popular short form of Katherine that has definitively replaced Kathy, Katie is often given on its own. Going forward, though, Katie is more stylishly clipped itself to the grownup Kate.
                      • Kaylee
                        • Origin:

                          American variation of Kayla
                        • Meaning:

                          "laurel, crown"
                        • Description:

                          A widely used name, Kaylee pulls together something from Kayla and something from Hailey, yet somehow loses something in the process. It has surpassed cousin Kayla on the charts and is one of three girls' names starting with Kthat ranks in the US Top 100.
                      • Keiko
                        • Origin:

                          Japanese
                        • Meaning:

                          "happy child"
                        • Description:

                          Japanese classic with optimistic meaning.
                      • Kelly
                        • Origin:

                          Irish
                        • Meaning:

                          "war"
                        • Description:

                          Once the quintessential bouncy teenager name, Kelly helped launch the trend of unisex Irish names . But it now takes a backseat to more substantial surname names like Kennedy.
                      • Kirk
                        • Origin:

                          Norse
                        • Meaning:

                          "church"
                        • Description:

                          Far more friendly and open than similar one-syllable names like Kent, Kurt, and Karl, it's been associated for more than half a century with actor Kirk Douglas, whose birth name was Issur Danielovitch Demsky.
                      • Krysten
                        • Description:

                          Krysten is a feminine name that is a variant of Kristen or Kirsten, which are derived from the Latin name Christina, meaning 'follower of Christ.' This contemporary spelling emerged in the late 20th century as parents sought more distinctive versions of traditional names. While less common than other variants like Kristen or Kristin, Krysten has maintained steady but modest usage in English-speaking countries. The name gained some recognition through celebrities like actress Krysten Ritter. The unique 'y' spelling gives the name a modern edge while preserving its classic roots and Christian associations.
                      • Lane
                        • Origin:

                          English
                        • Meaning:

                          "a small roadway or path"
                        • Description:

                          Lane is a unisex name equally accessible to boys and girls. Breezy, cool and contemporary, it might equally put in mind country lanes and banks of wildflowers.
                      • Larry
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Lawrence, English from Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "from Laurentium or bay laurel"
                        • Description:

                          Your friendly next-door neighbor...not your baby. Although Larry was once one of the most popular boys' names starting with L, that title now belongs to Liam.
                      • Lauren
                        • Origin:

                          English from Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "from Laurentum or bay laurel"
                        • Description:

                          Lauren was derived from Laurence, an English name from the Roman family name Laurentius, meaning "from Laurentum." Laurentum, an ancient Italian city, got its name from the Latin word laurus, meaning "bay laurel."
                      • Lawrence
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "from Laurentium or bay laurel"
                        • Description:

                          Lawrence has survived from Roman times, when Laurentium was a city noted for its laurel trees (the laurel is a symbol of wisdom and achievement). It was in the Top 50 from the 1890s through the 1950s and the Top 100 for decades longer, always among the most popular boys' names starting with L, but Lawrence is now used less for babies than Landon or Lorenzo.
                      • Leann
                        • Description:

                          Leann is a melodic feminine name that emerged as a modern combination of the popular names Lee and Ann, or as a variant of Leanne. Its elements have distinct origins—'Lee' deriving from Old English meaning 'clearing in the woods' and 'Ann' from Hebrew Hannah meaning 'grace.' The name gained notable popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, peaking in the mid-1970s. It received additional recognition through country music star LeAnn Rimes. Leann offers a contemporary feel while maintaining connection to traditional naming elements. Its straightforward pronunciation, gentle sound pattern, and manageable length make it appealing to parents seeking a name that is recognizable yet not overly common.

                      • Leo
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "lion"
                        • Description:

                          Leo is a strong-yet-friendly name that was common among the Romans, used for thirteen popes, and is now at its highest point ever in the US thanks in part to Leonardo "Leo" DiCaprio.
                      • Leroy
                        • Origin:

                          French
                        • Meaning:

                          "the king"
                        • Description:

                          Leroy's heyday was in the early twentieth century, when it was in the US Top 100 until 1949. As a result, it's now more frequently seen as a father or grandfather name. Nevertheless, it remains in the latter end of the US Top 1000, perhaps passed down from father to son, or similar enough to popular Levi that it still appeals.
                      • Lily
                        • Origin:

                          English flower name
                        • Meaning:

                          "lily"
                        • Description:

                          Lily is the most popular of the popular delicate century-old flower names now making a return, thanks to its many irresistible attributes: a cool elegance and a lovely sound, a symbol of purity and innocence, and a role in Christian imagery.
                      • Linda
                        • Origin:

                          Spanish, Portuguese and Italian
                        • Meaning:

                          "pretty"
                        • Description:

                          Linda will live forever in baby name history for toppling Mary from its four hundred year reign as Number 1. Queen of Names in 1947, Linda has fallen even further in favor than Mary today.
                      • Lindsay
                        • Origin:

                          English surname
                        • Meaning:

                          "marshlands of Lincolnshire"
                        • Description:

                          In the early eighties, Lindsay, in tandem with Courtney, approached the Top 10.
                      • Liz
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Elizabeth
                        • Meaning:

                          "pledged to God"
                        • Description:

                          Some might think a girl named Liz on her birth certificate would feel deprived of her full identity, but in a time when mini names like Liv, Kit, Tru, Kai, Lou, and Bea are in style, Liz feels substantial enough that its bearer won't feel bereft.
                      • Liza
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Eliza and Elizabeth, Hebrew
                        • Meaning:

                          "pledged to God"
                        • Description:

                          Liza's heyday was the mid-1970s, following on the heels of super-popular sister Lisa. But thanks to the fact that it never became superpopular, Liza remains a name not especially tied to one generation or style.
                      • Logan
                        • Origin:

                          Scottish
                        • Meaning:

                          "small hollow"
                        • Description:

                          According to exclusive Nameberry data, Logan is officially the Number 1 gender-neutral name in the US, but that statistic is somewhat misleading given that nearly 90 percent of the baby Logans born in 2023 were boys.
                      • Lorelai
                        • Origin:

                          Spelling variation of Lorelei, German
                        • Meaning:

                          "alluring, temptress"
                        • Description:

                          Lorelai is the spelling used for the character played by Lauren Graham on The Gilmore Girls, as well as her daughter, who preferred the nickname Rory. The television show reintroduced this name to a new generation, but the Lorelai spelling could be confusing -- is it lor-ah-LAY? -- to those unacquainted with the Gilmores.
                      • Louise
                        • Origin:

                          French and English, feminine variation of Louis
                        • Meaning:

                          "renowned warrior"
                        • Description:

                          Louise has for several decades now been seen as competent, studious, and efficient—desirable if not dramatic qualities. But now along with a raft of other L names, as well as cousin Eloise, Louise is up for reappreciation—sleek and chic, stylish in Paris, and starting to become so in the US as well. Louisa is perhaps more in tune with the times, but Louise has more edge. Louise has been on the rise lately, and reentered the US Top 1000 for the first time in a quarter century in 2016.
                      • Lucas
                        • Origin:

                          Latin form of Luke
                        • Meaning:

                          "man from Lucania"
                        • Description:

                          Lucas is a Top 10 boys' name with a slightly-less-popular almost-identical twin brother, Luke. Like Elijah and Elias, Lucas and Luke come from the same root and have the same meaning and so feel even more popular than they are.
                      • Lucifer
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "light-bearer"
                        • Description:

                          Lucifer is the name of the archangel cast into hell -- theologians disagree on whether he and Satan are separate beings -- and as such has long been on the forbidden list for religious parents. Still banned in New Zealand, Lucifer is occasionally used in the contemporary U.S.: Six boys were given the name in the most recent year counted.
                      • Lucy
                        • Origin:

                          English variation of Lucia, Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "light"
                        • Description:

                          A versatile classic, Lucy is both sweet and solid, a saint's name, and the heroine of several great novels. First fashionable in England and Wales, Lucy is now a popular choice in the US, The Netherlands, and New Zealand.
                      • Luke
                        • Origin:

                          Greek
                        • Meaning:

                          "man from Lucania"
                        • Description:

                          Luke is a cool-yet-strong Biblical name with a relaxed cowboy feel, which has been on the rise since the advent of Luke Skywalker.
                      • Lulu
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Louise or Lucy, or Arabic
                        • Meaning:

                          "pearl"
                        • Description:

                          Lula has a firecracker personality, a singing and dancing extrovert. Interesting that Lulu was a Top 100 name when the Social Security list was born in 1880, but it's been sliding ever since and has not been in the Top 1000 for decades. Modern parents in love with Lulu might well reverse that trend.
                      • Lynn
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Linda or Welsh
                        • Meaning:

                          "lake"
                        • Description:

                          Lynn arrived in the 1940s, spinning off from the wildly popular Linda, to become a top midcentury middle name. Now, Lynn's in limbo.
                      • Madeline
                        • Origin:

                          English variation of Magdalen
                        • Meaning:

                          "high tower or woman from Magdala"
                        • Description:

                          Madeline, a lovely name with a soft and delicate image, is an old-fashioned favorite that returned to favor in the 1990's, combining a classic pedigree with a cute nickname option: Maddy.
                      • Mal
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Malcolm, Scottish
                        • Meaning:

                          "devotee of St. Colomba"
                        • Description:

                          A nickname for Malcolm that at one point ranked independently on the US Top 1000. It still exists as an affectionate pet form, but you’re unlikely to hear a Malcolm introduce himself as Mal.
                      • Malcolm
                        • Origin:

                          Scottish
                        • Meaning:

                          "devotee of St. Colomba"
                        • Description:

                          Malcolm is a warm and welcoming Scottish appellation (originally Mael-Colium) that fits into that golden circle of names that are distinctive but not at all odd. A royal name in Scotland, Malcolm is also a hero name for many via radical civil rights activist Malcolm X.
                      • Manny
                        • Origin:

                          English, diminutive of Emmanuel
                        • Description:

                          He can get it for you wholesale.
                      • Marilyn
                        • Origin:

                          English, combination of Mary and Lynn
                        • Meaning:

                          "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + lake"
                        • Description:

                          For a name that was in the Top 20 for a whole decade – the 1930's – Marilyn has attained the status of almost a one-person name. Just say the name Marilyn, and most people will know who you mean. Yet strangely enough, though Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jean and renamed in tribute to earlier star Marilyn Miller) was the sex symbol of her generation, very little stardust adhered to her name. In fact, when Mariah Carey wished to honor the star in her daughter's name, she chose to call her Monroe rather than Marilyn.
                      • Marion
                        • Origin:

                          English and French diminutive of Marie
                        • Meaning:

                          "drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"
                        • Description:

                          An underused classic that has proved surprisingly unisex over the last few decades, being given to roughly the same number of baby girls and boys in the US from the 1970s to the 2000s. For a girl, Marion has a sturdy old-fashioned charm.
                      • Mark
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "warlike"
                        • Description:

                          Mark has the rare appeal of a strong, sleek name with a minimalist modern feel and ancient roots. The name Mark is taken from the Roman god of war Mars, also the namesake of the planet.
                      • Martin
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "warlike"
                        • Description:

                          Martin is one of those names like Arthur and Vincent and George that is in the process of throwing off its balding middle-aged image to start sounding possible again, used in full without the dated Marty nickname.
                      • Marty
                        • Origin:

                          Short form of Martin, Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "warlike"
                        • Description:

                          Marty is one of those Old Man nicknames that's just starting to sound cute again.
                      • Mary
                        • Origin:

                          Hebrew or Egyptian
                        • Meaning:

                          "drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"
                        • Description:

                          Mary is the English form of Maria, which ultimately was derived from the Hebrew name Maryam/Mariam. The original meaning of Maryam is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).
                      • Matt
                        • Origin:

                          Short form of Matthew
                        • Meaning:

                          "gift of God"
                        • Description:

                          Still one of the most appealing short forms, which goes a long way toward explaining the sustained popularity of Matthew. Matt is perennially the popular guy in high school, friendly, attractive, and comfortable with a baseball. Matty or Mattie are cute for a younger boy.
                      • Max
                        • Origin:

                          English and German diminutive of Maximilian or Maxwell
                        • Meaning:

                          "greatest"
                        • Description:

                          Max was derived from Maximilian, a Latin name that originated from the Roman family name Maximus. The character name Max in the children's classic Where the Wild Things Are had an impact on baby namers. Max is a widely used name internationally.
                      • Mazikeen
                        • Origin:

                          Invented name
                        • Meaning:

                          "harmful spirits"
                        • Description:

                          Neil Gaiman invented this name for a character in his comic book Sandman. It can now be seen on the TV show Lucifer.
                      • Melissa
                        • Origin:

                          Greek
                        • Meaning:

                          "honeybee"
                        • Description:

                          Melissa derives from the Greek word mélissa, meaning "bee," which was taken from the word for honey, meli. In Greek mythology, Melissa was a nymph who nursed the infant god Zeus with honey. Melissa was used as a given name by the early Greeks, as well as for fairies by Italian Renaissance poets.
                      • Mia
                        • Origin:

                          Italian word name or Scandinavian short form of Maria
                        • Meaning:

                          "mine or bitter"
                        • Description:

                          Mia is an appealingly unfussy multicultural name that has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the charts and is now firmly among the ten top girl names. Mia has surpassed its mother name Maria as the Number 1 girls' name starting with M.
                      • Michael
                        • Origin:

                          Hebrew
                        • Meaning:

                          "who is like God?"
                        • Description:

                          Michael was the Number 1 American boys' name for almost half a century. While Michael has moved out of the Top 10 baby boy names, it's still widely used.
                      • Michel
                        • Origin:

                          French form and German short form of Michael, Hebrew
                        • Meaning:

                          "who is like God"
                        • Description:

                          While the (male) French form is pronounced in English like the girls' name Michelle and the German form had a hard k-like sound in the middle, this variation of Michael is distinguished by being used evenly for girls and boys in the U.S. For either gender, though, pronunciation issues will dominate.
                      • Mike
                        • Origin:

                          English, diminutive of Michael
                        • Description:

                          Unlike Jake or Sam, few parents put Mike on the birth certificate.
                      • Milo
                        • Origin:

                          Latin and Old German
                        • Meaning:

                          "soldier or merciful"
                        • Description:

                          Milo is most commonly considered to be Germanic name derived from the Latin word miles, meaning "soldier." However, there is evidence to suggest it also may have independently spawned from the Slavic root milu, meaning "merciful." Milo predates brother name Miles, a variation that evolved when the name immigrated to the British Isles in the Middle Ages. Mylo is an alternate spelling.
                      • Molly
                        • Origin:

                          Diminutive of Mary, Hebrew
                        • Meaning:

                          "bitter"
                        • Description:

                          Molly is one of the original nickname names, ALWAYS ranking among the US Top 500 girl names since statistics began, in 1880. Molly peaked in 1991 only to rise just as high again in 2011, and though softening retains a good measure of popularity and charm.
                      • Morena
                        • Origin:

                          Slovak, Macedonian
                        • Meaning:

                          "brown-haired"
                        • Description:

                          Morena is the goddess of seasonal rites and rebirth worshipped in Central Europe.
                      • Morey
                        • Description:

                          Morey is a masculine name with multiple origins. Primarily considered a variation of Maurice, it derives from Roman roots meaning "dark-skinned" or "Moorish." It can also be connected to the Irish name Murtagh or serve as a diminutive for names like Morgan or Morris. With its short, accessible sound, Morey peaked in popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in Jewish-American communities. The name carries a certain vintage charm that evokes the early to mid-1900s. While never extremely common, Morey has an approachable quality with its friendly ending sound. Today, it's quite rare, giving it distinction while maintaining familiar phonetics that make it easy to pronounce and remember.
                      • Morgan
                        • Origin:

                          Welsh
                        • Meaning:

                          "sea-born, sea-song or sea-circle"
                        • Description:

                          Morgan, once split evenly between the sexes, is a strong and attractive Welsh favorite, still a common boys’ name in Wales. Morgan is now more often a girls' name in the U.S. – about 2000 girls were given the name in one recent year, vs. 362 boys – though it's one of the most traditional unisex choices. Morgan was actually a Top 200 pick for boys in Victorian Britain!
                      • Mitchum
                        • Mädchen
                          • Nancy
                            • Origin:

                              English diminutive of Ann or Agnes, Hebrew; Greek
                            • Meaning:

                              "grace; pure"
                            • Description:

                              To some, Nancy is a sweet, sparkly, vintage choice with plenty of energy and style. For it strays too much into '"old-lady" territory to be cool again yet. It's out of fashion in France, New Zealand, and Canada; it lingers towards to bottom of the US charts. In the UK however, Nancy has been a Top 100 name for nearly a decade where it fits right in with Evie, Mabel, and Pippa.
                          • Nathan
                            • Origin:

                              Hebrew
                            • Meaning:

                              "given"
                            • Description:

                              Nathan is an Old Testament name that's ranked among the Top 100 names for boys for 50 years, and could well stay there for another 50. Strong, solid, and attractive, It's a name familiar to every schoolchild through Nathan Hale, the Revolutionary War spy.
                          • Nick
                            • Origin:

                              English, diminutive of Nicholas and Dominick
                            • Description:

                              The classic strong-yet-friendly nickname name, much used for charming movie characters.
                          • Nicole
                            • Origin:

                              French feminine variation of Nicholas, Greek
                            • Meaning:

                              "people of victory"
                            • Description:

                              Nicole was derived from Nicholas, the English variation of the Greek Nikolaos, composed of the compounds nike, meaning "victory," and laos, "people." The variation Nicole arose in the Middle Ages in France to honor St. Nicholas. Names related to Nicole include Colette, Nicolette, Nika, Nicola, and Nicolina.
                          • Nicolette
                            • Origin:

                              French, diminutive of Nicole, feminine variation of Nicholas, Greek
                            • Meaning:

                              "people of victory"
                            • Description:

                              Nicolette is the ultra-feminine name of an enchanting princess in the medieval French romance, Aucassin et Nicolette, a name that got stacks of publicity in the heyday of Desperate Housewives and its star Nicolette Sheridan. It was also the name of Chloe Sevigny's character in Big Love.
                          • Olivia
                            • Origin:

                              Latin
                            • Meaning:

                              "olive tree"
                            • Description:

                              Olivia, a lovely Shakespearean name with an admirable balance of strength and femininity, is the Number 1 name for baby girls in the US and one of the top girls' names around the world.
                          • Paris
                            • Origin:

                              French place-name
                            • Description:

                              Paris, a one-time mythical and Shakespearean boys' name, peaked in 2004 at Number 157 at least in part due to the highly publicized Paris Hilton. Michael Jackson used it for his daughter.
                          • Patty
                            • Origin:

                              Diminutive of Patricia
                            • Meaning:

                              "patrician"
                            • Description:

                              Replaced Patsy as the midcentury's popular, peppy babysitter.
                          • Paul
                            • Origin:

                              Latin
                            • Meaning:

                              "small"
                            • Description:

                              Paul is an ancient name for boys -- popular in Roman and medieval times -- that's not very fashionable now, which can work in its favor, scarcity balancing simplicity.
                          • Peter
                            • Origin:

                              Greek
                            • Meaning:

                              "rock, stone"
                            • Description:

                              Peter is derived from the Greek Petros, meaning "rock" or "stone." One of the most important figures in the Christian hagiography is Saint Peter, keeper of the Gates of Heaven. Born Simon bar Jonah, he was given the nickname Peter by Jesus, to signify that he would be the rock on which Christ would build Christianity. Centuries later, there was Peter the Great, the czar who developed Russia as a major European power.
                          • Phillip
                            • Origin:

                              Greek
                            • Meaning:

                              "lover of horses"
                            • Description:

                              Spelling variation of Philip. Exactly as many baby boys were named with the single 'l' spelling in 2017.
                          • Pennilyn
                            • Regan
                              • Origin:

                                Irish
                              • Meaning:

                                "little king"
                              • Description:

                                Like somewhat more popular twin sister Reagan, this vibrant last-name-first Irish choice makes a strong, straightforward option.
                            • Richard
                              • Origin:

                                German
                              • Meaning:

                                "dominant ruler"
                              • Description:

                                A classic old Norman name popular for a thousand years and favored for kings (Richard Nixon was named for Richard the Lionhearted), as well as the hoi polloi (as in every Tom, Dick and Harry), Richard was the sixth most popular US boys’ name in 1925, and was still Number 8 in 1950, but is now much less popular.
                            • River
                              • Origin:

                                Nature name
                              • Description:

                                Most of the notable Rivers have been male, but this nature name certainly flows as well for a girl. The name River is still rising for both genders, with about 3500 baby boys receiving the name last year vs. 1900 baby girls.
                            • Robert
                              • Origin:

                                English from German
                              • Meaning:

                                "bright fame"
                              • Description:

                                Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains in the Top 100 for baby boys as a family favorite.
                            • Ron
                              • Description:

                                Ron is a masculine name that functions both as a standalone name and as a shortened form of longer names like Ronald, Aaron, or Byron. Ronald, its most common source, derives from the Old Norse 'Rögnvaldr,' meaning 'ruler's advisor' or 'decision maker.' Ron gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s through the 1970s. Its brevity exemplifies the trend toward shorter, more direct masculine names. The name projects a straightforward, unpretentious quality that has helped it transcend generations. While its peak popularity has passed, Ron maintains steady usage and recognition across English-speaking countries. Notable bearers include actors Ron Howard and Ron Perlman, and more recently, the character Ron Weasley from the Harry Potter series has kept the name familiar to younger generations.
                            • Rory
                              • Origin:

                                Irish
                              • Meaning:

                                "red king"
                              • Description:

                                Rory is a buoyant, spirited name for a redhead with Celtic roots. The name Rory is getting more popular overall, but for the past few years has been trending decidedly toward the boys' side -- however, it's been rising to new heights for girls in recent years.
                            • Rose
                              • Origin:

                                Latin
                              • Meaning:

                                "rose, a flower"
                              • Description:

                                Rose is derived from the Latin rosa, which referred to the flower. There is also evidence to suggest it was a Norman variation of the Germanic name Hrodohaidis, meaning "famous type," and also Hros, "horse". In Old English it was translated as Roese and Rohese.
                            • Rune
                              • Origin:

                                German and Swedish
                              • Meaning:

                                "secret"
                              • Description:

                                Name with connotations both mystical and tragic, newly popular in Europe. For English speakers, though, this name might be ruined by its homonym ruin.
                            • Rini
                              • Rusty
                                • Saffron
                                  • Origin:

                                    Spice name
                                  • Description:

                                    Spice names are increasingly appealing to the senses of prospective parents; this one, belonging to a precious spice derived from the crocus has a vaguely orange-scented-incense sixties feel.
                                • Sally
                                  • Origin:

                                    Diminutive of Sarah
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "princess"
                                  • Description:

                                    Sally is a cheerful, fresh-faced girl-next-door name that was originally a nickname for Sarah, but has long been used independently. Sally was popular in the eighteenth century and then again from the 1920s to the 1960s--it was just outside the Top 50 around 1940. Though it hasn't been heard as a baby name for decades, we can see Sally bouncing back, especially after her exposure as young Ms. Draper on Mad Men--the Nameberries rank it at Number 621, and it's a Top 100 name in Sweden.
                                • Scott
                                  • Origin:

                                    English
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "from Scotland"
                                  • Description:

                                    A cool, windswept, surfer babe-magnet in 1965, a nice dad -- or even granddad -- today.
                                • Scout
                                  • Origin:

                                    Word name
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "one who gathers information covertly"
                                  • Description:

                                    Scout, a character nickname from To Kill a Mockingbird (her real name was Jean Louise), became a real-life possibility when Bruce Willis and Demi Moore used it for their now-grown middle daughter, followed by Tom Berenger a few years later.
                                • Sean
                                  • Origin:

                                    Irish variation of John
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "God is gracious"
                                  • Description:

                                    Sean, after a long reign as one of the top Irish boys' names in the US, has now slipped as parents look to fresher Irish choices such as Liam and Aidan. In Ireland, Sean is still highly popular, but variation Senan, an Anglicized spelling of diminutive Seanan, is also stylish in Ireland. While Sean is the Irish form of John, Seanan and Senan may be thought of either as Sean diminutives or relatives of the Latin word "senator".
                                • Sebastian
                                  • Origin:

                                    Latin from Greek
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "person from ancient city of Sebastia"
                                  • Description:

                                    Sebastian is an ancient martyr's name turned literary, and Little Mermaid hero—think Sebastian the Crab—that's more popular than ever, as a classic-yet-unconventional compatriot for fellow British favorites T Theodore and Oliver.
                                • Shane
                                  • Origin:

                                    Irish variation of Sean or Shannon
                                  • Description:

                                    As a boy's name, Shane is related more directly to the 50s movie cowboy and the Irish name Sean; for a girl, it might be a variation on Shannon, Shana, or Shawn. Parenthood star Erika Christensen named her daughter Shane. Another spin, used by Eddie Murphy, is Shayne.
                                • Shelly
                                  • Description:

                                    Shelly is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive of Michelle or as a reference to seashells, giving it both personal and nature-inspired origins. Popular during the 1960s and 1970s in English-speaking countries, Shelly has a cheerful, friendly quality that made it a favorite during this period. The name evokes coastal imagery and has a naturally pleasant sound. While it can stand alone as a given name, Shelly continues to serve as a nickname for Michelle, Rochelle, or Shelby. Though its peak popularity has passed, Shelly maintains an unpretentious charm and familiarity. The name's association with seashells gives it a subtle nature connection that appeals to parents drawn to ocean themes.
                                • Sherilyn
                                  • Description:

                                    Sherilyn is a feminine name that emerged in the mid-20th century as a variation of Sheryl or Cheryl. These names ultimately derive from the French name Chérie, meaning "beloved" or "darling," combined with the popular suffix -lyn that became fashionable for girls' names in America. Sherilyn peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, riding the wave of similar-sounding names like Carolyn, Marilyn, and Evelyn. The name gained some recognition through actress Sherilyn Fenn, known for her role in the television series Twin Peaks. While less common today, Sherilyn carries a distinctly vintage mid-century charm with its melodic three-syllable flow and soft sound profile.
                                • Sherry
                                  • Origin:

                                    Phonetic variation of French Cheri; also a Spanish fortified wine
                                  • Description:

                                    Peppy cheerleader name of the 1960s and 70s that's sure to evoke the Four Seasons song of that name.
                                • Shira
                                  • Origin:

                                    Hebrew, Japanese
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "singing, song; poetry, excellent, white"
                                  • Description:

                                    A popular Israeli choice that could work across different languages, Shira comes from the Hebrew shir meaning "song." Some parents may be reminded of the animated heroine She-Ra, Princess of Power, from both the 1980s original and the 2018 reboot, however, they are not related.
                                • Simon
                                  • Origin:

                                    Hebrew, Greek
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "he has heard; flat-nosed"
                                  • Description:

                                    Simon is pure and simple (not in the nursery rhyme sense), and an appealingly genuine Old and New Testament name that's not overused. These factors make Simon a stylish yet classic choice.
                                • Sookie
                                  • Origin:

                                    Variation of Sukey, pet form of Susanna
                                  • Meaning:

                                    "lily"
                                  • Description:

                                    This spelling seems to be taking off as a result of media appearances as characters in first "Gilmore Girls" and then as Sookie Stackhouse, the Anna Paquin character in "True Blood," based on "The Southern Vampire Mysteries" series of books by Charlaine Harris.
                                • Summer
                                  • Origin:

                                    Word name
                                  • Description:

                                    The temperature is definitely rising for this popular seasonal name, which began being used in the seventies, and has been heard consistently ever since.
                                • Straub
                                  • Tali
                                    • Origin:

                                      Hebrew
                                    • Meaning:

                                      "dew"
                                    • Description:

                                      Friendly and relaxed choice used by singer Annie Lennox for her daughter; Tal is a unisex Hebrew version.
                                  • Talia
                                    • Origin:

                                      Hebrew; Australian Aboriginal
                                    • Meaning:

                                      "gentle dew from heaven; by the water"
                                    • Description:

                                      Talia is derived from the Hebrew elements tal, meaning "dew," and yah, in reference to God. In the mythology of one ancient sect, Talia was one of ten angels who attended the sun on its daily course. The occasionally homophonous name Thalia has unrelated Greek origins.
                                  • Tim
                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek, diminutive of Timothy
                                    • Description:

                                      Tim is a boyish short form very rarely given on its own.
                                  • Timothy
                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek
                                    • Meaning:

                                      "honoring God"
                                    • Description:

                                      A second-tier classic, the New Testament Timothy moves in and out of fashion more than John and James. But though it peaked in the 1960s, many modern parents still appreciate its familiarity and lively rhythm. And the short form Tim feels eternally boyish.
                                  • Toby
                                    • Origin:

                                      Diminutive of Tobias
                                    • Description:

                                      This jaunty unisex nickname name has recently been given a shot of testosterone via actor Tobey Maguire and the gruff, erudite character on West Wing.
                                  • Tony
                                    • Origin:

                                      Diminutive of Anthony
                                    • Meaning:

                                      "priceless one"
                                    • Description:

                                      Tony, as in classy. Or To-nyyy, as yelled out a tenement window.
                                  • Wash
                                    • Description:

                                      Wash is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive of Washington, which itself began as an English surname meaning 'estate of a person named Wassa.' The name gained prominence in America due to the first U.S. president, George Washington. As a standalone name, Wash has a concise, strong quality that appeals to parents seeking brief, distinctive names. While uncommon as a given name, it has occasionally appeared in Southern U.S. naming traditions and literature, notably in the science fiction character Hoban 'Wash' Washburne from 'Firefly.' The name carries connotations of simplicity, straightforwardness, and American historical connections, while its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.

                                  • Ziva
                                    • Origin:

                                      Hebrew
                                    • Meaning:

                                      "life"
                                    • Description:

                                      A zippy little international name. The Hebrew name relates to the month of Israeli independence, while the Slavic Ziva (also spelled Živa and Siva) is a goddess of love, life and fertility.
                                  • Zoë