**** favorites
- Adrian
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"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.
- Aftyn
Description:
Aftyn is a contemporary feminine name representing a modern spelling variation of Afton. The name Afton originally comes from the Scottish river made famous in Robert Burns' poem 'Sweet Afton.' The word itself likely derives from Old English 'æf-tun' meaning 'evening settlement' or 'dusk town.' This spelling with a 'y' emerged in recent decades as parents sought unique variations of traditional names. Aftyn has a distinctly modern feel while maintaining its poetic roots. The name remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking something melodic yet distinctive. Its connection to nature through the river association gives it an earthy, serene quality that resonates with contemporary naming trends.
- Anaise
Origin:
Variation of AnaisDescription:
Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.
- Ansleigh
Description:
Ansleigh is a modern feminine name combining elements of traditional names with contemporary spelling patterns. It likely evolved from the surname and place name Ansley, meaning 'Anne's meadow' or 'hermit's meadow' in Old English. The distinctive 'leigh' ending reflects the trend toward elaborate spelling variations seen in many 21st-century names. Ansleigh embodies the popular pattern of transforming surnames or place names into given names with a feminine touch. This name began appearing more frequently in the 2010s, part of the rising trend for names ending with the '-leigh' sound. Ansleigh appeals to parents seeking something relatively uncommon yet familiar-sounding, with both traditional roots and a modern sensibility. The name has a gentle, pastoral quality while maintaining a contemporary edge.
- Anson
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"son of Anne"Description:
Anson has always been rare, though you might think of actor Anson Williams, best known for playing Potsie Weber on 1970s sitcom Happy Days. As a direct result of the show's popularity, Anson charted in the US Top 1000 from 1976 to 1981.
- Arian
Origin:
Spelling variation of AryanDescription:
This variation of Aryan has a slightly less racist connotation, making it a bit more acceptable. Arian debuted on the Top 1000 in 2011, but didn't have a sustained rise on the charts. This is likely due to the Aryan connection and the popularity of all things Aria among girls.
- Arsen
Description:
Arsen is a strong masculine name with ancient roots, predominantly used in Armenian, Russian, and Eastern European cultures. Derived from the Greek name Arsenios, meaning 'virile' or 'strong,' it has connections to the Latin element 'arsenicum.' The name carries connotations of strength and masculinity across cultures. While never reaching mainstream popularity in Western countries, Arsen maintains consistent usage in Armenia, Russia, and parts of Eastern Europe. In some regions, it's associated with Saint Arsenius the Great, a respected Roman theological instructor. The name has a powerful, distinctive sound that combines traditional heritage with modern appeal.
- Aston
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"eastern settlement"Description:
Has an upscale aura, perhaps due to the luxury James Bond Aston Martin car.
- Aundrea
Description:
Aundrea is a feminine name that represents a creative spelling variation of Andrea, which derives from the Greek name Andreas, meaning 'strong' or 'courageous.' This alternative spelling emerged in the United States during the late 20th century as parents sought ways to personalize traditional names. Aundrea maintains the melodic quality of Andrea while offering a distinctive twist. The name saw modest popularity peaks in the 1970s and 1980s, appealing to parents who wanted a familiar-sounding yet somewhat unique name for their daughters. Though less common than Andrea, Aundrea continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its blend of traditional roots and contemporary spelling.
- Aerilyn
- Aevryn
- Analyse
- Aniston
- Arian
- Arowyn
- Autrey
- Autrey
- Briley
Origin:
Modern invented name or surname, EnglishMeaning:
"briar meadow, briar clearing"Description:
Similar to Brielle and Riley, this name lags quite far behind these more common variations. It peaked at Number 622 in 2009 in the US, but it is now descending the ranks. It coincides with the surname Briley, a contracted form of Brierley, which might be an interesting alternative.
- Brinley
Origin:
English, combination of Brynn + Lee "burnt clearing; hill + meadow"Meaning:
"burnt clearing; hill + meadow"Description:
Brinley was a surprise entrant to the US Top 1000 in 2009, however, in 2023, it doesn't feel surprising at all. In fact, alternative spellings Brynleigh and Brynlee also rank in the Top 1000, with Brynley not too far behind.
- Brody
Origin:
Irish, English, and ScottishMeaning:
"broad eye or broad island"Description:
The energetic Brody is a name that claims different meanings and origins depending on whether you're looking at its Irish, Scottish, or English history -- and Eastern Europeans claim a version too. An alternate spelling is Brodie.
- Bracyn
- Christian
Origin:
Greek or English from LatinMeaning:
"anointed one or follower of Christ"Description:
The name Christian has fallen a bit from its 90's and 00's heights, but it's still quite popular. Once considered overly pious, Christian is now seen as making a bold statement of faith by some, while also having secular appeal for others. Christian's enduring popularity may be influenced by such celebrities as Christian Slater and Christian Bale, not to mention the fashion world's Dior, Lacroix, Louboutin and Audigier.
- Connor
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"lover of hounds"Description:
Connor, the appealing name of an early semi-legendary king of Ulster in Irish mythology, sits firmly in the Top 100 and taken together with its alternate spellings would rank even higher. In its native Ireland the Conor version is one of the highest charting boys’ name.
- Farrah
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"happiness"Description:
For a few seconds there in the late '70s, Farrah Fawcett's name was as frequently copied as her hairstyle; the name was Number 177 in 1977. Now, after many years off the charts and out of style, it's back, mostly thanks to a TV Teen Mom who bears the name.
- Jade
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"stone of the side"Description:
As a precious stone, Jade is known for its cool green hues, its importance in Chinese art, and its ability to transmit wisdom, confidence, and clarity. As a name however, Jade is a 90’s throwback in the UK, a Number 1 choice in France, and a returning gem in the US right now.
- Kingsley
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"king's meadow"Description:
Kingsley is a sophisticated Harry Potter name that entered the US Top 1000 in 2013.
- Kearson / Kierson
- Loren
Origin:
English spelling variation of Lauren, LatinMeaning:
"from Laurentum or bay laurel"Description:
The spelling Loren turns Lauren or its male form Laurence into a gender-neutral name. Last year 75 baby girls were named Loren in the US vs. 60 baby boys, making this name a good nonbinary choice.
- Macazlyn
- Nichelle
Origin:
American, contemporary variation of MichelleDescription:
A modern twist on Michelle spotlighted by Star Trek actress Nichelle Nichols.
- Rihannon
- bristole
- jacyn