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Dream Baby Names

  1. Adeline

    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Adele

    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"

    • Description:

      Adeline has a lovely, old-fashioned "Sweet Adeline" charm, but has become so popular in the US under so many spellings and variations -- with Adalynn and Adalyn also popular -- that considered together it is far more popular than it first seems. Adorable nickname Addie is also pervasive.
  2. Adlai

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "God is just"

    • Description:

      Adlai is an Old Testament name long associated with 1950's liberal presidential candidate Stevenson, who was named after his grandfather, who was Grover Cleveland's vice president in the nineteenth century. Now it's an unusual Biblical choice ripe for rediscovery.
  3. 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.
  4. Aeliana

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "sun"

    • Description:

      This female form of the ancient Latin Aelian has an appealing sound, though kids might have a hard time handling that initial "ae" spelling. Just remember that the "ae" is pronounced "ee" (think Aesop's fables).The Annals of Aeliana is a children's fantasy series by Ryan Watters. The meaning is uncertain but is thought to derive from the Greek helios, which means sun.
  5. Althea

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "with healing power"

    • Description:

      Althea is a poetic, almost ethereal name found in Greek myth and pastoral poetry, associated in modern times with the great tennis player Althea Gibson, the first African-American to win at Wimbledon.
  6. Ander

    • Origin:

      Basque form of Andrew and Andreas, Greek, "strong and manly"

    • Meaning:

      "strong and manly"

    • Description:

      This Basque form of the sturdy classic brings a fresh, cool edge to Andrew. It fits in with other -er ending names while also giving the name an international feel.
  7. Anson

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  8. Ari

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Ariel, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "lion of God"

    • Description:

      In 2010, baby boys named Ari outnumbered baby girls 4 to 1; today, there are nearly equal numbers of boys and girls named Ari. And that's only counting the babies who receive Ari as a full name. Ari can also be short for not only Ariel but Aria, Arya, Ariana, and any other name starting with Ari. Ari entered the US Top 1000 for girls in 2016.
  9. Ariadne

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "most holy"

    • Description:

      This name of the Cretan goddess of fertility is most popular now as the more melodic Ariana, but Ariadne has possibilities of its own. It first entered the US Top 1000 in 2014. The renewed interest in the name falls in line with the revival of other mythological names like Apollo and Athena. The trendy nickname Ari doesn't hurt either.
  10. Arrow

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Words are not always easy to translate into baby names, but the implications of being straight and swift lend this one great potential as a name. It also has the popular o-sound ending, which brings it further into the realm of possibility. Rising rock star Aja Volkman pulled a gender switch when she named her daughter Arrow Eve.
  11. 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.
  12. Astra

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "stars"

    • Description:

      A starry-eyed, intergalactic name, far rarer than Stella or Esther. It's attached both to a comic book character and to Princess Astra on "Doctor Who".
  13. Atlas

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "bearer of the heavens"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Attica"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      English, French, German

    • Meaning:

      "elf ruler, bright elf; noble bear"

    • Description:

      Rarely heard in the US, Auberon has a gentle autumnal feel rare in a male name. A Shakespeare-adjacent choice, Auberon started out as as a pet form of Auberi, the French form of German Alberich.
  16. Auden

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "old friend"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      German form of Latin Augustus

    • Meaning:

      "great, magnificent"

    • Description:

      The name August is at its highest point since the 1890s, when it ranked among the Top 100 boy names in the US. And deservedly so, given its great meaning, historic roots, and cool nicknames.
  18. Ahren
    • Alaister
      • Amai
        • Amarie
          • Ambriel
            • Ami
              • Anoa
                • Arring
                  • Ashcroft
                    • Aster
                      • Atheo
                        • Atonis
                          • Bail

                            • Description:

                              Bail is an uncommon masculine name with multiple potential origins. It could derive from the Old French 'baile' meaning 'bearer' or guardian, or from the Scottish surname Bail, which may have occupational roots. In legal contexts, 'bail' refers to security or guarantee, potentially giving the name connotations of reliability and trust. As a given name, Bail remains quite rare globally, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly uncommon. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal, while its familiar sound (rhyming with names like Dale or Gail) makes it accessible despite its uniqueness. Bail has not traditionally appeared on popularity charts, remaining a genuinely unusual selection.

                          • Barclay

                            • Origin:

                              English and Scottish

                            • Meaning:

                              "where birches grow"

                            • Description:

                              Americans may not realize Barclay is the phonetic spelling of the British Berkeley -- though both sound like old-fashioned butler names.
                          • Barlow

                            • Origin:

                              English

                            • Meaning:

                              "bare hillside"

                            • Description:

                              A friendly sounding surname name reminiscent of the increasingly popular Marlow and Harlow. British musician Gary Barlow is a notable namesake.
                          • Basha

                            • Origin:

                              Yiddish, variant of BATYA

                            • Meaning:

                              "foreign woman"

                            • Description:

                              Basha bears a family resemblance to other newly popular Slavic names Sasha and Mischa, all of them hearty, warm and welcoming.
                          • Bellamy

                            • Origin:

                              English and Irish from French

                            • Meaning:

                              "fine friend"

                            • Description:

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

                            • Origin:

                              English medieval form of Benedict, Latin

                            • Meaning:

                              "blessed"

                            • Description:

                              Bennett is Ben with a bow tie, kind of a cross between Benjamin and Beckett. It's been trending up on the popularity charts in recent years, and its choice by The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt's Jane Krakowski could shoot it even higher.
                          • Bonnie

                            • Origin:

                              Scottish

                            • Meaning:

                              "beautiful, cheerful"

                            • Description:

                              Bonnie is an adorable nickname name, heading back up the popularity list after a 50-year nap. A Top 100 girls' name throughout the rest of the English-speaking world, Americans are later to jump on the Bonnie bandwagon but now it's trending here too.
                          • Brenna

                            • Origin:

                              Feminine form of Brennan

                            • Meaning:

                              "descendant of the sad one"

                            • Description:

                              Brenna is a feminine form of the Irish surname Brennan, or perhaps a variation of Brenda or Brendan—all of which have different meanings. Whatever its derivation or authenticity, it's a modern sounding name which has steadily decreased in popularity since 1995 when it peaked at Number 235 in the United States.
                          • Briallen

                            • Origin:

                              Welsh

                            • Meaning:

                              "primrose"

                            • Description:

                              Unusual floral name which would be perfect for a spring baby girl, if you can pronounce the Welsh double L correctly. It's a tricky sound for non-native Welsh speakers, kind of halfway between an H and an L.
                          • Briana

                            • Origin:

                              Feminine variation of Brian

                            • Meaning:

                              "strong, virtuous, honorable"

                            • Description:

                              Spelled this way, Briana was coined by Edmund Spenser for his great literary work, The Faerie Queene, which gives the now-overexposed name a far classier pedigree than it's usually credited with.
                          • Briella

                            • Origin:

                              Short form of Gabriella

                            • Meaning:

                              "God is my strength"

                            • Description:

                              If you feel, as many parents do, that Gabby or Gabi is too harsh a short form for the mellifluous name Gabriella, try Brie, Brielle, or Briella.
                          • Bryna

                            • Description:

                              Bryna is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections, primarily associated with Hebrew and Irish origins. In Hebrew, it relates to the word meaning "blessing" or "she is blessed," while in Irish contexts, it may be a variation of Brenda, derived from Old Norse elements meaning "sword" or "flaming sword." This relatively uncommon name combines brevity with a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more popular options. Bryna has maintained a consistent but low profile in usage patterns, never becoming trendy but persisting as a choice for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. The name's cross-cultural roots give it versatility, allowing it to feel at home in different cultural contexts while maintaining its unique character and meaningful associations.
                          • Barrow
                            • Bellum
                              • Briannyn
                                • Brienn
                                  • Cael

                                    • Origin:

                                      Irish

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "slender"

                                    • Description:

                                      Cael is the name of the angel of the zodiac sign of Cancer and also of a warrior of Irish mythology. Its ascendance to the Top 1000 over the past decade probably has to do with its similarity to Cale and Kale (and Kyle and Cayden etcetera).
                                  • Caia

                                    • Origin:

                                      Latin, feminine variation of Caius

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "to rejoice"

                                    • Description:

                                      Caia Caecilia was the Roman Goddess of fire and women. The name Caia would make a truly fresh alternative to the flagging Maya, with which it rhymes.
                                  • Calista

                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "most beautiful"

                                    • Description:

                                      Spelled with either one 'l' or two, Calista came to the fore in 1997 when Calista Flockhart hit it big as Ally McBeal. Flockhart, who bears her mother's middle name, didn't just introduce a name, she introduced a whole sensibility. Pretty and delicate, Calista is definitely worthy of consideration, especially for parents with Greek roots.
                                  • Calixta

                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "most beautiful"

                                    • Description:

                                      Calista Flockhart may have made her variation of this beautiful Greek name familiar to modern Americans, but the even-edgier x version was the name of an earlier feminist heroine: a character in Kate Chopin's The Storm.
                                  • Calla

                                    • Origin:

                                      Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "beautiful"

                                    • Description:

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

                                    • Origin:

                                      English and Scottish surname

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "son of the marsh dwellers"

                                    • Description:

                                      Carson is one of the most long-running popular androgynous baby names, with a dash of the Wild West via the legendary Missouri frontiersman Kit Carson. Dating back to when it was the name of Nancy Drew's Dad, Carson is still steadily in the Top 200 baby names.
                                  • Caspian

                                    • Origin:

                                      Place name

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "white"

                                    • Description:

                                      One of the most romantic of appellations, Caspian is a geographical name referring to the large salty sea between Asia and Europe. It's also the name of the hero of C.S. Lewis's beloved Chronicles of Narnia, Prince Caspian.
                                  • Cassia

                                    • Origin:

                                      Feminine form of Cassius or Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "cinnamon"

                                    • Description:

                                      Cassia is related to the cassia tree, which has yellow flowers and produces a spice that can be a substitute for cinnamon. Keziah, the name of Job’s daughter in the Old Testament, derives from the name of the plant as well. Cassia also has ties to the Ancient Roman name Cassius, an Ancient Roman family name meaning "hollow."
                                  • Cassian

                                    • Origin:

                                      Latin, variation of Cassius

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "hollow"

                                    • Description:

                                      Rugged but gentle at the same time, Cassian is a saintly and stylish choice that was derived from the name Cassius. Before 2017, it was an obscure choice, given to a tiny handful of boys each year. As of 2023, however, it's become one of the top ten fastest-rising names in the US, more than doubling in usage since 2022 and edging closer towards the Top 500.
                                  • Cecilia

                                    • Origin:

                                      Feminine form of Cecil, Latin

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "blind"

                                    • Description:

                                      Cecilia is a lovely classic name deservedly enjoying a new turn in the sun. Always among the Top 500 girls' names in the US, Cecilia is now at its highest point ever.
                                  • Claire

                                    • Origin:

                                      French form of Clara

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "bright, clear"

                                    • Description:

                                      Claire, luminous, simple, and strong, is one of those special names that is familiar yet distinctive, feminine but not frilly, combining historical depth with a modern edge. And though Claire is enjoying revived popularity, it will never be seen as trendy. Claire is also a great middle name choice.
                                  • 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.
                                  • Conrad

                                    • Origin:

                                      German

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "brave counsel"

                                    • Description:

                                      Conrad has a somewhat intellectual masculine image, a solid name that has been consistently on the popularity lists, especially well used in the 1920s and 30s, and given a pop of rock energy by the Elvis-like character of Conrad Birdie in Bye, Bye, Birdie--("We love you Conrad, oh yes we do!").
                                  • Coralyn

                                    • Description:

                                      Coralyn is a feminine name that beautifully combines elements of Cora and the popular suffix "-lyn." It likely emerged as a variation of Coraline or as an elaboration of Cora, which derives from the Greek name Kore, meaning "maiden" and associated with the goddess Persephone. The "-lyn" ending adds a modern, melodic quality while maintaining the name's vintage charm. Coralyn evokes images of classical beauty with a contemporary twist. Though not historically common in naming records, it began gaining modest attention in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as parents sought names that felt both familiar and distinctive. The name carries a delicate, feminine quality with its soft sounds and flowing cadence, appealing to families looking for something with traditional roots yet uncommon enough to stand out.

                                  • Cordelia

                                    • Origin:

                                      Latin; Celtic

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "heart; daughter of the sea"

                                    • Description:

                                      Cordelia is exactly the kind of old-fashioned, grown-up name for girls that many parents are seeking for their daughters today. The name of King Lear's one sympathetic daughter, Cordelia has both style and substance along with its Shakespearean pedigree.
                                  • Cyra

                                    • Origin:

                                      Persian or Greek

                                    • Meaning:

                                      "sun or throne, or lord"

                                    • Description:

                                      Cyra is an unusual name that can be pronounced either SEER-a or SI-ra, rhyming with Keira or Tyra. This name may be a feminine variation of Cyrus but is also a Persian name that stands on its own. One noted bearer is writer Cyra McFadden.
                                  • Calisthme
                                    • Carridwen
                                      • Casme
                                        • Dahlia

                                          • Origin:

                                            Flower name, from Swedish surname

                                          • Meaning:

                                            "Dahl's flower"

                                          • Description:

                                            One of the flower names, used occasionally in Britain (where it's pronounced DAY-lee-a). It seems to have recovered from what was perceived as a slightly affected la-di-dah air. The flower was named in honor of the pioneering Swedish botanist Andreas Dahl, which means dale.
                                        • Declan

                                          • Origin:

                                            Irish, meaning unknown, possible "man of prayer"

                                          • Meaning:

                                            "man of prayer"

                                          • Description:

                                            Declan is the Anglicized form of the Irish name Deaglán. St. Declan was one of the first missionaries to bring Christianity to Ireland, preceding St. Patrick. Originally from Wales, he founded the monastery of Ardmore in Ireland.
                                        • Dejah

                                          • Description:

                                            Dejah is a feminine name that gained recognition primarily through Edgar Rice Burroughs' science fiction series 'John Carter of Mars,' where Dejah Thoris appears as a Martian princess. The name has no clear historical origins before this literary creation, making it essentially a modern invented name. Since its literary introduction, Dejah has gained modest usage, particularly in the United States. The name has an exotic, otherworldly quality while remaining relatively easy to pronounce. Its association with a strong female character from literature gives it connotations of nobility and resilience. Dejah's distinctive sound, with emphasis on the first syllable, makes it stand out while its brevity keeps it accessible and memorable.
                                        • Delanie

                                          • Description:

                                            Delanie is a feminine name with Irish roots, derived from the surname Delaney, which originated from the Gaelic 'Dubh Sláine' meaning 'dark challenger' or 'from the dark river.' It emerged as a first name in the United States during the late 20th century as part of the trend of transforming surnames into given names. Delanie offers a softer, more feminine spelling variation of Delaney. The name combines a traditional heritage with a contemporary feel, appealing to parents seeking names that are distinct without being unusual. Its popularity increased in the early 2000s alongside similar names like Melanie and Stephanie, appreciated for its pleasant sound and subtle uniqueness.
                                        • Dorian

                                          • Origin:

                                            Greek, name of a tribe

                                          • Description:

                                            The Dorians were an ancient Greek tribe, one of the three major pre-Spartan tribes. It literally means "of Doris," a Greek district, or "of Doros," referring to the son of Helen of Sparta. Dorian derives from the Greek doron, meaning "gift," along with related names such as Dorothy and Dora.
                                        • Dresden

                                          • Origin:

                                            German place name

                                          • Meaning:

                                            "people of the forest"

                                          • Description:

                                            Sad tinge to the name of the beautiful German city firebombed during World War II. Its name derives from Sorbian drezga, meaning "forest".
                                        • Dylan

                                          • Origin:

                                            Welsh

                                          • Meaning:

                                            "son of the sea"

                                          • Description:

                                            Dylan still feels poetic and romantic after years of popularity. It still ranks highly on the charts, among the top boy names starting with D, so if you choose it, be aware that yours may not be the only Dylan in his class.
                                        • Dyami
                                          • Echo

                                            • Origin:

                                              Greek mythology name

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "echo or sound"

                                            • Description:

                                              Although this is traditionally seen as a female name, via the classical mythological nymph who pined away for Narcissus until all that remained of her was a disembodied voice — it can also be used for boys. Remember that old song, 'Little sir echo, how do you do?'
                                          • Elias

                                            • Origin:

                                              Greek variation of Elijah, Hebrew

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "Yahweh is God"

                                            • Description:

                                              Strong, charismatic, and sleek, Elias has followed in the footsteps of Elijah and Eli to become a popular choice among parents today.
                                          • Eliora

                                            • Origin:

                                              Hebrew

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "the Lord is my light"

                                            • Description:

                                              A pretty and melodic name of Hebrew origin that combines the elements el referring to God, li meaning "for me", and or meaning "light". The name entered the UK Top 1000 for the first time in 2023, and it's easy to understand why. With its rich vowel sounds and playful elegance, Eliora shares the sounds of other popular choices like Eleanor, Eliana, Aurora, and Elodie, which also remaining distinctive.
                                          • Elise

                                            • Origin:

                                              French variation of Elizabeth

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "pledged to God"

                                            • Description:

                                              Elise is one of those golden names that stylish but not TOO popular. Its appeal is due in large part to its French flair and to the love for El-names in general.
                                          • Elowen

                                            • Origin:

                                              Cornish

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "elm"

                                            • Description:

                                              A beautiful modern Cornish nature name that is rapidly picking up steam in the States: even spawning variant spellings like Elowyn and Elowynn. In its native region, it wasn't widely used as a name before the twentieth century, when the Cornish language was revived. A (currently) unique member of the fashionble El- family of names, it has a pleasant, evocative sound.
                                          • Emblyn

                                            • Origin:

                                              Cornish

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "work"

                                            • Description:

                                              The Cornish version of Emmeline holds many charms.
                                          • Emerson

                                            • Origin:

                                              English

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "son of Emery"

                                            • Description:

                                              The combination of Emily and Emma's popularity -- and the fact that Desperate Housewives star Teri Hatcher's daughter is named Emerson -- have put this formerly strictly boys’ name, embodying the gravitas of Ralph Waldo Emerson, in the limelight for girls.
                                          • Eoin

                                            • Origin:

                                              Irish, variation of John

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "God is gracious"

                                            • Description:

                                              Though Eoin is a Gaelic form of John, its Anglicized pronunciation links it directly to Owen. Eoin is currently a Top 30 name in Ireland. Other variations: Ewan, Ewen, Evan and Eoghan (pronounced as Owen but also translated as Eugene).
                                          • Eos

                                            • Origin:

                                              Greek; Welsh

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "dawn; nightingale"

                                            • Description:

                                              Eos -- that's pronounced with a short e like eros without the r -- is the Greek Titan of the dawn. Any ancient name with a sleek modern feel has definite revival possibilities. Eos could be an inventive way to honor grandma Dawn.
                                          • Evadne

                                            • Origin:

                                              Greek

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "pleasing one"

                                            • Description:

                                              In Greek mythology, Evadne was the daughter of Poseidon. Evadne also appears in literature (Mary Shelley's "The Last Man") and has a pop culture reference as the cousin of Wonder Woman. A more unusual alternative to other Greek "-ee" names like Ariadne, Daphne and Penelope. The trendy "Ev" sound makes this a lovely choice in a world of Evelyns, Evangelines and Everlys.
                                          • Evan

                                            • Origin:

                                              Welsh variation of John

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "God is gracious"

                                            • Description:

                                              Evan has a mellow nice-guy image that has kept it popular, while it has been widely used in Wales since the nineteenth century. And interestingly—and surprisingly—enough, Evan charts highly for boys in France.
                                          • Evander

                                            • Origin:

                                              Scottish; Greek

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "bow warrior; strong man"

                                            • Description:

                                              Evander is a name that could build on the popularity of shorter form Evan, and could work and play well with schoolmates like Zander and Xander.
                                          • Ever

                                            • Origin:

                                              Word name

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "always, eternally, constantly"

                                            • Description:

                                              A simple, unusual word name with an evocative meaning, Ever feels similar enough to Eva, Evelyn, and Everly that it shifts easily into name territory. Actor Robert Carradine was ahead of the trends when he named his now grown-up actress daughter Ever back in the 70s, while more recently, it was used by both Milla Jovovich and Owain Yeoman.
                                          • Everest

                                            • Origin:

                                              Place-name, world's tallest mountain

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "from Évreux"

                                            • Description:

                                              This twist on the popular Everett takes it to lofty heights and gives it a geographical and nature-inspired link. The snow-capped Everest could make a name that stands out without feeling too out there, and it may be seen more often in the classroom (that is, outside of the textbooks) in coming years.
                                          • Everett

                                            • Origin:

                                              English variation of the German Eberhard

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "brave as a wild boar"

                                            • Description:

                                              Everett is a preppy but outdoorsy name, with wintery New England vibes. In the last decade, it’s had a leap in popularity, perhaps because of its similarity to trendy girls’ names like Ava and Scarlett, or perhaps because it offers a fresh alternative to 90’s style Evan and Brett.
                                          • Ezrah

                                            • Origin:

                                              Hebrew, variation of Ezra

                                            • Meaning:

                                              "help"

                                            • Description:

                                              Ezra (and Ezrah) is potentially an abbreviation for the Hebrew phrase Azaryahu, meaning "Yah helps." In the Bible, Ezra led a group of fifteen hundred Israelites out of slavery in Babylon and back to Jerusalem. The Ezrah spelling is definitely less popular than the original Ezra, but is rising itself as well — Ezrah entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2022.
                                          • Emrys
                                            • Ender
                                              • 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.
                                              • Fehren
                                                • Gabriel

                                                  • Origin:

                                                    Hebrew

                                                  • Meaning:

                                                    "God is my strength"

                                                  • Description:

                                                    Gabriel has become a biblical favorite, an angelic choice that's lighter and less patriarchal than some of his Old Testament brethren. Derived from the Hebrew name Gavri’el, Gabriel is taken from the elements gever, meaning "strong," and ’el, in reference to God.
                                                • Genevieve

                                                  • Origin:

                                                    English from French

                                                  • Meaning:

                                                    "tribe woman"

                                                  • Description:

                                                    Genevieve is derived from the Germanic medieval name Genovefa, or Kenowefa, which consists of the elements kuni, meaning "kin", and wefa, meaning "woman." The medieval saint Genevieve, patroness of Paris, defended the city against Attila the Hun through her rational thinking, courage and prayer.
                                                • Gideon

                                                  • Origin:

                                                    Hebrew

                                                  • Meaning:

                                                    "hewer; or, having a stump for a hand"

                                                  • Description:

                                                    Gideon is a no-longer neglected Old Testament name, but still makes an excellent choice for parents looking to move beyond such overused biblicals as Benjamin and Jacob. In the Old Testament, Gideon was a judge called on by God to rescue the Jews from the Midianites, and the name was popular among the Puritans.
                                                • Grayling

                                                  • Description:

                                                    Grayling is an uncommon masculine name with English origins, derived from nature. The name refers to the grayling, a type of freshwater fish found in clear streams and known for its distinctive dorsal fin and silvery-gray coloration. As a given name, Grayling belongs to the category of modern nature-inspired names, similar to River, Brook, or Trout. The suffix "-ling" historically denotes something small or young, adding a gentle quality to the name. Grayling has never achieved widespread popularity as a first name, making it a truly distinctive choice. It appeals to parents seeking an uncommon nature name with a subtle sophistication and connection to wilderness and flowing waters.
                                                • Guinevere

                                                  • Origin:

                                                    Welsh

                                                  • Meaning:

                                                    "white shadow, white wave"

                                                  • Description:

                                                    Guinevere was the name of the beautiful but ill-fated queen of Camelot, for so many years eclipsed by its modern Cornish form Jennifer. Today, Guinevere could be a cool possibility for adventurous parents intrigued by this richly evocative and romantic choice.
                                                • Grayam
                                                  • Hunter

                                                    • Origin:

                                                      English

                                                    • Meaning:

                                                      "one who hunts"

                                                    • Description:

                                                      This surname gained momentum in the 1990s, when it was particularly in vogue for males. However, it seems to be experiencing a surge for females—it was one of the fastest-rising names of 2013, jumping 266 spots back into the Top 1000.
                                                  • Huxley

                                                    • Origin:

                                                      English

                                                    • Meaning:

                                                      "inhospitable place"

                                                    • Description:

                                                      Huxley is definitely rising as a surname name, with its X that makes almost any name cooler. It debuted in the US Top 1000 in 2015. The modern nicknames Hux and Huck certainly don't hurt.
                                                  • Hallow
                                                    • Icarus

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        Greek mythology name

                                                      • Description:

                                                        Icarus, the mythological figure famous for flying too close to the sun, has a couple of negatives: his rash reputation, and those "icky" nicknames.
                                                    • Isaac

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        Hebrew

                                                      • Meaning:

                                                        "laughter"

                                                      • Description:

                                                        Isaac has shaved off his biblical beard and leaped into the upper echelon of popular boys' names, outrunning cousin Isaiah. A favorite of the Puritans, Isaac has never dipped below Number 400 on the US list of top boy names.
                                                    • Isaiah

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        Hebrew

                                                      • Meaning:

                                                        "Salvation of the Lord"

                                                      • Description:

                                                        Isaiah, like brethren Isaac and Elijah, is a once neglected biblical name now firmly back in favor, already surpassing such long-popular Old Testament stalwarts as Aaron and Adam. Isaiah has ranked on the US Top 1000 list for boys every year but two, 1969 and 1970.
                                                    • Keilah

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        Biblical place-name

                                                      • Description:

                                                        A city of the Shephelah that works as a first but you'll be forever explaining why it's not Kayla.
                                                    • Killian

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        Irish

                                                      • Meaning:

                                                        "war strife or church"

                                                      • Description:

                                                        Killian – aka Cillian – is a spirited yet resonant Gaelic name that was borne by several Irish saints and could make a distinctive replacement for the dated Kelly. Kylian is another spelling that's gaining traction, thanks to French soccer star Kylian Mbappé. Possible downsides: an unsavory first syllable and a connection to the trendy brew.
                                                    • Kit

                                                      • Origin:

                                                        English, diminutive of Christopher

                                                      • Meaning:

                                                        "bearer of Christ"

                                                      • Description:

                                                        Actor Kit Harington, aka the dreamy Jon Snow on Game of Thrones, has given this nickname-name new style and appeal for boys. Actress Jodie Foster used it for her son back in the 2000s, while actor Kit Connor of Heartstopper fame may have introduced it to a wider audience.
                                                    • Kaighn
                                                      • Keirnan
                                                        • Lyra

                                                          • Origin:

                                                            Greek

                                                          • Meaning:

                                                            "lyre"

                                                          • Description:

                                                            Lyra is a name with ancient and celestial roots that's finding new popularity thanks to its starring role in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series, seen in the movie The Golden Compass. Simple yet unique, Lyra hits the sweet spot between too popular and too unusual.
                                                        • Lilette
                                                          • Lux
                                                            • Lykos
                                                              • 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.
                                                              • Miles

                                                                • Origin:

                                                                  English form of Milo, Latin and Old German,"soldier or merciful"

                                                                • Meaning:

                                                                  "soldier or merciful"

                                                                • Description:

                                                                  Miles, which has a permanent veneer of cool thanks to jazz great Miles Davis, is a confident and polished boys' name that's an American classic. Always ranking in the US Top 1000, it's been drifting up the charts for the past half century and now ranks at its highest point ever, in the Top 50.
                                                              • Mina

                                                                • Origin:

                                                                  Hindu equivalent of Pisces or diminutive of Wilhelmina, German

                                                                • Meaning:

                                                                  "resolute protection"

                                                                • Description:

                                                                  Most famous as a Dracula victim (where Mina is short for Wilhelmina), Mina is a name that can stand on its own or be a diminutive of any name ending in -mina, most usually Wilhelmina.
                                                              • Misha

                                                                • Origin:

                                                                  Russian, diminutive of Mikhail

                                                                • Description:

                                                                  Brought into the American consciousness as the nickname of ballet great Mikhail Baryshnikov, it more recently took on a unisex air via TV and screen actress Mischa Barton. Could become the next Sasha.
                                                              • Maelani
                                                                • McKenna
                                                                  • Northcliff

                                                                    • Origin:

                                                                      English

                                                                    • Meaning:

                                                                      "northern cliff"

                                                                    • Description:

                                                                      Stick with North.
                                                                  • Nikolae
                                                                    • Olympia

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Greek

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "from Mount Olympus"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        With its relation to Mount Olympus, home of the Greek gods, and to the Olympic games, this name has an athletic, goddess-like aura, making it the perfect Olivia substitute.
                                                                    • Orion

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Greek

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "boundary, limit"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Orion is a rising star, with both mythical and celestial overtones.
                                                                    • Phoenix

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Arizona place-name and Greek

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "dark red"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Effortlessly cool with a hint of the mystical, Phoenix rolls a lot of trends into one: it's a place-name and a bird name, it ends in the stylish letter x, it's got in-built nicknames, and it's unisex too. Familiar but not over-popular, Phoenix ranks in the US and UK Top 1000s.
                                                                    • Raina

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Slavic and German variation of Regina

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "queen"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Strong and solid, with a touch of foreign intrigue, it's the most popular of the rain-related names, with a variety of pronunciations—RAY-na, rah-EE-na, or RY-na. Alternate spellings Reyna and Rayna currently rank higher in the US.
                                                                    • Ransom

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        English

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "shield's son"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Ransom may be rakish and handsome, but it carries an unavoidable association with holding someone for ransom. But that kind of bad boy image might be exactly what attracts you to Ransom in the first place.
                                                                    • Reid

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        English

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "red-haired"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        The Reid spelling is the most popular by half, probably because it feels more like a name than Reed, which looks more like a word. It's used occasionally for girls but this name is firmly in the boys' camp.
                                                                    • Rhonwen

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Welsh

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "slender, fair"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        The delicate and haunting Welsh Rhonwen is still a rarity in the U.S., where her English version Rowena is better known, but would be a lovely choice for any parent in search of a name that was both unusual and traditional, classically feminine yet strong.
                                                                    • Rhys

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Welsh

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "ardor"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        There's Rhys and there's Reese (now more popular for girls) and there's Reece, and we particularly like the traditional Welsh spelling, which entered the list in 2004, possibly influenced by Jonathan Rhys Meyers, of The Tudors, and Welsh-born actor Rhys Ifans.
                                                                    • Roan

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Spelling variation of Rowan

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "little redhead"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Warm-hued spelling spin on Rowan that was chosen by Sharon Stone for one of her three young sons.
                                                                    • Roman

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Latin

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "citizen of Rome"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Roman is an ancient name trending in a major way. A surprise hit name of recent years, Roman now ranks in the Top 100 not only in the US but throughout the English-speaking world, and is rising in other European countries as well.
                                                                    • Roux

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        French from Latin

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "russet"

                                                                      • Description:

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

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Spelling variation of Rowan, Scottish and Irish

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "rowan tree; little redhead"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        While the Rowan spelling is in the Top 1000 for both boys and girls, this spelling is much more unusual though maintains the same gender split at nearly four boy Rowens for every girl.
                                                                    • Ruby

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        Latin

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "deep red precious stone"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        Vibrant, sassy, and bubbly, Ruby is a vintage gem that hasn’t lost any of its sparkle. Currently popular in a number of English-speaking countries, Ruby is proof of the 100 Year Rule, trending again for the first time since its heyday in the 1910s.
                                                                    • 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.
                                                                    • Ryker

                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                        German

                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                        "rich"

                                                                      • Description:

                                                                        As a stylish name, Ryker has three big things going for it: its Ry beginning (as in Riley, Ryder, and Rylan), its two-syllable rhythm, and its er ending. A nice surprise for many is it's "rich" meaning. While this may not be a factor beyond New York City, there is an infamous prison there called Riker's Island. Ryker is one of the trendiest German names for boys in the US.
                                                                    • Raiah
                                                                      • Samson

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Hebrew

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "sun"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          With the prevailing popularity of Samuel, some parents are considering this more (literally) powerful biblical name, which shares the desirable nickname of Sam.
                                                                      • Samuel

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Hebrew

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "told by God"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          Samuel has been so popular for so long that it's hard to believe it's still climbing, at its highest point since the 1890s.
                                                                      • Sasha

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Russian, diminutive of Greek Alexander

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "defending men"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          Sasha, largely male in Russia--and also spelled Sascha and Sacha--is an energetic name that has really taken off for girls here, chosen by Jerry Seinfeld (using the alternate Sascha spelling) and other celebs. The Barack Obamas use it as the nickname for their younger daughter, whose proper name is Natasha. But in line with a trend toward softer-sounding boys' names like Asher and Joshua and thanks to Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen, Sasha also still has life as a boys' name too--it's popular in France for boys and girls almost equally.
                                                                      • Sayre

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          Sayre is an uncommon masculine name with English origins, primarily derived from an occupational surname for a woodcutter or carpenter. It comes from the Middle English word 'saghiere' meaning 'sawyer.' Alternatively, it may have originated as a place name, referring to someone from Sayre in Essex, England. The place name derives from Old English elements meaning 'stream where sea trout are caught.' As a first name, Sayre has a distinguished, somewhat aristocratic feel with its clean, simple sound and unique spelling. Though never widely popular in the United States, it appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical roots and a contemporary sound.
                                                                      • Scarlet

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Color name

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          The Scarlet spelling makes it less a name, less Gone With The Wind and Scarlett Johansson, and more the bright red color that inspired it in the first place.
                                                                      • Seeley

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          English

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "blessed, happy"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          Surname name with an uplifting meaning. Just beware that this is a well-known mattress brand.
                                                                      • Selah

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Hebrew

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "praise, pause"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          The name is derived from the term commonly used in the Book of Psalms, which has a many Hebrew scholars in confusion over its meaning. Given its context in the Bible, Selah is likely to mean "to praise" or "pause and reflect upon what has just been said." Lauryn Hill used this name for her daughter. It is the last word in Anita Diamant's novel The Red Tent.
                                                                      • Seraphina

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Hebrew

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "ardent; fiery"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          Seraphina is one of the most-searched name on Nameberry, destined for even greater popularity. The highest-ranking angels, the six-winged seraphim, inspired the lovely name Seraphina.
                                                                      • Sloane

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Irish

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "raider"

                                                                        • Description:

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

                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                          Danish, Norwegian

                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                          "stern"

                                                                        • Description:

                                                                          This gentle Scandinavian name, soft and sensitive, is being discovered in a major way by parents in the US. It's most closely identified with the nineteenth century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, but there have been modern fictional Sorens as well, in The Matrix Reloaded and the book series Guardians of Ga'Hoole, Charlie and Lola, and Underworld.
                                                                      • Saegan
                                                                        • Saith
                                                                          • Stockholm
                                                                            • Tobias

                                                                              • Origin:

                                                                                Greek from Hebrew

                                                                              • Meaning:

                                                                                "God is good"

                                                                              • Description:

                                                                                Tobias is one of a number of s-ending boys' names that are riding a wave of popularity. With its Old Testament-Dickensian feel, it's a name with a distinguished pedigree.
                                                                            • Tesla
                                                                              • Vallon
                                                                                • Veo
                                                                                  • Voilet
                                                                                    • Wren

                                                                                      • Origin:

                                                                                        English

                                                                                      • Meaning:

                                                                                        "small bird"

                                                                                      • Description:

                                                                                        Wren, a lilting songbird name, could be the next Robin. Wren entered the Top 1000 for the first time in 2012 and is among the new wave of popular English names for girls.
                                                                                    • Wilde
                                                                                      • Xanthia

                                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                                          Variation of Xanthe, Greek

                                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                                          "golden, yellow"

                                                                                        • Description:

                                                                                          Xanthia gets this classic Greek name closer to the modern Cynthia, sometimes used as its Anglo equivalent.
                                                                                      • Xenia

                                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                                          Greek

                                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                                          "hospitable, welcoming, guest"

                                                                                        • Description:

                                                                                          The name of a Christian saint and a city in Ohio, Xenia is one of the more accessible and intriguing x names. It is the name of one of the Bond Girls--played by Famke Janssen in the film "GoldenEye."
                                                                                      • Zora

                                                                                        • Origin:

                                                                                          Serbo-Croatian

                                                                                        • Meaning:

                                                                                          "dawn"

                                                                                        • Description:

                                                                                          Zora is a meaningful literary heroine name honoring Zora Neale Hurston, an important black writer and leader of the Harlem Renaissance.
                                                                                      • Zaccai