Every minute, 250 babies are born! While no two are exactly alike, they all have one thing in common: a name.
As parents hold their brand new bundle of joy, they think about the perfect name for their babe. It’s an exciting decision, but can be stressful for some!
So if you're lying in bed every night wondering “what should I name my baby," don't worry! We're here to help. Our baby-naming guide will help you select a name that's right for you and your little one. Check out our tips for baby naming in 2021:
Baby Naming Advice
Look to your family tree
There's probably a ton of baby-naming help located on the branches of your family tree. Look in your parents' family records or see if a relative has created an online genealogical registry. You may find a family member’s name that you love and holds special meaning for your relatives. Or just talk to some of your older relatives!
Honor your culture
Your family's culture may inspire your baby's name. Online baby name databases are a good place to find the perfect one that pays homage to your culture. What about Eugenie for a French-inspired baby girl name? Or Rohan for a baby boy of Indian descent?
Think about nicknames
Keep in mind that many names have traditional, shortened nicknames associated with it. Regardless of what you and your family call your little one, someone along the way -- a teacher, an uncle, a well-intentioned coach -- might insist on using the shortened form. Maybe you love the name "Robert," but hate "Robbie.” It’s very likely that others will refer to him with this common nickname anyway. The same holds true of names with common diminutive versions like William (Billy), Richard (Dick), or Charles (Chuck).
Middle names matter
Your child's middle name may seem like an afterthought, but it’s still important and can be a fun part of choosing a full name! A middle name can act as an alternative to a child’s first name, or can be a great way to use traditional family names.
Be mindful of initials
Many parents have overlooked the importance of initials until it's time to have baby gear monogrammed. That's when they realize their babe's initials spell "RAT" or "EGG." Something to keep in mind!
Always look up meanings
You may fall in love with a name even more once you learn its origin! For example, the name Aiden is of Irish origin and means "little and firey.” The name Katie is of Greek origin and means “pure.” How adorable would it be to give your child a name with such a beautiful meaning?
Don't stress too much
While it's important, don't worry too much about choosing a name for your new baby. If you realize you've made a mistake after baby arrives, you have options. Use your babe’s middle name or create a cute nickname. Worst case scenario? You can legally have your baby's name changed to something you like better.
Choosing a name
Timeless baby names
Here are a few examples of names that transcend generations and are suitable for both your little and the adult they’ll become!
- Amelia
- Nora
- Cameron
- Susannah
- Mitchell
- Simon
- Clark
- Nicholas
- Alice
- Claire
Eccentric baby names
In 2012, about a third of parents chose a name outside the Top 1000 baby names, as compiled by the Social Security Administration. If this sounds like you, consider these unusual names. (Perhaps choose a middle name that's a little less avant-garde?)
- Stormy
- Namaste
- Croix
- Brando
- Achilles
- Falco
- Oleander
- Gemini
- Bijou
- Calliope
Unique names with growing popularity
The sweet spot for many new parents is a name that's relatively rare but isn't too far out of bounds. Here are some options:
- Elliot
- Harper
- McKenna
- Calvin
- Juliette
- Sebastian
- Emery
- Foster
- Hayden
- Delaney
Tried and true baby names
These well-known baby names continue to stay at the top of the popularity charts. Consider the names that top the list of the Social Security Administration's top names over the last 100 years. The top five boys' and girls' names are:
- James
- John
- Robert
- Michael
- William
- Mary
- Patricia
- Jennifer
- Linda
- Elizabeth
Baby name generators for brainstorming
If you need a little more inspo, a baby name generator can be helpful (and fun)! These online tools work in a variety of ways to suggest names for you. Some let you enter names that you like to build a list of options while others pair baby’s last name with potential first and middle names. Some popular generators include:
Picking your babe's name is one of the most important and exciting things you'll do during your pregnancy. It can be a lot of fun! We hope this baby-naming guide helps you narrow down your choices and get one step closer to your baby's due date.