Popular Baby Names with Meanings
Browse the names parents love right now, for girls and boys, each with its meaning, origin, and the cultural story behind it.
Before you decide
How to choose a popular name
A few quick checks that help a well-loved name still feel personal.
Look beyond the ranking
Read the meaning and origin first. A name you understand will feel more personal than one picked for its position on a list.
Say it out loud
Try it with your last name and any middle name. Listen for flow, initials, and easy nicknames.
Think about classmates
Very popular names may be shared by others in school. If that matters to you, consider a less common spelling or a related name.
FAQ
Popular baby names, answered
How is a baby name's popularity measured?
In the United States, the Social Security Administration publishes yearly rankings based on the names given to babies born that year. Other countries publish their own official lists.
Is it a good idea to choose a very popular name?
It depends on your preference. Popular names are familiar and easy to spell, while less common names stand out more. Many parents pair a popular first name with a more unique middle name.
Why do some names have more than one meaning?
Many names developed separately in different languages and cultures. A name can share the same spelling but come from different roots, so we note the origin with each meaning.
Can I find names from a specific faith here?
Yes. Our Religious Names section covers Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim names with their meanings and context.
