These Unusual Girl's Names Exploded in Popularity Last Year!

Trending Baby Girl Names: The Rising Stars of 2023 in the US

Naming trends offer a fascinating glimpse into cultural shifts and the evolving tastes of new parents. The latest data on baby names reveals some intriguing changes from 2022 to 2023. 

Let's explore the names that have surged in popularity and what might be driving these trends.

Top Gainers in Female Baby Names

1. Kaeli

Rank Change: +1692

   - 2023 Rank: 678

   - 2022 Rank: 2370

   - Why it’s trending: Kaeli’s dramatic rise could be attributed to its modern, melodic sound and the trend towards unique spellings of familiar names. It's like traditional Kayley but with a new age vibe.

2. Alitzel

Rank Change: +1512

   - 2023 Rank: 871

   - 2022 Rank: 2383

   - Why it’s trending: Alitzel’s unique and exotic appeal makes it a standout choice for parents looking for something distinctive. Litzy would be a cute nickname idea.

3. Emryn

Rank Change: +1287

   - 2023 Rank: 888

   - 2022 Rank: 2175

   - Why it’s trending: Emryn’s rise can be linked to the popularity of names ending in ‘-yn’ or ‘-en’, which have a modern and trendy feel.

4. Adhara

Rank Change: +812

   - 2023 Rank: 769

   - 2022 Rank: 1581

   - Why it’s trending:Adhara’s celestial connection (it’s a star in the constellation Canis Major) adds a touch of cosmic charm that appeals to many parents.

5. Azari

Rank Change: +715

   - 2023 Rank: 695

   - 2022 Rank: 1410

   - Why it’s trending: Azari’s unique sound and cultural richness make it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with depth and meaning.

Noteworthy Mentions

- Kya (+479): Kya’s simple yet striking sound is gaining popularity for its modern and fresh feel. It could also be spelled Kaia.

- Ivey (+437): A nature-inspired name, Ivey’s rise reflects the trend towards botanical names. It is also a spelling variation for the more popular name Ivy which gives a sense of individuality. 

- Scottie (+306): Traditionally a nickname, Scottie’s use as a standalone name is becoming more common, adding a playful and unique option for parents.

- Maisy (+196): With its vintage charm, Maisy is making a comeback as parents look for names that are both classic and cute.

- Tallulah (+182): Tallulah’s whimsical and lyrical quality makes it a favorite among parents looking for a name with personality.

Cultural and Media Influences

Names like Adhara and Azari might be seeing a boost due to their unique and exotic appeal, often highlighted in popular media and literature. The influence of media on naming trends is significant, as parents often draw inspiration from their favorite characters and celebrities.

Unique and Modern Choices

Names such as Kaeli and Alitzel reflect a broader trend towards unique, meaningful names that carry a sense of individuality and purpose. These names allow girls to truly be one of a kind and have strong statements of identity.

Conclusion

The names that have risen in popularity from 2022 to 2023 showcase a blend of cultural influences, media impact, and a desire for unique, meaningful names. Whether it’s the modern, melodic sound of Kaeli or the celestial charm of Adhara, these names are setting trends and making statements. 

As we move forward, it will be exciting to see how these trends evolve and what new names will capture the hearts of parents around the world. 

Trending: Baby Boy Names That Skyrocketed in Popularity Last Year

Trending Baby Names for Boys: The Rising Stars of 2023 that Skyrocketed in Use in the USA

Naming trends can tell us a lot about cultural shifts, emerging influences, and the evolving tastes of new parents. The latest data on baby names reveals some fascinating changes from 2022 to 2023. 

Let's explore the names that have skyrocketed in popularity and what might be driving these trends.

Top Gainers in Male Baby Names

1. Izael

 Rank Change: +860

   - 2023 Rank: 806

   - 2022 Rank: 1666

   - Why it’s trending: Izael’s dramatic rise could be attributed to its unique sound and the growing popularity of names with a strong, distinctive flair. It has a biblical vibe but also a unique and modern style.

2. Chozen

Rank Change: +666

   - 2023 Rank: 813

   - 2022 Rank: 1479

   - Why it’s trending: Chozen’s appeal lies in its modern, empowering connotation. It’s a name that stands out and signifies a sense of purpose and destiny. And who doesn't want to be "the chosen one"?

3. Eiden

Rank Change: +590

   - 2023 Rank: 890

   - 2022 Rank: 1480

   - Why it’s trending: Eiden’s rise can be linked to the trend of names ending in ‘-en’ or ‘-an’, which have been popular for their soft yet strong sound. Aidan/Aiden and all the other -ayden names were super popular for years and then declined in use, but Eiden is just feels slightly different.

4. Cassian

Rank Change: +403

   - 2023 Rank: 533

   - 2022 Rank: 936

   - Why it’s trending: Cassian has a classic yet contemporary feel, possibly influenced by characters in popular media and literature. It is cool but also sophisticated, and could appeal to a variety of parents.

5. Kyren

Rank Change: +391

   - 2023 Rank: 940

   - 2022 Rank: 1331

   - Why it’s trending: Kyren’s unique spelling and stylish vibe make it a favorite among parents looking for something fresh and distinctive. It is reminiscent of popular past choices like Kyle, but definitely modernized. 

Noteworthy Mentions

- Kaizen (+317): Reflecting the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement, Kaizen is a name that symbolizes growth and progress.

- Jahmir (+267): With its melodic sound, Jahmir is gaining traction for its cultural richness and modern appeal.

- Ezrah (+245): A variant of the classic Ezra, Ezrah’s rise highlights the trend of adding a twist to traditional names.

- Rhodes (+216): Evoking images of strength and history, Rhodes is becoming a popular choice for its timeless yet trendy feel.

- Kylian(+179): This name’s surge could be influenced by famous personalities, such as the French footballer Kylian Mbappé.

Cultural and Media Influences

Names like Cassian and Kyro might be seeing a boost due to their appearances in popular TV shows, movies, or books. The influence of media on naming trends cannot be overstated, as parents often draw inspiration from their favorite characters and celebrities.

Unique and Modern Choices

Names such as Chosen and Kaizen reflect a broader trend towards unique, meaningful names that carry a sense of individuality and purpose. These names are not just labels but statements of identity and aspiration.

Conclusion

The names that have risen in popularity from 2022 to 2023 showcase a blend of cultural influences, media impact, and a desire for unique, meaningful names. Whether it’s the strong, distinctive sound of Izael or the modern, empowering vibe of Chozen, these names are setting trends and making statements. As we move forward, it will be exciting to see how these trends evolve and what new names will capture the hearts of parents around the world.

Would you ever consider any of these names? Have you heard anything similar on children you know?

From Liam to Luna: These Were The Hottest Baby Names of 2023

Top Trending Baby Names in the US from Births in 2023 According to the Social Security Administration 

Choosing the perfect name for your baby is a significant decision, and many parents look to current trends for inspiration. In 2023, certain names have captured the hearts of parents across the United States. 

Let's dive into the top ten trending baby names for boys and girls and explore what makes them so popular.

Top 10 Baby Boy Names

1. Liam: A name of Irish origin meaning "strong-willed warrior," Liam has been a favorite for several years due to its simplicity and strength. It could be used to honor a William.

2. Noah: This biblical name, meaning "rest" or "comfort," continues to be a top choice for its timeless appeal.

3. Oliver: With roots in Latin, meaning "olive tree," Oliver is beloved for its classic yet modern feel. It works great for any age.

4. James: A traditional name of Hebrew origin meaning "supplanter," James remains a steadfast favorite. Nicknames can include Jim, Jimmy, or Jem. 

5. Elijah: Another biblical name, Elijah means "Yahweh is my God" and is cherished for its spiritual significance. Could be shortened to the stylish Eli.

6. Mateo: This Spanish form of Matthew, meaning "gift of God," is gaining popularity for its cultural richness and versatility.

7. Theodore: Meaning "gift of God" in Greek, Theodore is appreciated for its vintage charm and the cute nicknames Theo or Teddy.

8. Henry: A name of German origin meaning "ruler of the household," Henry is favored for its regal and historical connotations. Hank is a fun nickname option, or the more common Harry.

9. Lucas: Derived from the Latin name Lucius, meaning "light," Lucas is a bright and cheerful choice. It is commonly shortened to Luke. 

10. William: A classic name of Germanic origin meaning "resolute protector," William has a timeless appeal. Could be shortened to Will, Bill, Billy, or Liam.

Top 10 Baby Girl Names

1. Olivia: Of Latin origin, meaning "olive tree," Olivia is admired for its elegance and grace. Often shortened to the strong nickname Liv.

2. Emma: This German name, meaning "universal," is loved for its simplicity and timeless beauty. 

3. Charlotte: A French name meaning "free man," Charlotte is popular for its royal connections and sophisticated sound. In full, or with Charlie or Lottie as a nickname, Charlotte is a delight.

4. Amelia: With German roots meaning "work," Amelia is cherished for its vintage charm and modern appeal. It provides the potential nicknames Amy, Mia, and Lia.

5. Sophia: A Greek name meaning "wisdom," Sophia is favored for its classic and elegant feel.

6. Mia: This short and sweet name of Latin origin means "mine" and is adored for its simplicity.

7. Isabella: Of Hebrew origin, meaning "pledged to God," Isabella is loved for its romantic and melodic sound. Possibly shortened to Izzy or Bella, this name is versatile.

8. Ava: A name of Latin origin meaning "life," Ava is appreciated for its brevity and beauty.

9. Evelyn: This English name, meaning "desired," is popular for its vintage charm and modern resurgence. Many parents enjoy Evie as a nickname. 

10. Luna: Of Latin origin, meaning "moon," Luna is adored for its celestial and mystical qualities.

 

Trends and Insights

Several trends are evident in the top baby names of 2023. Many parents are opting for names with historical and biblical significance, reflecting a desire for timeless and meaningful choices. Names with vintage charm, such as Theodore and Amelia, are also making a strong comeback, indicating a trend towards classic elegance.

Additionally, names with cultural richness, like Mateo and Isabella, are gaining popularity, showcasing a growing appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds. Short and sweet names like Mia and Ava continue to be favored for their simplicity and ease of pronunciation.

Conclusion

The top trending baby names of 2023 reflect a blend of tradition, cultural appreciation, and modern elegance. Whether you're looking for a name with historical significance, cultural richness, or simple beauty, these names offer a wealth of inspiration for your little one's name.

Which names do you think will make this list for 2024? 

--

Source: 10/5/2024

(1) Most popular baby names of 2024 - BabyCenter. https://www.babycenter.com/baby-names/most-popular/top-baby-names-2024.

(2) Top 1000 Baby Names of 2024 - TheBump.com. https://www.thebump.com/b/most-popular-baby-names.

(3) Top baby names of 2024: See the predictions - TODAY. https://bing.com/search?q=trending+baby+names+US+2024.

(4) Baby Name Trends for 2024 – BabyNames.com. https://babynames.com/blogs/names/baby-name-trends-for-2024/.

(5) Top baby names of 2024: See the predictions - TODAY. https://www.today.com/parents/babies/baby-name-trends-2024-rcna128785.

(6) 350+ Most Popular Baby Names 2024: Top Trends and Ideas - Parade. https://parade.com/969021/marynliles/popular-baby-names/.

The Great Long List of Excellent Name Ideas for Modern Girls [Part Two]

For anyone considering baby names for a future daughter, finding the right choice isn't always the easiest task. There are many factors at play, including how the name sounds and flows with your surname, potential nicknames, the name's popularity, ease of spelling and pronunciation, and the name's meaning.

All of these aspects are things that should be considered when choosing a name for a child. However, some people just need somewhere to start before delving deeper. If you're in need of a launch pad, consider this list a great beginning.

Last week we took a look at names starting with A-M, all of which would be great for a modern girl. Now, browse these names from N-Z for even more inspiration!

Naomi
Natalie
Natasha

Nell
Niamh
Nicole
Noelle
Noa
Nola
Nora
Norah
Nova
Octavia
Odelia
Odessa
Odette
Olive
Olivia
Olivine
Olympia
Oona
Ophelia
Ottilie
Ottoline
Paige
Paisley
Pearl
Penelope
Peony
Phaedra
Philippa
Phoebe
Piper
Poppy
Priscilla
Primrose
Quilla
Quinn
Quintessa
Raphaela
Raven
Rebecca
Reese
Rhiannon
Riley
Romy
Rosalie
Rosalind
Rose
Rosemary
Rowan
Ruby
Ruth
Sabrina
Sadie
Sage
Scarlett
Selena
Serena
Shayla
Shelby
Sienna
Sierra
Skye
Sophia
Sophie
Stella
Summer
Susannah
Sybil
Sylvia
Sylvie
Tallulah
Tamsin
Tatiana
Tatum
Tessa
Thalia
Thea
Theodora
Thora
Ulla
Ulyana
Ulyssa
Uma
Una
Uriela
Valentina
Valerie
Vanessa
Verity
Veronica
Victoria
Vienna
Viola
Violet
Viviana
Vivienne
Willa
Willow
Winter
Wren
Wynne
Xanthe
Xenia
Yesenia
Ygritte
Yveline
Yvette
Zara
Zelda
Zinnia
Zoey

What other names would you add to the list?

The Great Long List of Excellent Name Ideas for Modern Girls [Part One]

Are you expecting a daughter? Surely you have pondered names, by now. Finding the right choice isn't as easy as one would hope. There are many factors at play, including how the name sounds and flows with your surname, potential nicknames, the name's popularity, ease of spelling and pronunciation, and the name's meaning.

All of these aspects are things that should be considered when choosing a name for a child. However, some people just need somewhere to start before delving deeper. If you're in need of a launch pad, consider this list a great beginning. Below is a list of girl names from A-M that would be beautiful on a modern girl. If you can't find something you like here, wait for the next article that covers N-Z.

Adele

Adeline
Agatha
Ainsley
Alexandra
Alice
Amelia
Antonia
Aria
Athena
Audrey
Augusta
Aurora
Aveline
Azalea
Bailey
Beatrice
Bellamy
Belle
Bethany
Bianca
Blair
Blythe
Briar
Brielle
Bronwyn
Brynn
Bryony
Caia
Calista
Calliope
Camila
Camille
Cara
Caroline
Cecily
Celeste
Charlotte
Claire
Clementine
Colette
Cora
Coralie
Cordelia
Corinne
Dahlia
Daisy
Daphne
Darcy
Delaney
Delphina
Diana
Dorothea
Dorothy
Eden
Elaine
Eleanor
Elise
Elizabeth
Elodie
Eloise
Elowen
Elsa
Emilia
Esme
Estella
Eulalia
Evelyn
Everly
Faith
Faye
Felicity
Fiona
Florence
Frances
Gabrielle
Gemma
Genevieve
Georgia
Giselle
Grace
Gwen
Hadley
Hannah
Harper
Harriet
Hazel
Helena
Imogen
Ingrid
Iris
Isabelle
Isla
Ivy
Jade
Jane
Johannah
Jolie
Josephine
Juliet
June
Juniper
Kaia
Kara
Kate
Katherine
Katrina
Keira
Kendall
Keturah
Laurel
Lena
Leonora
Lila
Lillian
Lily
Lola
Lorelei
Louise
Lucille
Lucy
Luella
Luna
Lysandra
Madeline
Maeve
Magnolia
Maisie
Maren
Margot
Marigold
Marjorie
Marlowe
Matilda
Mavis
Mia
Mila
Molly

What do you think of this list? Hopefully it gives you some inspiration and a place to start. Check out N-Z next week!

Baby Naming Consultation Services Help Expecting Parents Find (And Agree On) A Name for Their Baby for a Surprisingly Low Price!

Service Review: The Art of Naming – A Personalized Baby Naming Experience

by: Fiona Kerrington

September 2024

Naming a baby is one of the most significant decisions new parents face. From balancing family traditions to finding a name that feels right for the future, the process can feel overwhelming. 

Enter The Art of Naming, a baby-naming service that has been helping parents find the perfect name since 2013. As someone who recently experienced this service, I’m eager to share how this expert-driven approach can bring clarity and confidence to the baby-naming journey.

What is The Art of Naming?

The Art of Naming is designed to help parents who may be struggling to choose a baby name. Whether it’s finding a name that fits with your last name, needing a fresh perspective, or finding a balance between personal preferences and family influences, this service has you covered. With a detailed, thoughtful process, the expert behind the service offers personalized recommendations tailored to your needs.

Who is the Expert Naming Consultant? 

The expert behind The Art of Naming is Kara Jones, and she has been passionate about names for as long as she can remember. As a mother who has named three humans herself, she has personally experienced the joys and challenges of naming children. Since launching her blog and naming services in 2013, she has helped over 50 parents find the perfect name, earning glowing testimonials and even repeat clients. With professional writing experience on Nameberry.com and connections with some of the most renowned baby namers in the world, her expertise is highly sought after in the baby-naming community. 

Though she took a hiatus from the website for a few years after going through a divorce and losing access to her original site data, she’s bounced back stronger. Despite these challenges, her passion for names never waned, and she is fully equipped with fresh insights and qualifications to help others find the perfect name for their little ones.

Here’s a snapshot of what they can help with:

- Finding names that pair well with your surname

- Narrowing down options to help parents reach an agreement

- Offering fresh suggestions if you’re stuck in a rut

- Advising on name regrets and offering new options if needed

The Process and What to Expect

When you sign up for The Art of Naming, you fill out a detailed questionnaire that dives deep into your naming preferences and challenges. The more information you provide, the better the name suggestions will be. Here’s a breakdown of the key questions:

- Gender preference: Are you looking for boy names, girl names, or both because the gender is unknown? Or do you prefer something unisex that could work for either gender?

- Surname considerations: What will the baby’s last name be, or how does it sound phonetically? This helps ensure the names flow well together.

- Naming challenges: What issues are you facing? Maybe you can’t agree on a name with your partner, or perhaps all the names you love don’t match the last name.

- Current considerations: Which names have you already thought about? Do you have some front-runners, or are they unusable for some reason? Knowing this helps the expert refine suggestions.

- Middle name ideas: Do you have a middle name in mind, or any family names you want to include? This helps create meaningful combinations.

- Specific requirements: Do you have any specific criteria? For example, “The name must start with ‘A’ or have three syllables” or “We’d like the name to not end in ‘N.’”

- Sibling names: If this isn’t your first child, do you want the name to match the style of their siblings or be distinct? How important is that to you?

- Style and origin: Are you drawn to vintage names, nature-inspired names, or something with cultural significance? Do name meanings matter to you? Do you and your partner come from different ethnicities and need help finding a name that works for both sides of the family?

- Popularity preferences: How popular do you want the name to be? Options range from “very popular” (Top 100) to “unusual/rare” (not in the Top 1000).

The questionnaire is designed to capture every aspect of your naming preferences, making sure the suggestions are truly tailored to your situation.

What You Get

Once you submit the form, The Art of Naming works on a personalized name list for you. Here’s what you’ll receive:

1. Name assessment: A review of the names you’re already considering, with thoughts on how they fit your criteria and flow with the last name.

2. Customized list: Additional names tailored to your preferences, with a mix of fresh ideas and hidden gems you might not have considered.

3. First and middle name combinations: Suggestions that flow well with your last name, giving you a comprehensive outlook.

4. Top 10 picks: The expert’s personal favorites for you, which are designed to match your style, requirements, and vision.

5. Unlimited email communication: The service doesn’t end after the first list—you can go back and forth via email until you’re confident with your choice.

My Experience

The questionnaire itself was incredibly thorough. After submitting it, I felt confident that the expert had all the information needed to provide tailored suggestions. They really took into account everything we shared—from our surname to our preference for uncommon names with a vintage touch. 

The name suggestions felt personal, thoughtful, and aligned with our style. We even received creative first and middle name pairings we hadn’t thought of. The expert also reassured us that we could take our time—having unlimited email communication meant we didn’t feel rushed to decide right away. The support was consistent throughout the process, and we felt genuinely heard.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed with baby names, The Art of Naming offers a well-organized, deeply personalized service. It’s reasonably priced at only $40, and you get expert-level attention and care in finding the perfect name for your baby. From thoughtful combinations to new ideas, this service takes the guesswork out of the process.

Verdict: Highly recommended!

The Art of Naming brings expertise, creativity, and a personal touch that transforms a stressful decision into an enjoyable experience. Whether you’re just starting the name search or need help refining your options, this service can help you find that perfect name with confidence.

Get started by filling out their questionnaire and discover the perfect name for your little one today!

What Should I Name Liam's Little Brother?

Liam has been the #1 name in America since 2017 and is well loved by many around the world. Did you choose it for your son?  Is it a name that you like?

If so, you may be considering his potential future siblings and what you'd name Liam's little brother. Future names are definitely something you should think about when naming your first kid.  Now's the time to ponder those options and I'm here to help!

First, as you probably know, Liam is the Irish shortened form of William. According to Behind The Name, it became popular in the United Kingdom in the 1980s, and elsewhere in Europe and the Americas after that. It has only become more popular here in the US.

William comes from the Germanic name Willahelm meaning "will helmet", composed of the elements wil "will, desire" and helm "helmet, protection".  I could launch into a history lesson on all the Williams of the past, but let's continue on.

In the American rankings (since 1880) William has never ranked outside of the top 20, making it one of the most consistently popular names (although it has never reached the top rank). William ranked at #3 in 2018, just shy of Liam's #1, and most recently ranks at #10.

Even though Liam is so popular now, it's still unique in the fact that it is literally the latter half of another name that also ranks just as highly. I cannot find any other names that do the same. The closest I can find is Elijah at #5 and Eli at #80.  Even if you aren't a fan of popular names, you have to admit that Liam is interesting.

So let's get down to business. You don't know what to name your second son.  Here's my Top 10 ideas for you:

1. Luke  If you are a fan of short, nicknamey names, and don't mind alliteration, Luke and Liam would be very cute together. 

2. Miles  These two names share the same "m" and "l" sounds but in opposite order. They are both short but not so similar in style, which means the boys can have their own kind of name while still complementing one another.

3. Aidan   If you are looking for the names to be similar in style, I would choose a popular Irish name. However, the Aidan trend is definitely on its way out the door, so it may actually be perceived as somewhat uncommon now after the fact. 

4. Connor  Again, a common but solid Irish name would pair nicely with Liam. Liam and Connor don't share any of the same sounds, but they work well for brothers. 

5. Ethan  Both of these names feel vowel-dominant and popular without being dated. Something about their vibe make them match without being too similar.

6. Cole  Cole comes from Nicholas. Not quite in the same way that Liam comes from William, but very close. Liam and Cole would work well for brothers on many levels. They are both four letter names, contain the letter "l" and come from longer more traditional names. Win-win!

7. Logan  Liam and Logan sound good together for their alliteration with that "L" sound, and also since "m" and "n" are so similar in sound, they have near-alliteration at the end too without it being exact. 

8. Noah  If Liam is the number one name in the country, Noah is his right-hand man at number two. If you already went popular, might as well do the same for your second son. Liam and Noah are vowel-dominant four-letter names at the top of the stack. They work perfectly.

9. Wyatt Another popular choice that just vibes well with Liam. They don't really share any sounds, but they work, ya know? Sometimes it is nice to have a clear distinction in sound.

10.  Levi  Last but not least, Liam and Levi also pair well for many reasons. For parents who do like similar sounds, they both start with the same "LEE" sound, but have very different ending sounds. This may be too much for some parents, but it may be perfect for others. But keep in mind:

The more different the first two childrens' names are, the easier it is to pick a third. Try to think ahead if you were to have a third son. I hope these suggestions help!