American baby names
Updated: April 9th, 2024
Due to the cultural diversity in America, Americans have a great variation in baby names and naming traditions. In America, names are used to express the personality, the cultural identity, creativity, and the values. As there are very few laws governing given names in America, hence they have freedom to choose a wide variety of names and naming trends.
Traditionally, American baby names were based on the court rulings which is rooted in the Due Process Clause of the fourteenth Amendment and the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment with few restrictions. The naming laws in America vary from state to state. For example, in California there is a ban on diacritical marks, such as in José which is a common Spanish name. They can use only 26 alphabetical characters of the English language. In some other states like Alaska, North Carolina, and Hawaii, accents and some non-English letters are allowed in birth certificates and other documents. While in many US states, personal names with only two symbols that are hyphens and apostrophe are officially allowed.
Look through the gigantic list of American baby names.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZAlice
From the German Adalhaidis, meaning "noble," this literary classic gained modern charm thanks to Alice in Wonderland and widespread use across Europe.
Elizabeth
From the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning “pledged to God,” this royal and biblical name remains a timeless favorite with endless nickname options.
William
From Germanic roots meaning “resolute protection,” William has been a royal and literary name for centuries.
Margaret
Greek in origin and meaning "pearl," Margaret has a royal history and many nicknames, from Maggie to Greta.
Louis
French and German for “renowned warrior,” this royal favorite gained renewed attention through Prince Louis.
Charlotte
The French feminine form of Charles, meaning "free man," it’s a royal favorite and a global top pick with nicknames like Lottie.
Andrew
Known for its biblical association as the name of one of Jesus's first apostles. It's a patron saint's name for Scotland, Russia, and Greece, and has been popular among various cultures.
Ruby
From the Latin for the red gemstone, Ruby is a vintage name with fire.
Oscar
With Irish and Norse roots, Oscar means “deer-lover” or “God spear.”
Eleanor
With debated roots, possibly from alia Aenor or Germanic elements, Eleanor means “shining light” and came to England via Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Hazel
Taken from the hazelnut tree, this nature-inspired English name has vintage roots and literary associations.
Rose
Latin for the flower, Rose has bloomed for centuries and remains a favorite for its grace and simplicity.
Grace
This Latin virtue name meaning “favor” or “blessing” is made iconic by Princess Grace Kelly.
Christopher
From Greek, this classic means “bearer of Christ” and honors the patron saint of travelers.
Matthew
Derived from Hebrew, it means “gift of God” and has remained a strong, steady choice for decades.
Emma
Meaning “universal” in German, this royal classic surged in popularity after being chosen on Friends and by stars like Emma Watson.
Alexander
Derived from Greek element "aléxein," mainly associated with Macedonian king, Alexander the Great
Anthony
It evolved from Antony, possibly influenced by the Greek word "anthos" (flower). Popular in various cultures, it's known for its versatility and classic charm, with notable bearers like Anthony Hopkins and Tony Hawk.
Emily
Latin in origin and meaning “rival” or “industrious,” Emily reigned as the top girls’ name for a generation and still shines in pop culture.
Beatrice
With Latin roots meaning "she who brings happiness," Beatrice shines in literature, royalty, and vintage revivals.
Audrey
An English name meaning "noble strength," it was revived by Audrey Hepburn and stems from the Anglo-Saxon Aethelthryth.
Elsie
A Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth meaning “pledged to God,” Elsie has returned as a lively vintage favorite in both the US and UK.
Nicholas
Greek in origin and meaning “people of victory,” Nicholas connects to saints, czars, and Christmas traditions.
Frances
A Latin-rooted name meaning “from France” or “free man,” Frances has returned with stylish nickname Frankie.
Lucy
This light-filled Latin classic, derived from lux, has been beloved from saints to sitcoms to activist Lucy Stone.
Aaron
Aaron, a timeless name with debated origins, has been consistently popular for its gentle sound and strong associations, like Aaron Burr, Aaron Paul and as the name of Moses's brother, the first High Priest of the Israelites.
Catherine
Greek for "pure," this timeless name has royal, saintly, and literary roots, and remains elegant in its softer C-spelling.
Eva
This Latin and Hebrew name means “life” and is a globally popular variation of Eve.
Esther
Derived from Persian for “star,” Esther is a biblical heroine whose story is central to the Jewish holiday of Purim.
Patrick
From Latin roots meaning “noble,” this name is forever linked with Irish heritage and the widely celebrated Saint Patrick.
Nancy
Originally a pet form of Ann, Nancy means “grace” and rose from literary heroine to political mainstay.
Adam
A Hebrew name meaning “son of the red earth,” Adam is both mankind’s origin and a perennial favorite.
Jason
Of Greek origin meaning “to heal,” Jason is known both for ancient myth and its '70s naming boom.
Jacob
This Hebrew classic means “supplanter” and was the most popular boy name in the U.S. for over a decade.
Felix
Latin for “happy” or “fortunate,” Felix mixes Roman heritage with global popularity
Frederick
Meaning “peaceful ruler” in German, Frederick honors figures from Frederick Douglass to Shakespearean characters.
Nora
Possibly linked to Honora or Eleanor, Nora has a bright meaning of “light.”
Wells
A nature-infused British name from Old English meaning “spring,” Wells feels fresh.
Calvin
Latin in origin and meaning “bald,” Calvin has intellectual roots and modern flair thanks to fashion and comics.
Amy
With French roots in Aimée and Latin Amata, Amy means "beloved."
Mabel
Latin for “lovable,” Mabel was a Top 20 charmer in the Victorian era and is making a spirited comeback.
Stella
Star
Philip
Greek for “lover of horses,” this regal name spans apostles, monarchs, and literary legends
Violet
Pure, Gentle, Bluish Purple, Viola
Lydia
Greek for “woman from Lydia,” this biblical and literary name has a rich past and a melodic sound.
David
A timeless Hebrew name meaning “beloved,” tied to the biblical king.
Isaac
A Hebrew name meaning “laughter,” rooted in the story of a long-awaited son born to Abraham and Sarah.
Dorothy
Meaning "gift of God" in Greek, Dorothy soared in early 20th-century America and is tied to The Wizard of Oz and many creative icons.
Ella
Ella comes from Germanic and Hebrew roots meaning "all" or "goddess," and has surged in modern popularity thanks to its elegant simplicity.
Amelia
Derived from the German Amalia meaning "work," Amelia rose globally in the 2000s.
Annie
Annie, rooted in English and meaning "grace," has long been a cheerful, all-American name known from folklore to Broadway.
Daisy
English in origin and meaning "day's eye," Daisy is a bright floral name with strong literary and pop culture roots.
Ernest
Derived from Germanic roots, this name means “serious” or “resolute” and famously featured in Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy.
Genevieve
From medieval German roots meaning “tribe woman,” Genevieve combines saintly strength with French elegance.
Paul
Latin for “small,” Paul is a timeless classic with deep Biblical roots and a legacy from saints to pop stars.
Eric
A name of Old Norse origin meaning “eternal ruler,” Eric is tied to Viking explorers and peaked in mid-century America.
Ada
From the German root adal meaning "noble," Ada also has Turkish origins where it means "island" and has regained popularity as a vintage, vowel-starting name.
Russell
This French-rooted name meaning “redhead” saw peak popularity mid-century and lives on through sports and screen stars.
Cecilia
This Latin-origin name means "blind" and honors Saint Cecilia, the patron of music.
Agnes
A Greek name meaning "pure," Agnes was once a medieval favorite, with Saint Agnes boosting its popularity.
Olivia
From the Latin oliva, Olivia means "olive tree" and was brought into use by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night.
Elaine
Elaine is a French-Scottish form of Helen that means “bright light.” It has strong Arthurian associations, but could also fit mid-century style.
Rachel
Hebrew for "ewe," Rachel is a biblically classic name that has universal appeal. Literary and television characters have also helped maintain Rachel's popularity.
Claudia
The ancient Roman name Claudia means "lame" or "enclosure" yet maintains its presence through classic usage
Luke
A Greek-derived name meaning “man from Lucania,” Luke brings Biblical depth.
Lewis
An English name meaning "renowned warrior," Lewis was once a U.S. Top 100 pick and is still widely used in Scotland and beyond.
Brian
Of Irish origin meaning "strong and noble," Brian is tied to legendary king Brian Boru and saw decades of popularity in the U.S.
Madeline
This classic English name meaning "high tower" gained lasting appeal through literature and the well-loved Madeline children's series.
Georgia
Georgia originates from George with the meaning “farmer” and carries Southern charm while remaining less common.
Molly
Originally a medieval pet form of Mary, Molly means "bitter" and remains a friendly, familiar name with Irish and literary links.
Hannah
Hannah is Hebrew for “grace.” This old-timey biblical name is popular all over the world with soft power.
Warren
Of English and French origin, Warren means “park-keeper” and once honored a Revolutionary War hero.
Alma
With Latin roots meaning “nurturing” or “soul,” Alma gained traction in England after the Crimean War.
Eloise
Forest, Choice, Whole, Wood
Sadie
Sadie is a Hebrew name meaning "princess." It started as a nickname for Sarah but has since firmly established itself on its own with a spunky vibe.
Eugene
Greek for “wellborn” or “noble,” Eugene once ranked among America’s most popular names.
Vivian
The Word Vivus with the Meaning Alive Lively, Vivid
Betty
My God is Perfect, Form of Elizabeth
Rosemary
Dew of the Sea, Mary, Bitter Rose
Caleb
Bold, Messenger, Whole Hearted, Faith
Miriam
Sea of Sorrow, Scraped, Prophetess, Drop
Cassandra
Warrior, Virile, Protrude, Man
Roger
Famous Warrior, Fame, Glory and Launches, Renowned Spearman
Barbara
Strange, Barbari Meaning Foreign Stammering People, Barbaric, Stranger
Amanda
The Lovely, In Love, Gracious, Deserving to be Loved
Lola
Sorrow, Fickle, Carl, Goddess Lakshmi
Cedric
Battle Chieftain, Beloved, Pattern of Generosity, Kindly and Love
Rosalie
Rose, Flower Name
Nicole
Female Version of Nicholas
Anne
Eagle, God is Gracious, Grace, Variant of Hebrew Hannah
Sophie
Skill, Wisdom
Ford
From the River Crossing, Ford
Aurora
Dawn
Marcus
Defence, The Roman God of War, Mars, Of the Sea
Lucille
Light, The Bright, Born at Daybreak
Ethan
Strong, Heaven, Durable, The Enduring
Isabel
My God is Bountiful, God's Promise
Olive
Kind One, The Olive, Peace
Wilbur
Desire, Brilliant, Will, Dearly Loved Stronghold
Rosie
Rose Flower, Rose
Bridget
Saint, The Exalted One, Strength, Power
Edmund
Wealthy Defender, Wealth and Protection, Guardian of Possession, Rich Protector
Lila
Purity, Pastime, Night, Lioness
Alan
Noble, Little Rock, Peace, God of Shine
Nellie
Horn Coloured, Form of Cornelius, Yellow, Sun Burst
Priscilla
Time-Honored, Ancient, Antique, Primitive
Collins
Victory of the People, Girl, Holly
Vanessa
Star, Coined from, Genus of Butterfly
Michelle
Who is Like God
April
Opening, To Open Up, Second, April
Colin
Victor, Young Creature, Dove, Abbreviation of Nicholas People's Victory
Maggie
Child of Light, The Pearl, Flower Name
Gregory
Vigilant Watchman, The Watchful, Alert
Alicia
German Origin and Means Noble
Sally
Lady, Noblewoman, Form of Sarah, Princess
Nash
Adventurer, At the Ash Tree, Cliff
Winifred
Frewi, Holy, Peace Friend, Fair Reconciliation
Lottie
Vigorous, Strong, Man, Husband
Reuben
A Son!, Behold
Ann
Favour, Graceful, Form of Anna, He (God) Was Gracious
Sutton
This unisex English name means “from the southern homestead” and combines modern style with surname appeal.
Graham
Spear and Hard, Gravelly Place Gray House, Strong, Warlike
Cleo
Kleopatra, Boasting
Justin
The Just, Righteous, Singer, Judicious
Maxine
Greatest, Great Woman
Ivan
Gift from God, Archer, Yahweh is Gracious
Harrison
Son of Harry, Harry's Son
Adeline
Brightness, Sweet, Honorable, Nobility
Helena
The Torch, Spiritual Light, Sun Ray, Corposant
Ross
Headland, Red Haired, Surname, Rose
Marilyn
Modern, Combination of Mary and Ellen, Wished for Child, Bitterness
Francisco
Little Frenchwoman, Free Condition
Silas
This name has roots in Aramaic and Latin, meaning “of the forest” or “prayed for,” and appears in both myth and scripture.
Teresa
Harvester, The Hunteress, To Flow Down, Late Summer
Minnie
Helmet, Offered to the Lord, Composition, Will
Elise
God is My Oath, Form of Elizabeth
Marjorie
Pearl, Diminutive of Margaret
Willa
Will, Protection, Desire, Helmet
Lorenzo
Laurel
Marco
Dedicated to the God Mars, Dedicated to Mars (The Roman God of War)
Shepherd
English in origin, it’s an occupational name that’s recently gained favor for its warm, pastoral image.
Virginia
The Virgin, Maiden, Pure
Conrad
Honest Adviser, Wise Counselor, Bold Ruler, Brave
Ellen
Burst of the Sun, Brightness, Mercy, Moon
Jasmine
A Plant in the Olive Family, Fragrant Flower, Gift from God, Shrub with Yellow Flowers
Andrea
Manly, A Man's Woman, Feminine Form of Andrew, Man Ones
Erin
Peace, The Word Éire with the Meaning Ireland, Beauty
Lily
A Symbol of Purity, Lily, My God is Perfect
Ivy
God's Gift, Climber, An Evergreen Climbing Ornamental Plant, A Vine
Forrest
Of the Woods, Woodsman, Forest, Lives in Wood
Carmen
Song, Garden Orchard, Bright Red, Son of
Delia
Of Delos, Visible, Delightful, Faithful
Derek
Ruler of the People
Edgar
Blessed, Owner of Spear, Wealth, Possession
Millie
Form of Mildred, Gentle Strength, Honey, Bee
Nell
Horn, Champion, Torch, Moon
Eliza
Unique, My God has Sworn, Form of Elizabeth, The Chosen
Mia
Who is Loved, Beauty, Mine, Bitterness
Knox
An old Scottish surname meaning “round hill,” brought into vogue by celebrity baby name trends.
Cain
The Crop Grower, Oldest Child of Adam and Eve, Beautiful, Warrior's Son
Cyrus
Master, Ruler, Far Sighted, The Element Kyrios Which Means Lord
Hope
Expectation Belief, Trust, Hope, Faith
Ben
Son of the Right Hand, Meadow with Coarse Grass, Benjamin, Bärenstarke
Jeremiah
God will Uplift, Yahwe Uplifts, Lord Exalts
Jared
Descent, Descending One who Rules, To Descend, He Descends
Winston
Farmstead Or Village of Wine, Pleasant Stone, Homestead, Friend
Mitchell
Michel, Michael, Who is Like God
Lana
Greek, To Be Gentle, Latin, Buoyant
Heath
The Element Haeth Which Means Heath, Wasteland, A Moor
Stone
A sturdy, one-syllable English name that feels grounded and bold, used by newsmen and rockstars alike.
Pamela
Honeyed Sweetness, All Honey, Palombe, New Leaves
Camille
Attendant for a Temple, Swiftness of Foot, Honorable Births, Acolyte
Jamie
Supplant, One who Supplants, Feminine of James, Derived from the Latin Jacomus
May
Princess of the Sea, Bitter, T, Wished-for Child
Inez
The Chaste, The Pure
Evangeline
Good News
Bianca
The White, Glossy
Lance
Homeland, Land, A Lance
Katie
The Pure, Form of Katherine, Virginal
Jeffrey
God and Peace, Divinely Peaceful, Area, Stranger