American Baby Names Dictionary | Meaning and Origins
Welcome to a fascinating journey through the diverse and captivating world of American baby names! From timeless classics to trendy newcomers, each name carries its own unique story, steeped in history, culture, and personal significance. Join us as we unravel the hidden meanings behind these popular monikers and uncover their intriguing origins. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your little bundle of joy or simply curious about the rich tapestry of American naming traditions, this blog post is here to ignite your imagination and deepen your understanding of this cherished aspect of our society. Get ready to embark on an enchanting exploration into the realm of American baby names – where every letter tells a tale and every name holds infinite possibilities!
American Baby Names
Naming a baby is one of the most exciting and important decisions for parents. It is a name that will stick with them for the rest of their lives and often reflects their parents’ hopes, beliefs, and cultural background. In the United States, there are many diverse cultures that contribute to the variety of names given to babies. As such, American baby names are unique and reflect the country’s rich history and multicultural society.
In this section, we will delve into the world of American baby names and explore their meanings and origins. We will take a closer look at the different factors that influence name choices in America, from cultural traditions to popular trends. Additionally, we will discover how these names have evolved over time and how they continue to shape modern naming practices.
Cultural Influences on American Baby Names
America is known as a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world calling it home. This diversity is reflected in its naming practices as well. Many popular American baby names have roots in various languages such as English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Irish, African-American, Native American, among others.
For instance, traditional English names like William or Elizabeth remain popular choices among parents while Hispanic families may opt for more culturally significant names like Sofia or Mateo. Similarly, African-American communities often choose names rooted in their heritage such as Aaliyah or Malik.
Moreover, immigration has also played a significant role in shaping American baby names throughout history.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, large waves of immigrants from Europe arrived in America, bringing with them their unique naming traditions. As a result, names like Maria, Giuseppe, and Hans became commonplace in America. This trend has continued in more recent years with the influx of Asian and Middle Eastern immigrants.
Popular Trends in American Baby Names
Like fashion and music, baby names also follow trends that come and go. In the early 1900s, traditional and biblical names like Mary and John were popular choices for parents. Later on, during the 1950s and 1960s, there was a rise in unique and creative names such as Tiffany or Chad.
In recent decades, the popularity of celebrity culture has influenced naming practices. Many parents have been inspired by their favorite celebrities’ baby names or have even named their children after them. For example, after Angelina Jolie named her daughter Shiloh in 2006, it became a popular name for girls.
Additionally, gender-neutral names have become increasingly popular in America over the years. Names like Taylor, Jordan, or Alex can be used for both boys and girls.
Evolution of American Baby Names
American baby names have evolved over time to reflect the changing trends and cultures in the country. In the early years of America, names were often influenced by religious beliefs and cultural traditions brought over by immigrants.
During the 20th century, there was a shift towards more unique and creative names, breaking away from traditional choices. With the rise of technology and social media, parents now have access to a wide range of names from different cultures and time periods.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of traditional names as well. Many parents are opting for classic names that have stood the test of time. This perhaps reflects a desire for stability and tradition in an ever-changing world.
American baby names are diverse and reflect the country’s rich history and multicultural society. From traditional English names to more unique choices inspired by celebrities or different cultures, American parents have a plethora of options to choose from when naming their child. As trends continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how American baby names will continue to change and adapt in the future.
The History and Evolution of American Baby Names
The history and evolution of American baby names is a fascinating reflection of the culture and trends of the United States. From traditional names rooted in religious or cultural backgrounds to modern, unique monikers influenced by popular culture, American baby names have undergone significant changes over time.
The Early Years
In colonial America, most parents chose biblical names for their children, often from the Old Testament. Names such as John, Mary, Elizabeth, and Samuel were commonly used during this time period. These names represented strong religious beliefs and values that were deeply ingrained in early American society.
As the country expanded westward in the 19th century, new names emerged as settlers encountered Native American tribes. Names like Dakota, Cheyenne, and Navajo gained popularity during this time as a way to honor Native American heritage.
Industrialization and Immigration
With the rise of industrialization in the late 19th century came an influx of immigrants to America from various countries. This led to an increase in diversity among baby names as different cultures brought their naming traditions with them.
Names like Maria (Spanish), Giovanni (Italian), and Hans (German) became more common alongside traditional English names. As a result of this cultural blending, many hybrid names also emerged – combining elements from multiple languages or cultures into one name.
Influences from Pop Culture
Throughout much of the 20th century, popular culture played a significant role in shaping baby name trends. For example, during World War II there was a surge in patriotic-themed names like Liberty and Victory, while in the 1950s and 1960s, names inspired by popular TV shows and movies like Donna (from “The Donna Reed Show”) and Marilyn (after Marilyn Monroe) became popular.
In recent decades, celebrities have had a major influence on baby name choices. Names like Kylie (after Kylie Jenner), Beyoncé (after Beyoncé Knowles), and Michael (after Michael Jackson) have all seen an increase in popularity due to famous people with those names.
Modern Trends
Today, American baby names are more diverse than ever before. Parents are increasingly choosing unique or obscure names for their children as a way to stand out from the crowd. This trend can also be seen in the rise of gender-neutral names such as Riley, Avery, and Jordan.
Another recent trend in naming is the use of traditionally masculine names for girls and vice versa. Names like Charlie, Blake, and Ryan are now being used for both boys and girls.
The history of American baby names reflects the evolution of our society over time. From religiously-influenced traditional names to modern, unique monikers inspired by pop culture, American parents continue to find creative ways to name their children. As we look towards the future, it will be interesting to see how naming trends continue to evolve and reflect the ever-changing landscape of American culture.
Popular Trends in American Baby Names
Choosing a name for your baby is one of the first and most important decisions that new parents make. It not only becomes an integral part of their identity, but also reflects the cultural and societal trends of the time. In recent years, there has been a shift in popular American baby names, with traditional names making a comeback and unique, unconventional choices gaining popularity. In this section, we will explore some of the popular trends in American baby names and their meanings.
1. Classic Names:
Classic names have stood the test of time and continue to be a popular choice among parents. These are timeless names that have been around for generations and hold a sense of familiarity and tradition. Examples include Elizabeth, William, James, and Emily – all of which have been consistently ranked high on the list of popular American baby names.
2. Gender-Neutral Names:
In recent years, there has been a rise in gender-neutral or unisex names as more parents move away from traditional gender roles and stereotypes. These names are suitable for both boys and girls, creating an inclusive environment for children to grow up in. Some examples include Avery, Riley,
Jordan, Alex – all of which can be used for either gender.
3. Nature-Inspired Names:
Nature-inspired names have become increasingly popular over the years as parents choose to honor their love for nature by giving their child a name inspired by it. From flower names like Lily or Rose to earthy choices like River or Meadow – these names reflect our connection to the natural world.
4. Unique Spellings:
Parents are also getting creative with the spelling of traditional names, making them unique and personal. For instance, Jayden or Jaxon instead of the more common spellings of Jordan and Jackson. This trend has become popular as parents look for ways to give their child a name that stands out.
5. Ethnic Names:
As America becomes a more diverse society, there has been an increase in the use of ethnic names from different cultures and traditions. Parents may choose to honor their heritage by giving their child a name that reflects their cultural background, such as Aiden (Irish), Sofia (Greek), or Amir (Arabic).
6. Pop Culture-Inspired Names:
Pop culture has always influenced baby naming trends, and this continues to be true today. From characters in popular TV shows and movies to celebrities and musicians – parents are finding inspiration in various forms of media when choosing a name for their child.
The trends in American baby names are constantly evolving, but some things remain constant – the importance of tradition, individuality, and personal meaning attached to a name. Whether you choose a classic name or something more unique, the most important thing is that it feels right for your child and your family.
Uncovering the Meanings Behind American Names
The United States is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and this diversity is reflected in the names chosen for American babies. From traditional English names to more modern and unique options, American names have a rich history and hold special meanings that often reflect the values and beliefs of their origins.
In this section, we will delve into the fascinating world of American names and uncover their hidden meanings. Whether you are expecting a baby or simply curious about the stories behind these names, read on to discover the diverse influences that have shaped popular American names.
Native American Names
Before European settlers arrived in America, Native Americans had their own unique naming traditions. They often used nature as inspiration for naming their children, such as “Running Bear” or “Morning Star.” Many Native American names also held deep spiritual significance, reflecting their close connection with nature and belief in animal spirits.
Today, many Native American names continue to be used by parents seeking meaningful and culturally-rich options for their children. Popular examples include “Dakota,” meaning friend or ally, “Cheyenne,” referring to a tribe from the Great Plains region of North America, and “Navajo,” which translates to ‘large area of cultivated land.’
English Names
As one of the main cultural influences on early America, it’s no surprise that English names remain popular choices among parents today. These traditional names often have biblical roots or are derived from Old English words with specific meanings.
For example, “Elizabeth ” means “God is my oath,” while “John” translates to “God is gracious.” Other popular English names include “William,” meaning “strong-willed warrior,” and “Catherine,” which comes from the Greek word for “pure.”
African American Names
The names used by African Americans often have a rich history, influenced by their ancestors’ African roots and the struggles they faced during slavery. Many names are derived from traditional African languages, such as Swahili or Yoruba, while others have biblical origins.
For example, the name “Kwame” means ‘born on Saturday’ in Akan, a West African language. Another popular choice is “Malik,” meaning ‘king’ in Arabic.
In recent years, there has also been a rise in uniquely African American names that hold no specific traditional meanings but serve as a celebration of cultural identity and individuality. These names often incorporate creative spellings or unique combinations of sounds, such as “Jazmine” or “DeShawn.”
Hispanic Names
With Spanish being one of the most widely spoken languages in America after English, it’s no surprise that Hispanic names are also popular choices among parents. These names often have religious connotations or reflect cultural values and traditions.
For example, “Sofia” means ‘wisdom’ in Spanish, while “Javier” translates to ‘new house.’ Other popular options include names like “Isabella,” meaning ‘God is my oath,’ and “Diego,” which comes from the Greek name for “supplanter.”
Irish Names
The Irish have a strong presence in America, and their influence can be seen in the popularity of Irish names. These names often have Gaelic origins and are associated with ancient Celtic mythology and folklore.
For example, “Fiona” means ‘fair’ or ‘white,’ while “Aiden” translates to ‘little fire.’ Other popular Irish names include “Liam,” meaning ‘strong-willed warrior,’ and “Bridget,” which comes from the Gaelic word for ‘exalted one.’
Italian Names
Italian names also hold a significant presence in America, reflecting the country’s strong cultural ties with Italy. These names often have Latin roots and are associated with traditional Catholic values.
For example, “Giovanni” means ‘God is gracious,’ while “Isabella” translates to ‘God is my oath.’ Other popular Italian names include “Francesca,” meaning ‘free,’ and “Marco,” which comes from the Latin word for ‘warlike.’
Asian Names
With a growing Asian population in America, names from countries like China, Japan, and Korea are becoming more common among American babies. These names often have deep cultural significance and reflect values and beliefs unique to each country.
For example, “Ming” means ‘bright’ or ‘shining’ in Chinese, while “Hiroshi” translates to ‘generous’ in Japanese. Other popular Asian names include “Ji-Hyun,” meaning ‘smart’ or ‘wise,’ and “Soo-Jin,” which comes from the Korean word for ‘graceful.’
Modern Names
In recent years, there has been a rise in modern and unique names that have no specific cultural or traditional associations. Many of these names are inspired by popular culture, such as celebrities or pop culture icons.
For example, the name “Beyoncé” gained popularity after singer Beyoncé Knowles rose to fame. Similarly, the name “Kylie” became more prevalent after reality TV star Kylie Jenner became well-known. Other modern names include “Aiden,” which rose in popularity after being used for a character on the TV show Sex and the City.
No matter what type of name you choose for your child, it’s important to remember that the most important consideration should be finding a name that holds special meaning and significance to you and your family. With such a diverse range of influences and cultural traditions shaping American names, there is sure to be a perfect name out there for every parent and child.
Regional Influences on American Names
The United States is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions that have shaped the country’s history and people. This cultural diversity is also reflected in American names, which are influenced by various regional and ethnic backgrounds. In this section, we will delve into the regional influences on American names and how they have contributed to the rich tapestry of naming traditions in the country.
1. Native American Names:
The native peoples of America have a long-standing tradition of giving meaningful names to their children, often inspired by nature or significant events in their lives. These names are deeply rooted in their culture and hold great significance for the community. Today, many parents choose Native American names for their children as a way to honor this heritage. Popular examples include Dakota (friend), Cheyenne (red people), or Navajo (people).
2. European Influences:
As one of the oldest regions to immigrate to America, Europe has had a significant impact on American names. The early settlers brought with them traditional naming practices from their homelands, including using family surnames as first names such as Jackson, Harrison or Madison. Other popular European-derived names include William (Germanic origin), Anthony (Latin origin) or Emily (English origin).
3. African Names:
With the forced migration of millions of Africans during slavery, many African naming traditions were carried over to America. These names often reflect spiritual beliefs or life aspirations such as Joy, Hope or Faith, but also celebrate African heritage with traditional tribal names like Kofi (Ghanaian) or Aisha (Swahili).
4. Hispanic and Latino Names:
The Spanish colonization of the Americas has also left a strong influence on American names, especially in the southern states. Many popular Hispanic and Latino names have religious origins, such as Maria or Jesus, but also include unique cultural elements like Alejandro (defender of mankind) and Sofia (wisdom).
5. Asian Names:
Asians are one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in America today, and their influence can be seen in the rising popularity of Asian names. Chinese Americans often choose traditional Chinese names for their children, while Korean Americans often use family names as first names, such as Kim or Lee. Other popular Asian names include Japanese-inspired ones like Sakura (cherry blossom) or Haru (spring).
6. Jewish Names:
Jewish immigrants have had a significant impact on American culture and society, including naming traditions. Jewish-American names often reflect biblical figures or Hebrew words with deep spiritual meanings such as Samuel (God heard) or Naomi (pleasantness). They may also use Yiddish-derived names such as Max (greatest) or Sadie (princess).
7. Southern Influences:
The southern region of the United States has its own distinctive naming traditions, influenced by the area’s history and culture. Many southern names have a strong connection to nature and the outdoors, such as Savannah (open plain) or Hunter (one who hunts). They also often include family surnames as first names, reflecting the importance of family and heritage in southern culture.
American names are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage. From Native American names honoring nature to European-derived names reflecting historical roots, each region has contributed unique naming traditions that have enriched America’s naming landscape. As the country continues to evolve and welcome new immigrants, these regional influences will continue to shape American names for generations to come.
Gender-Specific Names: Popular Boy and Girl Names in America
One of the most exciting aspects of choosing a baby name is deciding whether to go with a gender-specific name or a unisex one. While there are many unique and beautiful unisex names out there, there is still something special about giving your child a traditional boy or girl name.
In this section, we will explore the popular boy and girl names in America, along with their meanings and origins. These names have stood the test of time and continue to be among the top choices for parents across the country.
Popular Boy Names in America:
1. Liam – This Irish name has been steadily rising in popularity over the past decade, currently ranking as the #1 most popular boy’s name in America. It means “strong-willed warrior” or “protector.”
2. Noah – A Hebrew name meaning “rest” or “comfort,” Noah has remained a popular choice for parents looking for a strong yet gentle name for their son.
3. Oliver – With roots in both Latin and English languages, Oliver means “olive tree” or “peaceful.” This classic yet trendy name has been on the rise since 2013.
4. William – Of Old German origin, William means “resolute protector.” This timeless name has been consistently ranked as one of the top boy names for centuries.
5. Elijah – Another biblical name, Elijah comes from Hebrew origins meaning “my God is Yahweh.” This powerful yet elegant name has been in the top 10 since 2017.
6. James – This English name has been a popular choice for centuries, meaning “supplanter” or “one who follows.” It is a classic and timeless name that continues to be a top choice for parents.
7. Benjamin – Of Hebrew origin, Benjamin means “son of the south” or “son of the right hand.” It has been a consistently popular choice for parents looking for a strong and traditional name.
8. Mason – Another occupational name, Mason comes from Old French origins meaning “stone worker” or “stonemason.” This name has been on the rise since the early 2000s.
9. Ethan – This biblical name means “strong, firm” or “solid,” and has steadily remained in the top 20 most popular boy names in America.
10. Alexander – With Greek origins, Alexander means “defender of the people” or “warrior.” This powerful and regal name has been a favorite among parents for many years.
Popular Girl Names in America:
1. Emma – Of German origin, Emma means “universal” or “whole.” It has been the #1 most popular girl’s name in America since 2014 and shows no signs of losing its top spot.
2. Olivia – A Latin name meaning “olive tree,” Olivia has been consistently ranked as one of the top girl names in America since 2014.
3. Ava – This name has multiple origins, including Hebrew and Latin, and means “life” or “bird.” It has been in the top 5 most popular girl names since 2018.
4. Sophia – Of Greek origin, Sophia means “wisdom” or “knowledge.” It has been a popular choice for parents looking for a classic yet elegant name for their daughter.
5. Isabella – This Italian name means “devoted to God” or “pledged to God.” It has been a top choice for parents since the early 2000s.
6. Mia – With origins in both Spanish and Italian, Mia means “mine” or “beloved.” This short and sweet name has become increasingly popular over the past decade.
7. Charlotte – Of French origin, Charlotte means “free man” or “petite,” making it a strong yet feminine name choice for parents.
8. Amelia – This Germanic name means “work” or “industrious,” and has been on the rise in popularity since the early 2010s.
9. Harper – With English origins, Harper means “harpist” or “someone who plays the harp.” This name has been gaining popularity in recent years, possibly due to its association with famous author Harper Lee.
10. Evelyn – Of Celtic origin, Evelyn means “desired” or “wished for.” This classic and elegant name has been a top choice for parents since the early 2000s.
These are just a few of the popular boy and girl names in America that have stood the test of time and continue to be top choices for parents today. Whether you choose a traditional gender-specific name or a more modern unisex one, what matters most is finding a name that you love and that best represents your child.
Unique and Uncommon American Baby Names
When it comes to choosing a name for your baby, many parents want something unique and uncommon. In this section, we will explore some of the most unique and uncommon American baby names with their meanings and origins.
1. Azalea – This beautiful flower-inspired name has Greek origins and means “dry” or “parched”. It gained popularity after being used as the stage name of singer Iggy Azalea.
2. Maverick – Meaning “independent thinker”, Maverick is a popular choice for boys. It has English roots and was originally used to describe unbranded cattle.
3. Juniper – With Latin origins, Juniper means “youthful” or “evergreen”. This nature-inspired name has been gaining popularity in recent years and is often shortened to June or Juni for a more unique nickname.
4. Bodhi – Derived from Buddhism, Bodhi means “enlightenment” or “awakening”. It has Indian roots but has become increasingly popular as an American baby name in recent years.
5. Everly – This charming girl’s name means “from the boar meadow” in Old English. Popularized by celebrities such as Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan who named their daughter Everly, this name is both unique and feminine.
6. Orion – With Greek mythology origins, Orion refers to the giant hunter in the sky constellation. It also has associations with strength, bravery, and adventure.
7. Wren – A short but sweet bird-inspired name, Wren has English origins and means “small songbird”. It’s a great choice for parents looking for a unique nature-inspired name.
8. Jaxon – A modern twist on the classic name Jackson, Jaxon is of English origin and means “son of Jack”. It has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to the more common Jackson.
9. Meadow – An English baby name meaning “field of grass or wildflowers”, Meadow has a peaceful and natural feel to it. It can be used for both boys and girls, but is more commonly used for girls.
10. Phoenix – This powerful name comes from Greek mythology and refers to the mythical bird that rises from the ashes. It symbolizes renewal, strength, and immortality.
11. Calliope – With Greek roots, Calliope means “beautiful voice” or “muse of poetry”. In Greek mythology, Calliope was one of the nine Muses who presided over literature and the arts.
12. Wilder – This adventurous boy’s name means “wild animal” or “untamed”. It has Germanic origins and has been gaining popularity in recent years as a unique alternative to more traditional names like William.
13. Jun o – Derived from the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth, Juno has Latin origins and means “queen of heaven”. It gained popularity after being used as the title character in the popular film Juno.
14. Sterling – This elegant boy’s name has English origins and means “genuine” or “of high quality”. It can also refer to a person who is strong, reliable, and trustworthy.
15. Seraphina – With Hebrew roots, Seraphina means “fiery ones” or “burning ones”. It is also associated with angels in Christian theology and has been gaining popularity as a unique girl’s name in recent years.
16. Phoenix – This powerful name comes from Greek mythology and refers to the mythical bird that rises from the ashes. It symbolizes renewal, strength, and immortality.
17. Zephyr – Meaning “west wind”, Zephyr is a Greek baby name associated with calmness and gentleness. It can be a great choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name.
18. Ansel – This boy’s name has German origins and means “divine protection” or “follower of a nobleman”. Photographer Ansel Adams gave this name more exposure in the US.
19. Marlowe – This unisex name has English origins and means “driftwood”. It also has literary associations with playwright Christopher Marlowe and novelist Raymond Chandler.
20. Aurora – Meaning “dawn”, Aurora is the Roman goddess of the sunrise. It’s a popular choice for girls and has been used in literature and popular culture, such as Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
21. Lachlan – This Scottish name means “from the land of lakes” or “warrior from the fjord”. It has a strong and rugged feel to it, making it a unique choice for a boy’s name.
22. Lyra – With Greek origins, Lyra means “lyre” or “harp”. In Greek mythology, Lyra was the name of an instrument played by Orpheus, the legendary musician.
23. Koa – A Hawaiian baby name meaning “warrior” or “brave one”, Koa is a strong and unique choice for boys. It can also refer to the native Hawaiian tree known for its strength and durability.
24. Cleo – This short but powerful girl’s name has Greek origins and means “glory” or “fame”. It can be used as a standalone name or as a nickname for the longer name Cleopatra.
25. Apollo – This Greek name means “destroyer” or “god of light and music”. In Greek mythology, Apollo was also associated with prophecy, healing, and archery.
26. Indigo – A color-inspired name, Indigo has Latin origins and means “Indian dye”. It is a unique choice for both boys and girls and can be shortened to Indie as a nickname.
27. Phoenix – This powerful name comes from Greek mythology and refers to the mythical bird that rises from the ashes. It symbolizes renewal, strength, and immortality.
28. Sable – With French origins, Sable means “black” or “dark one”. It is also the name of a small furry animal common to Eurasia which is known for its luxurious dark fur.
29. Sterling – This elegant boy’s name has English origins and means “genuine” or “of high quality”. It can also refer to a person who is strong, reliable, and trustworthy.
30. Lyric – Meaning “poetry” or “songlike”, Lyric is a unique baby name with musical associations. It has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to more traditional names like Lily or Lila.
Celebrity Inspiration: Famous American Baby Names
Celebrity culture has a significant influence on popular trends, including baby names. Many parents look to their favorite celebrities for inspiration when choosing a name for their little one. In this section, we will explore some of the most famous American baby names that have been inspired by celebrities.
1. Harper – This trendy and gender-neutral name became popular after Victoria and David Beckham chose it for their daughter in 2011. The name Harper has English origins and means “harp player.”
2. Luna – This beautiful name has gained popularity in recent years, thanks to singer John Legend and model Chrissy Teigen naming their daughter Luna in 2016. Luna is derived from Latin and means “moon.”
3. Mason – Actor Kourtney Kardashian chose this traditional English name for her son born in 2009, making it a popular choice amongst new parents. Mason translates to “worker in stone” or “one who builds.”
4. Ava – Actress Reese Witherspoon named her daughter Ava back in 1999, helping this classic biblical name rise to popularity once again. Ava means “life” or “living one.”
5. Levi – This biblical name was chosen by actor Matthew McConaughey for his son born in 2008, giving it a new surge of popularity among parents looking for strong yet unique names.
6. Willow – Will Smith’s daughter introduced this nature-inspired moniker into the limelight when she was born back in 2000, bringing attention to its delicate and whimsical qualities.
7. Knox – Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt chose this name for their son in 2008, giving it a boost of popularity as a modern alternative to traditional names like Noah or Jack.
8. Brooklyn – This trendy name was chosen by Victoria and David Beckham for their son in 1999, leading to its rise in popularity as a unisex name with urban flair.
9. Blue – Beyoncé and Jay-Z made headlines when they named their daughter Blue Ivy in 2012, sparking interest in the color-inspired name that has since become a popular choice for parents looking for something unique.
10. Lincoln – Actor Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard chose this presidential moniker for their daughter born in 2013, making it a popular gender-neutral option with strong ties to American history.
11. Kingston – Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale picked this regal-sounding name for their son born in 2006, adding a touch of sophistication to the list of popular American names.
12. River – This nature-inspired name was chosen by actor Joaquin Phoenix and actress Rooney Mara for their son born in 2020, giving it a modern yet timeless quality that has captured the attention of many parents.