Choosing a name for your little bundle of joy may be one of the first parenting decisions you have to make. It is also quite an important one as whatever you pick will stick with them forever.
Names come and go, but some have proven to be more popular than others over the years. Here is a list of some of the most beautiful baby names to consider.
Jax
Any name with an “x” or “z” suffix is sure to set your child apart on the playground, but Jax is undoubtedly the most popular. A modern spin on Jackson, Jax appeals to many parents because of its cool nickname status. Other popular modern names you might want to consider for your little boy include Zane, Phoenix, and Zane.
Billie
There has been a resurgence of unisex names in recent years, and the name Billie is right at the forefront. This increase in popularity could be attributed to pop star Billie Eilish, with a lot of parents opting to name their little girls after this famous icon. Other popular boy names you might want to consider for your little girl include Elliot, Drew, Bobbie, and Noah.
Otis
Classic names, often dubbed “old man” names, have become particularly popular for boys in recent years. Otis is one of the most beloved classic names that are still popular today, especially with celebrities such as Jason Sudeikis and Olivia Wilde picking the name for their son. Other popular classic boy names include Nelson, Hugo, and Leopold.
Quinn
Meaning “intellect”, this name has been predicted to continue increasing in popularity thanks to all the hits it has received on Nameberry. If you want a short-but-sweet name for your girl that isn't the overly popular Mia, Quinn could be your pick. Other short girl names that are worth mentioning include Uma, Gia, Dee, and Gem.
Jett
This is a name that is derived from the English word for the black semi-precious stone. Jett is also a great name for parents who are aviation enthusiasts. While it is popular, this futuristic-sounding name still has some uniqueness to it, so you don't have to worry about your boy is one of the many Jetts in their kindergarten class. Other futuristic boy names worth considering include Orion, Mekhi, and Gunner.
Theodora
If you prefer a long name for your girl, consider going with Theodora. This beautiful name is the feminine counterpart of Theodore, and according to Nameberry, searches for it have spiked in the last few years, indicating an increase in popularity. Other long name options for girls include Genevieve, Cordelia, and Josephine.
Titus
This name has Latin roots, meaning “title of honor”. Titus was touted as one of the most-picked names for boys in 2020, and it continues to rise in ranks. With its athletic undertone, Titus is the name of a kid that is destined to try his hand at sports. Other popular athletic boy names include Ace, Duke, and Usain.
Beatrice
If you want a classic name for your little girl, Beatrice might be your top pick. This name, which means “she who makes happy”, is a Latin name that has seen a significant resurgence in popularity in recent years. Other alternatives to consider include Scarlett, Claire, and Marjorie.
Miller
Miller is a boy name that was initially preferred solely as a last name option, but in recent years, it has emerged as a popular first name choice for parents who want something a bit more unconventional. Other potential choices that also started as last names include Anderson, Ledger, and Ford.
Jolie
This is a classic French name that means "pretty" or "cheerful". Jolie has been a popular name for girls since the emergence of actress Angelina Jolie, and it is here to stay. Other names that also mean "pretty" include Anwen, Alanis, and Amara.
Kit
Kit is traditionally known as a nickname derived from either Christopher or Katherine, but in the modern world, it is cool enough to stand as a name on its own, partly in thanks to Game of Thrones actor Kit Harrington. Other short, yet sweet names for boys include Van, Kent, and Gage.
Dakota
Dakota is a fun name for girls that means “friend” or “friendly”. This sassy name for girls is shared by famous icons such as actresses Dakota Johnson and Dakota Fanning. Other sass-filled options include Zoe, Gemma, Kiara, and Piper.
Bowie
If you want a badass name for your little boy, why not go with Bowie? Not only will your little one get to share a moniker with icons such as David Bowie and Jim Bowie, but they also get to bear a unique name with Scottish roots. Jagger and Maverick are also great options if you’re looking for badass boy names.
Monroe
Surname baby names are also great for little girls, with Monroe being the clear standout. This name has Scottish origins, and is believed to mean “mouth of the Roe River”. Actress Marilyn Monroe is the most famous bearer of the name. Other surname favorites for girls include Parker, Sawyer, Ellison, and Delaney.
Jasper
If you prefer a bohemian moniker, Jasper is one of the most popular options. Jasper means “treasurer” or “holder of the treasury”, and is also the name of a semi-precious stone. Other bohemian options include Ash, Bodhi, and Phoenix.
Poppy
Want a popular girl name that reminds you of flowers? Poppy is a good place to start. This sweet name is undeniably cute and is perfect for a baby girl with a sunny disposition. Other flowery options include Lilac, Petal, Daisy, and Tulip.
Final thoughts
Being in charge of naming another human being is a big responsibility. Plus, finding that perfect name certainly isn’t easy. The good news is that this list is made up of some of the most unique and beloved baby names, so you have a lot of options to consider whether you’re having a boy or girl.