Motherly

20 sporty baby names inspired by the World Cup and athletes all over the globe

Diva Anwari — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 22:22:32 +0000

Sports fans around the world have been tuning in to watch the World Cup. And, if there’s one thing that results from any kind of super popularity (I’m looking at you, “Game of Thrones”) it’s the baby name inspo! From baby names inspired by “Bridgerton” to baby names inspired by “Encanto,” the things we (or our partners) watch are all fair game when it comes to brainstorming names ahead of your little one’s arrival.

Now, with the excitement of the World Cup upon us there’s no doubt that these famous soccer players will have some kind of influence on the babies of tomorrow. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the star players like Lionel (Argentina’s Lionel Messi) becomes a popular baby name for 2023! Whether you’re hoping your little one will be a natural at youth sports or you have a favorite player you want to pay homage to, there are so many reasons to look for baby names inspired by athletes.

Here are 20 sporty baby names inspired by your favorite athletes

Sporty boy names

1. Lionel (Messi)

2. Kylian (Mbappe)

3. Karim (Benzema)

4. Luka (Modric)

5. Cristiano (Ronaldo)

6. Usain (Bolt)

7. Kobe (Bryant)

8. Nolan (Ryan)

9. Rafael (Nada)

10. Camden (Yards)

Sporty girl names

11. Serena (Williams)

12. Kallie (Humphries)

13. Amelie (Mauresmo)

14. Lisa (Leslie)

15. Birgit (Prinz)

16. Danica (Patrick)

17. Naomi (Osaka)

18. Mia (Hamm)

19. Tessa (Virtue)

20. Candace (Parker)

These will be the most popular baby names of 2023

Cassandra Stone — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 19:57:46 +0000

The massive global events during the last few years affect everything—the societal changes even trickle down to popular baby names. Because, as history tells us, every new era ushers in new trends!

When it comes to baby names, some classics will always stick around. But thanks to pop culture and everyone’s collective feelings of renewal at the start of a new year, new is the name of the name game. Based on constantly fluctuating trends, we think parents are going to be looking for inspiration anywhere and everywhere for baby names in 2023.

Classic baby names

Classic baby names are classic for many reasons—history being one of them. They never go out of style, and they’re strong without being strange. Here are some traditional favorites we see in the upcoming year.

Examples: Abigail, Claire, Victoria, Frederick, Patrick, Zachary

Spooky baby names

If one thing’s for sure, it’s that Halloween is popular year-round. Spooky season is a favorite for many, many people—and getting a little gothic inspo for baby names is a pretty cool idea.

Examples: Winifred, Coraline, Regan, Thorn, Dexter, Binx

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A post shared by Disney+ (@disneyplus)

Celestial baby names

Much like last year, we’ve learned that astrology and moon phases aren’t necessarily a trend for many people, they’re a lifestyle. So it only makes sense for parents who are in tune to the sun, the stars, and the moon to honor their babies with other-worldly names.

Examples: Astraea, Luna, Stella, Leo, Jericho, Ash

Magical baby names

After the last few years, we’re all looking for a bit of whimsy and escapism. What better way to honor your new baby than by giving them a magical moniker?

Examples: Adeline, Faye, Delilah, Caspian, Finn, Jasper

Baby names inspired by pop culture

There is no shortage of inspiration from popular television shows, music, movies, and more.

For fans of “Stranger Things”

These ’80s names are so much better than the ones many of us millennials have been stuck with, amiright?

Examples: Max, Robin, Nancy, Lucas, William, Dustin

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A post shared by Stranger Things Netflix (@strangerthingstv)

For fans of “House of the Dragon”

Remember when so many baby girls (and dogs) were named Daenarys back in the day? Yep, well, this is the franchise that keeps on giving when it comes to name inspiration.

Examples: Rhaenyra, Halaena, Talya, Daemon, Arryk, Larys

For fans of “The White Lotus”

Last year, we predicted “Tanya” would be a popular name in 2022, and if that wasn’t the case, well, what better way to honor the character (R.I.P.) than to do it in 2023? If that’s not your style, maybe these season two names are.

Examples: Harper, Daphne, Mia, Cameron, Ethan, Jack (honorable mentions go out to Lucia and Quentin)

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A post shared by The White Lotus (@thewhitelotus)

For fans of “Love is Blind”

Whether you love them or hate them, the cast members from this show (more seasons are coming in 2023) all have strong personalities—which means you never forget their names.

Examples: Alexa, Nancy, Raven, Cole, Brennan, and Bartise (or Barstool, Fartise, and any other variation that isn’t his name that fans of the show labeled him with because he was, without a doubt, The Worst)

While all of these names are fun (and may very well be big hits in 2023), remember: Whatever name you decide to choose for your baby is the right one, mama. Congratulations and happy new year!

30 charming Italian baby names for your little bambino

Diva Anwari — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 18:00:16 +0000

Congratulations, you’re expecting! The excitement of preparing for your little one’s arrival is unmatched and, one of the most exhilarating parts is when you’re choosing a name. While all your loved ones might be searching for, “Hawaiian baby names” or “baby names for a scorpio,” maybe you’re considering Italian baby names for your little bambino.

Whether you want to pay homage to your heritage or you simply love Italian baby names, you can’t go wrong with any of these sweet names. They’re timeless, endearing and perfect for the newest little member of your family. Check out these adorable Italian boy names and Italian girl names.

Italian boy names

Luka
Giovanni
Lorenzo
Nico
Romeo
Leonardo
Francesco
Matteo
Riccardo
Enzo
Dante
Marco
Orlando
Emilio
Antonio

Italian girl names

Isabella
Luna
Aria
Mia
Gabriella
Gianna
Angelena
Elena
Liliana
Sienna
Beatrix
Amara
Ilaria
Oriana
Chiara

Everything you need to know about popular baby names—and if it’s the right choice for you

Diva Anwari — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 22:50:02 +0000

Preparing for a new addition to the family? Congratulations! You might be Googling for the best onesies, diapers, carseats and strollers to purchase. But what’s one thing you can’t find at the store? The best or, most popular, baby names, of course!

Choosing a name can be a months long process. And you might even be amongst those who are considering middle names, double names, or, hey, maybe once you’re holding your baby and looking into their little face, you might end up choosing a different name altogether.

Any of this might be true for you but, how do you even go about finding a name? And, should you consider a popular baby name? Name trends come and go but there are some reasons why choosing a popular baby name may or may not be right for you.

Name trends and how they’re formed

If you’re wondering how name trends are even formed, you’re not alone. Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Texas, conducted a study, “Analyzing Influences on U.S. Baby Name Trends,” to figure out how name trends are formed and what dictates them in the first place. The researchers compiled data from the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) yearly name lists along with statistics from the Pew Research Center and other sites.

The SMU study found that name trends are not only formed by the amount of times a given name shows up in the SSA’s records but also through historical events, pop culture and religious figures. Everyone from famous authors to athletes, popular presidents to biblical figures and even hurricanes or wars can have an impact on which name expecting parents will choose for their little one.

For example, “Emma” has been in the top three ranking for popular baby girls names since 2003. And, in 2002 was when the writers “Friends” named Ross and Rachel’s daughter, “Emma.” Since that episode aired, the name “Emma” has been a steady favorite for parents all these years!

But, the name “Stephanie,” which is the feminized version of “Stephen” made popular since the 1900s for the connection to Saint Stephan, has been dropping in popularity for many years. It has seen a 97% decrease in popularity since 1980. And, out of the thousands of babies born every year in the US, only an average of 26 babies born per year between 2000 and 2019 were given the name “Stephanie.” So, “Stephanie” (and it’s male equivalent, “Stephan”) are no longer considered popular baby names.

A current popular name trend is recycling vintage names! Think: Evelyn and Charlotte or Noah, Theodore and James, all of which are currently on the SSA’s top ten baby names list of 2021.

To follow or not to follow: Are name trends right for you?

Considering whether or not to choose a popular baby name based on the current name trends can be a hard choice. After all, if you Google “popular baby names 2022,” chances are the results will be different ten years from now. There are some things you might want to think about before you choose a trendy name.

The pros of looking for of-the-moment names are that your child will fit in with their own generation and, if you go with a timeless name that’s also trendy then you’ll be getting the best of both worlds.

On the other hand, some names are only ever popular for a fashionable moment and then they fade away or are given new meanings that you might not like. For example, “Karen” has been on the decline since 2020. Or, if you name your child after some celebrity who’s having a big moment in your time, that same celebrity could have some kind of falling out with the public later on that might make you regret your choice.

And, of course, you have to assume that if you’re going with a popular name then all of the other parents deciding on baby names around the same time as you could potentially choose the exact same name. Your child will forever be called on in class with the first initial of their last name. Remember all of the “Marissas” or “Jakes?” No? Well, you might remember them as “Marissa A.” or “Jake C.”.

Popular names from past years

So, now that we’ve gotten past all of that data on baby name popularity, check out these popular baby name ideas from past years that we’ve already put together for you.

Popular names for girls, boys and separated by region

And, if you’re curious about popular names for girls and boys, or, maybe, names that are popular in specific regions, we’ve got you covered there too.

Expert advice or quotes from real moms about choosing a baby name

If you’re still undecided, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. Read on for real advice or quotes from moms who have been in your shoes.

“I saw Steel Magnolias when I was 11 and Dylan McDermott’s character Jackson Latcherie was the most handsome, charming, adorable man my little eyes had ever seen and I swore I’d name my son Jackson. 16 years later, I did.” —Kate, As Kate Would Have it

“My son, Tristan, is named after Brad Pitt’s character in Legends of the Fall. I have loved that name since I watched that movie as a teenager. I also STILL dislike Julia Ormond from that movie, more than 20 years later. So maybe don’t name your kid Julia.” —Joanna, Ramblin Mama

Did you choose a popular baby name? Tell us about your experience by emailing editor AT mother.ly and we may feature your quote in our story!

‘Nutella’ and other banned baby names in the US

Diva Anwari — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 23:42:19 +0000

Finding a baby name that both you and your partner like, your family and friends don’t dislike, and your child won’t resent you for is a tough call. But did you know that when you’re picking a name, besides just Googling “baby names that mean fire“—or any other search terms to find the perfect name for your little one—there’s also a list of baby names you can’t choose?

Across the US there are certain laws concerning baby names. Yes, it’s true, there is a list of banned baby names that you cannot put on your child’s birth certificate. And while some of the rules may be more flexible in some parts of the US versus others, don’t worry, we’ve got them all outlined here for you.

Naming laws in the US

It seems that there isn’t really a nationwide consensus regarding what is or isn’t appropriate for a baby name. But one of the more generally accepted laws around the nation is that numbers are not allowed. So, if you were considering a name like “Experiment 626,” otherwise known as “Stitch,” then just know that you might have to keep searching.

State by state restrictions

Here are a few of the specific restrictions that different states can have on baby names. It would be a good idea to check with your state’s permissions before you set your heart on some of the more unique baby names. Of course, if you live in a state without any restrictions, like Illinois, then you’re completely free to name your baby whatever you wish!

1. Arizona

There is a 45 character limit on first, middle and last names.

2. Arkansas

Apostrophes, hyphens and spaces are only allowed if they are not used consecutively.

3. California

No derogatory or obscene names. Pictographs and non-English characters are also banned.

4. Florida

A signed agreement is required of parents to establish their child’s first name. Otherwise, a court will select one.

5. Georgia

Symbols and accents are not allowed.

6. Michigan

Only English characters.

7. Mississippi

When the parents are married, the child takes their father’s surname. But, if you prefer a different name then a request must be made.

8. New Jersey

Obscene names, numbers and symbols are all restricted.

9. New York

There is a 30-character maximum for first and middle names and 40-character maximum for last names. Numbers and symbols are not acceptable.

10. Ohio

Numbers are not acceptable, but hyphens, apostrophes and spaces are allowed.

11. Texas

There is a 100-character maximum for first, middle and last names. Only English characters are acceptable and numbers and diacritical marks are not allowed.

12. Virginia

Numbers symbols and other special characters are all forbidden.

Banned baby names across the US

Even though most states can’t agree on what should or shouldn’t be banned when it comes to unique baby names, here are just a few of the names that are forbidden in the US.

1. King

2. Queen

3. @

4. Majesty

5. Harry 3

6. Nutella

7. F!nn

Still searching for unique baby names?

Choosing your baby’s name is an important decision. And if you want a unique name for your child that’s not banned, then look no further. Explore any of the following baby name stories to find the name that best represents your little one. Whether you’re looking for names for a specific season, month or, maybe, you’re looking for a name that means “strong,” fall in love with any of these ideas. They’re all legal, we’re pretty sure.

How to choose a baby name: A new parent’s guide to baby names

Amber Guetebier — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 18:16:36 +0000

Congratulations, you’re expecting a beautiful new member of the family! And while preparing to welcome baby is an exciting time, there’s also plenty of decision making in your near future, too. And one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing a baby name. While certain names rise and fall in baby name popularity, there’s only one name (or maybe two) for your little one. So how do you decide what to keep on your baby name list?

The good news is, while it may sometimes be a point of stress or disagreement, the entire process really can be a fun, joyful journey. This baby name guide will help you figure out how to choose a baby name that’s as perfect as that little bundle you’ll soon be holding.

How to choose a baby name

No matter how excited you are to welcome that bundle of joy into your life, choosing a name is one of the trickiest tasks for most parents. Here are a few of the most common issues that can cause you to cross off names on your baby name list.

Step 1. Talk with your partner

This may seem obvious, but if you’ve had a baby name picked out since you were a teenager, talking about it with your partner might change your point-of-view. Baby naming involves a lot of back and forth and this or that, and having your partner on the same page with the process, not just the name, is key. Talk with your partner about how you want to make the decision. Important things to consider include:

Will you know the sex of your baby in advance? If you choose to not know the sex, you may want to generate a list of gender-neutral baby names, or have a list of possibilities for either sex.
Keeping things honest (even if it’s a family name, it’s okay to tell your partner you don’t like it).
Flexibility: try to keep an open mind while not getting your heart set on one name only.

Step 2. Decide who to include in the decision-making process

This one is so important, even though it’s part of Step 1, it’s critical enough to be called out on its own. Before you start the conversation with anyone who isn’t your partner, make sure you and your partner are in full agreement on who is in on this decision.

For most couples, it is down to them to make the decision, but if your family wishes to have another person involved that is totally okay, as long as you and your partner are in agreement. Whatever you do, don’t let too many people weigh in on your names (see number two in common problems below).

Step 3. Make a list

Like so many things in life, baby naming benefits from the fine art of list making. Even if you’re brainstorming names out loud at the dinner table, trust us: you will forget several of those names before you ever think about deciding. Making a written list, whether that’s a shared google doc or a whiteboard at home, can help track and enjoy the process. Not sure where to begin, try starting with:

Meaningful places you’ve been together. Think of towns, countries, and people you’ve met on trips together.
Family names.
Objects, hobbies, or events you love or enjoy together.

Step 4. Find out the baby name meanings

As you start finding names you like, you’ll want to do some research behind the name’s meaning and origin.You may want to choose a name based on the meaning, such as a name that signifies intelligence and wisdom. Or you may want to find a name from a place, thing, time, or culture you hold dear or identify with, like these baby names based on plants or month-themed names, like June-baby names.

Step 5. Say every name out loud

A beautiful name on the page (or on your list) may look perfect, but what happens when you say it out loud? A few things to consider.

How does the name feel rolling off your tongue? Is it a name you can hear yourself calling out for years to come?
Does the name have a cute nickname version? Can it be more than one name (for example, the name Henry can be Hank, Richard can be Rick, etc.)
Do you and your partner say it the same way? It’s okay if you don’t! It’s just important to hear each other say it.
Can you pronounce it correctly? For example, you chose a beautiful Irish baby name only to discover you’re saying it wrong.
What does it rhyme with? Honestly, it’s not a deal breaker but if you’ve chosen the name Lou you’ve got to contend with the fact that school kids are going to know it rhymes with “poo.”

Step 6. Consider multiple names

Many parents decide to give their baby a second (middle) name, and some even choose more than one. If you can’t make up your mind, try two names together to see if they work as a first and middle name.

Step 7. Pick your name, sort of

While some people choose their baby name in advance and have a sign for the nursery to prove it, it’s okay to not know 100% until you meet your child. You can narrow it down (we highly recommend you narrow it down) but if you’re really down to two or three names, decide when you meet the little one.

You don’t legally have to put the full name on the birth certificate before you leave the hospital, though it’s certainly easier. In fact, many states actually allow new parents six to 12 months to make a legal name change to a child’s birth certificate without any fees, however legal name changes after that may require fees and a lawyer.

Common issues when choosing a baby name

Issue 1. Not agreeing with your partner

This can happen for a variety of reasons (now you know the name of every ex your partner has ever had), including all of those listed below but not agreeing with your partner on what to name the baby you’re having together can cause stress and chaos. Choosing a baby name is one of the first parenting decisions you’ll make together, so consider it practice for the many compromises to come.

Issue 2. You told people too soon and they hate the name

You’re excited to share the name, so excited you told your mother-in-law as soon as she asked, only to receive a funny look you know means she hates it. Or your brother laughed at the name. Whatever the response, it’s common for excited parents-to-be to share the name they’ve chosen way too soon, only to be met with less than enthusiastic response. And while we believe it’s not up to friends and family to give your baby a name, negative responses can weigh heavily on a parent’s mind.

Issue 3. Everyone keeps mispronouncing the name

Whether it’s siblings, parents, or even between you and your partner, it feels like everyone close to you seems to say the name wrong. Spelling and pronunciation aren’t always straightforward, either, so it can become problematic and possibly cause you concern for the future.

Issue 4. Your bestie chose the name, too

You just found out your pregnant friend chose the exact same name as you. Ugh!

Issue 5. The name became too popular or it’s used in popular culture in a way you don’t like

This could come up in a variety of ways. For example, the name might be used for a major technology brand (ahem, Alexa). Or a celebrity you aren’t a fan of chooses the name for their child. Misappropriation can also be an issue, for example if you chose a name that is appropriated from a culture you or your spouse doesn’t identify with. Or the name might just be too trendy by the time your baby is born. (A great reason to have a second option picked out!).

Moms talk about how they chose a baby name

“We had all these boy names picked out. I had a list. But sometimes that list goes out the window. When I went into labor it was around sunset in Boulder, CO. My room faced the mountainside of the flatirons. As the sun was setting, the sky was this beautiful, deep indigo. 12 hours later he was born. As the sun was rising, it was still the same beautiful deep indigo color and it was a magical sight. I named my son Indigo Skye. My family basically thought I’d lost my mind and joined a cult or something crazy, but now everyone loves it, including my son. Sometimes what doesn’t make sense to others, does to you in that moment. I don’t regret it, and the best part is that my son, now 21, loves his name and all the young girls do too.” —Misty, Snarky Breeders

“My husband and I liked literally zero of the same names. There was not one name that both of us loved and the other didn’t hate. So we settled on naming our first girl after both of our moms; her first name is my mom’s middle name and her middle name is my MIL’s name. And our son after our dads; his first name is my FIL’s and his middle name is my dad’s.” —Ana, Not the Nanny

“When we went to name our baby girl, we had decided to name her after my great grandmother, Sadie. After we put Sadie Grace on the birth certificate, I kept looking at her and thinking to myself, “She’s not a Sadie.” Two days later we changed her name to Cooper, which was the backup name for our son 5 years earlier. She is such a Cooper and I can’t imagine her as a Sadie.” —Holly, From the Bottom of my Purse

Baby name ideas

Now that you understand factors to consider when choosing a baby name, common issues when choosing a baby name and you’ve heard from real moms about how they chose their baby’s name, now it’s time for the fun part: actually choosing your own baby’s name. We have dozens of ideas from unique baby name ideas to popular baby names that won’t go out of style.

Unique baby names

Popular baby names

Girl names

Boy names

30 popular boy names & their meanings

Gender-neutral baby names

Baby names by month or season

Popular travel-inspired baby names

Diva Anwari — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 23:24:48 +0000

Searching for the perfect baby name can be one of the more exciting things to research before your little one gets here. You might have already looked at celebrity baby names or possibly your favorite show (Bridgerton baby names, anyone?) for ideas but if you’re looking for a name that sparks a happy memory then you might consider travel-inspired baby names.

And what’s one thing that can take you back to a magical moment like your honeymoon, proposal or wedding location? The name, of course! Maybe you honeymooned in Sydney because you just had to see the famous opera house. Maybe your partner proposed under the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Or, maybe you had a lovely rustic wedding in Boston. Whatever place calls to your heart might be the place to consider naming your baby after.

It’s no wonder naming your baby after iconic cities and countries is a growing trend in America. Bounce conducted a study over 20 years, from 2000 to 2020, and found the most popular travel-inspired baby names. Starting with the most popular baby names for boys and ending with popular baby names inspired by cities—Bounce even gives a little bit of historical context for the top performers in each category.

Scroll down to see what iconic places made the list!

Bounce

Travel-inspired boy names

1. Preston

2. Dakota

3. Israel

4. Kingston

5. Dallas

6. Phoenix

7. Orlando

8. Atlas

9. Boston

10. London

Bounce

Travel-inspired girl names

1. Sydney

2. Alexandria

3. London

4. Dakota

5. Paris

6. Carolina

7. Guadalupe

8. Journey

9. Skye

10. Asia

Bounce

Travel-inspired baby names: countries

1. Israel

2. India

3. Kenya

4. America

5. Malaysia

6. Ireland

7. Egypt

8. Italy

9. Trinidad

10. China

Bounce

Travel-inspired baby names: capital cities

1. London

2. Kingston

3. Paris

4. Cairo

5. Vienna

6. Rome

7. Hamilton

8. Berlin

9. Havana

10. Nairobi

These are our favorite 25 celebrity baby names of all time

Cassandra Stone — Thu, 19 May 2022 20:50:02 +0000

When it comes to celebrity baby names, you can pretty much guarantee they’ll turn to names unlike any others. Celebrities tend to really indulge their creative impulses when it comes to naming their children, and, honestly, who can blame them?

Some names will make you go, “Awww” while others might make you say, “HUH?!,” but one thing is for sure—we all love a good celebrity baby name. Weird celebrity baby names, silly celebrity baby names, baby names that bring the drama…we love it all. (Except X Æ A-12. That one is, uh, special.)

Not all celebrity baby names can be filed under “Too Crazy” or “Too Trendy,” however. Some are just right—like “Daisy,” or “Silas,” or even the sweet, simple “Olive.”

Here is a list of the top 25 celebrity baby names of recent years. Maybe it’ll provide you with some inspiration for your own babies. Or maybe it’ll just be an entertaining read. Either way, enjoy!

Celebrity baby boy names

Ace – Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson
Axl – Fergie and Josh Duhamel
Cosmo – Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost
Crew – Joanna and Chip Gaines
Cruz – Victoria and David Beckham
Gideon – Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka
Knox – Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt
Saint – Kim Kardashian and Kanye West
Silas – Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel
Sir – Beyoncé and Jay-Z
Wyatt – Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis
Zuma – Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale

Celebrity baby girl names

Avianna – Amy Adams and Daren Le Gallo
Bryn – Bethenny Frankel
Coco – Courteney Cox and David Arquette
Daisy – Olivia Wilde and Jason Sudeikis
Delta – Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard
Elsie – Zooey Deschanel and Jacob Pechenik
Haven – Jessica Alba and Cash Warren
Olive – Drew Barrymore and Will Kopleman
Olympia – Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian
Pearl – Maya Rudolph and P.T. Anderson
Raddix – Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden
Tiana – The Rock and Lauren Hashian

50 colorful and beautiful Hawaiian baby names

Emily Weaver — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:30:19 +0000

Are you stuck in a baby name brainstorming rut? Hawaiian names are especially unique not only phonetically, but in their spelling and meanings, too. It’s not uncommon for monikers that are derived from the Hawaiian islands to have ocean, celestial, spiritual, or sun-inspired meanings. There are also beautiful names that adorn the same name as the islands, like Kauai and Maui. The beloved Disney characters Moana and Lilo also have names that stem from Hawaiian culture. You’ll find that many names begin with the letter “K,” another fun tidbit about Hawaiian name trivia.

Keep reading to see our full catalog of Hawaiian baby names—who knows, maybe you’ll see a name for your newborn that you like… or be inspired to plan your first family vacation!

Here are 50 Hawaiian-inspired baby names.

Hawaiian baby names for girls

Alaina
Alanis
Aleyna
Haukea
Kailani
Kalea
Kalei
Kamalani
Kauai
Kaulana
Kawai
Kawehi
Keahi
Keiki
Lei
Leilani
Lenai
Lilo
Lolani
Maui
Mikala
Moana
Nakoa
Nani
U’ilani

Hawaiian baby names for boys

Anakoni
Ano
Haoa
Iokepa
Kaholo
Kai
Kaleo
Keahi
Keanu
Kekoa
Keona
Kimo
Koa
Kōnane
Loki
Makaio
Makoa
Maleko
Mano
Manu
Meka
Nahele
Nohea
Pika
Rangi

‘Southern double names’ is the new baby name obsession we didn’t know we needed thanks to this viral TikTok

Cassandra Stone — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:07:18 +0000

The baby name rabbit hole just got a little deeper, everyone—you’re welcome. While the notion of giving a baby two first names (or having them go by their first and middle name) isn’t anything new, there’s something captivating about the art of “Southern double names for baby girls.” And we have this viral TikTok to thank for it.

Who doesn’t love unique baby names, amiright? Well, what could be more unique than two first names? Or, better yet, two first names and two shortened nicknames too? If I’ve lost you, I apologize. I’ll let Kendall here explain it to you.

@kendoll913
Southern, double names for a baby girl! #babynames #babygirlnames #nameideas #southernaccent
♬ original sound – Kendall

She begins the video by assuring us that the art of the Southern “double name” is very real (as our readers in the South can no doubt confirm). In this TikTok, many of the names are then shortened to make even cuter double names—like “Elodie Jolene” becomes “Ellie Jo” and “Eleanora Elizabeth” can be shortened to “Nora Beth,” and so on and so forth.

But don’t worry, if the task of coming up with a double name that also shortens to a cute double-name nickname is too daunting, Kendall has a follow-up TikTok with double names that are perfect as-is for daily use.

@kendoll913
Double names for baby girls! #southernbabynames #babygirlnames #babygirls #babynameideas
♬ original sound – Kendall

“The elementary school teachers are gonna kill me for this one,” she jokes in the first video. (As someone whose single-name first name is still nine letters long, I say…oh well! Sorry teachers!)

What are some double names that you’ve encountered? The editorial team here at Motherly has compiled the following: Laura Beth, Mary Catherine, Ginna Claire, Laura Chase, Hannah Margaret, Anna Beth, Ava Mae, Avery Jane, Anna Claire, Laura Leigh, Lily Rose, Abby Jane, Emmy Lou, Katie Jean, and the list goes on.

Whether it’s your style or not, there’s just something about those Southern baby names (double and singular) that roll off the tongue as sweet as molasses.

Motherly

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