121 Popular Baby Names in 2026 and Their Meanings

Every new year brings a fresh wave of naming trends, a beautiful blend of nostalgia, innovation, and cultural shifts. As we look ahead to 2026, the landscape of popular baby names is evolving. Parents are moving away from the ultra-trendy and towards names that feel both timeless and meaningful, often with a touch of vintage charm or natural elegance.

This isn’t just a baby names list; it’s a forecast of the names that will fill playgrounds and classrooms, based on current cultural currents, rising stars, and generational shifts. Whether you’re seeking a classic name with deep roots or a modern pick that feels both fresh and familiar, this guide to popular baby names for 2026 is here to inspire your journey. Let’s dive into the names that are set to define the next generation, complete with their beautiful meanings and unique curiosities.

Understanding the 2026 Naming Landscape

Before we explore the list, let’s understand what’s driving these choices. The popular baby names of 2026 are expected to be characterized by:

• Vintage Revival: Names from the early 1900s are making a strong, sophisticated comeback.
• Nature’s Influence: Botanical, celestial, and earthy names continue to rise, reflecting a desire for calm and connection.
• Gender Fluidity: Soft, lyrical names for boys and strong, classic names for girls are blurring traditional lines.
• Global Inspiration: With the world at our fingertips, names from diverse cultures are becoming mainstream favorites.

This curated baby names list is designed to give you a wide array of baby names ideas, from the comfortably familiar to the boldly aesthetic baby names on the rise. We’ll explore names for girls, boys, and those that beautifully bridge the gap, all with a focus on baby names and meanings that resonate.

Part 1: Trending Female Baby Names for 2026

1. Aurelia

• Meaning: “The golden one” (Latin)
• Curiosity: With its luminous meaning and elegant, rolling sound, Aurelia is the vintage name poised to skyrocket. It feels both imperial and effortlessly cool, a gorgeous alternative to the more common Aurora.

2. Maeve

• Meaning: “She who intoxicates” (Irish)
• Curiosity: This powerful, punchy Irish name, borne by a legendary warrior queen, has been climbing charts thanks to its strong yet simple vibe and association with the hit series The Boys.

3. Juniper

• Meaning: “Young” (Latin, associated with the juniper tree)
• Curiosity: A fresh and spirited nature name that has fully shed its “hippie” image. Juniper is lively, sweet, and offers the adorable nickname “Juni.”

4. Elara

• Meaning: A moon of Jupiter; in Greek mythology, a lover of Zeus.
• Curiosity: As celestial names continue to soar, Elara stands out for its melodic sound and astronomical connection. It feels both ancient and futuristic.

5. Sienna

• Meaning: “Reddish-brown” (Italian, from the city Siena)
• Curiosity: This name evokes the warm, earthy tones of Italian landscapes. It’s a color name that feels both artistic and grounded, maintaining enduring popularity.

6. Ophelia

• Meaning: “Help” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A Shakespearean name that has shaken off its tragic origins to become a symbol of delicate beauty and literary grace. It’s wildly popular on social media, driving its trendiness.

7. Imogen

• Meaning: “Maiden” or “innocent” (Celtic)
• Curiosity: Hugely popular in the UK, Imogen is now capturing hearts in the US. It’s a name that sounds both intelligent and whimsical, with a unique and charming rhythm.

8. Wren

• Meaning: A small songbird.
• Curiosity: Simple, elegant, and connected to nature, Wren is a quiet storm in the world of popular baby names. It’s delicate yet has a strong, clear sound that appeals to modern parents.

9. Freya

• Meaning: “Noble woman” (Norse)
• Curiosity: The name of the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and war, Freya carries a powerful and enchanting aura. Its popularity reflects a growing fascination with mythological names.

10. Celeste

• Meaning: “Heavenly” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A truly beautiful and serene name that has always been loved but is now reaching new heights. It’s ethereal without being fragile, and its meaning is universally appealing.

11. Ada

• Meaning: “Noble” (German)
• Curiosity: A short, vintage, and intelligent name, recalling Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer. Its simplicity and strength are a perfect combination for 2026.

12. Hazel

• Meaning: The hazelnut tree; a light brown color.
• Curiosity: A steadfast nature name that continues to be a top choice. It evokes a sense of warm, autumnal comfort and timeless charm.

13. Theodora

• Meaning: “Gift of God” (Greek)
• Curiosity: The feminine form of Theodore is having a major moment. It’s a regal, vintage name with a great meaning and plenty of cute nickname options like “Thea” or “Teddy.”

14. Isla

• Meaning: “Island” (Scottish)
• Curiosity: Its beautiful, soft pronunciation (eye-la) and simple spelling have made Isla a perennial favorite. It’s the epitome of a modern, melodic popular baby names choice.

15. Clementine

• Meaning: “Mild, merciful” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A quirky, sweet, and vintage name that feels both sunny and substantial. It’s associated with the fruit and the folk song, giving it a cheerful, artistic vibe.

16. Elowen

• Meaning: “Elm tree” (Cornish)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, nature-inspired name from Cornwall, England. It’s melodic and has a magical, almost fairy-tale-like quality that is gaining attention.

17. Margot

• Meaning: “Pearl” (French)
• Curiosity: This chic, sophisticated French name has been propelled back into the spotlight by actress Margot Robbie. It’s alluring, elegant, and just a little bit spicy.

18. Sage

• Meaning: “Wise” and also the herb (Latin)
• Curiosity: A unisex name that is particularly trending for girls. It signifies wisdom and has a clean, earthy, and peaceful feel.

19. Lydia

• Meaning: “Woman from Lydia” (an ancient region in Asia Minor) (Greek)
• Curiosity: A classic name with a literary feel (think Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice) that is both graceful and strong. It’s familiar but not overused.

20. Mae

• Meaning: A month name; also a diminutive of Margaret, meaning “pearl.”
• Curiosity: This sweet, single-syllable name is a middle-name staple that is now shining as a first name. It’s simple, nostalgic, and full of springtime charm.

21. Nova

• Meaning: “New” (Latin)
• Curiosity: An astronomical name for a “new” star that increases greatly in brightness. It’s modern, powerful, and perfectly captures the feeling of a new beginning.

22. Phoebe

• Meaning: “Bright, pure” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek mythology, Phoebe was a Titan associated with the moon. The name is bright, friendly, and got a huge boost from the TV show Friends.

23. Clara

• Meaning: “Bright, clear” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A vintage name that is clear, elegant, and luminous. It’s easy to spell and pronounce internationally, adding to its enduring appeal.

24. Violet

• Meaning: The purple flower (Latin)
• Curiosity: A romantic and vibrant botanical name that has been a top contender for years. It’s both delicate and strong, with a great vintage vibe.

25. Amara

• Meaning: “Grace, immortality, eternal” (in Sanskrit, Igbo, and other languages)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, cross-cultural name with a powerful and positive meaning. Its melodic sound and global feel make it a rising star.

26. Cora

• Meaning: “Maiden” (Greek)
• Curiosity: With its simple, classic sound and connection to the heroine of The Last of the Mohicans, Cora feels both strong and gentle. It’s a streamlined vintage choice.

27. Esme

• Meaning: “Esteemed, beloved” (French)
• Curiosity: A delicate and charming name that has shed its old-lady image to become incredibly chic and sweet. It’s short, romantic, and full of love.

28. Lila

• Meaning: “Play” (Sanskrit); “Night” (Arabic)
• Curiosity: A simple, pretty, and international name with beautiful, poetic meanings in multiple cultures. Its gentle sound is universally appealing.

29. Rowan

• Meaning: “Little red one” (Gaelic); also the rowan tree.
• Curiosity: A unisex nature name that is strong, sophisticated, and works perfectly for a girl. It has a gentle but resilient feel.

30. Serena

• Meaning: “Tranquil, serene” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A name that embodies peace and calm. In a fast-paced world, bestowing a name with such a soothing meaning is a beautiful intention for a child’s life.

31. Talia

• Meaning: “Heaven’s dew” (Hebrew); “Blooming” (Greek, from Thalia)
• Curiosity: A name with dual origins, both of which are wonderfully poetic. It’s light, feminine, and has a joyful, musical quality.

32. Zara

• Meaning: “Blooming flower” (Arabic); “Princess” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A name packed with style and regal connotations (think Princess Zara of the Netherlands). It’s zippy, international, and effortlessly cool.

33. Adelaide

• Meaning: “Noble natured” (German)
• Curiosity: A vintage name that is long, lyrical, and packed with vintage charm. It feels both royal and approachable, with cute nicknames like Addie or Lady.

34. Briar

• Meaning: A thorny patch of plants, notably wild roses.
• Curiosity: An edgy yet romantic nature name, popularized by Sleeping Briar Rose. It symbolizes both beauty and resilience, a powerful combination.

35. Daphne

• Meaning: “Laurel tree, bay tree” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek myth, Daphne was a nymph transformed into a laurel tree. This beautiful, botanical name is classic, quirky, and on a sharp upward trend.

36. Eloise

• Meaning: “Healthy; wide” (German)
• Curiosity: A name with a sophisticated, Parisian flair and a lively spirit. It’s been a steady climber and has a lovely, melodic sound when spoken.

37. Iris

• Meaning: “Rainbow” (Greek); also the flower.
• Curiosity: A beautiful, short, and colorful name from the natural world. In mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow, a messenger of the gods.

38. Josephine

• Meaning: “Jehovah increases” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A timeless, elegant name with a great history (Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon). It’s strong and feminine, with nicknames like Josie or Jo.

39. Luna

• Meaning: “Moon” (Latin)
• Curiosity: The ultimate celestial name, Luna has taken the world by storm. It’s lyrical, magical, and simple, representing mystery and beauty.

40. Naomi

• Meaning: “Pleasantness” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical name that is both sweet and strong. It’s a timeless choice that feels modern and elegant, with a beautiful meaning.

41. Ruth

• Meaning: “Companion,” “friend,” or “vision of beauty” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A classic, single-syllable name that is experiencing a well-deserved revival. It’s simple, strong, and carries a deep sense of loyalty and friendship.

42. Sylvie

• Meaning: “From the forest” (French, from Sylvia)
• Curiosity: This French form of Sylvia feels fresher and more chic than its counterpart. It’s light, airy, and perfectly in tune with the nature-name trend.

43. Willa

• Meaning: “Resolute protection” (German, feminine of William)
• Curiosity: A charming and vintage name that is both strong and gentle. It’s a more distinctive alternative to Willow or Willa.

44. Astrid

• Meaning: “Beautiful, beloved god” (Old Norse)
• Curiosity: A powerful Scandinavian name that is strong and unique. It has literary ties to the How to Train Your Dragon books and a cool, unfussy vibe.

45. Beatrice

• Meaning: “She who brings happiness; blessed” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, classic name with a wonderful meaning. It’s been given a modern update with the cute nickname “Bea,” making it feel fresh again.

46. Camille

• Meaning: “Perfect” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A graceful, French name that is sophisticated and strong. It works beautifully in multiple languages and has a timeless, artistic feel.

47. Eden

• Meaning: “Place of pleasure, delight” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A serene, biblical place-name that evokes images of a peaceful, perfect paradise. It’s simple, beautiful, and meaningful.

48. Flora

• Meaning: “Flower” (Latin)
• Curiosity: The Roman goddess of flowers and spring, Flora is a vintage botanical name that is blooming once again. It’s simple, fresh, and full of life.

49. Georgia

• Meaning: “Farmer” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A feminine form of George that feels both Southern-sweet and artistically cool (think artist Georgia O’Keeffe). It’s a friendly and classic choice.

50. Haven

• Meaning: “A safe place” (English)
• Curiosity: A virtue name that is modern and deeply meaningful. In a chaotic world, giving your child a name that means “safe place” is a powerful gift.

51. Isabelle

• Meaning: “Pledged to God” (Hebrew, variation of Elizabeth)
• Curiosity: A perennial favorite that continues to shine. Its many spelling variations (Isabel, Isobel) and the nickname “Bella” keep it feeling fresh and personal.

52. Juliette

• Meaning: “Youthful” (Latin)
• Curiosity: The ultimate romantic name, from Shakespeare’s tragic heroine. The French spelling “Juliette” adds an extra layer of chic sophistication.

53. Laurel

• Meaning: The laurel tree, a symbol of victory and honor in ancient Greece.
• Curiosity: A graceful and victorious nature name. It’s a more subtle alternative to Laura and a more botanical take on the trendy Lauren.

54. Maya

• Meaning: “Water” (Hebrew); “Illusion” (Sanskrit); also the name of a culture and a month.
• Curiosity: A short, sweet, and internationally recognized name with multiple beautiful origins. It’s easy to say and carries a global, artistic vibe.

55. Nora

• Meaning: “Honor” (Latin, short for Eleanor or Honora)
• Curiosity: A compact, vintage name that is both strong and gentle. It’s been a top choice for years and shows no signs of slowing down, thanks to its perfect blend of simplicity and substance.

56. Piper

• Meaning: “Pipe player” (English)
• Curiosity: A spirited, melodic occupational surname that feels fresh and sassy. It’s a modern classic that is both playful and strong.

57. Rose

• Meaning: The rose flower (Latin)
• Curiosity: The quintessential flower name, Rose is timeless, elegant, and romantic. It’s often used as a middle name but is stunningly simple and powerful on its own.

58. Sloane

• Meaning: “Raider” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A sleek, sophisticated, and slightly androgynous surname-name. It’s cool, confident, and has a modern, un-fussy appeal.

59. Summer

• Meaning: The warmest season of the year.
• Curiosity: A bright, sunny, and cheerful name that evokes feelings of joy, freedom, and warmth. It’s a timeless season name that always feels fresh.

60. Valentina

• Meaning: “Strong, healthy” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A romantic and powerful name that is popular across Europe and Latin America. It’s feminine and strong, with the lovely nickname “Val.”

Part 2: Trending Male Baby Names for 2026

61. Arlo

• Meaning: Possibly “between two hills” (English)
• Curiosity: A friendly, folksy name that has become a major hit. It’s soft and approachable yet feels cool and contemporary, a perfect blend for modern parents.

62. Theodore

• Meaning: “Gift of God” (Greek)
• Curiosity: The king of vintage boy names, Theodore has reclaimed its throne. It’s a classic, intelligent name with the adorable, friendly nickname “Theo.”

63. Kai

• Meaning: “Sea” (Hawaiian); “Forgiveness” (Japanese); “Willow tree” (Navajo)
• Curiosity: A short, strong, and globally-minded name with multiple peaceful meanings. It’s versatile, modern, and effortlessly cool.

64. Ezra

• Meaning: “Help” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical name that feels both vintage and trendy. It’s soft yet strong, with a artistic, literary vibe that has made it a sustained favorite.

65. Silas

• Meaning: “Man of the forest” (Latin)
• Curiosity: An ancient Roman name with a gentle, natural feel. It’s both scholarly and rugged, appealing to parents who love names with history and earthy roots.

66. Asher

• Meaning: “Happy, blessed” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A name with a wonderfully positive meaning and a soft, modern sound. It’s a biblical name that feels fresh and joyful.

67. Levi

• Meaning: “Joined, attached” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical name that is both strong and approachable. Its rise is partly due to the enduring popularity of denim brand Levi’s, giving it a cool, all-American vibe.

68. Elias

• Meaning: “Yahweh is my God” (Hebrew, Greek form of Elijah)
• Curiosity: A more melodic and formal alternative to Elijah. It’s a classic name that feels distinguished and international.

69. Mateo

• Meaning: “Gift of God” (Spanish, form of Matthew)
• Curiosity: The rhythmic and popular Spanish form of Matthew has crossed over into the mainstream. It’s lively, handsome, and full of charm.

70. Leo

• Meaning: “Lion” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A fierce, brave, and astrological name that is short and powerful. It’s a perennial favorite that continues to feel strong and vibrant.

71. Jasper

• Meaning: “Treasurer” (Persian); also a precious stone.
• Curiosity: A gemstone name with a vintage, gentlemanly feel. It’s artistic and sophisticated, yet friendly and warm.

72. Felix

• Meaning: “Happy, fortunate” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A cheerful, vintage name with a great meaning. It’s upbeat and classic, a wonderful choice for a parents wishing for a happy-go-lucky child.

73. August

• Meaning: “Great, magnificent” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A month name that feels both strong and artistic. It’s a vintage pick that is regal and grounded at the same time.

74. Miles

• Meaning: “Soldier” (Latin); or “merciful” (German)
• Curiosity: A sleek, classic name with a cool, jazzy vibe (think Miles Davis). It’s both gentle and strong, with an air of sophistication.

75. Owen

• Meaning: “Young warrior,” “noble born” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A friendly, strong Celtic name that has been a steady favorite for years. It’s approachable, easy to spell, and has a noble meaning.

76. Shepherd

• Meaning: “Pastor” (Inglés)
• Curiosity: An occupational name that evokes a sense of care, guidance, and connection to nature. It is a solid and distinctive choice that sounds both strong and protective, following the trend of surnames and occupations as first names. It offers the cute and modern nickname “Shep.”

77. Julian

• Meaning: “Youthful, downy” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A timeless, romantic name that is both strong and soft. It’s a classic that never feels old-fashioned, with a melodic, international appeal.

78. Koa

• Meaning: “Warrior” (Hawaiian)
• Curiosity: A short, powerful Hawaiian name full of spiritual strength. It evokes images of courage and the natural beauty of the islands, perfect for parents looking for a name with an organic and robust essence.

79. Orion

• Meaning: Named after the hunter from Greek mythology; also a prominent constellation.
• Curiosity: A powerful and masculine astronomical name. It suggests strength, adventure, and the immensity of the cosmos, offering a grand and modern alternative to classic names.

80. Wyatt

• Meaning: “Brave in war” (English)
• Curiosity: A rugged, Western-feeling name that is both strong and friendly. It has a cowboy charm that feels adventurous and all-American.

81. Bennett

• Meaning: “Blessed” (Latin, from Benedict)
• Curiosity: A surname-name that feels more modern and preppy than the classic Benedict. It’s strong, sophisticated, and has the friendly nickname “Ben.”

82. Brooks

• Meaning: “Of the brook” (English)
• Curiosity: A preppy, nature-inspired surname that is smooth and strong. It evokes images of a calm, flowing stream and has a cool, collected vibe.

83. Finn

• Meaning: “Fair” or “white” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A lively, adventurous name from Irish legend. It’s short, friendly, and full of energy, a great stand-alone name or a nickname for Finley or Finnegan.

84. Henry

• Meaning: “Estate ruler” (German)
• Curiosity: A royal classic that has never gone out of style. Henry is a friendly, intelligent, and steadfast name that feels both traditional and fresh.

85. Jack

• Meaning: “God is gracious” (English, originally a diminutive of John)
• Curiosity: A timeless, friendly, and strong name that is perennially popular. It’s simple, no-nonsense, and effortlessly cool.

86. Jude

• Meaning: “Praised” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A cool, gentle, and lyrical biblical name. It’s short and sweet, with a artistic, slightly rebellious edge thanks to The Beatles’ song “Hey Jude.”

87. Nolan

• Meaning: “Champion” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A friendly and strong Irish surname that is easy to pronounce and has a great, victorious meaning. It’s modern yet rooted.

88. Oliver

• Meaning: “Olive tree” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A name that has dominated charts worldwide for years. It’s gentle, friendly, and classic, with a peaceful, natural meaning.

89. Rhys

• Meaning: “Enthusiasm” (Welsh)
• Curiosity: A cool, sophisticated Welsh name that is simple and strong. The traditional spelling (over Reese) is gaining traction for its authentic, sleek feel.

90. Sebastian

• Meaning: “Person from Sebastia” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A name that is both elegant and dashing. It’s a long, classical name with great nickname potential (“Bash,” “Seb”) and a worldly feel.

91. Wesley

• Meaning: “Western meadow” (English)
• Curiosity: A gentle, friendly surname-name with a soft sound and a pleasant, natural meaning. It feels both preppy and down-to-earth.

92. Caleb

• Meaning: “Faithful, devoted” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A biblical name with a warm and trustworthy feel. It’s a strong, classic choice that has remained consistently popular for decades.

93. Evander

• Meaning: “Good man” (Greek)
• Curiosity: In Greek mythology, Evander was a cultural hero who founded a city in Italy. It’s a noble and handsome name that sounds both classic and modern, offering a strong, melodic alternative to Alexander.

94. Gabriel

• Meaning: “God is my strong man” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A beautiful, melodic archangel name that is both strong and gentle. It’s a timeless choice with a powerful spiritual connection.

95. Isaac

• Meaning: “He will laugh” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A classic biblical name with a wonderful, joyful meaning. It’s a solid, friendly name that has stood the test of time.

96. Lennox

• Meaning: “With many elm trees” (Scottish Gaelic)
• Curiosity: A stylish and strong Scottish surname that works beautifully as a first name. It has a cool, gender-neutral edge but leans slightly masculine, offering a sophisticated and modern sound with a connection to nature. It’s associated with a sense of strength and elegance.

97. Lucas

• Meaning: “Man from Lucania” (Latin)
• Curiosity: The Latin form of Luke is a global favorite. It’s a friendly, strong, and intelligent name that is both classic and modern.

98. Samuel

• Meaning: “God has heard” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A timeless, kind, and strong biblical name. It’s a steadfast choice that feels both gentle and reliable, with the friendly nickname “Sam.”

99. Arthur

• Meaning: “Oso” (Celta)
• Curiosity: A name of legendary kings, Arthur is noble, strong, and kind. It is a vintage name that has made a massive comeback, as it manages to feel both robust and gentle, a perfect combination for the new era.

100. William

• Meaning: “Resolute protection” (German)
• Curiosity: A pillar of classic boy names, William is regal, strong, and timeless. It offers a wealth of nickname options (Will, Liam, Bill) and never goes out of style.

101. Zane

• Meaning: “God is merciful” (Hebrew, a variant of John)
• Curiosity: A cool, modern name that has been around longer than you might think. It’s a fantastic, bold alternative to more common names.

102. Malachi

• Meaning: “My messenger” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A prophetic biblical name that sounds both strong and melodic. It offers an alternative with a similar energy to Ezra but with a distinctive personality and a powerful sound that is gaining popularity.

103. Cyrus

• Meaning: “Sun” or “throne” (Persian)
• Curiosity: An ancient and regal name with a soft sound but incredible strength. It was the name of the founders of Persian empires, giving it an aura of leadership and power.

104. Hugo

• Meaning: “Mind, intellect” (German)
• Curiosity: A charming, sophisticated, and slightly quirky name that is hugely popular in Europe. It’s strong, intelligent, and full of vintage charm.

105. Forrest

• Meaning: “Dweller near the woods” (English)
• Curiosity: A strong, nature-based name that evokes a sense of tranquility, strength, and connection to the earth. It’s a surname-name with a gentle yet resilient feel, famous thanks to actor Forrest Whitaker and the film Forrest Gump.

106. Jonas

• Meaning: “Dove” (Hebrew, variant of Jonah)
• Curiosity: A soft, international form of the name Jonah, very popular in Nordic and Germanic countries. It has a calm and gentle quality, but with a classic solidity. It is a fresh choice that feels both familiar and unique.

107. Sawyer

• Meaning: “The one who cuts wood” (English)
• Curiosity: An occupational name that sounds adventurous and hardworking. It has a rustic yet modern charm and has remained a constant favorite due to its friendly and robust character.

108. Oscar

• Meaning: “God spear” (English); “Deer lover” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A friendly, vintage name with a touch of Gaelic charm and literary prestige (Oscar Wilde). It’s both strong and approachable.

109. Atticus

• Meaning: “From Attica” or “Athenian” (Greek)
• Curiosity: A literary and intellectual name par excellence, thanks to the beloved character from “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It is sophisticated, strong, and carries a powerful sense of integrity and justice.

110. Simon

• Meaning: “He has heard” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A classic, intelligent, and gentle name that is both strong and kind. It’s a timeless choice that feels fresh again.

111. Leif

• Meaning: “Heir” or “descendant” (Scandinavian)
• Curiosity: The name of the famous Viking explorer Leif Erikson, who is credited with reaching North America before Columbus. It’s a simple, strong, and adventurous name that feels both ancient and freshly modern.

112. Elliott

• Meaning: “The Lord is my God” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A surname-name that is both soft and strong. It has a gentle, intelligent vibe and several stylish spelling variations (Elliott, Eliot, Eliott).

113. Soren

• Meaning: “Stern” or “severe” (Danish)
• Curiosity: A sleek and philosophical Scandinavian name, borne by the existentialist philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. It’s intelligent, cool, and effortlessly stylish, offering a distinctive sound that’s both strong and modern.

114. Ronan

• Meaning: “Little seal” (Irish)
• Curiosity: A strong, melodic Irish name that is rapidly gaining popularity. It has a soft yet determined sound, and its connection to nature makes it both tender and resilient.

115. Kyro

• Meaning: Possibly a variant of Cyrus or of the Greek word “kyrios” (lord).
• Curiosity: A modern, strong-sounding name with a futuristic touch. It is easy to pronounce and remember, and offers a distinctive, powerful style.

116. Luca

• Meaning: “Man from Lucania” (Italian)
• Curiosity: The stylish Italian form of Luke has become a huge hit worldwide. It’s soft, cosmopolitan, and effortlessly charming.

117. Dante

• Meaning: “Enduring” or “everlasting” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A name with profound literary weight thanks to the Italian poet Dante Alighieri, author of The Divine Comedy. It’s a passionate, strong, and artistic name that carries an air of romanticism and intelligence, fitting perfectly with the trend of vintage names with substance.

118. Noah

• Meaning: “Rest, repose” (Hebrew)
• Curiosity: A gentle, strong, and hugely popular biblical name. It’s a peaceful, friendly choice that has universal appeal.

119. Callum

• Meaning: “Dove” (Scottish Gaelic, from the Latin columba)
• Curiosity: A charming and gentle Scottish name that is wildly popular in the UK and gaining steady ground elsewhere. It suggests peace and tranquility but has a strong, friendly, and approachable sound, making it a perfect modern classic.

120. Alistair

• Meaning: “Defender of mankind” (Scottish form of Alexander)
• Curiosity: A sophisticated and strong Scottish name that is much more distinctive than Alexander. It has a noble, intelligent air and a charmingly classic yet unique feel.

121. Cassian

• Meaning: “Hollow” (Latin)
• Curiosity: A handsome ancient name that sounds both classic and modern. Saint Cassian was a 4th-century martyr, and it has a cool, slightly sci-fi feel today, making it a sophisticated and distinctive choice to close our list.

Choosing the Perfect Name from the 2026 Forecast

This comprehensive look at the popular baby names for 2026 provides a wealth of baby names ideas, from the rising stars to the enduring classics. The key is to find a name that resonates with you on a personal level—one that you love to say and that carries a meaning or feeling you wish to impart to your child.

Whether you’re drawn to the aesthetic baby names like Elara and Arlo, the timeless strength of Henry and Eleanor, or the joyful meanings of Asher and Felix, the perfect name is waiting to be discovered. Use this guide as a starting point for your journey. Say the names out loud, imagine them on a birth certificate, and choose the one that feels like it was always meant for your little one.