yet exciting decisions is choosing the perfect name. There are just so many names out there all with different meanings, plus, the name you choose will follow your baby forever (how daunting!).
In 2024, the tides of baby name trends seem to have turned, with timeless classics making a comeback, interspersed with global and natural influences. Whether you’re drawn to unique names, beautiful ones, or those with deep meaning, this list of the top baby names of 2024 offers plenty of inspiration.
From trending names for boys to popular picks for girls, this guide will help you discover the most meaningful and stylish baby names 2024 has to offer. Let’s dive into the origins, meanings, and why these names have captured hearts this year.
Top baby names for boys
1. Noah
- Meaning: Rest, repose, comfort
- Origin: Hebrew
- Why it’s trending: It is a timeless, melodic name with modern appeal that works across cultures.
The name Noah derives from the Biblical figure – Noah. It is a masculine name originating from the Hebrew word ‘Noach’ which means “rest”.
In Hebrew, Noa is a popular girl’s name which is why ‘Noah’ has taken on a gender-neutral role in recent years. It is currently in the top spot for most popular boy names among parents in the U.S.
2. Liam
- Meaning: Protector, guardian
- Origin: Irish (Shortened version of ‘Ulliam’ the Irish version of ‘William’)
- Why it’s trending: A short and strong name that has topped charts for several years.
The name Liam began gaining popularity in the 18th century and took almost 200 years to top the charts. It is #2 in the U.S. in 2024.
Alternate spellings for the name include – Lyman, Lliam, and Lyahm.
3. Kai
- Meaning: Sea (Hawaiian)
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Why it’s trending: Its simplicity and global flair make it a popular choice.
The name ranked #26 in 2024. It started gaining traction in 1979 and has remained in the top 1,000 list over the years.
Alternate spellings include – Cai or Ky. Similar names include – Caius, Kylo, and Kian.
4. Elio
- Meaning: Sun
- Origin: Italian, derived from the Greek ‘Helios’ meaning sun
- Why it’s trending: A unique yet familiar name that radiates warmth and positivity.
It is currently ranked at #540; having moved up 80 spots from 2023. Names similar to Elio include – Milo, Enzo, Arlo, Leo, Theo, and Mateo.
5. Asher
- Meaning: Blessed, happy
- Origin: Hebrew, derived from the word ‘Osher’ which means happiness
- Why it’s trending: Combining tradition with a modern sound, Asher is gaining popularity.
The name Asher has Biblical connotations; Asher was the eighth son of Jacob. However, the name also has roots in Old English as a surname for someone who lived by an ash tree or grove.
The name has been ranked #9 in popularity in 2024 and is also becoming increasingly popular as a girl’s name.
Top baby names for girls
1. Olivia
- Meaning: Olive tree
- Origin: Latin
- Why it’s trending: Its association with peace and elegance keeps it a top choice.
The name Olivia became popular in the 17th century when William Shakespeare used it as a character name in his play Twelfth Night. Olivia is the feminine version of Oliver.
It is a vintage name that remains popular today and has many nicknames such as – Liv, Livvy, Olive, Ollie, and Livia. It is currently ranked as the top girls’ name in the U.S. and has been in the top 10 list since 2001.
2. Isla
- Meaning: Island
- Origin: Scottish Derived from ‘Islay’ an island off the coast of Scotland
- Why it’s trending: This name’s soft sound and nature connection are winning hearts.
Isla made the top 50 list of popular names in the U.S. in 2020 and is currently ranked at #39. Other variations of the name exist in other cultures around the globe for example – Ila in France, or Iola in Greece.
3. Aurora
- Meaning: Dawn
- Origin: Latin
- Why it’s trending: Known for its celestial and mythological ties, Aurora is an elegant name shining bright in 2024.
Aurora has been on the top 1000 names in the U.S. since the 1880s and spent some time in the top 500. In 2024, it’s ranked at #12. The name is also popular because of the Northern Lights or aurora borealis, and because of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
4. Freya
- Meaning: Lady, noblewoman
- Origin: Norse/Scandinavian
- Why it’s trending: A nod to Norse mythology it refers to the goddess of love and fertility, therefore it has strong feminine energy.
The name only became popular in the U.S. in 2019 and, in 2024, is ranked at #102.
5. Luna
- Meaning: Moon
- Origin: Latin
- Why it’s trending: Its celestial connection and simple elegance make it a favorite.
According to a BabyCenter survey, Luna is sitting pretty at #10 in the U.S. in 2024. The name Luna is quite charming and it is also the name of the goddess of the moon in Roman mythology. It is a popular name among celebrity kids and was made even more popular because of the beloved Harry Potter character, Luna Lovegood.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect baby name for your little one is deeply personal and meaningful. The names above reflect the current trends for 2024 and include timeless classics and nature-inspired names that embody creativity, modernity, and traditions.
We hope the list inspires you to find the perfect name for your baby.
