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Yahoo
10-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Rising from obscurity: Unique baby names gaining sudden popularity in 2025
Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) releases a treasure trove of data on baby names that quietly reveals how culture shifts, media influences, and societal moods shape one of the most personal decisions parents make. In 2025, among the familiar Noahs, Emmas, and Olivers, a quieter revolution is taking place. Rare and previously obscure names are gaining ground, telling us something profound about what this generation of parents values. A name might rise in popularity due to a viral video, a character in a niche Netflix show, or a growing desire for uniqueness in a digitally saturated world. To find out more about these trends, Spokeo explored some of the most unexpected baby names on the rise in 2025, tracing their origin stories and what their popularity says about this moment in time. Why do names like Truce, Ailany, or Bryer suddenly spike in use after years of rarity? The answer lies in how names function as cultural markers. A surge in a previously uncommon name often correlates with broader social changes, such as global events, shifting values, media phenomena, or the rising influence of underrepresented communities. To uncover this year's standouts, we analyzed the most recent SSA baby name rankings, focusing on names with the most significant year-over-year growth, especially those that were rare or off the charts just a few years ago. These names are statistically interesting, but they also reveal something deeper about how we're telling stories through names in a rapidly changing society. One of the most striking risers in the past year is Truce, which catapulted 11,118 positions to break into the top 1,000 names at rank No. 991 in 2024. Derived from the Old English "treow," meaning agreement or faith, Truce captures a yearning for harmony in a time of increasing polarization. The name's appeal aligns with the rising trend of virtue names like True, Pax, and Justice. Its growth may also reflect parents' desire to imbue their children's identities with messages of reconciliation and strength in empathy. In 2024, Ailany posted the biggest increase among girls' names, signaling a wider embrace of names that blend soft sounds with multicultural heritage. With Gaelic roots meaning "beautiful," Ailany feels both grounded and lyrical. Its phonetic cousin, Aylani, had the second-highest boost in popularity. The name may originate from Hawaiian or Arabic and mean "bright light" or "graceful." Both names illustrate a growing parental preference for international-sounding names that feel both unique and culturally rich. Social media, especially TikTok and Instagram, have played a role in exposing American parents to beautiful names from a global palette, contributing to this melodic multicultural wave. Traditionally, a nickname for boys named Scott, Scottie is now part of a broader resurgence of tomboy-chic, nickname-style girl names. Stevie and Billie are also trending upwards, both names once reserved for boys but now charming a new generation of girl parents. Part of the "Baby Names, Literally" movement — where parents choose non-adult-sounding names for their kids — Scottie evokes warmth and playfulness. It's cute with an edge, and with celebrity children and social media influencers embracing these names, the "-ie" revival is thriving in America. Few names this year reflect the intersection of spirituality and celestial wonder quite like Halo. Jumping 466 places to land at No. 994 for boys, Halo carries both sacred and cosmic connotations. It's also rising in use among baby girls, albeit at a slower pace (up 52 spots, landing in 512th for 2024). Traditionally associated with angelic imagery, its modern usage expands to encompass a sense of transcendence and light. The name got a boost in visibility after comedian and TV host Nick Cannon named his daughter Halo Marie in 2022. Since then, it has gained momentum as part of a wave of spiritual baby names (e.g., Zion, Serenity, and Heaven) that balance meaning with memorability. Halo resonates especially with parents seeking names that feel elevated and aspirational. Bryer, which entered the top 1,000 for the first time in 2024, reflects the growing popularity of surname-style first names. A variation of the nature name briar or an Anglicized version of the German "brewer," Bryer, fits perfectly with rising names like Miller, Murphy, and Rhodes. These names blur the lines between traditional masculinity and modern flexibility. Once seen as masculine, surnames like Bryer are increasingly used for all genders. Parents are drawn to their strong sound and perceived sophistication, as well as their uniqueness, without veering too far into the unusual. Marjorie is back, following in the footsteps of other vintage revivals like Mabel, Florence, and Edith. Its resurgence fits into the 100-year name cycle, a theory suggesting that names fall out of favor only to return after a couple of generations. So, for example, your parents' names may now be considered outdated, while your grandparents' names are seen as unique and new. With its dignified, old-fashioned charm, Marjorie is benefiting from a cultural nostalgia for simpler times. The popularity of period dramas (like Netflix's "Bridgerton" and HBO's "The Gilded Age") may be helping, as audiences warm to names that feel both historical and fresh. CBS News highlighted Marjorie as one of the most unexpected returns in recent SSA data, signaling a wider embrace of grandmother-chic naming. While traditional Biblical names like Noah, Elijah, and James continue to rank high, there's a growing trend toward lesser-known spiritual names, and Azaiah is leading the way. Jumping 353 positions to No. 881, Azaiah is a Hebrew name meaning "Yahweh (Jehovah) is my strength." Its increasing use reflects a desire for parents to give rare yet meaningful religious names. In a time when spirituality is becoming more individualized and personal, names like Azaiah offer a sense of distinctiveness with strong faith roots. Other obscure biblical names, such as Yeshua, Abner, and Boaz, also show upward movement. These names convey strength, legacy, and a connection to timeless values. Names like Analeia, which recently entered the SSA's top 1,000 most popular baby names, reflect the creative ways parents are combining existing names into something fresh. A blend of Ana (grace) and Leia (from the "Star Wars" universe), Analeia sits at the intersection of classic and sci-fi, tradition and modernity. These constructed names often take off after appearing in pop culture or social media content. In the case of Analeia, the soft rhythm and familiar elements make it accessible while still feeling original. TikTok videos about baby names often feature mashup suggestions like Analeia, indicating how algorithmic culture shapes naming ideas. The role of social media in baby name discovery has never been more powerful. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels feature influencers who review, rank, and invent baby names — often with viral success. Videos that list "Names I love but won't be using" can rack up millions of views, pushing obscure names like Halo or Bryer into the public consciousness. Vox reports that many Gen Z and millennial parents are turning to online content and baby name consultants for inspiration. These trends are propelled by a desire for uniqueness without eccentricity. People are searching for names that are fresh but not baffling, creative but not confusing. Baby names trending in 2025 hint at a deeper shift, one driven by curiosity, faith, and pop culture. Names like Truce, Halo, Azaiah, and Scottie say a lot about what matters now: More parents want names with meaning or moral weight. Global cultures are influencing name choices more than ever. Nostalgia and vintage charm still have pull. Media keeps shaping the push for something different. In a time of identity fluidity, global conflict, and digital overload, naming a child is one of the few opportunities for people to take control of narrative, meaning, and future hopes. Whether grounded in faith, inspired by fiction, or crafted from syllables that simply sound beautiful, these names serve as living reflections of the world they're born into — and sometimes even spark curiosity that leads to a people search to learn more about the individuals who share them. This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
Newsweek
10-05-2025
- General
- Newsweek
Most Popular US Baby Names Revealed
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has released its annual list of most popular baby names in the United States for 2024, with Olivia and Liam maintaining their reign as America's top choices for the sixth consecutive year. Alongside the traditional top 10 rankings, the SSA highlighted names showing remarkable gains in popularity, with Truce and Ailany leading these rapidly rising newcomers. Why It Matters Baby naming trends often reflect broader cultural shifts and social values. While established favorites demonstrate Americans' continued preference for familiar yet contemporary names, the rapidly rising newcomers may signal emerging cultural influences and evolving parental preferences across the nation. The annual list traditionally coincides with Mother's Day celebrations, highlighting the connection between this data collection and the important role parents play in their children's early documentation and identity establishment. What To Know The top 10 boys' names for 2024: Liam Noah Oliver Theodore James Henry Mateo Elijah Lucas William The top 10 girls' names for 2024: Olivia Emma Amelia Charlotte Mia Sophia Isabella Evelyn Ava Sofia Names Showing the Biggest Jumps in Popularity Top five boys' names with the greatest increase: Truce Colsen Bryer Halo Azaiah Top five girls' names with the greatest increase: Ailany Aylani Marjorie Scottie Analeia According to the SSA, the boys' name Truce, meaning "peace," rose an astonishing 11,118 spots from last year's position to reach number 991 in the overall rankings. For girls, Ailany, which means "chief," topped the list of fastest-rising names. What People Are Saying Social Security Administration statement: "Social Security began compiling the baby's name list in 1997, with names dating back to 1880. At the time of a child's birth, parents supply the name to the agency when applying for a child's Social Security card, thus making Social Security America's source for the most popular baby names." Frank Bisignano, Social Security Commissioner: "As Mother's Day nears, we remember the incredible impact that mothers have on our lives. Growing up with a working mom, I witnessed firsthand the dedication, resilience, and balance it takes to juggle both career and family." Sophie Kihm, the editor-in-chief at Nameberry, previously told Newsweek: "Millennial parents, meanwhile, are more likely to go for the more traditional-leaning trends such as Croc names, old-fashioned choices that are so ugly they're beautiful; global Americana names, which are deeply rooted choices with international origins; and country rebrand names, many of which are old-school names being seen through a new lens." A 10 month old baby boy and a 9 month old baby girl sit on the floor close together and play with blocks A 10 month old baby boy and a 9 month old baby girl sit on the floor close together and play with blocks Getty Images What Happens Next The complete list of 1,000 most popular baby names is now available on the Social Security Administration website. The SSA continues to encourage families to apply for their child's Social Security number at birth, noting that this documentation is essential for claiming children as dependents for tax purposes and opening financial accounts in their name.
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Most popular baby names of 2024 — and who rose in the ranks
SALT LAKE CITY () — The most popular baby names of 2024 are here from Social Security, and Liam and Olivia are at the top of the list for the sixth year in a row. The top ten baby names of 2024 in the United States are: Boys Girls 1. Liam 1. Olivia 2. Noah 2. Emma 3. Oliver 3. Amelia 4. Theodore 4. Charlotte 5. James 5. Mia 6. Henry 6. Sophia 7. Mateo 7. Isabella 8. Elijah 8. Evelyn 9. Lucas 9. Ava 10. William 10. Sofia Liam and Olivia have shared the top spots for the past six years, but Liam has been the number one boy name since 2017. Liam has been in the top ten of boys' names since 2012, and Olivia has been in the top ten girls' names since 2001. LIST: Mother's Day, 5Ks, kite festival, and more weekend events The list also includes the names that changed the most in popularity. This year, Truce increased in popularity the most for boys, going up 11,118 spots when compared to last year. For girls, Ailany increased the most in popularity, going up 754 spots. The names that went down in popularity the most are also on the list. For boys, Khari decreased the most, dropping 394 spots. Additionally, the five boys' names that decreased the most all start with K. For girls, Emryn decreased the most in popularity, dropping 606 spots. Social Security releases the 1000 most popular baby names each year in order to celebrate Mother's Day. They began making yearly lists in 1997, but they have names dating back to 1880. In a press release given to the media, Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano said, 'Growing up with a working mom, I witnessed firsthand the dedication, resilience, and balance it takes to juggle both career and family. Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible mothers in our lives who inspire us and set an example for future generations.' Some of the most popular baby names of 2025 so far Social Security has this data because parents give the agency their children's names when they apply for a Social Security card. You can peruse the full list of the 1000 most popular baby names here. Data for 2024 for each individual state will be available on May 15. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Hill
09-05-2025
- General
- The Hill
Is your name extinct now? Federal government releases new baby name popularity data
(NEXSTAR) – A massive trove of government name data, updated and released to the public Friday, may make you feel old. The Social Security Administration, which records every birth in the U.S., released the official list of most popular baby names of 2024. The top picks of today may have sounded like zany or quirky options when you were growing up, and vice versa – your name may be all but extinct now. Take Nicholas, for example. The name was ultra-popular not that long ago, a steady presence in the top 10 through the 1990s and early 2000s. But it has experienced a steep decline since then, now ranking at No. 118 overall. Even more dramatic is the fate of Lisa, the No. 1 girl's name for nearly the entire 1960s. Now it barely makes it into the top 1,000. It was the 985th most popular name last year, according to the Social Security Administration. Curious how your name has fared over the years? The Social Security Administration has a look-up tool on its website. You can scroll down and type in any name to measure its popularity over time. So what are the hot names right now? The top 20 baby names of 2024, according to the Social Security Administration, were: The government agency also tracks which names are experiencing rapid rises in popularity, even if they're still outside the top 20. Truce, Colsen and Bryer rose most in the ranks for baby boys over the past year, while Ailany, Aylani and Marjorie had huge jumps for girls.
