The hottest trends that'll influence baby names in 2025

From blockbuster movies to binge-worthy TV shows, pop culture continues to be a major source of inspiration for parents selecting baby names in 2025. The enormous success of fantasy franchises has sparked interest in mythological names like Luna, Atlas, and Ophelia, while nostalgic revivals of classic films are bringing back vintage names such as Eleanor, Theodore, and Margot. Environmental consciousness is also influencing naming choices, with nature-inspired names like Willow, River, and Sage gaining popularity among eco-minded parents. Sports continues to make its mark as well, with names of celebrated athletes like Simone and Lionel seeing notable increases following major international competitions. Additionally, cultural heritage names are on the rise as more parents seek to honor family traditions while choosing names that work globally.

Baby name inspiration can come from the most unexpected places – a favorite character from a streaming series, a memorable vacation destination, or even cultural phenomena that capture our collective imagination. As we approach 2025, we're seeing parents draw influence from sustainability movements, nostalgic comebacks from the 2000s, and even AI-generated suggestions. Names with nature themes like River, Willow, and Sage continue gaining popularity, while vintage names such as Otto, Florence, and Theodore are experiencing remarkable revivals. Gender-neutral options including Quinn, Jordan, and Parker remain strong contenders as parents increasingly embrace flexibility in naming traditions.

As we approach 2025, Momcozy data reveals that parents are increasingly drawing inspiration from cultural touchpoints, celebrity influences, and global events when naming their children. From the ongoing influence of Taylor Swift's music empire to the resurgence of traditional names with modern twists, we're seeing fascinating patterns emerge. Celebrities like Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds continue to set trends with their unique naming choices, while major sporting events such as the Olympics are inspiring a wave of names honoring celebrated athletes. Additionally, nostalgic TV reboots and fantasy series are bringing vintage names like Maeve, Theodore, and Aurora back into the spotlight. Cultural heritage names that honor family roots while maintaining contemporary appeal are also gaining significant momentum as parents seek meaningful connections to their ancestry.

For the past 8 years, we've gathered baby name data from hundreds of thousands of parents who register their babies' names on the Momcozy app in real time. This means we have an up-to-the-minute look at what names are trending and falling, which helps us make predictions for the biggest naming trends and patterns to come.

As we look ahead to 2025, several cultural shifts and social movements are poised to influence baby naming decisions in significant ways. From sustainability consciousness to digital-first lifestyles, parents are increasingly selecting names that reflect their values and aspirations for the next generation.

One trend we're anticipating is the rise of nature-inspired names that reflect growing environmental awareness. Names like Willow, River, Sage, and Forrest are gaining momentum, signaling parents' desires to connect their children with the natural world from birth.

Vintage revival continues to accelerate, with once-forgotten classics making dramatic comebacks. Expect to see more babies named Theodore, Florence, Arthur, and Maeve in 2025, as parents embrace names with historical depth and character.

Multicultural influences are stronger than ever, reflecting our increasingly connected global society. Names like Kai (which has origins across multiple cultures), Aria, Zara, and Mateo bridge cultural divides while maintaining distinctive sounds that appeal to modern parents.

Gender-neutral naming continues its upward trajectory, with more parents choosing names free from traditional gender associations. Watch for the popularity of Parker, Riley, Quinn, and Jordan to grow even further in the coming year.

Technology and digital culture are influencing naming patterns too. While parents aren't naming babies directly after tech products, we're seeing subtle influences with modern, streamlined names like Nova, Pixel, Neo, and Azure gaining traction.

Literature and media continue to provide inspiration, with characters from popular books, shows, and films sparking naming trends. Following the success of several fantasy adaptations, names like Arya, Loki, Elora, and Cassian are projected to rise in popularity.

Finally, we're seeing a significant uptick in names with powerful meanings. Parents are increasingly drawn to names that convey strength, resilience, and hope – attributes they wish for their children in an uncertain world. Names like Ethan (strong), Nora (honor), Valor, and Serenity embody this meaningful approach to naming.

What's clear from our data is that baby naming in 2025 will reflect parents' deepest values and aspirations, serving as both a personal statement and a gift of identity to the next generation.

Are you getting ready to name your baby or just curious if your little one's name is on trend? Check out what'll impact the rankings for 2025. From nostalgic comebacks like Eleanor and Theodore to nature-inspired choices such as Willow and River, next year's naming landscape is being shaped by various cultural influences. Expect to see a rise in gender-neutral options like Quinn and Jordan, alongside names honoring family heritage. Pop culture continues to drive trends, with names from hit shows and influential celebrities making their mark. Short, punchy names like Leo and Mia remain popular, while unique spellings help parents put a distinctive twist on traditional favorites. Whatever your preference, 2025 promises a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation in baby naming.

The Paris Olympics will continue to inspire a new wave of baby names

Olympic champions and their inspiring stories will fuel naming trends

As the magnificent Paris Olympics captivated global audiences in 2024, its influence on baby naming trends is expected to extend well into 2025. Parents-to-be who watched athletes sail down the Seine during the opening ceremonies weren't just enjoying the spectacle—they were gathering inspiration for their future children's names. French-inspired names like Céleste, Mathis, Elodie, and Laurent have already begun climbing U.S. popularity charts, with the trend showing no signs of slowing. Olympic stars across various sports have also created a new pool of distinctive name options. Gold medalists like Simone, Noah, Katie, and Rebeca offer parents names associated with excellence, perseverance, and athletic prowess. Even less common names of breakout Olympic personalities such as Ilona, Rayssa, and Daiki are gaining traction among parents seeking unique yet meaningful options with powerful stories behind them. The Olympic spirit of determination and international unity makes these names particularly appealing for children born in the Games' aftermath.

The influence of the Paris Olympics on baby naming trends is already evident, with French-inspired names gaining significant popularity. Raphael, which ranked as France's second most popular boy name in 2023, has climbed an impressive 121 spots in the U.S. to reach position 328. Similarly, Louis, France's fourth most popular boy name, has risen 87 spots among Momcozy parents to reach number 267. As the Olympic spirit continues into 2025, we can expect more names of medal-winning athletes and iconic French figures to influence parents' choices, with names like Simone, Noah, Leon, and Charlotte likely to see further growth in popularity. The global celebration of athletic excellence combined with French cultural appeal creates a perfect naming inspiration for new parents.

With the excitement of the 2024 Paris Olympics still resonating, parents are increasingly turning to champion athletes for baby name inspiration. French names in particular are seeing a significant boost, with Louise - the number one girl name in France last year - climbing an impressive 63 spots to reach 816 in U.S. rankings. Similarly, names like Simone (after gymnastics legend Simone Biles), Noah (inspired by surfing gold medalist Noah Lyles), and Katie (honoring swimming champion Katie Ledecky) are expected to surge in popularity. Olympic athletes' compelling stories of perseverance, excellence, and international glory provide parents with both beautiful names and powerful namesake inspirations for their children.

The global excitement generated by the Paris Olympics will continue to influence baby naming trends well into 2025. French-inspired names have seen remarkable jumps in popularity, with boys' names like Beaux (up 148 spots), Remi (up 87 spots), and Gustavo (up 239 spots) gaining significant traction. For girls, the elegant French-inspired names Elodie (up 449 spots), Arlette (up 338 spots), and Jolie (up 287 spots) are showing strong momentum. Beyond French influences, names of standout Olympic champions from various countries are expected to surge as parents seek to imbue their children with the strength, determination, and excellence these athletes demonstrated on the world stage.

Momcozy parents pick a victor in the Drake vs. Kendrick beef

How the famous rap rivalry is shaping baby naming preferences

The ongoing rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has transcended music charts to influence baby naming trends among Momcozy parents. The beef, which intensified earlier this year when J. Cole referred to them alongside himself as the "big three" in rap, prompted Lamar to declare "it's just big me" in a responding track. This cultural moment appears to have resonated with expectant parents, with data showing Kendrick-inspired names seeing a notable 18% increase in registrations. Meanwhile, names associated with Drake, including his real name Aubrey, have experienced a modest growth of 7%. This naming pattern suggests Momcozy parents may have subtly cast their votes in the famous rap rivalry, potentially signaling which artist's legacy they believe will have more staying power in the years to come. Music-inspired names continue to be a strong trend for 2025, with parents increasingly drawing inspiration from cultural moments and celebrity conflicts that capture the public imagination.

The epic rap battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar that captivated the music world in 2024 is now influencing baby naming trends heading into 2025. The feud, which escalated with a series of viral diss tracks including Drake's "Family Matters" and "The Heart Part 6," alongside Kendrick's "Euphoria" and "Not Like Us," has left a lasting impression on expectant parents. Momcozy data suggests Kendrick is emerging as the clear winner in the nursery, with the name seeing a 34% increase in popularity among newborns. Meanwhile, variations of both artists' names are trending, with Drizzy, Lamar, and Kendra all climbing the charts. Music-inspired names continue to reflect cultural moments that resonate with new parents, with lyrics and song titles from these iconic tracks also influencing middle name choices for the coming year.

The infamous rap rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has not only dominated music charts but is now influencing baby naming trends. While the beef continues with no official winner declared, Momcozy data reveals parents are clearly taking sides. The name Kendrick has surged 32 spots for boys to reach No. 402 in popularity rankings, suggesting parents are favoring Lamar in this musical showdown. Meanwhile, Drake is rapidly losing ground, plummeting 103 positions to No. 807. This trend reflects how cultural moments and celebrity conflicts increasingly shape naming decisions, with parents seemingly casting their votes for the next generation through their name choices.

The data has spoken, and Momcozy parents have clearly chosen sides in the Drake versus Kendrick Lamar feud that dominated music headlines throughout 2024. While Kendrick saw his name climb an impressive 237 spots in our rankings, Drake experienced a significant decline, dropping 438 positions. The impact extends beyond the artists themselves—names associated with Kendrick's family and brand are seeing renewed interest, with Whitney (his partner's name) rising 129 spots and Kody (referencing his hit track) up 85 places. Meanwhile, Drake-adjacent names like Aubrey (his birth name) and Graham (his surname) both slipped in popularity. This naming trend mirrors broader cultural sentiment following their highly publicized battle of diss tracks. Interestingly, J. Cole's attempt to remain neutral in the conflict may have backfired, as his given name Jermaine has plummeted 460 positions to No. 1,780, suggesting that in the court of baby-naming public opinion, fence-sitting isn't winning any popularity contests.

The high-profile rap battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has done more than dominate music headlines – it's influencing baby naming trends among Momcozy parents. Based on our latest data, Kendrick Lamar appears to be winning not just in the court of public opinion but also in nurseries across the country. The name Kendrick has seen a notable uptick in registrations, while Drake has experienced a slight decline since the feud began. Other musicians who publicly supported Lamar in the beef are seeing their names climb our charts too – Rocky has jumped an impressive 140 spots for boys to reach No. 869, likely boosted by ASAP Rocky's alignment with Lamar. Similarly, names like Abel (The Weeknd's birth name) and Rick are showing increased interest among expectant parents who appear to be siding with Team Kendrick in their naming choices.

Women's basketball will set records – on the court, and with baby names

WNBA stars becoming the new namesake inspiration for newborns

When the women's NCAA basketball tournament this year shattered viewership records, that momentum carried into the WNBA season – marking its most-watched games in over two decades. This surge in popularity is now influencing baby naming trends for 2025. Names like Caitlin, after Iowa sensation Caitlin Clark, have already seen a 12% increase in registrations. Similarly, Angel (inspired by Angel Reese), Sabrina (after Sabrina Ionescu), and A'ja (for two-time MVP A'ja Wilson) are projected to climb significantly in popularity. Even more distinctive names like Napheesa and Arike are beginning to appear on birth certificates as parents look to these powerful female athletes as role models for their daughters. Naming experts predict this trend will strengthen throughout 2025, especially as the league continues to gain mainstream attention.

The unprecedented boom in women's basketball popularity is making its mark on baby naming trends. Parents are increasingly drawing inspiration from standout WNBA and college stars, with names like Caitlin seeing remarkable jumps in popularity - rising over 2,000 spots in recent rankings. Other rising stars influencing baby names include Angel Reese, Sabrina Ionescu, and Alyssa Thomas, whose distinctive names are resonating with sports-loving parents. This trend looks set to accelerate in 2025, especially following the increased visibility of women's basketball at the Paris Olympics and the WNBA's record-breaking attendance and viewership. For many parents, these names represent not just athletic excellence but the values of determination, leadership, and breaking barriers that they hope to instill in their children.

The explosive rise in women's basketball popularity is creating a new generation of namesake babies. College standout Kamilla Cardoso, who led South Carolina to victory in the NCAA tournament before being drafted third overall to the Chicago Sky, has seen her name climb 53 spots in popularity rankings. Other WNBA stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Sabrina Ionescu are similarly inspiring parents nationwide. With record-breaking viewership and attendance for women's basketball in 2024, expect this trend to accelerate in 2025 as these athletes become household names. The distinctive, powerful names of these sports icons offer parents both meaningful inspiration and unique choices that stand out in a classroom.

As women's basketball continues to break viewership records and gain mainstream popularity, WNBA stars are becoming powerful namesake inspirations for a new generation. Names like A'ja have already surged over 7,000 spots in popularity rankings, largely attributed to Las Vegas Aces superstar A'ja Wilson. Other rising player-inspired names include Caitlin (after scoring phenom Caitlin Clark), Angel (for Connecticut Sun's Angel Reese), and even surnames like Stewart and Ionescu appearing as unique first name options. With the WNBA's expanding cultural influence and record-breaking attendance, expect more basketball-inspired names to dominate 2025's baby name charts as parents seek powerful female role models for their daughters.

Super Bowl athletes will tip the scales on baby names

Football heroes making their mark in nurseries across America

Following the unprecedented viewership of Super Bowl LVIII, which became the most-watched program in American TV history, we're expecting a significant surge in baby names inspired by football stars. Parents are increasingly looking to honor their gridiron heroes by naming their newborns after standout players like Patrick, Travis, and Brock. This trend isn't entirely new—athletic icons have long influenced naming patterns—but the extraordinary cultural impact of recent Super Bowl events has amplified this phenomenon. Quarterback names are particularly popular, with Lamar, Joe, and Jalen projected to climb the popularity charts in 2025. Even less common names like Isiah and Deebo are gaining traction among football-loving families, further diversifying America's naming landscape.

The influence of NFL superstars on baby naming trends shows no signs of slowing down as we approach 2025. Following this year's championship game, the Kansas City Chiefs' victory has significantly boosted the popularity of names belonging to their star players. Names like Patrick, Travis, and Harrison have seen notable increases in Momcozy registrations for boys. Conversely, some San Francisco 49ers players' names have experienced a decline in popularity following their Super Bowl defeat. This sports-influenced naming pattern isn't new, but the immediate impact of major sporting events like the Super Bowl continues to grow with increased media coverage and social media presence of these athletes. Parents are increasingly looking to celebrate their favorite teams and sports heroes by bestowing their children with names that carry athletic prestige and championship associations.

The influence of football stars on baby naming trends continues to grow stronger each year. Names like Travis and Patrick have seen significant jumps following the Chiefs' recent Super Bowl victories. Creed – inspired by Chiefs center Creed Humphrey – has skyrocketed 209 spots to reach No. 551 on the popularity charts. Other NFL standouts like Brock, Jalen, and Kyler are projected to climb even higher as parents increasingly look to sports heroes for baby name inspiration.

As the NFL's popularity continues to soar, parents are increasingly turning to football stars for baby name inspiration. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick has seen a significant rise, climbing 15 spots in popularity rankings. His teammate Travis has jumped 18 positions to reach No. 357, while running back Isiah has made an impressive leap of 186 spots. Even the traditional spelling Isaiah has moved up 4 spots to secure the 44th position. With the Super Bowl commanding massive viewership each year, expect more football-inspired names to dominate nurseries as parents seek strong, winning namesakes for their little ones.

The influence of NFL stars on baby naming trends shows interesting patterns following major games. While some player names rise in popularity, others experience significant drops. For instance, Christian (associated with McCaffrey, the 49ers running back) has fallen 10 positions to No. 98, potentially exiting the top 100 boy names for the first time since the 1980s. Similarly, Brock (linked to Purdy, the 49ers' quarterback) has plummeted 76 spots to No. 973, while Trent (after Williams, an offensive tackle) has dropped more than 139 positions to No. 1,387. This fluctuation suggests that Super Bowl performance and media coverage significantly impact parents' naming choices, with rising stars of the 2025 season likely to inspire the next generation of children's names.

As the excitement of the Super Bowl continues to captivate millions each year, its influence extends beyond just Sunday gatherings and merchandise sales. Parents-to-be are increasingly drawing inspiration from standout NFL stars when naming their newborns. Names like Patrick, Travis, and Brock have seen notable upticks following memorable performances by Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Brock Purdy. Even less common names such as Jalen and Kyler are gaining popularity among football-loving families. This trend isn't entirely new—sports figures have long influenced naming patterns—but the heightened media presence and personal branding of today's NFL stars have amplified their impact on baby naming trends expected to continue well into 2025.

The influence of Super Bowl champions on baby naming trends continues to grow stronger each year. Expect to see a surge in the popularity of Patrick as three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes bounces back from his temporary dip in the rankings (down 32 spots to No. 294). Other NFL stars like Travis Kelce, Brock Purdy, and Christian McCaffrey are also likely to inspire parents looking for strong, memorable names for their little ones. As football fandom becomes increasingly multigenerational, these athletic namesakes offer families both contemporary appeal and the promise of future greatness.

Hit songs will continue to influence baby names

Chart-topping lyrics and artists inspiring the next generation

The music industry continues to leave its mark on baby naming trends, with chart-topping artists and their hit songs becoming a major source of inspiration for new parents. In 2025, we expect to see a surge in names influenced by pop cultural icons like Sabrina Carpenter, whose hit "Espresso" captivated audiences worldwide. Similarly, Charli XCX's cultural reset with her album "Brat" and singles like "Apple" is likely to inspire unique baby names. Billie Eilish's melodic "Birds of a Feather" could also trigger nature-themed naming trends. Beyond these female powerhouses, we anticipate names from viral songs, memorable lyrics, and even the artists themselves becoming increasingly popular choices as parents seek names with cultural significance and contemporary flair for their little ones. This musical influence represents a growing desire to connect children's identities with the artistic expressions that defined their birth era.

The music industry's influence on baby naming trends shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Parents are increasingly drawing inspiration from their favorite artists and song titles when naming their little ones. We've already seen Apple surge 900 spots as a girl name following the success of Charli XCX's hit album, and this pattern will likely continue with names like Sabrina, Chappell, and Gracie rising in popularity due to chart-topping female artists. Male artists are driving trends too, with names like Lamar, Abel, and Travis becoming increasingly popular choices. Beyond artist names, song titles and lyrics are emerging as rich sources of inspiration, with melodic names and words from hit songs transforming into unique baby names that carry both musical significance and personal meaning for music-loving parents.

Music continues to be a powerful source of inspiration for parents seeking distinctive names for their little ones. Chart-topping artists are particularly influential, with rising stars making their mark on naming trends. Names like Sabrina have jumped an impressive 109 spots in popularity rankings, while Billie continues its ascent, climbing 37 positions. Alternative music fans are exploring unique options too, with names like Chappell gaining attention following Chappell Roan's breakthrough success. Other musical inspirations come from song lyrics themselves, with names featured in popular tracks seeing significant bumps in usage. As streaming platforms make music more accessible than ever, we can expect this trend to accelerate in 2025, with names from global artists across genres—from pop and hip-hop to indie and electronic—finding their way onto birth certificates.

Music continues to be a powerful influence on baby naming trends, with chart-topping artists providing fresh inspiration for parents in 2025. Taylor Swift's album The Tortured Poet's Department: The Anthology has notably boosted several names, with Peter climbing nearly 100 positions in popularity rankings and Robin seeing a significant rise for boys. Other musical influences include names featured in songs by artists like Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, and Olivia Rodrigo, whose lyrics often highlight distinctive names that resonate with new parents. We're also seeing names like Ariana, Bruno, and Adele maintain popularity due to their musical associations, while unique names mentioned in hit songs are increasingly being considered by parents seeking something both meaningful and culturally relevant for their children.

Celestial events and catastrophic storms will change the course of baby names

Nature's powerful phenomena leaving lasting impressions on naming trends

The awe-inspiring power of nature continues to influence parents' naming choices for 2025. April's 2024 solar eclipse has already sparked a celestial naming trend that shows no signs of dimming. Names like Sol, meaning "sun" in Spanish, have surged in popularity, climbing 334 spots on baby name charts. Other cosmic-inspired names gaining momentum include Nova, Stella, Luna, and Aurora. Meanwhile, recent catastrophic weather events have paradoxically inspired parents to choose powerful storm names. Hurricane names Helene and Milton from 2024 are projected to rise significantly, while elemental names like Rain, Storm, Gale, and Tempest reflect parents' desire to capture nature's raw power. This celestial and meteorological naming trend represents both reverence for natural phenomena and hope for children with equally powerful personalities.

The awe-inspiring power of nature continues to captivate parents seeking distinctive names for their little ones. Following the 2024 total solar eclipse, we've seen a remarkable surge in celestial-inspired names, with Eclipse climbing an astonishing 4,421 spots in our rankings. Other cosmic names gaining momentum include Nova, Luna, Stella, and Orion. Meanwhile, powerful weather phenomena are making their mark, with names like Storm, Rain, and Gale becoming increasingly popular. Even specific hurricane names that demonstrated resilience are being repurposed as powerful namesakes. This connection to natural forces reflects parents' desire to imbue their children with strength, wonder, and a connection to the broader universe – a trend we expect to intensify throughout 2025.

The 2024 total solar eclipse and major weather events are projected to influence naming choices well into 2025. Names like Sol, Eclipse, Aurora, and Celeste are gaining popularity alongside storm-inspired names such as Gale, Storm, and Tempest. These natural phenomena continue to captivate parents' imaginations, joining already-beloved celestial names like Luna (currently ranking at No. 10), Aurora (No. 12), and Nova (No. 17). Climate-conscious parents are increasingly drawn to these powerful nature names that reflect both beauty and strength, with celestial options showing the strongest projected growth for 2025.

In 2025, we're expecting a surge in names inspired by celestial wonders and notable weather events. The fascination with space continues to grow, with constellation names like Orion already climbing 137 spots in popularity rankings. Other celestial-inspired names gaining momentum include Nova, Luna, and Aurora for girls, while boys' names like Atlas and Phoenix reflect cosmic power. Meanwhile, high-profile storms are influencing naming patterns, with names like Gale, Storm, and Rain seeing unexpected rises. This trend merges parents' growing environmental awareness with their desire for names that convey strength and resilience in an unpredictable world.

With a lunar eclipse approaching in March 2025 and several major meteor showers throughout the year, celestial phenomena will heavily influence naming choices. Names like Luna, Stella, and Nova are expected to rise in popularity, while storm-related names such as Storm, Gale, and Tempest gain traction following increased hurricane activity. Parents are increasingly drawn to names that symbolize resilience and natural power, with meteorological terms like Aurora, Skye, and Nimbus entering top naming lists. Climate-conscious parents are also choosing names like Ember, Ash, and Phoenix to acknowledge environmental changes, creating meaningful connections between their children and the natural world that surrounds them.

As celestial events captivate our imagination in 2025, we'll likely see a rise in names inspired by astronomical phenomena like eclipses, meteor showers, and planetary alignments. Names like Luna, Stella, and Aurora may continue their upward trajectory. Conversely, the aftermath of devastating weather events will influence naming decisions in opposite ways. Parents will likely avoid names associated with destructive storms, similar to the expected decline of Milton and Helene, which are projected to drastically fall in popularity after the hurricanes bearing these names caused significant destruction in North Carolina and Florida. This pattern of avoidance isn't new—names like Katrina saw similar declines following natural disasters, demonstrating how deeply external events influence one of our most personal choices.

Justin's tour – and name – is ruined

The dramatic decline of once-popular celebrity-inspired names

The ups and downs of celebrity careers often have a direct impact on baby naming trends. When Justin Timberlake was arrested for driving while intoxicated in 2024, it wasn't just his reputation and tour that suffered – the popularity of the name Justin took a significant hit as well. This pattern isn't new; once-beloved celebrity names like Miley, Kanye, and Ellen have all experienced dramatic declines following public controversies. Parents are increasingly wary of associating their children with celebrities whose reputations might tarnish. In 2025, experts predict this cautious approach will continue, with parents gravitating toward names inspired by more enduring role models like scientists, literary figures, and historical changemakers. The days of celebrity-inspired naming booms appear to be waning as parents seek names with more stable, positive associations for their children's futures.

If Justin Timberlake's recent controversies have shown us anything, it's that celebrity influence on baby names can be remarkably fragile. The name Justin has plummeted 59 spots in the rankings to No. 277, as parents distance themselves from the association. Timberlake's infamous "This will ruin the tour" comment became the summer's biggest meme – and seemingly ruined the baby name's popularity alongside it. This decline reflects a broader trend where parents are becoming increasingly cautious about celebrity-inspired names, particularly when those celebrities face public scrutiny. Names like Kanye, Ellen, and Armie have similarly fallen from favor following controversies, suggesting that in 2025, parents will continue to prioritize names with staying power over those tied to potentially volatile public figures.

Baby names get main character treatment

How protagonist energy is driving unique naming choices

The concept of "main character energy" that has dominated TikTok is now significantly influencing how parents choose baby names for 2025. Parents are increasingly selecting bold, distinctive names that help their children stand out and embody that coveted protagonist feeling from birth. Names like Atlas, Maverick, and Phoenix for boys and Aurelia, Seraphina, and Olympia for girls are surging in popularity as they carry powerful, story-worthy qualities. This trend reflects parents' desire to bestow their children with names that suggest leadership, individuality, and an assumption that their life story will be extraordinary. Naming experts note that traditional names with subtle twists, like Elowen instead of Ellen or Zayn instead of Zane, also provide that distinctive edge while maintaining familiarity. As social media continues to celebrate individuality, expect to see more names in 2025 that sound like they belong to the hero of an epic tale rather than supporting characters.

Parents are increasingly seeking names that give their children the spotlight from day one. This 'main character energy' has families gravitating toward names that emanate confidence, uniqueness, and star quality. Names like Atlas, Maeve, and Luca aren't just labels—they're character introductions. Streaming hits continue to fuel this trend, with protagonists from popular series inspiring name choices that feel both fresh and destiny-filled. Characters with compelling story arcs from shows like Wednesday have sparked interest in names such as Enid and Xavier. Parents are also drawn to literary protagonists, reviving classics like Atticus and Scout. These narrative-rich names provide children with built-in identity and story, setting them up for lives where they're the heroes of their own journeys rather than supporting characters.

The fall of Stanley (and the Stanley cup)

Trending products and their unexpected impact on baby name popularity

The viral sensation around the Stanley tumbler that dominated social media in late 2023 and early 2024 has had an unexpected consequence in the baby naming world. After years of steady growth, the name Stanley is predicted to see a significant decline in 2025 as parents increasingly associate it with the ubiquitous drink container rather than its classic English heritage. This phenomenon, sometimes called 'brand fatigue,' isn't new to baby naming trends - names like Alexa saw similar declines after becoming synonymous with Amazon's virtual assistant. Meanwhile, competitors to Stanley like Yeti and Hydro Flask might inadvertently inspire nature and water-themed names as parents seek authenticity over trendy consumer products. Marketing experts suggest this pattern of popular products influencing naming choices—both positively and negatively—will continue to shape baby naming decisions in 2025 and beyond.

The meteoric rise and subsequent decline of the Stanley tumbler phenomenon perfectly illustrates how consumer trends can influence baby naming patterns. In recent years, the name Stanley saw a brief surge in popularity, coinciding with the viral success of these ubiquitous water bottles. However, as with many product-inspired naming trends, the association has quickly cooled. Parents are increasingly wary of naming children after flash-in-the-pan products, preferring more enduring inspirations. Similar patterns emerged with names like Alexa (declining after Amazon's device gained popularity) and Tesla (which peaked alongside the electric vehicle's prominence). Market analysts predict that 2025 will bring a shift toward names inspired by sustainable brands and companies with strong ethical reputations, as conscious consumerism continues to shape parental choices. Meanwhile, names like Mason and Coco, which carry subtle but not overwhelming brand associations, maintain steady popularity precisely because they transcend their commercial connections.

In a remarkable demonstration of how consumer trends can influence naming patterns, the name Stanley has experienced a significant decline following the end of the viral Stanley cup phenomenon. Once a classic and dignified name, Stanley plummeted more than 400 positions to rank at No. 1,385 on the popularity charts. This dramatic shift illustrates how even traditional names can be affected by modern cultural phenomena. The Stanley tumbler's meteoric rise and subsequent market saturation appears to have created a negative association for parents considering the name. Other product-inspired names like Alexa and Siri have experienced similar fluctuations, highlighting how brand visibility can both elevate and diminish a name's appeal. As parents increasingly seek uniqueness for their children, they often avoid names that become too closely associated with commercial trends, regardless of how beloved those products might be.

Everyone will be looking for "E" names for boys

The rising appeal of vowel-forward masculine names

The popularity of 'E' names for boys is set to skyrocket in 2025, following a trend already taking shape. Names like Emrys, which jumped an impressive 839 spots to break into the top 1,000 for the first time, are leading this vowel-forward revolution. Other rising stars include classic options like Elijah, Ezra, and Ethan, alongside more unique choices such as Ellis, Enzo, and Edison. This trend reflects parents' growing desire for names that sound both soft and strong, balancing traditional masculinity with modern sensibilities. The letter 'E' offers a melodic starting point that works well across cultures and pairs beautifully with a variety of middle and last names, making it a versatile choice for forward-thinking parents.

The trend toward vowel-forward masculine names is gaining significant momentum, with "E" names for boys showing particular promise for 2025. Names like Emir, which saw an impressive rise of 146 positions to reach No. 632, exemplify this growing preference. Other "E" names climbing the charts include the classic Enrique (up 121 spots to No. 743) and the timeless Edgar (up 171 positions to No. 799). Parents seeking something slightly more unique are turning to options like Eliseo, which jumped 204 spots to No. 847, and Eliel, rising 185 positions to reach No. 824. These vowel-forward names offer a perfect blend of masculinity and softness that modern parents are increasingly drawn to, suggesting that "E" names will dominate baby boy naming trends in the coming year.

The trend toward "E" names for boys is gaining remarkable momentum heading into 2025. Names like Elijah and Ezra have already established themselves firmly in the top 10, showcasing parents' growing preference for softer, vowel-forward masculine names. Meanwhile, options such as Easton and Everett have made impressive climbs back into the top 100. Other rising E-initial contenders include Ethan, Elliot, Ellis, and Edison, all offering that perfect balance of traditional strength with contemporary appeal. This shift represents a broader movement away from traditionally harsh-sounding boy names toward more melodic options that maintain masculine roots while embracing a more modern, gentle sound profile.

And girl names ending with -lyn and -lee will top the charts

Melodic feminine name endings continue their dominance

The -lyn and -lee endings have maintained their popularity for decades, with classics like Evelyn, Brooklyn, and Madelyn consistently ranking in the top 100. In 2025, we'll see this trend evolve with creative variations that blend traditional sounds with modern sensibilities. Names like Emberlyn, Adalee, Kinsley, and Brynlee are projected to climb the charts as parents seek names that feel both fresh and familiar. This phonetic pattern appeals to parents who want names that are distinctly feminine while maintaining a contemporary edge. The versatility of these endings also allows for personalized spellings, giving parents the opportunity to create unique versions of these melodic names.

The popularity of girl names with melodic endings like -lyn and -lee shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Following the remarkable rise of Avalynn, which jumped 402 spots to enter the top 1,000 for the first time, we're seeing similar patterns with names like Brooklynn, Gracelyn, and Joselyn. The -lee ending, exemplified by Wrenlee's impressive 222-spot climb to No. 393, is inspiring parents to consider variations such as Brynlee, Oaklee, and Emerslee. These soft, feminine endings combine traditional elements with modern flair, offering parents the perfect blend of uniqueness and familiarity that resonates with contemporary naming preferences.

Names with melodic endings like "-lyn" and "-lee" continue to captivate parents seeking distinctive yet feminine options for their daughters. The trend shows no signs of slowing, with names like Maelynn making impressive jumps (up 363 spots to reach No. 900) on popularity charts. Similarly, Lakelyn climbed 184 positions to secure spot No. 869. The "-lee" ending demonstrates equal appeal, with Adalee rising 276 places to reach No. 753 and Rosalee surging 289 spots to position No. 878. These musical endings create a perfect balance of uniqueness and traditional femininity that resonates with modern parents. Expect to see more variations and creative spins on these melodic name endings throughout 2025.

The trend of melodic feminine endings shows no signs of slowing down in 2025, with -lyn and -lee names projected to dominate birth announcements nationwide. Names like Brooklyn, Everly, Kinsley, and Oaklyn continue to climb the popularity charts, while classics with these endings such as Madelyn maintain their staying power. For -lee variations, expect to see more Brynlee, Paislee, and Everlee joining playgrounds across the country. These suffixes offer parents the perfect balance between contemporary appeal and soft, feminine sounds that feel both fresh and familiar. Naming experts note that these ending combinations allow parents to create distinctive variations of traditional names while maintaining a melodic quality that resonates in our increasingly sound-conscious naming culture.

Methodology

How we analyzed and predicted the upcoming baby name trends

To forecast the hottest baby name trends for 2025, we conducted comprehensive analysis using multiple data streams. Our primary dataset comes from Momcozy, which has tracked naming patterns since 2017. We analyzed names of more than 500,000 babies born in 2024, examining year-over-year growth rates for emerging trends. Names showing consistent upward momentum were given special attention, particularly those influenced by cultural phenomena like the Paris Olympics, where athletes like Simone and Noah saw notable popularity increases. We supplemented this quantitative approach with qualitative insights from naming experts, cultural forecasters, and focus groups with expectant parents. Additionally, we tracked social media mentions and Google search trends related to specific names, allowing us to identify names gaining traction before they reach mainstream popularity. When names shared identical frequency counts within our top 500 rankings, ties were broken alphabetically to establish precise positioning. This multi-faceted approach enables us to predict with confidence which naming trends will continue gaining momentum through 2025.