Pure & Precious: Sweet Baby Names for Girls & Boys

Babies make life sweeter, and choosing a sweet baby name for your little one is truly one of parenthood's greatest joys. While there are countless adorable options available, names that literally mean "sweet" carry a special charm. From classics like Mabel (meaning "lovable") to unique choices like Dulcie (literally meaning "sweet"), there's a delightful range to consider. Other options include Honey for a girl or Nardo (meaning "sweet-smelling") for a boy. Whether you're drawn to candy-inspired names like Candy and Sugar, or prefer more subtle sweet associations like Clement (meaning "gentle and merciful"), your little sweet thing deserves a name as precious as they are. These sweet-meaning names will provide a lifetime of warmth and sweetness that matches the joy your baby brings to your world.

Choosing a sweet-sounding name for your little bundle of joy can be as delightful as it is meaningful. Since sweetness never goes out of style, we've compiled a list of deliciously sweet baby names we think you're going to love. From classics like Honey and Sugar to more subtle choices like Dulce (which literally means 'sweet' in Spanish) or Miel (French for 'honey'), these names carry sweetness in their meaning and sound. Other adorable options include Candy, Sorrel, Nectar, and Ambrosia - all evoking that special sweetness you feel for your precious new arrival.

If you're looking for more baby names inspiration, visit our baby names finder where you can browse names by theme, origin, and by letter of the alphabet. You'll discover thousands of beautiful options, from traditional to contemporary, each with its own special meaning and cultural significance.

Sweet baby boy names

Caramel

Caramel is a delightfully sweet name with English origins, derived from the beloved golden-brown confection. This unique and indulgent name evokes warmth, sweetness, and a touch of luxury. While uncommon as a first name, Caramel carries rich associations with comfort and delight. The name's smooth sound and pleasant connotations make it a bold yet endearing choice for parents seeking something truly distinctive. With its connection to the beloved sweet treat, a baby boy named Caramel might grow up with a sunny, warm disposition to match his honey-toned name.

Cocoa

Cocoa is a rich, warm name derived from the cacao tree whose seeds are used to make chocolate and cocoa powder. This sweet-inspired name carries connotations of comfort, warmth, and indulgence. While relatively uncommon as a first name, Cocoa offers a unique option for parents seeking something distinctive and evocative. The name naturally brings to mind hot chocolate on winter days, making it a cozy choice for a baby boy. Its association with one of the world's most beloved flavors gives this name a universally appealing quality that resonates across cultures.

Sugar

While Sugar is more commonly used as a term of endearment than a given name, it has an undeniable charm as a sweet-inspired baby name choice. Derived from the Sanskrit word 'sharkara,' which means gravel or sand, it has evolved through various languages to become the sweet substance we know today. As a name, Sugar evokes sweetness, joy, and a distinct personality. Though unconventional, it follows in the tradition of other food-inspired names and could make for a uniquely endearing choice for parents looking for something truly distinctive and sweet-natured.

Hershey

Hershey is an American name derived from the famous chocolate company founded by Milton S. Hershey in Pennsylvania. The name carries rich connotations of sweetness, comfort, and nostalgia. Naming your son Hershey evokes thoughts of delicious chocolate treats and the warmth of childhood memories. The Hershey Company has been producing beloved chocolate products since 1894, making this name both distinctive and instantly recognizable. With its sweet associations and unique sound, Hershey makes for an undeniably sweet and distinctive choice for a baby boy.

Jolly

While often associated with a cheerful disposition, Jolly is actually an endearing name of English origin that literally means "merry" or "happy." This delightfully sweet name brings to mind images of laughter, festivity, and joy. Though traditionally used more as a nickname or descriptor, Jolly has been gaining popularity as a standalone first name for boys who are sure to bring sunshine wherever they go. Parents wanting a name that embodies positivity and good spirits might find Jolly to be the perfect sweet choice for their little one.

Jelly

The name Jelly is a playful and unconventional choice for a baby boy that instantly evokes sweetness and joy. While not traditionally used as a first name, it carries connotations of the beloved fruit spread that brightens breakfast tables worldwide. This whimsical name could be a nickname derived from more traditional names like Jerome or Jeremiah, or stand proudly on its own as a unique identifier. With its soft sound and sweet associations, Jelly offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name as delightfully sweet as their little one's personality.

Nougat

The name Nougat offers a sweet twist for parents seeking something truly unique. Derived from the classic confection made of sugar, honey, nuts, and whipped egg whites, Nougat carries an inherently soft and pleasant sound. While uncommon as a first name, it shares phonetic qualities with established names like Nugent or Newgate. This delectable name evokes images of warmth, comfort, and sweetness – perfect qualities to associate with your little one. Nougat's international recognition as a beloved treat in French, Italian, and Spanish cuisine also gives this name a sophisticated, worldly flair that could set your child apart.

Quincy

Quincy is a sophisticated name with French origins, derived from the Latin name 'Quintus' meaning 'fifth.' Despite its numerical roots, the name carries a distinctly sweet and refined quality. The name gained recognition through historical figures like John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. President. With its melodic sound and distinctive 'cy' ending, Quincy offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and tradition. While not among the top 100 baby names, it maintains steady popularity, making it distinct without being obscure—an excellent choice for parents seeking a name that's both memorable and sweetly charming.

Reese

The name Reese has Welsh origins meaning "ardent" or "fiery," but it's also famously associated with a beloved sweet treat - the peanut butter cup! Reese's Peanut Butter Cups have been a candy aisle favorite since the 1920s, making this name perfect for parents looking for something both traditional and sweet. Originally more common as a surname, Reese has grown in popularity as a first name for boys (and girls too) in recent decades. With its smooth sound and delectable association, your little Reese might just turn out to be as irresistible as his namesake candy.

Sweet baby girl names

Angel

Angel is a heavenly choice for a baby girl, evoking images of celestial beauty and divine sweetness. Derived from the Greek word 'angelos' meaning messenger, this name carries connotations of purity, protection, and goodness. Throughout history, angels have been portrayed as benevolent spiritual beings, making this name a blessing that suggests your little one is a precious gift from above. With its gentle sound and powerful meaning, Angel remains a timeless choice that perfectly balances delicacy with strength for your sweet baby girl.

Brownie

Brownie is a charming and unique name inspired by the beloved chocolate dessert. This delectable name evokes warmth, sweetness, and comfort—just like the rich, fudgy treat it references. While unconventional as a given name, Brownie has an undeniable appeal with its friendly, approachable sound and nostalgic quality. The name could also be seen as a diminutive form of the more traditional Brown, which has historical usage as a surname. For parents seeking a name that's as sweet as their little one, Brownie offers a distinctive option that's both playful and endearing, perfect for a girl with a sunny disposition and sweet nature.

Daisy

Daisy is a charming English name derived from the Old English word 'dægeseage,' meaning 'day's eye,' referring to the lovely flower that opens its petals at dawn. This sweetly simple name evokes images of fresh meadows and sunny days, making it a perfectly sugary choice for your little girl. While Daisy peaked in popularity during the Victorian era, it has seen a delightful resurgence in recent decades. Notable namesakes include actress Daisy Ridley of Star Wars fame and fictional character Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby. As a given name that represents innocence, purity, and natural beauty, Daisy offers both vintage charm and contemporary appeal.

Dolce

Dolce is a beautiful Italian name that directly translates to "sweet" in English. This melodious name has Latin origins from the word dulcis, sharing the same etymology as names like Dulcie and Dulcea. While not commonly used in the United States, Dolce carries a sophisticated, musical quality that evokes the sweetness of life. In Italian culture, the phrase "dolce vita" means "sweet life," giving this name an additional layer of meaning that suggests happiness and pleasure. As a name for your little girl, Dolce offers a unique blend of elegance and sweetness, with a touch of international flair that will make her stand out.

Honeycomb

Honeycomb is a delightfully sweet and unique name choice for a baby girl. Referring to the hexagonal wax cells filled with honey created by bees, this nature-inspired name evokes images of warmth, sweetness, and natural beauty. The word originates from the Old English 'hunigcamb,' combining 'honey' with 'comb' (structure). As a name, Honeycomb suggests a child with a sweet disposition and natural charm. While unconventional as a first name, it makes for a distinctive middle name or nickname option. The name also connects to the golden, sun-kissed color of honeycomb, symbolizing brightness and positivity in a child's character.

Lily

Lily is a classic floral name that evokes sweetness, purity, and delicate beauty. Derived from the stunning white flower symbolizing innocence, this name has been beloved across generations and cultures. Often associated with springtime and renewal, Lily ranks consistently among popular baby names. It can stand alone as a complete name or serve as a nickname for Lillian, Lilianna, or Elizabeth. With its soft sound and gentle connotations, Lily makes a perfectly sweet choice for your little blossom.

Maple

Maple is a nature-inspired name that evokes the sweet syrup harvested from maple trees. This increasingly popular name combines natural beauty with a touch of sweetness, making it perfect for parents seeking a unique yet meaningful choice. Maple trees are known for their stunning autumn colors and the delicious syrup they produce, symbolizing sweetness, strength, and natural wonder. The name has gained popularity in recent years among parents looking for distinctive botanical names that carry warm, comforting associations.

Mints

The name Mints is a uniquely sweet choice that brings to mind the refreshing herb and candy. While uncommon as a first name, it carries connotations of freshness, coolness, and a hint of sweetness that makes it stand out. The name has historical connections to the mint plant, which has been valued since ancient times for its aromatic properties and uses in cuisine and medicine. As a name, Mints offers a distinctive botanical inspiration similar to names like Rosemary or Sage, but with a sweeter, more confectionery association. This crisp, modern name could be perfect for parents seeking something truly unique with a naturally sweet connection.

Rose

Rose is the quintessential floral name symbolizing love, beauty, and sweetness. This timeless classic has been cherished for generations, evoking images of the fragrant bloom. While simple and elegant on its own, Rose offers versatility as both a standalone name and a popular middle name. Parents who appreciate traditional names with natural significance often gravitate toward this sweet option that carries feminine grace without being overly elaborate. Rose continues to maintain steady popularity while avoiding the overexposure of names like Lily or Violet.

Sweet unisex baby names

Apple

Apple is a distinctly sweet name that has gained popularity as a unisex option for babies. While traditionally associated with the iconic fruit, Apple as a name carries connotations of freshness, wholesomeness, and natural beauty. This bold choice gained notable attention when celebrity Gwyneth Paltrow selected it for her daughter. As a baby name, Apple offers simplicity with a touch of whimsy, evoking images of orchards, harvest, and the crispness of fall. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its connection to nature and its sweet yet distinctive character that works equally well for any gender.

Cookie

Cookie is a charming unisex name that evokes warmth, comfort, and sweetness. While unconventional as a given name, it carries playful and endearing qualities that make it a unique choice for parents seeking something distinctive. As a nickname, it can represent someone who is warm-hearted and brings joy to others. The name has connections to culinary delights loved across cultures and can symbolize the sweetness one hopes to find in life. Though rare in formal settings, Cookie has occasional appearances in popular culture, adding to its contemporary appeal as a name that breaks traditional boundaries.

Kiwi

The name Kiwi embodies sweetness and exoticism, derived from the beloved fuzzy green fruit. As a unisex option, it offers a playful yet distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly unique. While uncommon as a given name, its cheerful sound and natural connotations make it an increasingly appealing modern option. With its short, two-syllable pronunciation, Kiwi pairs well with most surnames and brings to mind qualities of brightness, vitality, and a touch of whimsy.

Marshmallow

Marshmallow is a whimsical and endearing name inspired by the fluffy, sweet confection loved by people of all ages. This unique name evokes feelings of softness, comfort, and warmth, making it perfect for a gentle-natured child. Beyond the sugary treat association, marshmallows symbolize resilience - they can be heated and changed in form but always maintain their essential sweetness, a beautiful metaphor for adaptability. As a unisex option, Marshmallow offers a playful yet meaningful choice for parents seeking something truly distinctive for their little bundle of joy.