Cameron Diaz's baby name set to trigger a spike in bird-inspired names

Parents have loved giving their babies bird names for centuries – and Cameron Diaz now joins their ranks with her second child, Cardinal. This unique avian-inspired choice for her son with husband Benji Madden follows their daughter Raddix, and could spark a new trend in bird-themed baby names. From classics like Robin and Jay to more unusual options such as Wren, Lark, and Hawk, bird names offer both natural symbolism and distinctive sounds that appeal to modern parents seeking memorable yet meaningful names for their children.

A little bird whispered to us that avian names might be flying to new heights of popularity, especially after Cameron Diaz and husband Benji Madden recently welcomed their son Cardinal Madden. This feathery choice joins their daughter Raddix in what appears to be a growing trend of unique nature-inspired names. Celebrity influence often triggers naming trends, and we're predicting a significant migration toward bird-inspired monikers like Wren, Robin, Sparrow, and Phoenix in the coming seasons. Parents seem increasingly drawn to names that evoke freedom, beauty, and the natural world—qualities perfectly embodied by our winged friends.

Actress Cameron Diaz and her husband Benji Madden, lead guitarist of Good Charlotte, announced the birth of their son Cardinal this week. The unique bird-inspired name joins their daughter Raddix, who was born in 2019. Naming experts predict this celebrity choice could spark a trend toward avian-themed baby names, much like other nature-inspired naming movements in recent years. Cardinal, with its vibrant red associations and spiritual significance in various cultures, may soon be spotted on playground rosters alongside more traditional names. The couple's distinctive naming style reflects a growing preference among parents for uncommon, meaningful appellations that stand out while maintaining a connection to the natural world.

The recent announcement of Cameron Diaz's daughter's name, Cardinal, is expected to inspire a new trend in bird-themed baby names. Diaz, who is 51 years old, has opened up about her motherhood journey in the past, telling Gwyneth Paltrow on the GOOP podcast in 2022, "The whole concept of aging has just changed completely, even in the last 10 years. It's totally opened up. I'm excited. I've got 50 or 60 years to go – I want to live to be 110, since I've got a young child." The actress, who welcomed her second child with husband Benji Madden, joins other celebrities who have chosen nature-inspired names, potentially setting off a wave of avian monikers among new parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their little ones.

Diaz and Madden haven't shared their inspiration behind Cardinal's name – but people have been giving their babies bird names for millennia. The tradition of avian-inspired names has deep cultural roots across civilizations, symbolizing qualities like freedom, grace, and spirituality. Momcozy has been tracking these baby names for the past 8 years – tens of thousands of parents register their baby names each year. Their data reveals that bird names have experienced periodic surges in popularity, with Cardinal likely to trigger the next wave. Here's a look at some common and not-so-common bird-inspired names parents have loved through the centuries, ranked by how popular they are among Momcozy parents today. From classics like Robin, Wren, and Phoenix to unique options such as Lark, Hawk, and Sparrow, these names offer both natural symbolism and distinctive sounds for modern parents seeking meaningful monikers.

Jonah

A Biblical Name with Dove Connections

Jonah is a meaningful Hebrew name that translates to "dove," making it one of the more recognizable bird-inspired names in today's culture. With its biblical origins and gentle connotations, Jonah currently ranks as the 130th most popular boy's name in the United States. The name gained prominence through the Old Testament story of Jonah and the whale, where the prophet's journey symbolizes redemption and second chances. Its dove association represents peace and spiritual significance, qualities that continue to attract parents seeking a name with both historical depth and natural beauty. As bird names rise in popularity following celebrity trends, Jonah stands out as an established choice that balances tradition with contemporary appeal.

Though primarily known as the biblical prophet swallowed by a whale, Jonah actually derives from the Hebrew name Yonah, meaning "dove." This connection to dove symbolism makes it a perfect fit for parents seeking bird-inspired names with deeper significance. In biblical tradition, doves represent peace, hope, and divine presence, giving Jonah rich spiritual undertones. The name has maintained steady popularity over decades, offering a subtle nod to avian imagery while carrying the weight of ancient tradition. Like other dove-related names, Jonah evokes qualities of gentleness and purity, yet maintains a strong, timeless appeal that works well across cultural backgrounds.

Phoenix

The Mythical Bird Rising in Popularity

The name Phoenix has deep mythological roots, representing rebirth and immortality in both Greek and Egyptian traditions. This legendary bird is known for its spectacular life cycle - living for centuries before combusting into flames and rising renewed from its own ashes. As a baby name, Phoenix carries powerful symbolism of resilience, transformation, and eternal beauty. Following Cameron Diaz's choice of a bird-inspired name, Phoenix is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity among parents seeking names with profound meaning and distinctive character. The name's gender-neutral quality and connection to strength makes it particularly appealing for contemporary families looking for names that embody hope and regeneration.

Phoenix is a gender-neutral name with mythological origins, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. While it works beautifully for any child, current trends show it's more popular for boys, ranking at No. 194 on boys' name charts compared to No. 348 for girls. This powerful name has been steadily climbing in popularity over the past decade, likely due to its strong imagery and connection to resilience. Celebrity parents like Cameron Diaz choosing bird-inspired names will likely boost Phoenix even further up the charts. The name carries a sense of uniqueness while remaining recognizable, making it a balanced choice for parents seeking something distinctive but not too unusual.

Wren

A Delicate Songbird Name Gaining Traction

The name Wren derives from the tiny songbird known for its surprisingly powerful voice, originating from the Old English word wrenna. This delicate yet distinctive name has gained considerable popularity following Cameron Diaz's choice for her newborn. In European folklore, the wren holds special significance as a 'king of birds' - with many cultures considering it bad luck to harm one. The name carries a beautiful nature connection while remaining simple and gender-neutral, appealing to parents seeking names that blend uniqueness with natural elegance. Its short, crisp sound makes it both modern and timeless, functioning well as either a first name or thoughtful middle name choice.

Small but mighty, Wren has been steadily climbing the popularity charts in recent years. Currently positioned at No. 210, this nature-inspired name is poised to break into the top 100 soon. After Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden recently chose it for their newborn son, Cardinal Madden, the avian moniker is expected to soar even higher. Wren appeals to parents seeking names that are both distinctive and meaningful, with its connections to the quick, melodious bird symbolizing vibrancy and freedom. The gender-neutral quality of Wren also contributes to its growing appeal, though it's currently more common for girls. With celebrities embracing bird names—like Birdie chosen by Busy Philipps and Jessica Simpson—the trend shows no signs of slowing down, potentially inspiring more parents to look skyward for baby naming inspiration.

Callum

The Dove-Inspired Scottish Classic

The Gaelic Scottish name Callum originates from the Late Latin name Columba, meaning "dove." This bird-inspired name carries a sense of peace and gentleness, making it increasingly popular for baby boys. Currently ranking at No. 222 in popularity, Callum offers parents a melodic choice with historical depth. Its connection to bird symbolism aligns perfectly with the growing trend of nature-inspired names. With Cameron Diaz recently selecting a bird-themed name for her child, Callum might see a notable surge in popularity among parents seeking names with both cultural significance and natural symbolism.

Raven

The Mysterious Black Bird Name

The name Raven carries a rich historical legacy dating back to the Viking Age, when it existed as Hrafn in Old Norse, primarily used for boys. This avian-inspired name has transcended time and cultures, now embraced across genders. In various mythologies and folklore traditions, ravens symbolize intelligence, mystery, prophecy, and sometimes ill fortune. The bird's deep black plumage and remarkable intelligence have contributed to its mystical associations in numerous cultures. With celebrities like Cameron Diaz choosing bird names, Raven stands out as a distinctive choice that blends nature's beauty with symbolic depth, making it increasingly popular among parents seeking unique yet meaningful names for their children.

Raven carries a mystique that appeals to modern parents seeking a name with both natural power and gothic undertones. The name ranks #569 for girls in the US, and has been gaining steady popularity since the early 2000s. Parents drawn to Raven often appreciate its connection to intelligence, as ravens are among the smartest birds in the world. The name found mainstream recognition through pop culture, including the character Raven Baxter from Disney's 'That's So Raven' and Raven Queen from 'Ever After High.' With celebrities like Cameron Diaz drawing inspiration from birds for their children's names, Raven offers a perfect blend of uniqueness and recognizability while maintaining its nature-inspired roots.

Corbin

The Raven-Derived Classic

The distinguished name Corbin has fascinating origins rooted in avian symbolism. Primarily derived from the Old French surname or possibly as a shortened version of the rare Frankish name Corbinius, it ultimately traces back to the Latin word corvus, meaning "raven." This bird-inspired name carries a dignified history while offering parents a subtle connection to the natural world. With a steady presence in name rankings, Corbin balances uniqueness with familiarity, making it a thoughtful choice for parents seeking a name with both character and classical appeal. Its connection to ravens—birds long associated with intelligence and mystery—adds depth to this timeless selection.

The name Corbin has deep historical roots, derived from the Latin 'corvinus' meaning raven or crow. This bird-inspired classic has gained steady popularity over the years, currently ranking No. 282 among Momcozy parents. While traditionally a masculine name, Corbin carries a sophisticated sound that blends nature-inspired origins with a modern appeal. Famous bearers include actor Corbin Bernsen and Corbin Bleu, helping to maintain the name's contemporary relevance. With the recent trend of avian-inspired names following Cameron Diaz's choice, Corbin offers parents a more established option that still connects to the bird-name movement while providing a strong, distinctive identity.

Simple, Short and Vibrant Bird-Inspired Choice

The name Jonah has deep biblical roots rather than avian origins, but shares the same appealing brevity as bird names like Jay. While Jay derives from the Latin word gaius and mimics the blue jay's distinctive call, Jonah carries rich symbolic meaning. Its Hebrew origins connect to the story of a prophet and the dove (a bird) that symbolizes peace. With Cameron Diaz choosing the bird-inspired name Cardinal for her second child, simple yet meaningful names like Jonah may see renewed interest among parents seeking distinctive yet classic options.

Jay

As a name, Jay began as a nickname for names beginning with the letter J, such as James, Jason, or Jacob. This short, simple moniker gained popularity in the 1950s and '60s, peaking at No. 282 on baby name charts. Beyond its use as a nickname, Jay stands confidently on its own, drawing inspiration from the vibrant blue jay bird known for its intelligence and bold nature. With Cameron Diaz choosing the bird-inspired name for her second child, Jay offers parents a concise, nature-connected option with a touch of vintage charm and modern appeal.

Mavis

The Vintage Thrush Name Making a Comeback

Derived from an Old French word for the song thrush, Mavis exemplifies the charming trend of bird-inspired names. This melodic moniker enjoyed significant popularity in the 1920s before gradually falling from favor during the mid-20th century. Like many vintage names, Mavis is experiencing a delightful renaissance in modern times. Primarily used for girls, it currently ranks at No. 456 on popularity charts, showing steady upward momentum. With its distinctive sound and natural connection, Mavis offers parents a name that's both timelessly elegant and subtly unique—perfectly aligned with the avian naming trend that celebrities like Cameron Diaz are embracing.

Robin

A Timeless Avian Name for All Genders

The name Robin, inspired by the beloved red-breasted bird that symbolizes spring's arrival, has a rich heritage and versatile appeal. Originally derived as a nickname for the Old French name Robert, meaning "bright and famous," Robin has evolved into a distinctive standalone name embraced by all genders. While traditionally more common for boys, particularly in European countries, it has seen periods of popularity for girls in America, especially during the mid-20th century. Currently ranking at No. 817 in the U.S., Robin carries both nature-inspired charm and historical depth. The name's association with beloved characters like Robin Hood and Robin from Batman has further cemented its cultural significance. For parents seeking a name with both natural beauty and timeless appeal, Robin offers the perfect balance of familiarity and distinctiveness.

Ezio

The Eagle-Inspired Italian Choice

Ezio is a distinctive Italian name with roots in Late Latin Aetius, which ultimately derives from Greek origins meaning "eagle." This avian-inspired moniker has been steadily climbing the popularity charts in recent years, now ranking at No. 1,095 for boys in the United States. With its powerful meaning and connection to the majestic eagle, Ezio offers parents a unique yet accessible option with international flair. The name gained additional recognition through the popular video game character Ezio Auditore from the Assassin's Creed series, further cementing its appeal among modern parents seeking something distinctive yet meaningful.

Paloma

The Elegant Spanish Dove Name

Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden recently welcomed their second child, a son named Cardinal, following their daughter Raddix. This bird-themed naming trend continues with their choice of Paloma, a beautiful Spanish name meaning "dove." Currently ranking at No. 1,590 among Momcozy parents, Paloma carries both cultural significance and natural elegance. The name symbolizes peace and purity across many cultures, while offering a distinctive yet melodic option for parents seeking something unique but pronounceable. Notable bearers include fashion designer Paloma Picasso and actress Paloma Faith, adding a touch of artistic legacy to this graceful choice.

Dove

A Peaceful and Direct Bird Reference

The name Dove represents a modern addition to the flock of bird-inspired baby names, with origins in the Old Norse word dofa. This peaceful namesake gained popularity in the late 1800s before falling out of fashion for decades. In 2019, Dove began its resurgence, particularly for girls, currently ranking at No. 1,979. The name carries powerful symbolism of peace, purity, and gentleness across many cultures. With celebrities like Cameron Diaz choosing bird names, Dove offers parents a rare and meaningful option that's both distinctive and rich in positive connotations.

Lark

The Cheerful Songbird Name

Lark is a vintage bird name with a rich history in the United States dating back to at least the 1830s. This cheerful name evokes images of the skylark or woodlark, birds known for singing melodiously while in flight, symbolizing joy and positivity. Recently, Lark has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, climbing more than 4,000 positions since last year to reach No. 2,654 for girls. Following Cameron Diaz's choice of a bird-inspired name, Lark is perfectly positioned to soar even higher in the coming years, appealing to parents seeking a name that combines vintage charm with natural beauty and uplifting connotations.

Zipporah

Biblical Name Meaning 'Little Bird'

Zipporah is a melodious biblical name derived from the Hebrew word meaning "bird" and carries rich historical significance as the name of Moses' wife in the Bible. This elegant name blends spiritual heritage with natural symbolism, offering a unique option for parents seeking a name with depth. While currently uncommon at ranking No. 2,712 in popularity, Zipporah could see renewed interest following celebrity bird-inspired naming trends. Its distinctive sound and meaningful connection to both avian imagery and biblical narrative make it a standout choice for parents drawn to names with both cultural significance and natural beauty.

Bran

The Raven Name with Celtic Roots

Derived from the Welsh word for "raven," Bran carries powerful symbolism in Celtic mythology. Bran the Blessed was a legendary Welsh king and hero whose stories are preserved in the Mabinogion collection. His sister Branwen, whose name means "white raven," is also a significant figure in these ancient tales. Despite its rich heritage and distinctive sound, Bran remains relatively uncommon among modern parents, ranking only #3,828 in Momcozy registrations. This bird-inspired name offers a short, strong option for parents seeking a name with deep mythological connections and natural symbolism.

Merle

The Classic Blackbird-Inspired Option

The name Merle has intriguing dual origins that make it perfect for bird-inspired naming trends. It's believed to derive from the Celtic name Muriel, meaning "bright sea," but it also directly translates to "blackbird" in French. This vintage name carries a rustic, nature-connected charm that appeals to parents seeking something both traditional and uncommon. Currently ranked #3,863 for boys in the US, Merle has been used for both genders throughout history, though it leans masculine in modern usage. With its melodic sound and avian connection, Merle stands as a distinguished option that could see renewed popularity following Cameron Diaz's bird-themed baby naming choice.

Arnie

Eagle-Strength in a Modern Package

Arnie, traditionally a nickname for Arnold, is soaring in popularity with its powerful avian connection. Derived from the Germanic word arn meaning "eagle," this name combines strength and freedom in a compact, modern package. Currently ranked at No. 6,035 on baby name charts, Arnie has climbed more than 4,000 positions from last year, suggesting parents are increasingly drawn to its casual charm and meaningful heritage. Like other nickname-names such as Charlie and Archie, Arnie offers a relaxed, approachable alternative to more formal options while still carrying rich symbolic significance. With celebrity bird-inspired names gaining attention, Arnie's eagle association positions it perfectly to ride the trend of nature-inspired naming.

Avis

The Latin Bird Name with Vintage Appeal

While Avis is often associated with birds due to its Latin root avis meaning "bird," its origins as a name are actually distinct. The name derives from the ancient Germanic name Aveza and is rooted in the Germanic word av, believed to mean "desire." This vintage name peaked in popularity in the early 20th century and carries a delicate, sophisticated sound. Though uncommon today, Avis possesses a timeless quality that appeals to parents seeking a rare yet recognizable name with natural connections. Its vintage charm and subtle nod to avian imagery make it a perfect candidate for parents inspired by Cameron Diaz's bird-themed baby name choice.

Avis derives from the Latin word for 'bird,' carrying both natural elegance and vintage charm. This gender-neutral name has historically been more popular for girls, currently ranking No. 8,744 for girls and No. 9,698 for boys according to Momcozy data. With Cameron Diaz choosing the avian-inspired name Cardinal for her second child, Avis could see renewed interest among parents seeking distinctive bird names with classical roots. The name peaked in popularity during the early 20th century and carries associations of freedom, grace, and flight. Its short, melodic sound and unique vintage quality make it a standout choice for parents looking for something both uncommon and meaningful.

Cardinal

A Bold Red Bird Name for Distinctive Parents

Before becoming a bird-inspired baby name choice, Cardinal originated as a prestigious religious title. The term comes from the Latin word cardinalis, meaning "chief" or "essential," referring to high-ranking officials in the Catholic Church known for their distinctive bright red robes. This same vibrant red plumage gives the Northern cardinal its name, making it one of nature's most recognizable birds. When Cameron Diaz chose Cardinal for her second child, she tapped into both this rich historical significance and the bird's symbolism of vitality and uniqueness. Cardinal offers parents a rare nature name with depth—combining religious heritage, natural beauty, and a bold, memorable quality that stands out in a crowd. Unlike more common bird names like Robin or Wren, Cardinal maintains an air of distinction and character that appeals to parents seeking something truly distinctive.

Cameron Diaz's choice of Cardinal for her baby has spotlighted this rare and striking name. As a name, Cardinal is exceptionally uncommon – the last time a Momcozy parent used it was in 2021, when it ranked No. 11,443 for boys. This vibrant bird name carries rich symbolism of vitality and spiritual significance across many cultures. The cardinal's distinctive red plumage evokes qualities of passion, courage, and individuality, making it perfect for parents seeking a name as unique as their child. While traditionally more aligned with masculine naming conventions, Cardinal has potential as a bold unisex option in today's evolving naming landscape. For parents drawn to nature-inspired names but wanting something more distinctive than common choices like Robin or Wren, Cardinal offers a refreshing alternative with its powerful imagery and uncommon status.

The name Cardinal represents strength, vitality, and natural beauty, inspired by the striking red bird known for its distinctive appearance. Following Cameron Diaz's choice of the bird-inspired name Cardinal for her second child, we may see a rising trend in avian names. This bold choice joins other nature-inspired names like Wren, Robin, and Phoenix that have gained popularity among celebrity parents. Cardinal works beautifully for any gender, offering parents a unique alternative to more common nature names while still connecting their child to the natural world.

Methodology

How We Identified These Trending Bird Names

To identify trending bird-inspired names following Cameron Diaz's announcement of her baby Cardinal, we analyzed Momcozy's extensive database of names registered by parents in real-time. We compiled a comprehensive list of names with avian origins or connections, then tracked their popularity trajectories over the past five years. Names were included based on direct bird species references (like Robin, Wren, and Hawk), bird-related terms (such as Phoenix and Raven), and international variations with bird connections. We calculated percentage increases quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year to identify which names showed consistent upward momentum. This analysis allows us to predict which bird-inspired names are likely to see significant popularity boosts in the coming months as celebrity influence typically creates ripple effects across naming trends. All rankings and statistics are current as of 2024, based on real-time data submissions from parents.