Birthday Gift
Rewards Points
Member Coupon
The 5 biggest baby name trends of 2024 so far
Baby naming in 2024 has been significantly influenced by cultural moments and societal shifts. March Madness basketball tournaments sparked interest in athletic-inspired names like Caitlin and Clark, while April's rare total solar eclipse boosted celestial names such as Luna, Stella, and Nova. Political events have also shaped naming trends, with presidential candidates' names gaining traction. Additionally, parents continue to embrace gender-neutral options like River and Quinn, while vintage names including Theodore and Evelyn maintain their comeback. Social media influences, particularly from platforms like TikTok, have further accelerated these trends, making 2024 a fascinating year for baby naming evolution.
It seems like just yesterday Barbenheimer had parents naming their babies Barbara and Margot (and avoiding the names Robert and Cillian), but now that 2024 is almost halfway in the books, new naming inspiration has taken hold of moms- and dads-to-be. Caitlin Clark's championship performance has beget a new generation of Caitlins (and Clarks). Dune: Part Two 's arid world of Arrakis took hold of both movie screens and birth certificates. And who wouldn't name their April 8th baby something eclipse-themed?
Since 2017, Momcozy has collected comprehensive baby name data from parents who register their newborns' names on the app in real-time. This valuable resource provides us with an immediate and current view of which names are rising in popularity and which are declining. We're excited to share these latest trends with you as they emerge in 2024. (You can also take a live look at the top 100 baby names that are dominating this year so far.)
We studied the top baby names of 2024 so far and identified five distinctive trends that have emerged. From nature-inspired names like Willow and River to vintage comebacks such as Theodore and Florence, this year's naming patterns reflect modern parents' diverse preferences. Gender-neutral choices including Charlie and Quinn continue gaining popularity, while short, punchy names like Leo and Mae are thriving. Additionally, we're seeing a rise in cultural heritage names as parents embrace Mateo, Amara, and other globally-influenced options to honor family traditions and roots.
1. Fantasy epics take hold of parents' imaginations.
From Middle-earth to Westeros: How fantasy worlds inspire baby naming
The allure of fantasy worlds continues to captivate parents in 2024, with literary and cinematic epics driving naming trends across the country. Blockbuster releases like Dune: Part Two have sparked interest in names like Paul, Leto, and Chani, while the television adaptation of Percy Jackson and the Olympians has revitalized classical mythological names including Perseus, Athena, and Apollo. Long-standing franchises continue their influence too—characters from Tolkien's Middle-earth are inspiring names such as Arwen, Éowyn, and Theo (short for Théoden), while the legacy of Game of Thrones endures with rising popularity for Arya, Lyanna, and even Daenerys. Sarah J. Maas's bestselling fantasy novels, including House of Flame and Shadow, have introduced parents to distinctive names like Bryce, Rhysand, and Feyre. This trend reflects parents' desire to bestow names with rich storytelling heritage and character upon their children.
The resurgence of epic fantasy franchises has significantly influenced parents' naming choices in 2024. With the release of Dune: Part Two in March, we've seen the desert warrior Chani rise over 3,300 spots in popularity rankings, captivating parents with its exotic appeal. Similarly, her secret Fremen name Sihaya has returned to the rankings for the first time in over a decade. Beyond Arrakis, names from Middle-earth like Arwen, Eowyn, and Galadriel continue their steady climb, while House of the Dragon has reignited interest in Targaryen-inspired names such as Daemon, Rhaenyra, and Alicent. Even lesser-known characters from fantasy realms are finding their way onto birth certificates as parents seek distinctive yet meaningful names with rich backstories for their little ones.
Parents in 2024 are increasingly turning to beloved fantasy franchises for baby name inspiration. Names like Arya and Sansa from Game of Thrones continue to climb the rankings, while Lord of the Rings-inspired choices such as Eowyn and Galadriel are gaining traction. The recent success of Dune has introduced ethereal names like Chani and Leto to expectant parents' shortlists. Meanwhile, more conventional names featured in these universes – like Paul (Timothée Chalamet's character in Dune) and Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson's role) – are noticeably declining, with both dropping at least 25 places in this year's rankings. This shift reflects parents' desire to bestow unique identities on their children while connecting to stories that hold special meaning in their lives.
The world of fantasy literature and its screen adaptations continues to captivate parents seeking unique names for their children. Back on Earth, author Rick Riordan's young adult classic Percy Jackson and the Olympians received a new TV adaptation in December – and immediately became a rich source of name inspiration. The eponymous hero Percy has charmed Momcozy parents, with his name rising 296 spots to No. 1,304 for boys and up 700 spots to No. 6,327 for girls. His full name, Perseus, which connects to legendary Greek mythology, has climbed 206 places to No. 1,394 for boys. Similarly, names from other fantasy realms like Arya and Tyrion from Game of Thrones, along with Tolkien-inspired choices such as Galadriel and Eowyn, continue to find their way onto birth certificates. This trend reflects parents' desire to bestow names with both meaningful origins and connections to beloved stories that spark imagination.
Fantasy literature and television adaptations continue to dominate baby naming trends in 2024. Parents are drawing inspiration from beloved series like Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, with names such as Arya, Eowyn, and Tyrion gaining popularity. Mythological connections are surging as well, particularly from Greek mythology. The god of war Ares has climbed 58 spots in the rankings, while the messenger deity Hermes has returned to the charts for the first time since 2022. Other fantasy-inspired names seeing notable increases include Luna, Persephone, and Orion. This trend reflects parents' desire to bestow names with rich storytelling heritage and powerful character associations on their children.
Fantasy literature and screen adaptations continue to cast their spell over new parents in 2024. House of Flame and Shadow, the third book in Sarah J. Maas' Crescent City series, has significantly influenced naming trends, with heroine Bryce jumping more than 3,300 spots in rankings for girls despite traditionally being a boys' name. Her surname Quinlan has similarly risen over 500 spots for boys. Beyond Maas' work, names from Tolkien's Middle-earth like Arwen and Eowyn remain steadfast choices, while 'House of the Dragon' has revitalized interest in Targaryen-inspired names such as Daemon and Rhaenyra. Fantasy worlds provide parents with names that balance uniqueness with a sense of heritage and power, reflecting the mythic qualities parents wish for their children.
2. Women's college basketball smashes all sorts of records.
Court champions become naming inspirations as women's sports gain prominence
The women's NCAA basketball tournament in 2024 has not only broken viewership records but also influenced baby naming trends. Names like Caitlin, Paige, and Angel have seen significant increases, inspired by standout players Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese. With the women's tournament final outperforming the men's counterpart in viewership for the first time in history, and becoming the most-watched basketball game in five years, parents are increasingly looking to these athletic role models when naming their daughters. Even team-inspired names like Cameron (Gamecocks) and Hailey (Huskies) are climbing the popularity charts, reflecting how women's sports achievements are resonating with new parents seeking strong, inspirational namesakes for their children.
The 2024 NCAA women's basketball tournament captivated the nation with record-breaking viewership and inspiring performances. South Carolina's Kamilla Cardoso isn't the only player influencing naming trends. LSU's Angel Reese saw her name climb 35 spots to reach the top 50, while Iowa sensation Caitlin Clark's exceptional performance pushed her name up 118 positions. Even coaches are making an impact, with South Carolina's Dawn Staley seeing her first name gain renewed interest among parents. As women's sports continue to receive unprecedented media coverage, expect more basketball stars to influence baby naming trends throughout 2024.
The unprecedented viewership of women's college basketball this year hasn't just broken television records—it's making a lasting impact on baby naming trends. Iowa State phenomenon Caitlin Clark has sent her first name soaring up 1,599 places on the popularity charts, as parents look to honor the all-time NCAA Division I scoring leader. Similarly, South Carolina's perfect-season star Kamilla Cardoso has influenced a 22% increase in her name's usage, while LSU's Angel Reese has sparked interest in both her first and last names. Former UConn standout Paige Bueckers continues to see her name climb the charts as she returns to dominance. This naming trend reflects the cultural shift as women's sports achieve mainstream visibility, with parents increasingly looking to these athletic role models for baby name inspiration that embodies strength, determination, and excellence.
3. The solar eclipse sends celestial names soaring.
Astronomical events spark interest in cosmic and heavenly baby names
This year's total solar eclipse captivated millions across North America, inspiring a surge in celestial-themed baby names. Sol (meaning "sun" in Spanish) has jumped 213 spots for girls, while Sunny has risen 92 places for boys. Other astronomical names gaining popularity include Luna, Stella, and Nova for girls, and Orion, Phoenix, and Cosmos for boys. The cosmic event has also boosted interest in names like Eclipse, Celeste, Aurora, and Apollo, reflecting parents' desire to connect their children to these rare and magnificent celestial phenomena. The timing of the eclipse in April 2024 made it particularly influential for families welcoming babies this year.
The 2024 total solar eclipse has inspired a new wave of celestial baby names. Names like Stella and Aurora have reached astronomical heights, with Stella climbing 11 spots to rank at No. 42 for girls, while Aurora has ascended three positions to secure the No. 11 spot. Other cosmic-inspired names gaining popularity include Luna, Nova, Orion, and Phoenix. Parents are increasingly drawn to these celestial monikers that carry both beautiful meanings and connections to the wonders of the universe. The trend reflects a growing desire to bestow names with cosmic significance that feel both timeless and magical.
The 2024 total solar eclipse has ignited parents' fascination with the cosmos, leading to a surge in celestial baby names. The name Eclipse itself has returned to the girls' rankings for the first time since 2021, while names like Luna, Stella, and Nova continue their upward trajectory. Other cosmic inspirations gaining popularity include Aurora, Orion, Phoenix, and Celeste. Even more ethereal options like Astrid (meaning 'divine strength') and Lyra (a constellation) are capturing parents' imaginations. Celestial events have historically influenced naming patterns, and this year's remarkable eclipse has clearly left its mark on baby naming trends for 2024.
4. Historical dramas inspire names fit for the bon ton.
Period pieces and regal influence bring elegant, classic names back in style
The enduring popularity of period dramas like Bridgerton and The Crown continues to influence parents seeking names with historical gravitas and aristocratic charm. Names like Charlotte, Theodore, and Eleanor have climbed significantly in the rankings, evoking images of high society and refined elegance. The royal-inspired Victoria has risen 57 spots this year, while William maintains its classic appeal in the top 10. Other period favorites seeing renewed interest include Penelope, Benedict, and Daphne from the Bridgerton universe, alongside noble monikers like Arthur, Beatrice, and Clementine that feel both timeless and perfectly suited for today's nurseries. This trend represents parents' desire to bestow names with historical weight and cultural significance on their children.
The immense popularity of period dramas like 'Bridgerton' continues to influence parents in 2024, with regency-era names climbing the charts. Penelope has secured a strong position at No. 33, while Charlotte ranks as the fifth most popular girls' name, likely boosted by Queen Charlotte's dedicated spin-off series. The Bridgerton family names themselves show remarkable growth, with Anthony rising five spots, Eloise jumping 20 positions, Francesca making a dramatic climb of 84 places, and Gregory ascending 40 spots. Other historical drama inspirations include names from shows like 'The Crown,' with Elizabeth, Victoria, and Eleanor seeing renewed interest. Parents are increasingly drawn to these timeless, aristocratic names that carry both historical significance and cultural relevance.
The resurgence of period dramas has catapulted elegant historical names back into the spotlight. Shows like Bridgerton and The Gilded Age have parents seeking names with aristocratic flair and old-world charm. Charlotte, Theodore, and Eleanor continue their steady climb, while previously overlooked gems like Daphne saw a 300% increase following Bridgerton's debut. Royal influence remains strong too, with Diana and Elizabeth maintaining their timeless appeal. The regal Violet has jumped nearly 200 spots as parents embrace names that evoke both sophistication and strength. Even Regency-era rarities like Hyacinth and Benedict are finding new admirers among parents seeking names with historical depth and distinctive character.
The continuing popularity of period dramas like 'Bridgerton' and 'The Crown' has sparked a renaissance of elegant, aristocratic names. Classical choices like Charlotte, Theodore, and Eleanor have seen significant jumps in rankings, while more distinctive regal options such as Daphne and Simon have climbed over 200 spots each. Royal-inspired names including Victoria, Elizabeth, and George remain steadfast favorites, reflecting parents' desire for names with historical gravitas and refined charm. Even more unexpected aristocratic choices like Wilhelmina and Augustus have begun appearing on birth certificates as parents seek sophisticated names with vintage appeal.
5. Tech layoffs have parents hedging their bets on C-suite names.
Executive-inspired names gain appeal despite industry uncertainties
Despite widespread tech industry layoffs, parents are increasingly drawn to names associated with successful executives and business leaders. Names like Satya, inspired by Microsoft's CEO, have climbed significantly in popularity, rising over 200 spots this year alone. Other executive-inspired choices gaining traction include Sundar, Jensen, and Shantanu. This trend suggests parents are looking to instill leadership qualities and success potential in their children, even as the tech landscape remains volatile. Female executive names are also seeing upticks, with Safra, Indra, and Ginni all showing increased interest among forward-thinking parents who are betting on corporate connotations to give their children a perceived edge in future careers.
The turbulent tech industry landscape has significantly influenced baby naming trends in 2024. As major companies implement widespread layoffs and cost-cutting measures, parents are reconsidering names associated with prominent tech executives. Names like Jeff have plummeted 1,478 places in popularity rankings, while Andy has fallen 29 spots – likely reflecting public sentiment toward Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and CEO Andy Jassy amid company restructuring. Similarly, Google parent company Alphabet's CEO Sundar Pichai faces naming backlash with his moniker dropping 611 places as layoffs continue across tech giants. This trend suggests parents are increasingly cautious about aligning their children's identities with controversial business leaders, regardless of their previous cultural cache or success.
The top 10 girl names of 2024 so far
Leading female names capturing parents' hearts this year
The landscape of popular girl names in 2024 shows remarkable consistency with last year's favorites. Many of the beloved names from 2023 continue to dominate parents' preferences, with Olivia, Emma, and Charlotte maintaining their stronghold in the top positions. The only notable shift in the top 10 is the rise of Ellie, which has climbed the ranks to replace Evelyn. This stability suggests parents are gravitating toward timeless classics with soft sounds and feminine endings. Names with historical significance and royal connections remain particularly appealing, while those offering versatile nickname options provide families with added flexibility. As we progress through 2024, these elegant choices continue to capture the hearts of new parents nationwide.
The top 10 boy names of 2024 so far
Most popular male names trending in the first half of 2024
The landscape of boy names in 2024 continues to show remarkable consistency with previous years. Noah maintains its prestigious position at No. 1, demonstrating its enduring appeal among parents. Following closely behind are timeless favorites like Liam, Oliver, and Elijah, which have cemented their places in the top tier. One notable shift this year is Asher, which has climbed several positions to displace Luca from the top 10. Other strong contenders maintaining their popularity include James, Mateo, Theodore, Henry, and Leo, reflecting parents' ongoing preference for names with historical roots yet contemporary feel. These choices suggest a continued trend toward softer-sounding boy names with strong vowel presence and meaningful heritage.
Methodology
How this baby name trend data was collected and analyzed
The baby name trend analysis presented in this article is based on data collected through Momcozy's proprietary database of newborn names. Parents voluntarily submit their babies' names to our platform, creating a real-time snapshot of current naming preferences across the country. For our 2024 trends report, we analyzed name submissions from January 1 through June 3, 2024, comparing them with data from the same period in 2023. Names showing significant year-over-year percentage increases were identified as trending. We specifically tracked names inspired by popular fantasy series, nature elements, vintage revivals, gender-neutral options, and international influences. To ensure statistical relevance, only names appearing with sufficient frequency were included in our analysis. Names like Luna, Theo, and Maeve were among those showing notable popularity shifts. Our methodology allows us to capture emerging trends months before official government records become available, providing parents with the most current insights into naming patterns.
Generate a perfect name for your baby
Our Baby Name Generator helps you find the perfect name, sorted by gender, letter, meaning, and more. You don't need to fill out every field, just the ones you're interested in.