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Choosing a name for your baby boy is no small feat. Whether you're after something timeless, trendy, or unique, the latest data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can offer helpful insights. Below, you'll find the 10 most popular boy names of 2024, how naming trends are evolving, predictions for 2025, and more.
What Were the Top 10 Baby Boy Names 2024?
The SSA's 2024 report highlights the names that parents across the country loved most. Here are the top 10 boy names for the year, their meanings, and origins:
- Liam – This Irish name meaning "unwavering protector" has remained the top baby boy name since 2017.
- Noah – Derived from Hebrew and Babylonian roots, Noah means "rest" or "comfort" and was a chart-topper from 2013 to 2016.
- Oliver – This Latin-origin name, meaning "olive tree planter," has firmly held the #3 spot since 2019.
- James – A classic Hebrew name meaning "supplanter," James boasts both biblical and historical significance.
- Elijah – Meaning "Jehovah is God," Elijah continues to rise in popularity, entering the top 10 in 2016.
- Mateo – A Spanish variant of Matthew, this name means "gift of God" and carries both modern appeal and cultural depth.
- Theodore – From its Greek origin meaning "gift of God," Theodore blends classic charm with contemporary relevance.
- Henry – With German roots meaning "ruler of the home," Henry is a favorite that’s both regal and relatable.
- Lucas – A Latin name meaning "man from Lucania," Lucas has gained major traction thanks to pop culture names like Luke Skywalker.
- William – This long-standing classic of Germanic origin, meaning "resolute protector," has been in the top 10 since 2001.
Looking for girl names, trends, and predictions? Check out the Top 1,000 Baby Girl Names or Top Unisex Baby Names for more!
Predictions for the Top Baby Boy Names of 2025
When it comes to popular boy names in 2025, we foresee some exciting shifts in baby boy name popularity. Based on emerging trends, these names are set to climb the ranks next year:
- Arlo – A name gaining traction for its unique sound and simple charm.
- Finn – Popularized by Irish heritage and literary connections.
- Atticus – Inspired by the timeless literary hero from To Kill a Mockingbird.
- Caleb – A Biblical name that’s steadily returning as a favorite.
- Elias – A fresher take on the consistent favorite Elijah.
- Orion – A celestial name gaining momentum for its distinctiveness.
Expect a continued mix of short, punchy names with modern flair and culturally significant choices. Names like Kai and Finn are expected to remain trendy, alongside rising stars such as Luca and Ezra, which combine simplicity with a timeless appeal. Additionally, culturally rich names like Arjun and Santiago are gaining popularity, reflecting a growing appreciation for global diversity in baby name trends.
Boys Name Trends Shaping the Year
This year has already showcased a fascinating mix of name trends, according to baby name zeitgeist sources. Here's what's defining this year in baby boy names:
- Classic Revival – Names like Henry and Theodore are gaining traction for their timeless appeal.
- Short and Punchy – Simpler names like Leo, Max, and Jack continue to dominate for their easy pronunciation and versatility.
- Cultural Inspirations – Names such as Mateo, Enzo, and Luca reflect a growing appreciation for multicultural heritage.
- Nature-Inspired Names – Options like Forest, River, and Orion are on the rise, infusing names with an adventurous, earthy feel.
Names inspired by media and literature are also gaining momentum, capturing the imagination of modern parents. Kylo, rooted in Star Wars, carries a bold and futuristic appeal, while Loki, from Marvel, exudes charm with its mischievous and enigmatic energy. These names reflect a growing trend of drawing inspiration from pop culture, blending creativity with a touch of storytelling.
Explore Baby Boy Name Categories
Need more inspiration? These popular name categories have been a hit among Family Education users and could help spark fresh ideas:
- ✨🌟 Unique Names – Names that are bold and unforgettable. Browse Very Rare, Unique Boy's Names!
- 🕰️📜 Vintage Names – Bringing back timeless classics with a nostalgic charm. Browse Old-Timey Boy Names!
- 🛡️⚔️ Heroic Names – Inspired by mythology and bravery, these names are champions in the arena. Browse Hero Boy's Names!
- 🔤 🚀 Boy Names That Start With A-Z – Covering a complete alphabetical range, from Aiden to Zeke. Browse Alphabetical Boy Names!
- 🌊🌿⚖️ Nature and Virtue Names – Reflecting meaning and beauty, inspired by nature, virtue, and serenity. Browse Earthy Boy's Names!
Search through these categories to find the perfect name that resonates with your ideals. Plus, use our free Baby Name Generator to discover more!
What Boy Baby Names Are Declining?
While some names climb the charts, others face a decline. This year has seen less popularity for names like Aiden, Ethan, and Mason, which once dominated. Other names falling in ranking include:
These changes show parents' growing preference for fresh, distinctive names rather than once-trendy options.
Final Thoughts on Boy's Names
Choosing a name is one of the first and most lasting gifts you can give your child. Whether you're drawn to timeless classics like William or unique finds like Finn, the helpful SSA data and input from our name experts offers plenty of inspiration to guide your search.
Curious about next year's trends, or need help narrowing your options? Explore our top 1,000 Baby Boy Names below! No matter what you choose, the right name will always be the one that speaks to your heart.
The 1,000 Most Popular Baby Names for Boys
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51.
Caleb
The boy name Caleb is of Hebrew origin and means "devotion to God", among other translations.
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52.
Cooper
Cooper is of Old English origin and means "barrel maker." It was originally used a surname for the occupation.
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53.
Josiah
Josiah is of Hebrew origin and means "God supports" or "Jehovah heals." It is a Biblical name, notably borne by a reforming king of Judah in the Old Testament, and derives from the Hebrew name Yoshiyahu.
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54.
Charles
Charles is of Germanic origin and means "free man." It is the English and French form of Karl, often associated with royalty and historical figures.
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55.
Christopher
The name Christopher is of Greek origin and means "bearer of Christ," being derived from the Greek name Christophoros.
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56.
Isaiah
The boy's name Isaiah is of Hebrew origin and means "salvation of the Lord." It derives from the Hebrew word Yesha'yahu.
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57.
Nolan
Nolan is of Irish origin and means "champion." Nolan was traditionally used as an Irish surname before gaining popularity as a given name.
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58.
Cameron
Cameron is of English and Scottish origin and means "bent nose" or "bent stream." It is believed that this meaning originated from a nickname given to an early member of the clan.
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59.
Nathan
Nathan is of Hebrew origin and means "gift of God." It is derived from the name Natan.
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60.
Joshua
The name Joshua is of Hebrew origin and means "the Lord is my salvation." Sharing the same origins as the name Jesus, Joshua derives from the Hebrew name Yehoshua, from the roots "Yeho", referring to God, and "Yasha," meaning “to save.”
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61.
Kai
The name Kai has many origins, but it is most often thought of as having Japanese and Hawaiian origins and meaning "sea."
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62.
Waylon
Waylon is of Old English origin and means "land beside the road." It is a variant of the name Wayland.
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63.
Angel
Angel is of Spanish and English origin and means "angel." A popular unisex name, Angel derives from the medieval Latin masculine name Angelus.
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64.
Lincoln
Lincoln is a habitational name from the city of Lincoln, so named from an original British name Lindo- "lake" + Latin colonia "settlement", "colony."
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65.
Andrew
The boy's name Andrew is of Greek origin and means "strong, or manly." Andrew is also a variant of the Greek name Andreas.
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66.
Roman
Roman has various origins, but the most commonly referred to one is the Hebrew origin which means "strong, powerful." Roman is also used to refer to people who descended from Rome.
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67.
Adrian
The boy's name Adrian is of Latin origin and means "son of Adria" and "dark one." It is also of Greek origin and means "rich."
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68.
Aaron
Aaron's origin is debated. Some believe it is of Hebrew origin meaning "high mountain" or "exalted, enlightened", while others state it is of Arabic origin and means "messenger."
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69.
Wesley
Wesley is of Old English origin and means "west meadow." It was originally used a surname before gaining popularity as a given name.
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70.
Ian
Ian is of Scottish origin and means "God is gracious." It is the Scottish variation of John, often used in English-speaking countries.
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71.
Thiago
Thiago is of Portuguese origin and means "supplanter."
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72.
Axel
Axel is of Old German origin and means "father of peace." It is the Medieval Danish form of Absalom.
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73.
Brooks
Brooks is from the possessive case of Brook (i.e. "of the brook").
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74.
Bennett
Bennett is of Latin origin and is the Anglicized version of Benedict and means "blessed."
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75.
Weston
Weston is of Old English origin and means "from the western town." It is derived from an English surname, which combines west with tun, meaning "enclosure, yard, town."
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76.
Rowan
The name Rowan is of Old English, Scottish, and Irish origin and means "rowan tree."
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77.
Christian
Christian is of Latin origin and means "follower of Christ." It derives from the medieval Latin name Christianus meaning "a Christian." It is a name widely used in Christian-majority countries, symbolizing devotion and faith.
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78.
Theo
Theo is of Greek origin and means "divine gift." It is a short form of Theodore, which combines the Greek words theos ("god") and doron ("gift").
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79.
Beau
Beau is of French origin and means "handsome." Beau has been used as a given name since the middle of the 20th century.
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80.
Eli
The name Eli is of Hebrew origin and means "ascended, uplifted, high." The name derives from the Hebrew word ’aly, meaning “high.”
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81.
Silas
Silas, a name of Latin origin meaning "wood" or "forest," holds a rich historical and Biblical significance.
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82.
Jonathan
Jonathan is of Hebrew origin and means "God's gift" or "gift of Jehovah." It is derived from the Hebrew name Yehonatan.
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83.
Ryan
Ryan The name Ryan is of Irish origin and means "little king." Ryan originated from the Irish surname O'Riain, meaning “son of Rían.”
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84.
Leonardo
Leonardo is of German origin and means "lion-hearted." It is a Spanish and Italian variation of the name Leonard.
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85.
Walker
The name Walker is a name of English origin, meaning "fuller of cloth." It was an occupational last name for a fuller, somebody who cleanses cloth.
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86.
Jaxon
Jaxon , a new spelling of Jackson, is of English origin and means "God is gracious."
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87.
Micah
Micah, of Hebrew origin, means "who is like God." It's a Biblical name of one of the 12 minor prophets in the Old Testament and is a boy, girl, or unisex name.
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88.
Everett
Everett is of Old English origin & means "brave as a wild boar." It is derived from the Germanic name Eberhard, combining eber ("boar") & hard ("brave, hardy").
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89.
Robert
The name Robert is of Old English origin and means "bright fame." It derives from the German name Hrodebert.
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90.
Enzo
Enzo is of Italian origin and means "winner" or "ruler of the household." It is often a short form of names like Lorenzo or Vincenzo.
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91.
Parker
Parker is of Old English origin and means "cultivated land." It derives from the English surname that was for people "keepers of the park."
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92.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah is of Hebrew origin and means "God will uplift" or "appointed by God." It is a Biblical name, stemming from the prophet Jeremiah in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies and teachings.
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93.
José
José is of Spanish & Portuguese origin & means "God will increase." It is the Spanish & Portuguese variation of Joseph, derived from the Hebrew name Yosef.
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94.
Colton
Colton is of English origin and means "from the coal or dark town."
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95.
Luka
The name Luka is of English and Latin origin and means "bringer of light." It is a variant of the name Luca.
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96.
Easton
Easton is of English origin and means "east-facing place." Originally a surname.
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97.
Landon
Landon is of Old English origin and means "long hill."
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98.
Jordan
The name Jordan is of Hebrew origin and means "flowing down." It is derived from the Hebrew words yarden and yarad, meaning "to go down."
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99.
Amir
Amir is of Arabic origin and means "prince, ruler, treetop."
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100.
Gael
The name Gael is of Breton, Welsh origin and means "Gaelic."
Baby boy names by letter
