English baby names List
Updated: April 9th, 2024
English baby names used in countries like US, England and Wales, Australia, Ireland, Canada have a distinct style which make these name unique.
Most of the English names used today are either taken from Bible or are derivatives of them. Over time and through different cultural influence over centuries, English speakers started adopting anglicized baby names from Greek, German, French, Irish and Norman languages. Many English speaking nations like UK still prefer to bestow a traditional English name while parents from United States go for more unique and contemporary sounding name for their new-born. Even unshaken baby names like William is gradually making way for short and modernistic Liam.
Below is the list of over 55,000 names collected from various English speaking regions around the globe.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZAlice
From the German Adalhaidis, meaning "noble," this literary classic gained modern charm thanks to Alice in Wonderland and widespread use across Europe.
Elizabeth
From the Hebrew Elisheva, meaning “pledged to God,” this royal and biblical name remains a timeless favorite with endless nickname options.
William
From Germanic roots meaning “resolute protection,” William has been a royal and literary name for centuries.
Thomas
With Aramaic roots meaning “twin,” Thomas is a Biblical mainstay that's never strayed far from the top.
Margaret
Greek in origin and meaning "pearl," Margaret has a royal history and many nicknames, from Maggie to Greta.
Evelyn
Once a masculine surname, Evelyn became a soft and stylish girls’ name meaning “wished for child” or “island,” now a modern Top 10 pick.
Louis
French and German for “renowned warrior,” this royal favorite gained renewed attention through Prince Louis.
Charlotte
The French feminine form of Charles, meaning "free man," it’s a royal favorite and a global top pick with nicknames like Lottie.
Andrew
Known for its biblical association as the name of one of Jesus's first apostles. It's a patron saint's name for Scotland, Russia, and Greece, and has been popular among various cultures.
Ruby
From the Latin for the red gemstone, Ruby is a vintage name with fire.
Clara
Meaning "bright" or "clear" in Latin, Clara is a vintage gem tied to ballet, music, and 19th-century heroines.
Oscar
With Irish and Norse roots, Oscar means “deer-lover” or “God spear.”
Eleanor
With debated roots, possibly from alia Aenor or Germanic elements, Eleanor means “shining light” and came to England via Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Hazel
Taken from the hazelnut tree, this nature-inspired English name has vintage roots and literary associations.
Anna
This Hebrew name meaning "grace" links to Saint Anne and bridges cultures worldwide, from biblical roots to Disney’s Frozen.
Rose
Latin for the flower, Rose has bloomed for centuries and remains a favorite for its grace and simplicity.
Grace
This Latin virtue name meaning “favor” or “blessing” is made iconic by Princess Grace Kelly.
Christopher
From Greek, this classic means “bearer of Christ” and honors the patron saint of travelers.
Matthew
Derived from Hebrew, it means “gift of God” and has remained a strong, steady choice for decades.
Vincent
Conquering, One Who Overcomes, Prevailing, Victor
Emma
Meaning “universal” in German, this royal classic surged in popularity after being chosen on Friends and by stars like Emma Watson.
Florence
This Latin name means “prosperous” and recalls both a romantic city.
Lillian
Meaning either “pledged to God” or often connected to the lily flower, Lillian is vintage darling with grace and tradition plus the added sweetness of Lily.
Alexander
Derived from Greek element "aléxein," mainly associated with Macedonian king, Alexander the Great
Anthony
It evolved from Antony, possibly influenced by the Greek word "anthos" (flower). Popular in various cultures, it's known for its versatility and classic charm, with notable bearers like Anthony Hopkins and Tony Hawk.
Emily
Latin in origin and meaning “rival” or “industrious,” Emily reigned as the top girls’ name for a generation and still shines in pop culture.
Edith
This Anglo-Saxon name means "prosperous in war" and once belonged to queens, first ladies, and literary heroines alike.
Kenneth
A classic from Scottish and Irish roots, it means “born of fire.”
Beatrice
With Latin roots meaning "she who brings happiness," Beatrice shines in literature, royalty, and vintage revivals.
Audrey
An English name meaning "noble strength," it was revived by Audrey Hepburn and stems from the Anglo-Saxon Aethelthryth.
Elsie
A Scottish diminutive of Elizabeth meaning “pledged to God,” Elsie has returned as a lively vintage favorite in both the US and UK.
Nicholas
Greek in origin and meaning “people of victory,” Nicholas connects to saints, czars, and Christmas traditions.
Frances
A Latin-rooted name meaning “from France” or “free man,” Frances has returned with stylish nickname Frankie.
Lucy
This light-filled Latin classic, derived from lux, has been beloved from saints to sitcoms to activist Lucy Stone.
Laura
Latin for “laurel” or “victory”, Laura was immortalized by poet Petrarch.
Aaron
Aaron, a timeless name with debated origins, has been consistently popular for its gentle sound and strong associations, like Aaron Burr, Aaron Paul and as the name of Moses's brother, the first High Priest of the Israelites.
Catherine
Greek for "pure," this timeless name has royal, saintly, and literary roots, and remains elegant in its softer C-spelling.
Nathan
Hebrew for “given,” this Old Testament name has a lasting presence across generations.
Eva
This Latin and Hebrew name means “life” and is a globally popular variation of Eve.
Esther
Derived from Persian for “star,” Esther is a biblical heroine whose story is central to the Jewish holiday of Purim.
Patrick
From Latin roots meaning “noble,” this name is forever linked with Irish heritage and the widely celebrated Saint Patrick.
Nancy
Originally a pet form of Ann, Nancy means “grace” and rose from literary heroine to political mainstay.
Adam
A Hebrew name meaning “son of the red earth,” Adam is both mankind’s origin and a perennial favorite.
Nathaniel
A dignified biblical name meaning “gift of God.”
Joshua
Meaning “the Lord is my salvation,” this enduring Hebrew name peaked in the '80s and still holds strong.
Zachary
This Hebrew name means “the Lord has remembered,” and links Biblical tradition with a streak of 90s cool.
Jason
Of Greek origin meaning “to heal,” Jason is known both for ancient myth and its '70s naming boom.
Jacob
This Hebrew classic means “supplanter” and was the most popular boy name in the U.S. for over a decade.
Felix
Latin for “happy” or “fortunate,” Felix mixes Roman heritage with global popularity
Bonnie
A Scottish word for "beautiful" or "cheerful," Bonnie surged after Gone With the Wind and is now enjoying a vintage revival.
Frederick
Meaning “peaceful ruler” in German, Frederick honors figures from Frederick Douglass to Shakespearean characters.
Diana
This Latin name meaning "divine" refers to the Roman goddess of the moon and gained poignancy through Princess Diana.
Nora
Possibly linked to Honora or Eleanor, Nora has a bright meaning of “light.”
Calvin
Latin in origin and meaning “bald,” Calvin has intellectual roots and modern flair thanks to fashion and comics.
Amy
With French roots in Aimée and Latin Amata, Amy means "beloved."
Cynthia
A Greek name for the moon goddess Artemis, Cynthia peaked mid-century.
Mabel
Latin for “lovable,” Mabel was a Top 20 charmer in the Victorian era and is making a spirited comeback.
Stella
Star
Philip
Greek for “lover of horses,” this regal name spans apostles, monarchs, and literary legends
Violet
Pure, Gentle, Bluish Purple, Viola
Ralph
Meaning “wolf-counsel,” Ralph has noble roots and an interesting history
Lydia
Greek for “woman from Lydia,” this biblical and literary name has a rich past and a melodic sound.
Cora
Cora, from Greek for "maiden," links to Persephone's myth and Downton Abbey’s countess, making it both ancient and trendy.
David
A timeless Hebrew name meaning “beloved,” tied to the biblical king.
Isaac
A Hebrew name meaning “laughter,” rooted in the story of a long-awaited son born to Abraham and Sarah.
Ruth
A Hebrew name that means "compassionate friend," Ruth is a quietly classic name associated with the Bible as well as loyalty and grit.
Rebecca
Meaning "to tie or bind" in Hebrew, Rebecca is a timeless name that has maintained use over the years because of its biblical significance as well as a well-known literary character.
Dorothy
Meaning "gift of God" in Greek, Dorothy soared in early 20th-century America and is tied to The Wizard of Oz and many creative icons.
Ella
Ella comes from Germanic and Hebrew roots meaning "all" or "goddess," and has surged in modern popularity thanks to its elegant simplicity.
Caroline
From the French meaning "free man," Caroline has royal and presidential links and remains a timeless classic.
Otis
A German name meaning “wealthy,” Otis made a stylish return thanks.
Annie
Annie, rooted in English and meaning "grace," has long been a cheerful, all-American name known from folklore to Broadway.
Daisy
English in origin and meaning "day's eye," Daisy is a bright floral name with strong literary and pop culture roots.
Harvey
Brought by the Normans, Harvey means “battle worthy” and is quietly rising again.
Ernest
Derived from Germanic roots, this name means “serious” or “resolute” and famously featured in Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy.
June
Latin in origin and tied to the Roman goddess JunJune is a vintage charmer that's finding new favor today.
Harper
Once a rare occupational surname meaning “harp player,” Harper skyrocketed in popularity, especially for girls, in the 21st century.
Genevieve
From medieval German roots meaning “tribe woman,” Genevieve combines saintly strength with French elegance.
Paul
Latin for “small,” Paul is a timeless classic with deep Biblical roots and a legacy from saints to pop stars.
Eric
A name of Old Norse origin meaning “eternal ruler,” Eric is tied to Viking explorers and peaked in mid-century America.
Ada
From the German root adal meaning "noble," Ada also has Turkish origins where it means "island" and has regained popularity as a vintage, vowel-starting name.
Russell
This French-rooted name meaning “redhead” saw peak popularity mid-century and lives on through sports and screen stars.
Alfred
An Old English name meaning “wise counselor,” Alfred owes much of its past prestige to Alfred the Great, the scholarly 10th-century king of Wessex.
Agnes
A Greek name meaning "pure," Agnes was once a medieval favorite, with Saint Agnes boosting its popularity.
Olivia
From the Latin oliva, Olivia means "olive tree" and was brought into use by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night.
Elaine
Elaine is a French-Scottish form of Helen that means “bright light.” It has strong Arthurian associations, but could also fit mid-century style.
Susan
Holy and Desent, A Pretty Plant, Lotus, Lord Shiva
Claire
This French form of Clara means “bright” or “clear” and has a clean, classic sound.
Rachel
Hebrew for "ewe," Rachel is a biblically classic name that has universal appeal. Literary and television characters have also helped maintain Rachel's popularity.
Claudia
The ancient Roman name Claudia means "lame" or "enclosure" yet maintains its presence through classic usage
Luke
A Greek-derived name meaning “man from Lucania,” Luke brings Biblical depth.
Lewis
An English name meaning "renowned warrior," Lewis was once a U.S. Top 100 pick and is still widely used in Scotland and beyond.
Brian
Of Irish origin meaning "strong and noble," Brian is tied to legendary king Brian Boru and saw decades of popularity in the U.S.
Jennifer
Jennifer is a Cornish form of Guinevere meaning “white wave” and dominated of the most popular names of the late 20th century.
Madeline
This classic English name meaning "high tower" gained lasting appeal through literature and the well-loved Madeline children's series.
Flora
Flora is Latin for “flower.” She’s a goddess and the heroine of a Scottish fairy tale, with a sweet vintage vibe.
Georgia
Georgia originates from George with the meaning “farmer” and carries Southern charm while remaining less common.
Molly
Originally a medieval pet form of Mary, Molly means "bitter" and remains a friendly, familiar name with Irish and literary links.
Hannah
Hannah is Hebrew for “grace.” This old-timey biblical name is popular all over the world with soft power.
Archie
Meaning “truly brave” in German, this friendly nickname for Archibald saw a royal resurgence thanks to Prince Harry and Meghan's son.
Warren
Of English and French origin, Warren means “park-keeper” and once honored a Revolutionary War hero.
Riley
Of English and Irish origin meaning “rye clearing,” Riley remains a modern unisex favorite with a friendly vibe.
Alma
With Latin roots meaning “nurturing” or “soul,” Alma gained traction in England after the Crimean War.
Eloise
Forest, Choice, Whole, Wood
Sadie
Sadie is a Hebrew name meaning "princess." It started as a nickname for Sarah but has since firmly established itself on its own with a spunky vibe.
Eugene
Greek for “wellborn” or “noble,” Eugene once ranked among America’s most popular names.
Hattie
Originating in English and meaning “estate ruler,” Hattie has a feisty, antique sound and is currently more popular than Harriet.
Pearl
Pure by Heart, A Gem of the Sea, Pearl, Grand
Elena
Sun, Variant of Helen, Excellent, The Bright One
Hugh
With roots in Old German and English, Hugh means “mind” or “intellect” and has been a steady presence in Irish and British history.
Joel
This Hebrew name meaning “Jehovah is his God” has Biblical roots and gained modern traction through arts and entertainment.
Vivian
The Word Vivus with the Meaning Alive Lively, Vivid
Chester
Fort, Camp of Soldiers, Chester from the Stem End, Castle Dweller
Betty
My God is Perfect, Form of Elizabeth
Natalie
To be Born-from Natalia, Form of Natalie, Born on Christmas, Christ's Birthday
Rosemary
Dew of the Sea, Mary, Bitter Rose
Caleb
Bold, Messenger, Whole Hearted, Faith
Miriam
Sea of Sorrow, Scraped, Prophetess, Drop
Cassandra
Warrior, Virile, Protrude, Man
Raymond
Guards Wisely, Advice, Decision Protector, Strong Defender
Roger
Famous Warrior, Fame, Glory and Launches, Renowned Spearman
Jacqueline
Yahweh May Protect, Supplanter, One who Supplants, Holder of the Heel
Barbara
Strange, Barbari Meaning Foreign Stammering People, Barbaric, Stranger
Harriet
Homeland, Estate, Ruler of an Enclosure, Rich
Amanda
The Lovely, In Love, Gracious, Deserving to be Loved
Jonathan
Yahweh has Given, Gift of Jehovah
Lola
Sorrow, Fickle, Carl, Goddess Lakshmi
Dominic
Of the Lord Belonging to God, Form of Dominick
Cedric
Battle Chieftain, Beloved, Pattern of Generosity, Kindly and Love
Rosalie
Rose, Flower Name
Nicole
Female Version of Nicholas
Guy
Warrior, Valley, Staff of the God, Wood
Anne
Eagle, God is Gracious, Grace, Variant of Hebrew Hannah
Sophie
Skill, Wisdom
Edwin
Blessed Friend, Valued, Possession
Ford
From the River Crossing, Ford
Aurora
Dawn
Malcolm
Pledge, A Dove, Students of St, Hostage and Luminous
Marcus
Defence, The Roman God of War, Mars, Of the Sea
Leah
Jacob's Wife, Delicate, Weary One, Weary,Tired
Keith
A long-standing Scottish name meaning “wood,” once cool in the ‘60s.
Lucille
Light, The Bright, Born at Daybreak
Ethan
Strong, Heaven, Durable, The Enduring
Celia
Heaven, Form of Cecilia, Of Sky, Heavenly
Alexandra
Feminine of Alexander, To Defend, Protect and Man, Manly
Estelle
Star
Isabel
My God is Bountiful, God's Promise
Grant
Great Plains, Big, Tall
Eileen
Aveline, Beautiful, Lovable, Burst of the Sun
Olive
Kind One, The Olive, Peace
Wilbur
Desire, Brilliant, Will, Dearly Loved Stronghold
Antonio
Beyond Praise, Highly Praiseworthy, Priceless, Of Inestimable Worth
Rosie
Rose Flower, Rose
Bridget
Saint, The Exalted One, Strength, Power
Rufus
Ruddy Red-Haired, King, The Redheaded, A Roman Cognomen
Edmund
Wealthy Defender, Wealth and Protection, Guardian of Possession, Rich Protector
Alan
Noble, Little Rock, Peace, God of Shine
Abel
Vanishing, Fragility, Vapour, Healthy
Nellie
Horn Coloured, Form of Cornelius, Yellow, Sun Burst
Dennis
God of Wine, Dedicated to Dionysos, Named for Saint Denys
Gwendolyn
Beautiful, White Ring, Fair Bow, Goddess of the Moon
Priscilla
Time-Honored, Ancient, Antique, Primitive
Collins
Victory of the People, Girl, Holly
Vanessa
Star, Coined from, Genus of Butterfly
Michelle
Who is Like God
April
Opening, To Open Up, Second, April
Colin
Victor, Young Creature, Dove, Abbreviation of Nicholas People's Victory
Etta
Pearl, Fight, Little One, Diminutive of Henrietta
Maggie
Child of Light, The Pearl, Flower Name
Gregory
Vigilant Watchman, The Watchful, Alert
Daphne
Laurel Tree, Laurel
Wayne
Car, Wagon Maker, Cartwright
Opal
Jewel Names Became Popular in the 19th Century, Opal, The Earth, Gem
Wendy
Soft, Fair Bow, Fence, White and Smooth
Alicia
German Origin and Means Noble
Sally
Lady, Noblewoman, Form of Sarah, Princess
Damon
Tamer, Spirit, Constant, Subdue
Nash
Adventurer, At the Ash Tree, Cliff
Winifred
Frewi, Holy, Peace Friend, Fair Reconciliation
Lottie
Vigorous, Strong, Man, Husband