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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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101.
Austin
Austin is of English origin and means "great" or "magnificent." It is a medieval contracted form of Augustine, which itself derives from the Latin name Augustus, meaning "majestic" or "venerable.
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102.
Adam
Adam is of Hebrew origin and means "man" or "earth." It is a name deeply rooted in Biblical tradition, often associated with the first man created by God in the Book of Genesis.
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103.
Jameson
Jameson is of Hebrew origin and means "supplementer" and is of English origin and means "son of James."
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104.
August
August is of Latin origin and means "exalted." It is from German, Polish, Scandinavian and Catalan form of Augustus, and is derived from the month of August.
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105.
Xavier
The name Xavier comes from the Basque place name Etxeberria, which means "the new house" or "castle." It can also mean "bright" in its Arabic roots.
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106.
Myles
Myles is of various origins, though the most common is the English origin, meaning "soldier or merciful."
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107.
Dominic
The name Dominic is of Latin origin and means "belonging to the Lord."
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108.
Damian
Damian is of Greek origin and means "to tame, subdue." It is from the Greek name Damianos.
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109.
Nicholas
Nicholas is of Greek origin and means "victory of the people." It derives from the Greek Nikolaos, a name evolved from the components nikē ("victory") and laos ("people"). It is a classic name often associated with Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus.
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110.
Jace
The name Jace is of Greek origin and means "healer" and is also of Hebrew origin and means "the Lord of salvation."
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111.
Carson
Carson The name Carson is of Scandinavian origin and means "Son of marsh-dwellers."
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112.
Atlas
Atlas is of Greek origin, meaning "enduring" and "strong." Fittingly, it is the name of a mythical Titan who supported the Earth on his back in Greek mythology.
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113.
Adriel
Adriel is of Hebrew origin and means "God is my master."
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114.
Kayden
Kayden is of English origin and means "fighter" or "companion." This strong, modern name carries a sense of resilience and loyalty, making it a standout choice for boys.
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115.
Hunter
Hunter is of English origin and means "one who hunts." It derives from the Old English word hunta.
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116.
River
An English name meaning "by the riverbank."
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117.
Greyson
Greyson is of English origin and means "son of the steward." It is a variant of the name grayson.
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118.
Emmett
The name Emmett is of Hebrew, German, and English origin and means "universal". Emmett is also thought to be of English origin, meaning "hard worker" or "truth." It is the male variation of the name Emma.
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119.
Harrison
Harrison is of German origin and means "house ruler." It's also of English origin and means "Army Ruler."
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120.
Vincent
Vincent is of Latin origin and means "conquering."
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121.
Milo
The boy's name Milo is of Latin and German origin and means "soft-hearted, merciful." It derives from the Latin word for soldier, miles.
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122.
Jasper
Jasper is of Persian origin and means "treasurer." It is derived from the Latin name Gaspar, which ultimately comes from the Hebrew name Gizbar, meaning "bringer of treasure."
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123.
Giovanni
Giovanni is of Italian origin and means "gift from God."
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124.
Jonah
Jonah is of Hebrew origin and means "dove."
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125.
Zion
Zion is of Hebrew origin and means "highest point." It is often associated with a place of peace and the Biblical term for the Promised Land, often referring to Jerusalem.
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126.
Connor
Connor is of Irish origin and means "lover of hounds" and "desire."
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127.
Sawyer
Sawyer is of English origin and means "woodcutter."
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128.
Arthur
Arthur is of Celtic origin and means "bear." It is thought to originate from the Celtic elements artos, meaning "bear" combined with viros, meaning "man" or rigos, meaning "king."
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129.
Ryder
The name Ryder is of Old English origin and means "horsemen" or "cavalrymen, messenger."
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130.
Archer
Archer is of English origin and means "bowman." It was originally an Anglo-Saxon occupational surname. It is of Old French origin.
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131.
Lorenzo
Lorenzo is of Latin origin and means "laurel crown."
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132.
Declan
The name Declan is of Irish Gaelic origin and means "full of goodness" or "man of prayer."
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133.
Emiliano
Emiliano is of Latin origin and means "eager" and Spanish origin and means "work."
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134.
Luis
Luis is of German origin and means "famed warrior."
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135.
Diego
The name Diego is of Spanish origin and means "supplanter." It is believed to be derived from the name Santiago, and in medieval times, Diego was Latinized as Didacus.
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136.
George
George is of Greek origin and means "farmer."
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137.
Evan
The name Evan is of Welsh origin and means "the Lord is gracious". It derives from the Iefan, a Welsh version of John, which derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan. It is also a variation of Johnathan, often interpreted as "young warrior."
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138.
Jaxson
The name Jaxson is of English origin and means "son of Jack."
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139.
Carlos
Carlos is of German and Spanish origin and means "free man."
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140.
Graham
Graham is of many origins, but is most often stated to be of Scottish origin and means "gravelly homestead."
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141.
Juan
The name Juan is of Hebrew origin and means "gift from God." It is the Spanish version of John and has been in use since the Middle Ages.
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142.
Kingston
Kingston is of Old English origin meaning "Ruler."
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143.
Nathaniel
The boy's name Nathaniel is of Hebrew origin and means "gift of God."
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144.
Matteo
Matteo is of Hebrew origin and means "Gift of God."
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145.
Legend
Legend is from the English word referring to a "story about the past."
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146.
Malachi
Malachi is of Hebrew origin and means "messenger of God."
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147.
Jason
The name Jason is of Greek origin and means "healer." It was made famous originally by the ancient Greek mythological story of Jason and the Argonauts.
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148.
Leon
Leon is of Greek origin and means "lion."
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149.
Dawson
The name Dawson is of English origin and means "son of David."
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150.
Bryson
Bryson is of English origin and means "son of Brice" or "son of a nobleman."
Baby boy names by letter
