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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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251.
Mark
Mark is of Latin origin and means "consecrated to the god Mars." It is derived from the Roman name Marcus, meaning "warlike" or "dedicated to Mars," who was the Roman god of war.
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252.
Dallas
The name Dallas is of Irish origin and means "skilled."
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253.
Tristan
The name Tristan is of Latin and Celtic origin and means "noise."
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254.
Lane
The name Lane is a gender-neutral name of English origin meaning "a small roadway or path."
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255.
Blake
The name Blake is of Old English origin and means "fair, pale or white."
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256.
Paul
The name Paul is of Latin origin and means "small" or "little one."
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257.
Paxton
The name Paxton is of English origin and means "town of peace."
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258.
Bryce
The name Bryce is of English origin and means "son of a nobleman."
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259.
Nash
The name Zane is of Hebrew origin and means "God is gracious."
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260.
Crew
The name Crew is of Latin origin and means "chariot."
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261.
Kash
The name Kash is a newer spelling of "cash/money."
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262.
Kenneth
Kenneth is of Gaelic origin and means "born of fire." It has a noble heritage that reflects strength and leadership in Scottish tradition.
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263.
Omar
The name Omar is of Arabic origin and means "follower of the prophet" or "long-lived."
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264.
Colt
The name Colt is a word name that means "young horse."
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265.
Lennox
The name Lennox is of Scottish origin and means "among the elms."
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266.
King
King is of Old English origin and means "monarch" or "ruler."
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267.
Walter
The name Walter is of German origin and means "army ruler."
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268.
Emerson
The name Emerson is of Old English origin and means "Emery"s son."
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269.
Phoenix
The name Phoenix is of Greek origin, and is a reference to the mythological bird.
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270.
Jaylen
The name Jaylen is of American origin and means "healer or tranquil."
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271.
Derek
German: Ruler
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272.
Muhammad
Muslim: from a personal name based on Arabic mụhammad "praiseworthy"
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273.
Ellis
Hebrew: The Lord is God
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274.
Kaleb
The name Kaleb is of Arabic origin and means "dog."
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275.
Preston
The name Preston is of Old English origin and means "priest"s estate."
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276.
Jorge
The name Jorge is of Greek origin and means "farmer."
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277.
Zane
The name Zane is of Hebrew origin and means "God is gracious."
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278.
Kayson
The name Kayson is a modern variation of Cason, an English name meaning "son of marsh-dwellers."
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279.
Cade
Old English: Rhythmic flow of sounds; Possibly a combination of Katy and Cody
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280.
Tobias
The name Tobias is of Hebrew origin and means "God is good."
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281.
Otto
German: Wealthy
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282.
Kaden
The name Kaden is a spelling variation of the popular name Caden meaning "round."
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283.
Remington
The name Remington is of Old English origin and means "from the raven's home."
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284.
Atticus
The name Atticus originates from ancient Greece and is derived from "Attikos," which means "from Attica," a region that includes Athens.
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285.
Finley
The name Finley is of Celtic and Scottish origin and means "fair-haired one."
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286.
Holden
The name Holden is of Old English origin and means "valley."
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287.
Jax
The name Jax is a modern invented name that means "God is gracious."
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288.
Cash
The name Cash is of Latin origin and means "vain."
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289.
Martin
The name Martin is of Latin origin and means "warlike."
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290.
Ronan
The name Ronan is of Celtic origin and means "a pledge."
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291.
Maximiliano
The name Maximiliano is of Latin origin and means "the greatest."
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292.
Malcolm
The name Malcolm is boy's name of Scottish origin meaning "follower of St. Colomba".
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293.
Romeo
Italian: Pilgrim to Rome; romantic lover
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294.
Josue
The name Josue is the French, Spanish, and Portuguese spelling variation of the name Joshua. It is of Hebrew origin and means "the Lord is my salvation."
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295.
Francisco
The name Francisco is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Franciscus, and means "free land."
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296.
Bodhi
The name Bodhi is of Sanskrit origin and means "awakening, enlightenment."
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297.
Cyrus
Cyrus is of Persian origin and means "sun" or "one who bestows care." It is historically significant due to Cyrus the Great of the Achaemenid Empire.
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298.
Koa
Koa is of Hawaiian origin and means "warrior" or "brave."
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299.
Angelo
Greek: Heavenly messenger
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300.
Aidan
The name Aidan is of Irish origin and means "warm."
Baby boy names by letter
