A curated list of 100 names on an upward trajectory globally, capturing modern trends while honoring timeless roots. These names are climbing charts but haven't yet reached peak saturation.
50 Male Names
1.
Arlo
Of uncertain origin, possibly Spanish or Old English, this friendly, melodic name has exploded in popularity. Its modern yet vintage feel, combined with a soft, approachable sound, makes it a fast-rising favorite for boys across English-speaking countries.
2.
Kairo
A trendy spelling variation of Cairo, this name adds a modern 'K' to an ancient place name. It represents cosmopolitan energy and global awareness, rising quickly for its strong sound and international flair that feels both urban and exotic.
3.
Rowan
A Gaelic name from the protective rowan tree, this nature choice is soaring for its sturdy, melodic quality and beautiful gender-neutral appeal. Its connection to nature and Celtic heritage resonates with contemporary parents seeking meaningful, versatile names.
4.
Silas
With Latin origins meaning "of the forest," this biblical name is experiencing a major revival. Its rustic, gentle strength and vintage charm feel fresh again, appealing to parents who want historical depth with a soft, approachable sound.
5.
Atlas
This powerful Greek mythological name for the Titan who held up the heavens represents strength and worldly adventure. It's rising rapidly for its bold, literary feel and connection to maps and exploration in a globalized world.
6.
Milo
A German name meaning "soldier" or "merciful," Milo combines vintage charm with friendly, approachable energy. Its resurgence is fueled by its gentle sound, literary connections, and effortless cool that works across cultures.
7.
Leo
Short for Leonardo or standalone, this Latin name meaning "lion" continues to climb for its fierce, astrological power packed into one sleek syllable. It's a timeless choice that feels both classic and freshly energetic.
8.
Ezra
This Hebrew name meaning "help" has zipped up charts with its ancient biblical roots meeting modern style. Its short, zippy sound and literary associations (Pound) appeal to parents seeking substance with contemporary flair.
9.
Theo
Once just a nickname for Theodore, Theo now stands strong on its own. This Greek name meaning "gift of God" is rising for its friendly, approachable, yet substantial single-syllable presence that feels both classic and cool.
10.
Jasper
A Persian gemstone name meaning "treasurer," Jasper is climbing for its artistic, sophisticated vibe. Its natural beauty, friendly sound, and vintage charm make it a distinctive alternative to more common gem names.
11.
Felix
This Latin name meaning "happy" or "fortunate" is the ultimate "good vibe" name on the rise. Its cheerful meaning, vintage charm, and cool 'x' ending give it upbeat energy that feels both classic and freshly stylish.
12.
Asher
A Hebrew name meaning "happy" or "blessed," Asher combines biblical roots with a joyful, modern sound. Its gentle strength and positive meaning are driving its steady climb up popularity charts globally.
13.
Kai
With multicultural roots (Hawaiian "sea," Scandinavian "keeper of the keys"), this brief, global name is skyrocketing. Its nature connection, minimalist style, and international appeal make it a rising star across continents.
14.
Luca
The Italian form of Luke meaning "light," Luca's soft, musical quality is fueling its pan-European and global rise. It offers a more lyrical alternative to Lucas, appealing to parents seeking romance and gentleness.
15.
Finn
This Irish name meaning "fair" or "white" carries lively, adventurous energy from Irish legend. Its rise reflects love for short, spirited names with folkloric charm and a friendly, approachable vibe.
16.
Elias
A Greek form of Elijah meaning "Yahweh is my God," Elias is soaring for its melodic sound and spiritual resonance. It bridges ancient biblical roots with contemporary style, feeling both substantial and graceful.
17.
Elias
Already mentioned but worth noting its double trajectory – rising in both English-speaking and European countries for its international sophistication and beautiful flow that works across languages and cultures.
18.
Archer
An English occupational name for a bowman, Archer represents the surname-as-first-name trend with sharp, active energy. Its modern, preppy vibe and cool nickname potential ("Arch") are driving its upward climb.
19.
Miles
With Latin/German origins meaning "soldier" or "merciful," Miles continues to rise for its sleek, classic sound that feels both gentle and strong. Its jazz connections (Davis) add artistic cool to its timeless appeal.
20.
Beau
This French name meaning "handsome" is climbing for its charming, single-syllable elegance. Its effortless cool, Southern U.S. charm, and romantic meaning make it a stylish choice gaining mainstream traction.
21.
Levi
A Hebrew name meaning "joined," Levi combines biblical heritage with rugged, denim-cool associations. Its strong 'v' sound, gentle strength, and modern vibe are pushing it steadily upward on charts.
22.
August
This month name with Latin roots is rising for its vintage sophistication and literary charm. It feels substantial yet approachable, with noble, academic vibes that appeal to educated, stylish parents.
23.
Jude
A Hebrew name meaning "praised," Jude packs cool, rock-n-roll edge (thanks to The Beatles) into one concise syllable. Its rise reflects love for short, strong names with artistic credentials and timeless appeal.
24.
Brooks
An English surname meaning "of the brook," this nature name is climbing for its preppy, sophisticated sound. Its connection to water, surname style, and gentle strength make it a fresh alternative to more common nature names.
25.
Wells
Another surname rising as a first name, Wells evokes water springs and literary heritage (H.G. Wells). Its crisp, single-syllable strength and sophisticated vibe are gaining traction among style-conscious parents.
26.
Rhys
A Welsh name meaning "ardor" or "enthusiasm," Rhys is rising for its cool, concise, literary feel. Its unique spelling (versus Reese) and strong, single-syllable power make it distinctive yet accessible.
27.
Declan
An Irish name meaning "full of goodness," Declan combines Celtic charm with modern style. Its rise reflects growing interest in Irish names that feel both traditional and freshly appealing to contemporary ears.
28.
Sawyer
An English occupational name for a wood-cutter, Sawyer is climbing for its friendly, adventurous vibe. Its surname style, literary connections (Twain), and unisex potential make it increasingly popular.
29.
Finnian
A longer form of Finn meaning "fair" or "white," Finnian offers more substance while keeping Irish charm. Its rise shows appetite for Celtic names with nickname potential (Finn) and lyrical, multi-syllable beauty.
30.
Kian
With Persian roots meaning "king" or "realm," Kian is gaining popularity for its regal meaning, short modern sound, and international appeal. It works across cultures while feeling distinctive and strong.
31.
Zane
A Hebrew name meaning "God is gracious," Zane offers sleek, modern style with a touch of edge. Its single-syllable punch and 'z' beginning make it stand out as it climbs popularity charts.
32.
Nico
Short for Nicholas or standalone, this Greek name meaning "victory of the people" is rising for its cool, European flair. Its artistic, musical associations and brief, stylish sound appeal to cosmopolitan parents.
33.
Enzo
An Italian short form of Lorenzo, Enzo packs vibrant energy into two syllables. Its rise reflects love for European names with zippy sounds, automotive connections (Ferrari), and infectious charm.
34.
Cassius
A Latin name meaning "hollow" (famously borne by Muhammad Ali), Cassius is climbing for its historical grandeur and strong, distinctive sound. Its ancient Roman roots feel freshly powerful and unique.
35.
Orion
This Greek mythological hunter and constellation name is rising for its celestial grandeur. Its cosmic connections, strong sound, and literary feel appeal to parents seeking bold, meaningful nature names.
36.
River
A nature name symbolizing flow and tranquility, River is climbing for both genders. Its peaceful, artistic vibe and connection to environmental consciousness resonate in today's naming landscape.
37.
Reed
A nature name for the tall, slender grass, Reed offers crisp, single-syllable elegance. Its rise reflects preference for simple, natural names with a sophisticated, preppy feel and gentle strength.
38.
Soren
A Scandinavian name meaning "stern," Soren combines intellectual weight with modern style. Its philosophical associations (Kierkegaard) and distinctive sound are gaining traction among educated parents.
39.
Felix
Already mentioned but rising so rapidly it bears repeating – this "happy" name's vintage charm, upbeat meaning, and cool 'x' ending are proving irresistible to a growing number of parents globally.
40.
Arden
An English place and literary name (Shakespeare's forest), Arden is climbing for its gender-neutral elegance. Its natural beauty, sophisticated sound, and artistic connections make it increasingly appealing.
41.
Cyrus
A Persian name meaning "sun" or "throne," Cyrus combines ancient royal heritage with modern style. Its strong sound, historical depth, and multicultural appeal are driving its upward trajectory.
42.
Forrest
A nature name with literary connections (Gump), Forrest offers more substance than Forest. Its rise reflects renewed interest in nature names with vintage charm and substantial, multi-syllable presence.
43.
Dante
An Italian name meaning "enduring," Dante carries literary grandeur (Alighieri) and romantic sound. Its climb shows appetite for artistic, European names with deep cultural resonance.
44.
Zayn
An Arabic name meaning "beauty" or "grace," Zayn has risen with cultural diversity and musical fame (One Direction). Its sleek, modern sound and positive meaning continue gaining popularity.
45.
Leland
An English surname meaning "meadow land," Leland combines natural imagery with sophisticated style. Its gentle, melodic sound and preppy vibe are attracting more attention.
46.
Koa
A Hawaiian name meaning "warrior" or "brave," Koa is rising for its brief, powerful sound and nature connection (the koa tree). Its Pacific Islander heritage appeals to parents seeking strong, unique names.
47.
Briar
A nature name for thorny plants, Briar offers fairy-tale charm (Sleeping Beauty) with earthy strength. Its gender-neutral potential and natural beauty are increasing its appeal.
48.
Emil
A Scandinavian form of Aemilius meaning "rival," Emil combines soft-spoken strength with European elegance. Its intellectual connotations and gentle sound are gaining fresh appreciation.
49.
Evander
A Scottish form of Greek "good man," Evander carries mythological weight with gentle sophistication. Its rise reflects interest in ancient names with substantial presence and noble meanings.
50.
Otis
A German name possibly meaning "wealth," Otis has vintage-cool charm revived by celebrity use. Its friendly, retro sound and soul music connections (Redding) are fueling its comeback.
50 Female Names
1.
Isla
A Scottish name from the island of Islay, pronounced "eye-la," Isla has soared for its simple elegance and tropical tranquility. Its phonetic beauty and place-name charm make it a rapidly rising star globally.
2.
Maeve
An Irish name meaning "she who intoxicates," this short, powerful queen's name from mythology is climbing for its fierce charm and strong, concise sound. Its Celtic heritage feels freshly appealing and distinctive.
3.
Aurora
A Latin name meaning "dawn," this Roman goddess name is rising for its fairy-tale beauty (Sleeping Beauty) and celestial imagery. Its elaborate, romantic sound feels both classic and newly enchanting.
4.
Nova
Latin for "new," this astronomical term for a new star is exploding in popularity. Its cosmic trendiness, modern energy, and brief, vibrant sound make it a fast-rising choice across cultures.
5.
Luna
The Latin word for "moon," Luna leads the celestial trend with lyrical, mystical beauty. Its rise reflects growing love for cosmic names, magical imagery, and romantic, internationally-friendly sounds.
6.
Elara
A Greek mythological name and one of Jupiter's moons, Elara offers celestial charm with more uniqueness than Luna. Its melodic sound and astronomical connections are gaining attention.
7.
Freya
A Norse goddess of love and beauty, Freya combines mythological strength with feminine charm. Its rise reflects growing interest in pagan mythology and strong, beautiful names with historical depth.
8.
Ivy
An English nature name from the climbing evergreen plant, Ivy symbolizes fidelity. Its vintage revival, simple elegance, and natural beauty are driving its steady climb up popularity charts.
9.
Hazel
An English name from the tree and light-brown color, Hazel offers warm, vintage charm. Its rise shows enduring love for nature names with gentle strength, wise connotations, and cozy appeal.
10.
Iris
A Greek name meaning "rainbow," this goddess and flower name is experiencing a major revival. Its colorful imagery, elegant sound, and mythological connections feel both classic and freshly beautiful.
11.
Willow
An English nature name from the graceful, slender tree, Willow combines serene beauty with whimsical charm. Its rise reflects the enduring trend toward nature names with gentle strength and poetic imagery.
12.
Juniper
A Latin nature name from the evergreen shrub, Juniper offers spirited, bohemian energy. Its rise shows appetite for unique nature names with cute nickname potential ("Junie") and vintage charm.
13.
Ophelia
A Greek name meaning "help," this Shakespearean heroine's name is climbing for its stunning, romantic beauty. Its literary grandeur and melodic sound appeal to parents seeking dramatic, artistic names.
14.
Elodie
A French name meaning "foreign riches," Elodie offers melodic, rare beauty that sounds like a song. Its rise reflects love for French names with delicate charm and distinctive, lyrical quality.
15.
Aurelia
A Latin name meaning "the golden one," Aurelia combines ancient Roman elegance with sunny warmth. Its substantial, melodic sound and radiant meaning are gaining fresh appreciation.
16.
Clementine
A French name from the citrus fruit, Clementine offers vintage-chic charm with sweet, sunny energy. Its rise shows renewed interest in elaborate, feminine names with retro appeal and natural connections.
17.
Phoebe
A Greek name meaning "bright" or "pure," this mythological Titaness name is climbing for its friendly, melodic sound and celestial connections (moon of Saturn). Its literary and pop culture appeal boosts its rise.
18.
Marlowe
An English surname meaning "driftwood," Marlowe offers gender-neutral sophistication with literary flair (Christopher). Its rise reflects the surname trend meeting stylish, substantial names for girls.
19.
Ada
A German short form of Adelaide meaning "noble," Ada combines vintage simplicity with modern tech appeal (Lovelace). Its brief, strong sound and historical significance are driving its comeback.
20.
Eliza
A short form of Elizabeth meaning "God is my oath," Eliza stands strong independently. Its rise shows preference for vintage names with spirited energy and literary/musical connections ("My Fair Lady").
21.
Cora
A Greek name from Kore meaning "maiden," Cora offers short, timeless elegance. Its gentle strength, mythological roots (Persephone), and vintage charm are fueling its steady climb.
22.
Sienna
An Italian place name and earthy color, Sienna combines artistic warmth with natural beauty. Its rise reflects love for color names, European elegance, and sunny, approachable style.
23.
Esme
A Persian/French name meaning "esteemed" or "loved," Esme offers brief, elegant vintage charm. Its rise shows appetite for short, sophisticated names with literary connections (Salinger) and romantic sound.
24.
Rowan
A Gaelic unisex name from the protective rowan tree, Rowan is rising for girls too. Its nature connection, strong yet gentle sound, and gender-neutral appeal make it increasingly popular across genders.
25.
Thea
A Greek short form of Theodora meaning "goddess," Thea stands strong on its own. Its rise reflects love for brief, powerful names with divine connections and ancient roots feeling freshly modern.
26.
Celeste
A Latin name meaning "heavenly," Celeste offers elegant celestial beauty. Its sophisticated sound, cosmic imagery, and gentle strength are attracting more attention in naming circles.
27.
Mae
A short form of Mary or Margaret, Mae now shines independently. Its vintage simplicity, sweet sound, and nature connection (the May month) are driving its rise as a standalone name.
28.
Zara
An Arabic name meaning "blooming flower," Zara combines international chic with brief, stylish sound. Its fashionable appeal and beautiful meaning contribute to its climbing popularity.
29.
Imogen
A Celtic name possibly meaning "maiden," Imogen offers literary charm (Shakespeare) with unique beauty. Its distinctive sound and artistic connections are gaining fresh appreciation.
30.
Lyra
A Greek constellation name meaning "lyre," Lyra combines celestial and musical beauty. Its literary boost ("His Dark Materials") and melodic sound are increasing its appeal.
31.
Margot
A French form of Margaret meaning "pearl," Margot offers vintage sophistication with cool 't' ending. Its chic, artistic vibe and celebrity connections are fueling its stylish comeback.
32.
Eloise
A French/German name meaning "healthy" or "wide," Eloise combines literary charm with Parisian elegance. Its rise reflects love for vintage names with sophisticated, multi-syllable beauty.
33.
Briar
A nature name for thorny plants, Briar offers fairy-tale charm with earthy strength for girls too. Its gender-neutral potential and natural beauty are increasing its appeal across genders.
34.
Astrid
A Scandinavian name meaning "divinely beautiful," Astrid combines strong, historical roots with modern style. Its literary connections (Lindgren) and distinctive sound are gaining traction.
35.
Sylvie
A French form of Sylvia meaning "forest," Sylvie offers elegant nature charm. Its vintage sophistication, melodic sound, and natural imagery are attracting renewed interest.
36.
Gemma
An Italian name meaning "gem," Gemma offers brief, sparkling beauty. Its vintage charm, jewel connection, and European elegance are contributing to its steady rise.
37.
Alma
A Latin name meaning "nourishing" or "soul," Alma combines vintage simplicity with deep meaning. Its gentle sound, spiritual connotations, and brief elegance are gaining fresh appreciation.
38.
Faye
An English name meaning "fairy," Faye offers magical, ethereal charm in one syllable. Its vintage revival, nature-mythology blend, and simple beauty are increasing its appeal.
39.
Maeve
Already mentioned but rising so rapidly it bears repeating – this fierce Irish queen's name combines mythological strength with modern brevity, appealing to parents seeking powerful yet concise names.
40.
Talia
A Hebrew name meaning "dew from God," Talia combines nature spirituality with melodic beauty. Its gentle sound, positive meaning, and multicultural appeal are driving its climb.
41.
Daphne
A Greek name meaning "laurel," this mythological nymph's name is experiencing revival. Its nature-mythology blend, elegant sound, and vintage charm feel freshly enchanting.
42.
Mabel
A Latin name meaning "lovable," Mabel offers vintage sweetness with substantial sound. Its old-fashioned charm feels freshly appealing, driving its steady comeback.
43.
Ada
Already mentioned but rising across multiple countries – this brief, noble name combines historical significance (Lovelace) with modern minimalism, appealing to tech-savvy and traditional parents alike.
44.
Zelda
A German short form of Griselda meaning "gray battle," Zelda offers quirky vintage charm. Its artistic connections (Fitzgerald, video games) and distinctive sound are gaining fresh popularity.
45.
Flora
A Latin name meaning "flower," Flora combines vintage charm with natural beauty. Its botanical elegance, mythological connections (Roman goddess), and simple grace are attracting renewed interest.
46.
Arden
An English literary place name (Shakespeare), Arden offers gender-neutral sophistication for girls too. Its natural beauty, artistic connections, and elegant sound are increasing its appeal.
47.
June
A month name from the Roman goddess Juno, June offers vintage simplicity with sunny warmth. Its brief, sweet sound and natural/divine connections are driving its steady rise.
48.
Nell
A medieval short form of Eleanor or Helen, Nell now stands strong independently. Its vintage charm, brief strength, and literary connections are fueling its comeback.
49.
Colette
A French name meaning "victorious," Colette offers Parisian sophistication with vintage charm. Its literary connections (author) and elegant sound are gaining fresh appreciation.
50.
Sylvie
Already mentioned but worth noting its double rise – this elegant French nature name combines forest imagery with vintage charm, appealing to parents seeking sophisticated, melodic choices.
This collection showcases 100 names climbing in popularity for 2026, featuring celestial picks (Nova, Elara), vintage revivals (Maeve, Otis), nature choices (Rowan, Briar), and brief modern options (Kai, Zara). These rising stars balance fresh appeal with meaningful depth.