There’s something so special about the fall season. If you are expecting an October baby, you are in luck as there are so many excellent names that range from established to whimsical that celebrate autumn. These warm and inviting appellations embrace all things October including the crispness in the air, the Halloween holiday, and the colors of the turning, falling leaves. Each name offers something meaningful and special that highlights what makes being a fall baby the very best.
We decided to round up dozens of names for you to take a look at and consider. You’ve got the perfect excuse to choose an evocative autumnal name so take advantage of that by considering some of our curated options. No matter what name you land on, we are so very happy for you and your growing family. Congratulations! Now, let’s talk October baby names!
October Baby Names for Girls
Octavia
The month of October is so named because it was the eighth month of the Ancient Romans. Today, it’s the tenth month but you still have an excuse to choose the evergreen name, Octavia. Octavia was a popular choice in the US but it fell off of the charts from the 1930s until the 1970s. This classic has staged a comeback and it is more popular today than ever before!
Decima
With a fraction of the popularity of Octavia, Decima could be a more unique option for your October baby. Octavia means “eighth” and Decima means “tenth.” This name is also of Latin origin but it has never been a widely popular choice in the US. We would love to hear more of this powerhouse name in classrooms and on playgrounds!
Opal
Opal and tourmaline are the two birthstones for October but opal proves the most popular. As a name, Opal sounds charming and vintage, like a little treasure. Opal originated as a word in Sanskrit that means “gemstone.” Opal was extremely popular in the US until the 1960s. It fell from fashion for decades before making a return in 2017. It’s been on the upward climb ever since and it is tracking to be a top 500 name for girls this year!
Harmony
If you are expecting a Libra baby (born between September 23 – October 22), you might turn to the trademarks of this sign for baby name inspiration. One such way is to look at the qualities and characteristics often exhibited by Librans. Balance and fairness are big ones and that inspired us to choose the name Harmony. It’s excellent for both boys and girls too! It’s become a popular name for girls, firmly in the top 200 most popular names.
Alaina
The Irish name for girls Alaina can also be spelled, Alana. If Harmony is too on the nose for you, consider this name that actually means “harmony.” The Alaina spelling has been a favored option in the US since 1978. It’s a top 200 name for girls today making it widespread but not ubiquitous yet.
Nasima
Libra is an air sign of the zodiac so names that are breezy are also appropriate. Nasima is our top pick in this regard. The name is of Arabic origin and means “breeze” and “fresh air.” Despite being completely accessible this awesome name has never been a popular option in the US. You can help change that, parents.
Scarlett
If you are expecting a baby late in the month of October, Scorpio-inspired names could be the right for your baby girl. Scarlett, a name that means “deep red,” reflects the sign’s association with the color. Scarlett only really took off as a name for girls in the last 20 years. It has catapulted up the charts to become one of the most popular names in the country. At last count, Scarlett was the 20th most popular name for girls.
Tallulah
You can spell Tallulah with or without the “h.” The name is found in both Irish and Choctaw traditions and it is the Native American connection that we are looking at. The name means “leaping water.” Scorpio (born between October 23 – November 21) is a water element sign making names that connect to water appropriate. Today, the name is mildly popular in England but it has never been a widely given appellation in the US. We think it deserves more love!
Aurelia
In 2013, Aurelia returned to favor after 60 years of neglect from new parents. It’s tracking to crack the US top 500 most popular names for girls this year. This name can be traced back to Ancient Rome where it was used as the clan name, Aurelius. Aurelia’s Latin root means “the golden one.” As an October baby name, Aurelia proves a remarkable option that honors this golden season.
Marigold
Marigold is one of the perfect fall flower names that new parents have begun to embrace. The name is of English origin and means “golden flower.” Marigold flowers have long been associated with the Virgin Mary as a symbol of her warmth and purity. Marigold flowers are beloved and they bloom through the early months of fall, they are actually the birth flower for the month of October. That makes Marigold a spectacular autumn baby name worth considering for your baby girl.
Orla
Orla is an Irish name closely associated with the high king Brian Boru because it was the name of his sister, daughter, and niece. It was very popular in the Middle Ages (the fourth most popular name in twelfth century Ireland) and has become popular again in Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales today. The name has not crossed the pond yet, however, which means it is a unique option that has yet to trend among parents here. The name means “golden princess,” which feels mightily appropriate as an October baby name.
Goldie
If Aurelia felt like a fussy name to you, you might be looking for other options that celebrate the golden season. Goldie gets right to the point and feels remarkably cute. Goldie is an English name that comes from Yiddish. Goldie spent over six decades off the popularity charts before returning to the top 1000 in 2021. Parents today have rediscovered this appellation’s resplendent charms.
Sorrel
Sorrel is a unisex, botanical name from French that means “reddish brown.” The sorrel plant has been prized for its medicinal qualities for centuries. Sorrel is rare in the US today but could make for a distinctive choice as it has a gentle, inviting sound. This color name feels so perfectly fit for an October baby.
Aster
Aster flowers, like marigolds, continue to bloom into the fall season, making it an appropriate October baby name inspired by flowers. Aster flowers take their name from a Greek root that means “star.” Aster is a unisex option but we prefer this one for baby girls. It’s the perfect alternative to its Persian cousin, Esther.
Maple
A very sweet October baby name, Maple is an English tree name that comes from a Latin root that means “piece of cloth.” Maple has never been a widely used name for girls but we think it has tons of potential for nature-loving parents. Despite it being overlooked, Maple has the stately sound of an established name. Not a bit syrupy at all!
Jora
One of the Hebrew names for girls that has flown completely under the radar of most American parents is Jora. This unique appellation means “autumn rain.” We would love to hear this name more often as it sounds spectacular and has a most perfect fall meaning. It is a real winner that no other girl in your daughter’s class will have.
RELATED: 30 Victorian-Era Baby Names That Deserve a Revival Today
October Baby Names for Boys
Octavius
Octavius is the male counterpart of Octavia. It also means “eight.” Octavian is a cousin to this name and could also be an option. Despite Octavia’s huge popularity today, Octavius has never really been a popular option. We think it sounds strong and stately, totally an option worth considering for your October baby.
Garner
Garner was a mildly popular name for boys up until the 1930s in the US. The name is of English origin, commonly found as a surname, which means “granary.” That makes it a beautiful October baby name that celebrates the harvest. Will this name make a comeback? It’s long overdue for one!
Sarad
Most American parents have never heard the pleasant name Sarad but we bet they would use it if they knew it! Sarad is a name of Hindi origin that means “born in Autumn.” Let’s show this name some love, folks!
Bruno
Bruno has had plenty of ups and downs when it comes to popularity in the US. Its most popular year in the US was 1915 but it’s trending up today. We think it’s a stylish choice and one of the very best October baby names for boys. Bruno is of German origin and means “brown.”
Omri
Omri is an Old Testament king of Israel with a relation to the Harvest. The name is of Hebrew origin and means “my sheaf,” a reference to a bundle of grain that has been recently harvested. Despite being completely accessible and totally handsome, the name has not found much favor outside of Israel. Omri is a winning option and one of our favorite October baby names for boys.
Cedar
Cedar is an attractive tree name for both boys and girls but we like it a touch more for boys. Cedar comes from French and English from a Latin root that refers to the tree. The name also has religious significance. It is mentioned in the bible: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.” The Lebanon cedar was used to build King Solomon’s temple.
Lugh
Lugh is the Irish god of the harvest, who also rules over truth, the law, and the arts. His magic includes a fiery spear and a boat that sails itself. He is celebrated in an Irish, pagan festival called Lughnasa. While most will likely assume Lou, Lugh is a name worth defending. It has never been popular in the US which feels completely unreal to us.
Isaeus
If you are expecting a Libra baby boy (born between September 23 – October 22), you can turn to the qualities of the sign to inform your baby name choice. Librans value justice (also a name option!), equality, fairness, and balance. Names associated with those concepts will be most appropriate for your October baby. Isaeus is a Greek name that is pronounced ih-ZAY-us. Its root means “equality.” The appellation is a perfect, unique alternative to Isaiah.
Radley
A rad alternative to Bradley, Radley is a name of English origin that was used as a habitational name for someone living near a “red meadow.” The name has never been a popular choice making it a unique option if you decided to put it on your baby’s birth certificate.
Russell
Russell originated in French as a name that means “redhead” or “fox-colored.” Russell has been a popular name for boys in the US for over 100 years but it has been trending down over the last two decades. We think it’s a fine appellation and a great October baby name inspired by color.
Linden
One of the lovely October baby names inspired by trees and changing leaves, Linden was a mildly popular name prior to the 1950s in the US. It has since slipped and would be a unique and distinct option today. Linden is of English origin, a habitational name for a person living near the “linden tree hill.”
Hunter
Hunter originated as an occupational name for, you guessed it, “a hunter.” The name is a great option for autumn when the season really kicks into high gear. This name is given to both girls and boys today and it currently sits in the US top 100 most popular names for boys. It’s a steadfast choice that will serve your family well.
Crispin
Crispin captures the crispy leaves of fall and the crisp feel of the cool air. Crispin originated in Latin as a name that means “curly hair.” This name has never been popular in the US and we think it deserves more love from parents today.
Casper
If you’re really into Halloween, you can turn to the name Casper for a touch of whimsical fun. Casper is a Dutch form of Jasper, which originated in Persian as a name that means “bringer of treasure,” a reference to one of the Three Magi who brought gifts to the infant Jesus. The name was once popular in the US until the 1930s when it fell from the charts completely. It’s overdue for a comeback, parents!
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 30 Cozy Autumn Baby Names That Offer Special Meaning for Fall Babies
Adam
One of the world’s most beloved names, Adam, is derived from Hebrew and means “son of the red earth.” The name has always been popular in the US so if you choose it, know that your Adam will be in very good company. We love the color meaning of this name which makes it a rock-solid option among other October baby names.
There you go! We hope you enjoyed these October baby names and that you found some options to add to your shortlist. An October baby is something to celebrate and these autumnal baby names highlight what makes this time of year so very special. For even more baby name inspiration, keep reading. We’ve got more fall-inspired appellations to share with you!
September Baby Names for Boys
Mason
Because of the early Labor Day holiday in the US, occupational names derived from surnames feel extremely important as they celebrate various vocations. Mason is one of the most popular of these, meaning “ston worker.”
Sawyer
Like Mason, Sawyer is also a gender-neutral baby name that is wildly popular. This name is also derived from English as an occupational surname for a “woodcutter.”
Cooper
One last occupational baby name in honor of Labor Day! Cooper is a wildly popular option for both boys and girls. The name is also of English origin and it means “barrel maker.” Cooper first began its meteoric rise in the 1980s before becoming one of the US’s favorite September baby names.
Brogan
Brogan is a storied appellation of Irish origin that means “small shoe.” Who you have Irish heritage or just like names from the Emerald Isle, it could be the best September baby name for your son. Saint Brogan (seen as Saint Broccán Clóen in Gaelic) was a nephew of Saint Patrick and the feast day is held on September 17.
Fitzgerald
Another name that would be at home in Ireland is Fitzgerald which is considered both Irish and Scottish, meaning “son of Gerald.” We chose this iconic option in honor of novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald who was born September 24.
Garnet
Garnet is one of the September baby names that works for both boys and girls. Yes, it is the birthstone for January but the name for it is derived from a French word that means “pomegranate.” Pomegranate season starts in September in the US making it an appropriate option to include.
Aster
We’re really knocking it out of the park with unisex options here. Aster is a name of English origin that means “star.” Of course, aster flowers are one of the birth flowers for the month of Septemebr making it a real winner for a baby born this month.
Otis
Legendary singer and songwriter Otis Redding sure had a voice that was so smooth it could make you go weak in the knees! The musician was born on September 9, 1941. You could honor his memory with the name or simply pick this one for its offbeat sound. The name is of German origin and means “wealthy.”
Clark
Yes, Clark is an English occupational name but it also celebrates a very important time of year for many children across the US. Back-to-school tends to happen in late August or September. This makes names about education feel very appropriate as September baby names. Clark means “scholar.”
Jarah
Pronounced JAY-rah, Jahrah is a name of Hebrew origin for boys that means “honeysuckle” or “honeycomb.” In the US, honey harvesting is well underway in September making this meaning a fitting one for your September baby boy. This name has traditionally been reserved for boys but some parents are gifting it to their baby girls as well. It’s definitely a name to watch.
Cyprian
Cyprian is a boy’s name of Greek origin meaning “man of Cyprus.” The name has been in use since medieval times, initially made known via the third-century lawyer, martyr, and bishop of Carthage, St. Cyprian. The Saint’s feast day is on either September 16 or 26.
Harvest
Harvest has been occasionally used as a name since the eighteenth century, originally as evenly unisex, though it tips a bit in the girls’ direction today. However, we like this one for boys. But, do your thing, parents! Harvest, of course, names the season we find ourselves in during September, making it an unusual yet evocative option.
Kuro
Pronounced KOO-ro, Kuro is a name for boys of Japanese origin that means “ninth son.” Now, we know not too many parents are popping out nine babies these days but we thought the nine number would be significant for our ninth month of the year, September.
Finbar
Finbar is a name for boys of Irish origin that means “fair hair.” We chose this storied Irish classic due to its relation to Saint Finbar whose feast day is celebrated on September 25. He is the patron saint of Cork and in Irish folklore, Finbarr (there are many popular spellings) was king of the fairies. Not too shabby!
Sarad
Sarad is a Hindi name for boys that means “born in Autumn.” Is this the ultimate September baby name for boys? It very well could be! The name has never been widely given in the US but that could change. Baby name database, Nameberry says that users’ interest in the name is up 96%! Expect to hear more of this one in the coming years!
September Baby Names for Girls
Autumn
Let’s kick off these September baby names for girls with a bang! Autumn has been a very popular choice in the US in recent decades and it is more popular today than ever before. This gentle, season name offers plenty of warmth and approachability, making it an excellent option for your daughter born in September.
Harper
Let’s try some occupational names for girls that celebrate Labor Day. Harper is a unisex choice that has been moving in the girls’ direction ever so slightly. The name once was used as a surname for a “harp player.” You will be in good company if you choose this name as it is the 10th most popular name given to girls right now!
RELATED: 120 Hottest Baby Names of 2022, Thus Far
Piper
Not too far off from Harper, comes another English occupational name, Piper. Piper refers to a person who is a “pipe or flute player.” Despite the name being very old it has only been widely used for girls in the US since the late 1990s! It’s enjoying plenty of favor today and would be great for your September baby.
Oriana
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, so a name meaning “new,” particularly a Jewish name such as Oriana, feels very appropriate. Oriana is a multicultural name that is taken to mean “light or dawn” in its Hebrew context. That makes it a great fit for a September baby girl.
Avalon
We are going to stick with the Jewish holiday theme by choosing a name that means “apple.” Apples are considered a symbol of the High Holidays. It’s also a great time of year for picking apples! Avalon is not a Hebrew name. It comes from the Celtic tradition and means “island of apples.” It’s a paradise found in Arthurian legend.
Rosamel
Rosamel is technically a unisex name but it has a masculine image in most Spanish-speaking communities. Rosamel comes from French and Spanish and means “rose and honey.” Not bad at all! Honey is another popular symbol associated with the High Holidays that are celebrated in September.
Anara
We recommended Garnet as a boy’s name but it’s a great one for girls as well. Garnet is a French name that means “pomegranate” which is yet another symbol of the High Holidays. If Garnet sounds too tough, give Anara a try. This multicultural name can be found in Persian, Hindi, and Kazakh. Most agree that the name means “pomegranate flower.” What a dream of a name!
Jubilee
Jubilee is a unisex option that we particularly like for September-born baby girls. It’s the last name we put forward to celebrate the Jewish High Holidays. The name is of Hebrew origin and means “ram’s horn.” The ram’s horn is yet another item and symbol associated with the holidays. It also sounds like a party!
Sapphire
Sapphire is an enchanting name that belongs to one of September’s birthstones. The name is derived from Hebrew, Greek, and Latin origins. It means “blue.” Although the name is rather popular in the UK it is still rare in the US. You can help change that, new parents!
Astera
Pronounced as-TAIR-ah, Astera is the Hebrew answer to Aster and also names the flower but gives it a feminine spin. Astera is a popular choice in Israel but it has yet to find its way to the US in any significant numbers. That makes this September baby name an untapped flower name that many parents should turn to.
Arista
Not too far off from Astera is Arista which comes from Greek and Latin and means “ear of corn.” Corn is huge at this time of year across much of the United States making it a great Septemeber baby name that celebrates nature and this remarkable time of year.
Libra
Libra is the zodiac sign associated with the latter days of September. The name comes from Greek and means “scales” or “balance.” Libra has yet to take off for baby girls but it has potential as an alternative to the hot name Lyra or a spin on the dated classic Libba.
Virgo
Virgo is extremely rare as a baby name but it could be a great September option for your baby girl. Virgo presides over the beginning of the month. The name is of Greek origin and means “maiden” or “virgin.”
Verena
For this name’s pronunciation, the emphasis goes on the second syllable as in veh-REE-nah. The name is of Latin origin and means “integrity.” Saint Verena was a third-century nurse who is especially venerated in Switzerland. Her feast day is on September 14, making it appropriate as a choice for your September baby.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 30 Wildest Baby Names Parents Are Choosing Today: Demon, Khaos, Prodigy…
September
Well, you could skip all the formalities and cut right to the chase. September works as a baby name for both boys and girls and, while it is rare, it typically goes to baby girls over boys. September was a word invented by the Romans for the seventh month on their calendar and indeed means “seven.” In today’s context, September is the ninth month on our calendar and the start of one of the year’s best seasons.