Naming a baby is no small task. It’s a decision that carries weight, as a name can often set the tone for a child’s life. In recent years, a new trend has emerged in the realm of baby naming: ‘Positive Baby Names.’ Parents are increasingly choosing names with uplifting meanings, reflective of qualities such as strength, happiness, love, and wisdom. If you’re intrigued by this trend and are searching for a name that radiates positivity, we’ve got you covered with these 50 uplifting options.
These names aren’t just beautiful to hear; they carry a powerful sentiment that can inspire your child as they grow and navigate through life. They reflect hope, positivity, and the potential for greatness. From timeless classics to unique modern options, these names span various cultures and languages, offering a wide array of choices. So, let’s dive into this list of ‘Positive Baby Names’ and discover their inspiring meanings.
Positive Baby Names for Boys
Evander
Evander is somewhat of a throwback as it has only appeared in the US top 1000 most popular baby names way back in 1895. We love this charming Scottish and Norse name that can mean “strong man” to the Scots and “bow warrior” to the Vikings. We love the idea of imparting a little boy with a name that connotes strength. Evander would be an excellent moniker with the nickname Evan or Van.
Amado
Amado is another vintage classic that has been out of top 1000 for nearly a century! Amado has Spanish origins with a lyrical sound that means “loved.” We all want that for our children, right? We consider this baby name a beautiful option for new parents.
Amal
Amal is a gorgeous name that can be found in a couple of different naming traditions. In Hebrew, the name means “laborer,” which is fine, but if you look at its Arabic roots, the name is used for both boys and girls and means “hope” or “inspiration.” That’s what you came here for!
Phoenix
Phoenix is a sensational name with Greek origins that means “dark red.” The name debuted in the top 1000 in 2003 and has been rising ever since. The figure is considered a symbol of rebirth or immortality. We could use some rebirth right about now!
Bodhi
Bodhi is a Sanskrit name translated as “enlightenment” or “awakening,” which relates to a Buddhist concept, wherein Bodhi is synonymous with the state of nirvana, being freed from hate, greed, and ego. This name has really taken off in the US in the last decade and you will now find it in the US top 500 names for boys.
Zohar
Zohar is a glorious gender-neutral baby name that we love especially for boys. The name has Hebrew origins and it is quite common in Israel. The name means “light” or “brilliance” and we are very much into both of those things.
Ansel
Derived from the same root as Anselm, Ansel is a medieval Germanic name that still feels fresh and stylish today. Ansel means “with divine protection” and you better believe we all could use a bit of that. This attractive name has not seen broad favor from US parents since the 1920s. Let’s bring it back.
Lazaro
Lazaro is a stylish Italian name for boys particularly loved by Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal who chose it for his son. Lazaro is a variation of Lazarus and Eleazar and thus, means “God is my helper.” This name appeared in the top 1000 a few times from the 1960s to the 1990s but has since declined in popularity. It’s ripe for the taking.
Patrick
Patrick, long tied to a hyper-Irish image, is enjoying something of a renaissance as a stylish classic, as it has long been considered in England. The name has been in the top US 1000 since record-keeping began way back in 1880. Unlike others in its class, like Charles and George, Patrick has not been as widespread. Patrick has Latin origins and means “noble” or “patrician.”
Drew
Drew is the diminutive form of Andrew that currently has captured new parents attention as opposed to the older favorite, Andy. Drew works for both boys and girls although it has never ranked too highly for girls. The name has Greek origins and means “strong” or “manly.” Drew, as a standalone name, has ranked highly ever since 1880.
Alfred
Alfred is a boy’s name of English origin meaning “wise counselor.” Alfred. Alfred is quite popular in several European countries, especially England and Wales, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. This name is nowhere near its height of popularity in the US which peaked in the late 19th and early 20th century. But, the name is currently on the rise.
Zeke
If you are looking for a strong Z-name, Zeke might be the perfect option for you as it means “God is my strength.” Zeke, of course, is a diminutive of Ezekiel. The name is more popular today in the US than ever before but pales in comparison to its widespread use across the UK. If you are looking for an alternative to the ubiquitous Zach, search no further.
Conrad
“We love you, Conrad, oh yes we do!” are lyrics from the iconic musical Bye, Bye, Birdie. Conrad has a storied past with German origins meaning “brave counsel.” The name has been born by Saints and royals and we think it totally rocks. The name has ranked in the top 1000 in the US since records began.
Dilan
Dilan is not as popular as the spelling Dylan, but it does have the added benefit of having Turkish origins and meaning “love.” There’s nothing better than that! Dilan first debuted on the US top 1000 in 2008 and has remained a mildly popular option ever since. Go for it!
Shai
This simple and attractive name is sometimes confused with or anglicized as Shay or even the Irish Shea. But, Shai is a traditional Hebrew name that means “gift.” The name is pronounced like the word shy which could account for it not fully taking off in English-speaking tradition. We would love to see its fortunes change as this name truly is a gift.
Felix
Felix was originally a Roman surname but was adopted as a nickname by the ancient Roman Sulla, who believed that he was especially blessed with luck by the gods. Four popes and sixty-seven saints have borne the name so, we think the meaning behind this name, “happy, fortunate,” is most appropriate. This name is still popular today, just shy of the height of its popularity in the late 19th century.
Callum
Callum made its way to commonplace as a Scottish form of the Latin name Columba which means “dove.” This name was extremely popular among early Christians as the name’s meaning is a popular symbol of purity and peace. It’s experiencing a renaissance today and is now more popular than ever before.
Samson
Samson is a boy’s name of Hebrew origin meaning “sun.” Surprisingly, this vintage name is more popular today in the US than ever before. Samson was, of course, the supernaturally strong champion of the Israelites against the Philistines who was betrayed by Delilah. Do not dwell on that and, instead, just think of that sunny meaning.
Arman
The only year Arman has ranked in the top 1000 was 1999. We find this curious as this beautiful name has a ton going for it and is similar to the more popular name, Roman. This name is a multicultural hit as you will find it in Persian, Kazakh, Russian, and Israeli naming tradition. The name means “wish” or “hope.” And, we hope new parents discover this name once more.
Jamal
Jamal has been a popular name for baby boys since the 1960s but has slipped in popularity over the last decade. That’s a shame because this name with Arabic origins means “beauty.” Impart an entire aesthetic on your baby boy with this charming name.
Oberon
If you have a deep desire to call your son Obi, this would be a vehicle to get you there. Oberon is a majestic name with English origins meaning “noble” or “bearlike.” The Shakespearean character Oberon in A Midsummer Night’s Dream is King of the Fairies. This name has never debuted in the top 1000, but we foresee that changing in coming years.
Sage
Sage is a marvelous gender-neutral name that has Latin origins and means “wise” or “knowing.” We could all start our journeys with a little wisdom, right? Sage also names a delicious herb making it a cherished nature name as well. Sage has ranked highly for boys since 1991 and we only see this name getting even more popular in coming years.
Liev
Liev is a gorgeous Yiddish take on the classic Lev. If you are looking for a lovely name, look no further as this charmer means “heart.” Unfortunately, the name has not taken off even though actor Liev Schreiber highlights this amazing moniker.
Benedict
Parents who like Ben and Benjamin but find those forms too popular sometimes consider Benedict as a more distinctive choice. Unlike the Old Testament Benjamin, Benedict is the name of the saint who formed the Benedictine Order and of fifteen popes, including a contemporary one. The name has Latin origins and means “blessed.” We feel a little boy would feel that way with this appellation.
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Zayn
Zayn zoomed up the popularity charts thanks to former One Direction member Zayn Malik; it was one of the fastest-rising names of 2016. Unlike the more well-known, Zane, Zayn has Arabic origins and means “beauty” or “grace.” The name is more popular today than ever before in the US. It sits in the top 500. We are definitely not mad about that.
Positive Baby Names for Girls
Zelda
Zelda has long been a popular option for parents seeking something slightly exotic-sounding. The name fell off the US top 1000 popularity chart for almost fifty years before enjoying a renaissance and returning to it in 2015. This name comes with a strong meaning baked in, “gray fighting maid,” and has German origins.
Priya
Priya originated in India as a name derived from the Sanskrit word for “beloved.” In India, where names are often given based on one’s birthday and horoscope, Priya is traditionally given to girls born in August. The name’s popularity is quickly rising outside India, including in the US.
Gabriella
Gabriella is the feminine form of Gabriel, a name derived from the Hebrew Gavri’el. Gavri’el is composed of the elements gever, meaning “strong,” and ’el, referring to God. The name has been very popular in the US since the seventies and we hope it keeps up the momentum because this strong name is a delight.
Mabel
Mabel is a retro form of Amabel (also a wonderful option) with Latin origins meaning “lovely.” The name made a comeback in 2013 after being absent from the top 1000 for decades. We are so pleased that this charmer is on the rise once more as it is a truly amorous possibility.
Philomena
In Greek myth, Philomena was an Athenian princess who was transformed by the gods into a nightingale to save her from the advances of a lecherous king. This earthy Greek name means “lover of strength.” This name has not been widely used in the US since the 1940s! However, the name is very popular today in Australia and Scotland.
Allegra
In music, you will encounter the term “allegro” which means quick and lively. The Italian name Allegra comes from the same origins and means “joyous.” Unfortunately, this name has become associated with an allergy medication in recent years which has hindered the possibility for many parents. We think it’s a wonderful choice that folks should consider.
Valentina
A few decades ago you would be hard-pressed to find a baby with the name Valentina in the US. But, ever since the nineties, the name has skyrocketed up the charts. This gorgeous, romantic, name has Latin origins meaning “strength.” Naturally, if you are expecting a February baby this one would be an obvious choice.
Evangeline
Evangeline is a romantic old-fashioned name enjoying a major comeback today. In fact, a “comeback” is not the right descriptor because this name is way more popular today than it ever has been. With Greek origins this name means “bearer of good news.” We could all use plenty of that these days.
Chiara
Chiara is an astonishing Italian name for girls that you do not often find in the US. Most American parents go for Claire, Clara, Cara, or even Keira. However, Chiara also means “light” or “clear.” This name is in the top 10 in Italy currently and we hope it crosses the pond to American shores very soon.
Astrid
Astrid is derived from the name Ástríðr, which is made up of the Old Norse elements that mean “god” and “beautiful.” Astrid took a break from the US top 1000 for over 100 years before returning in the past decade for good. We love this blunt-sounding name and hope it continues to please new parents for years to come.
Rosalind
Rosalind is most likely a literary invention coined by Edmund Spenser and later used by Shakespeare to name the hero of As You Like It. The name was most popular in the US in the 1940s, but unfortunately, it has fallen from favor over the last sixty years. The name has Latin origins shared with the flower which means “pretty rose.”
Amal
If you are after an inspiring option, Amal would be the perfect one as it means “hope” or “inspiration.” The attractive name has Arabic origins but you do not hear it often in the US. We hope that changes in the coming years because this name is a winner for both boys and girls.
Ingrid
Still popular in its native Scandinavia, where it is a royal name, Ingrid’s highest US ranking was number 380 in 1967. This name never seemed to integrate into the English lexicon as other Norse names have which gives it plenty of character. This name means “fair” or “Ing is beautiful.” Ing refers to the Norse god of fertility and peace.
Celeste
Celeste has been a popular name in the US since records began in 1880. This heavenly name means just that and comes from Latin origins. It makes for a light and lovely choice with a touch of retro charm.
Dalia
Similar in sound to the flower name Dahlia, this gentle but distinctive name, heard in many cultures, is mildly popular today and has been since the 1990s. You will find Dalia primarily in Hebrew and Swahili naming traditions as a moniker that means “branch” or “gentle.”
Nadira
Sadly, you do not encounter the name Nadira in the US nearly enough. This illuminating Arabic name can be taken to mean “precious” or “rare.” This name is a diamond just waiting for new parents to polish once more!
Heidi
Heidi went mainstream in the US after the Shirley Temple film of the same name was released in 1937. It was a top 100 name for nearly two decades following the popularity of the blockbuster. Heidi is a diminutive of Adelheid, a German name meaning “noble.” This one makes us want to climb an alpine mountain.
Elke
The Dutch form of the Heidi happens to be another form of Adelheid, Elke. The name is pronounced el-kah and you will find it in many Scandinavian naming traditions. We wish this name would appeal to new parents today, as it truly is a handsome name.
Suri
Suri, a once obscure exotic name, hit the headlines when chosen by Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise for their daughter in 2007. The name’s Hebrew origins mean “princess” as it is a form of Sarah. Multi-cultural, it also means “the sun” in Sanskrit and “rose” in Persian. Even with all of that going for it, the name has yet to crack the top 1000.
Prue
Prudence, like Hope and Faith, is a Puritan virtue name with a subtle charm and sensitivity that is slowly returning to favor, though it hasn’t yet registered on the charts since 1944. We love the shortened form of this name, Prue which also means “caution.”
Harmony
Harmony is a top 200 name today and parents have been freely giving this name since the seventies. Harmony is a word name that means exactly what you think it does and is Greek in origin. Bonus points for parents who are obsessed with music choosing this lyrical choice!
Zosia
Zosia is a name of Polish origin which you do not see too often in the US. It’s a fun form of the Greek name Sophia which means “wisdom.” With the popularity of Z and X names on the rise in recent years, we expect this name to ride that wave into broader favor.
Nava
Nava is a name you will commonly hear in Israel but rarely do in the US. This fashionable Hebrew name has some truly fantastic meanings: “pretty, pleasant, desirable.” We expect this name to make its way on US babies’ birth certificates in the coming years as it is truly desirable!
Phoebe
Phoebe is the Latin variation of the Greek name Phoibe, which derived from phoibos, meaning “bright.” In classical mythology, Phoebe is the by-name of Artemis, goddess of the moon and of hunting. The name is on the rise again and has been since the early nineties. We are happy to welcome this baby back.
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Carys
Common in Wales, this name was introduced to America when Welsh-born Catherine Zeta-Jones and husband Michael Douglas chose it for their daughter in 2003. It’s a top 500 name in the UK but you will scarcely hear this one in the US. This name comes with the fabulous meaning, “love.”
These 50 ‘Positive Baby Names’ offer a unique blend of beauty and inspiration, each carrying a powerful, uplifting meaning. Choosing a name for your child is a monumental decision, but hopefully, this list has provided you with some delightful and positive options. Whether you’re drawn to a name that signifies strength, love, wisdom, or joy, remember that the best choice is one that resonates deeply with you. After all, a name is more than just a label; it’s the first gift you’ll give to your child, a gift they will carry with them for the rest of their life.