The United States of America is known as a ‘melting pot’ of cultures, and famed for its diversity, thriving opportunities, and unique traditions. Americans have always held a special place in their hearts for names, seeing them as identifiers and reflections of their heritage, values, and dreams. In this article, you’ll find our curated lists of common American names and American baby names organized according to theme.
American Names and Meanings
Throughout history, America’s naming customs have been influenced by many cultures due to its extensive immigrant history. From European settlers to African, Asian, and Latin American immigrants, the plethora of backgrounds has interwoven to create a vibrant tapestry of names. American names typically draw from English, Spanish, Hebrew, Italian, Irish, and other origins. Over the years while some names have retained their traditional meanings over the years, others have evolved or adapted to fit contemporary American sensibilities.
American names often strike a chord between historical depth and modern spirit. Common themes are derived from nature, virtues, and famous personalities, with names like Willow or River, Hope or Chance, and Kennedy or Lincoln. As America is at the heart of global pop culture, it’s unsurprising that music, celebrity baby names, and sports trends influence baby naming choices. What’s particularly intriguing about American names is the freedom and creativity in adapting or creating names, leading to unique monikers that often break conventional molds, such as using surnames as first names, and the rise of gender-neutral names. Our lists of common American names, their meanings, and popular American baby names for boys and girls can be found below.
Top 100 American Baby Names
American names beautifully represent the nation’s vast diversity, from its Native American roots to its multicultural present. Our list of American baby names and meanings for males and females is a testament to the ingenuity, adaptability, and evolution of American identity and culture.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Olivia – Olive tree | Liam – Resolute protector |
| Emma – Universal | Noah – Rest, comfort |
| Charlotte – Free man, petite | Oliver – Olive tree, peaceful |
| Amelia – Industrious, striving | James – Supplanter |
| Sophia – Wisdom | Elijah – My God is Yahweh |
| Isabella – God is my oath | William – Strong-willed warrior |
| Ava – Life | Henry – Ruler of the home, home ruler |
| Mia – Mine | Lucas – From Lucania |
| Evelyn – Desired, wished for | Benjamin – Son of my right hand |
| Luna – Moon | Theodore – Gift of God, God’s gift |
| Harper – Harp player, harpist | Mateo – Gift of God |
| Camila – Servant for the temple | Levi – Joined, attached |
| Sofia – Wisdom | Sebastian – Venerable |
| Scarlett – Scarlet, red | Daniel – God is my judge |
| Elizabeth – Pledged to God | Jack – God is gracious, supplanter |
| Eleanor – Bright, shining one | Michael – Who is like God?, God-like |
| Emily – Rival | Alexander – Defender of men |
| Chloe – Blooming or fertility | Owen – Young warrior |
| Mila – Gracious, dear | Asher – Happy, blessed |
| Violet – Violet flower, purple | Samuel – God has heard |
| Penelope – Weaver | Ethan – Firm, strong |
| Gianna – God is gracious | Leo – Lion-bold |
| Aria – Air | Jackson – Son of Jack |
| Abigail – Father’s joy | Mason – Stone worker |
| Ella – Beautiful, fairy maiden | Ezra – Helper, helper of God |
| Avery – Ruler of the elves, wise | John – God is gracious, Yahweh is gracious |
| Hazel – Hazel tree, hazel nut | Hudson – Son of Hudd, son of Hugh |
| Nora – Honor, light | Luca – Bringer of light |
| Layla – Night, dark beauty | Aiden – Fiery, little fire |
| Lily – Lily flower, pure | Joseph – May he add, he will increase |
| Aurora – Dawn | David – Beloved |
| Nova – New | Jacob – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Ellie – Light, bright | Logan – Little hollow, small meadow |
| Madison – Son of a mighty warrior | Luke – Light, light-giving |
| Grace – Grace, elegance | Julian – Youthful |
| Isla – Island | Gabriel – God is my strength |
| Willow – Willow tree, graceful | Grayson – Son of the bailiff, son of the steward |
| Zoe – Life | Wyatt – Brave in war, warrior |
| Riley – Courageous, valiant | Matthew – Gift of God |
| Stella – Star | Maverick – Independent, nonconformist |
| Eliana – My God has answered | Dylan – Great sea or tide |
| Ivy – Ivy plant, faithfulness | Isaac – He will laugh |
| Victoria – Victory | Elias – My God is Yahweh |
| Emilia – Rival | Anthony – Priceless one |
| Zoey – Life | Thomas – Twin, twin brother |
| Naomi – Pleasantness, delight | Jayden – Thankful |
| Hannah – Gracious, favor | Carter – Cart driver, one who uses a cart |
| Lucy – Light | Santiago – Saint James |
| Elena – Shining light | Ezekiel – God strengthens, strength of God |
| Lillian – Lily, pure | Charles – Free man, man |
| Maya – Water | Josiah – The Lord saves |
| Leah – Weary, delicate | Caleb – Faithful, devoted |
| Paisley – Church, patterned fabric | Cooper – Barrel maker |
| Addison – Child of Adam | Lincoln – Settlement by the pool, lake colony |
| Natalie – Born at Christmas | Miles – Soldier, merciful |
| Valentina – Strong, valiant | Christopher – Bearer of Christ |
| Everly – From the boar meadow | Nathan – He has given, gift of God |
| Delilah – Delicate | Isaiah – Salvation of the Lord |
| Leilani – Heavenly flower | Kai – Keeper of the keys, earth |
| Madelyn – High tower | Joshua – The Lord is salvation |
| Kinsley – King’s meadow, royal field | Andrew – Manly, strong |
| Ruby – Ruby gemstone, red | Angel – Messenger of God |
| Sophie – Wisdom, skill | Adrian – From Hadria |
| Alice – Noble, of noble kind | Cameron – Crooked nose, bent nose |
| Genesis – Origin, beginning | Nolan – Champion, noble one |
| Claire – Clear, bright | Waylon – Land by the road, road land |
| Audrey – Noble strength, noble one | Jaxon – God has been gracious, son of Jack |
| Sadie – Princess, mercy | Roman – From Rome |
| Aaliyah – To ascend | Eli – Ascended, my God |
| Josephine – God will add | Wesley – Western meadow, western clearing |
| Autumn – Autumn, fall season | Aaron – High mountain |
| Brooklyn – Water, stream | Ian – God is gracious |
| Quinn – Fifth, wise | Christian – Follower of Christ |
| Kennedy – Helmeted chief | Ryan – Little king, kingly |
| Cora – Maiden, filled heart | Leonardo – Brave lion |
| Savannah – Open Plain | Brooks – Of the brook, son of Brooke |
| Caroline – Free man | Axel – Father of peace |
| Athena – Goddess wisdom, warfare | Walker – One who walks, pedestrian |
| Natalia – Birthday of the Lord | Jonathan – God has given |
| Hailey – Hay meadow, ingenious | Easton – East town, eastern settlement |
| Aubrey – Elf ruler | Everett – Brave as a wild boar, strong as a wild boar |
| Emery – Industrious leader | Weston – Western settlement, western town |
| Anna – Grace, Favor | Bennett – Blessed, blessed little one |
| Iris – Rainbow, messenger | Robert – Bright fame, fame-bright |
| Bella – Beautiful | Jameson – Son of James, son of Jacob |
| Eloise – Famous warrior | Landon – Long hill, ridge |
| Skylar – Scholar, eternal life | Silas – Wood, forest |
| Jade – Jade | Jose – God Will Increase |
| Gabriella – God is my strength | Beau – Beautiful, handsome |
| Ariana – Most holy | Micah – Who is like God? |
| Maria – Sea of Sorrow | Colton – Coal town, from the dark town |
| Adeline – Noble | Jordan – To flow down, descend |
| Lydia – Beautiful one | Jeremiah – Yahweh has uplifted |
| Sarah – Princess, noblewoman | Parker – Park keeper, gamekeeper |
| Nevaeh – Heaven spelled backward | Greyson – Son of the gray-haired one |
| Serenity – Peaceful disposition | Rowan – Little red one, little redhead |
| Liliana – Lily | Adam – Man, Earth |
| Ayla – Moonlight, halo | Nicholas – Victory of the people |
| Everleigh – Eternal meadow | Theo – God’s gift, divine gift |
| Raelynn – Beam of light | Xavier – New House |
Unique American Names
This collection showcases the most captivating and one-of-a-kind American names. Many families treasure these names, passing them down to honor their diverse backgrounds and histories.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Adelaide – Noble | Ace – One, unity |
| Alani – Orange tree | Adonis – Extremely good looking |
| Alara – Water fairy | Amari – Eternal |
| Anais – Grace, favor | Anderson – Son of Andrew or manly |
| Angelique – Angelic | Apollo – Destroyer |
| Ari – Eagle | Archer – Bowman, one who uses a bow and arrow |
| Ariella – Lion of God | Archie – Genuine, bold |
| Artemis – Goddess of the hunt | Arlo – Hill |
| Aspen – Aspen tree, quaking tree | Armani – Free man |
| Astrid – Divine strength, beautiful | Atticus – From Attica |
| Aurelia – Golden | August – Great, noble |
| Azariah – God has helped | Axton – Sword stone |
| Baylor – One who delivers goods, horse trainer | Barrett – Brave as a bear |
| Blair – Field, plain | Beckham – Dweller by the brook |
| Blakely – Dark meadow, dark clearing | Bo – To live |
| Briar – Thorny plant, from the briar patch | Bowen – Son of Owen |
| Brinley – Burnt meadow, hill | Briggs – Bridge, bridge maker |
| Catalina – Pure | Cade – Circular, round |
| Charli – Free man, strong | Callan – Rock, battle |
| Clementine – Merciful, gentle | Callen – Rock |
| Clover – Lucky, fortunate | Cassius – Empty, vain |
| Collins – Holly, holly tree | Chandler – Candle seller |
| Dahlia – A flower name | Cohen – Priest |
| Daisy – Daisy flower, innocence | Colson – People’s victory |
| Dallas – Meadow dwelling | Conrad – Brave counsel, bold advisor |
| Danna – God is my judge | Crew – Group, team |
| Delaney – Dark challenger | Cyrus – Sun, lord in Persian |
| Della – Noble | Dallas – Dwells by the waterfall |
| Eden – Delight, paradise | Denver – Green valley |
| Elaina – Bright, shining light | Elio – Sun |
| Elia – Jehovah is God | Ellis – The Lord is my God |
| Elianna – God has answered | Enzo – Winner, ruler of the household |
| Ember – Burning coal, glowing fire | Ezequiel – God will strengthen |
| Emberlynn – Glowing coal or wood, and lake | Finnegan – Fair, white |
| Emory – Brave; Powerful | Ford – River crossing, shallow river |
| Esme – Emerald, esteemed | Grady – Noble, illustrious |
| Freya – Goddess of love, fertility, and beauty | Gunnar – Warrior, Fighter |
| Georgia – Farmer, earthworker | Hayden – Heathen, from the hay downs |
| Gia – God is gracious | Hayes – Hedged area, enclosure |
| Gracelynn – Grace, favor combined with beautiful | Holden – Hollow valley, from the sunken valley |
| Hallie – Heroine, home ruler | Hugo – Mind, intellect |
| Hattie – Home ruler, ruler of the household | Huxley – Hugh’s meadow, meadow of the mind |
| Haven – Safe place, refuge | Jaylen – Healer, tranquil |
| Holland – Wooded land | Jonah – Dove |
| Hope – Hope, optimism | Julius – Youthful, downy-bearded |
| Ivory – Ivory, white | Kade – From the wetlands |
| Josie – God will add, God increases | Kairo – Victory |
| Jovie – Joyful | Kaison – Son of the fighter |
| Juniper – Juniper tree, youthful | Kamari – Moon |
| Kallie – Most beautiful | Kash – Form of Cash, referring to money |
| Katalina – Pure | Kaysen – Son of the fighter |
| Kaylani – Heavenly waters | Kayson – Son of Kay |
| Kayleigh – Pure, slender | Kenzo – Strong and healthy |
| Kehlani – Sea or sky | Khai – Crowned or chosen one |
| Kimora – From a beautiful meadow | Kian – Ancient, archaic |
| Leila – Night | Kingston – King’s town, ruler’s estate |
| Lennon – Dear one, lover | Kyro – Lord |
| Lilah – Night | Lawson – Son of Lawrence, son of the laurel |
| Lilith – Of the night | Legend – Mythical story, celebrated narrative |
| Lucille – Light | Lennox – With many elm trees |
| Maeve – Intoxicating, she who intoxicates | Lewis – Famous warrior, renowned in battle |
| Magnolia – Flower, magnolia tree | Loyal – Faithful |
| Maren – Sea | Mack – Son of |
| Margo – Pearl, child of light | Malakai – My messenger |
| Margot – Pearl, child of light | Milan – Gracious, dear |
| Marley – Meadow near the lake | Milo – Merciful |
| Maxine – Greatest, greatest woman | Moses – Taken out, drawn out |
| Meadow – Meadow, field of grass | Nash – By the ash tree, ash tree clearing |
| Millie – Gentle strength, strength in work | Nico – People’s victory |
| Myla – Soldier or merciful | Niko – Victory of the people |
| Navy – Navy | Oakley – Oak clearing, meadow of oak trees |
| Noa – Motion | Otto – Wealth, prosperity |
| Oakleigh – Oak meadow | Phoenix – Mythical bird reborn from its ashes |
| Oakley – Oak meadow, oak clearing | Porter – Gatekeeper, doorkeeper |
| Oaklynn – Oak tree and lake or meadow | Princeton – Principal town |
| Octavia – Eighth | Quentin – Fifth, from the Queen’s estate |
| Opal – Gemstone, precious stone | Remy – Oarsman, rower |
| Palmer – Pilgrim, palm-bearing pilgrim | Rhys – Enthusiasm, passion |
| Phoenix – A mythical bird reborn from its ashes | Riggs – Ridge’s son |
| Poppy – Poppy flower, rest | River – River |
| Raya – Friend, peaceful | Royal – Regal, kingly |
| Reign – Rule, dominion | Ryder – Horseman, mounted warrior |
| Remi – Oarsman, rower | Santana – Saint Ana |
| River – River, water stream | Santino – Little Saint |
| Rosie – Rose, graceful | Shepherd – Sheep herder |
| Ryder – Horseman, mounted warrior | Solomon – Peaceful, peaceful one |
| Sage – Wise one | Sterling – Little star, genuine |
| Sasha – Defender of mankind | Stetson – Stephen’s son |
| Siena – From Siena, Italy | Sutton – South town, southern settlement |
| Sierra – Mountain Range | Tate – Cheerful, bright |
| Skye – Cloud, Isle of Skye | Tripp – Third descendant |
| Stevie – Crown, garland | Wells – Spring |
| Stormi – Impetuous nature | Wilder – Untamed, wild |
| Summer – Summer, warm season | Zaire – River |
| Sutton – South town, southern settlement | Zander – Defender of the people |
| Wren – Small bird, songbird | Zayden – Abundance, growth |
| Wrenley – Wren bird meadow | Zayne – God is gracious |
| Wynter – Winter | Zeke – God strengthens, the strength of God |
| Zara – Blooming flower | Zion – Highest point, fortification |
| Zuri – Beautiful | Zyon – Zion, highest point |
Cute American Names
Endearing in their sound and meaning, these cute American names encapsulate the charm and friendliness often associated with American culture. Their tones reflect the deep-rooted values of family and community.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Araceli – Altar of the sky | Ashton – Ash tree town |
| Bailey – Bailiff, fortification | Baker – Baker, one who bakes |
| Bexley – Box trees clearing | Baylor – Horse trainer |
| Blakeley – Dark meadow, dark clearing | Beckett – Bee cottage, dweller near the brook |
| Bonnie – Beautiful, cheerful | Bellamy – Beautiful friend, fine friend |
| Callie – Beautiful, most beautiful | Blake – Pale, dark |
| Campbell – Crooked mouth | Boone – Good, a blessing |
| Carly – Little champion, free woman | Bradley – Broad meadow, broad clearing |
| Charlie – Free man, strong | Brady – Spirited, broad |
| Cleo – Glory, fame | Brayden – Brave, wise |
| Coco – Coconut | Brecken – Freckled, speckled |
| Elodie – Foreign riches, foreign wealth | Brody – Ditch, muddy place |
| Elsie – Noble, God’s promise | Bryce – Noble, swift |
| Emberly – Spark; burning low | Brycen – Speckled |
| Emmie – Universal | Casey – Vigilant, watchful |
| Emmy – Universal, entire | Charlie – Free man, strong |
| Evie – Life, living | Cody – Helpful, cushion |
| Finley – Fair-haired hero, fair warrior | Colby – Dark town, coal town |
| Gigi – Diminutive of Georgina, farmer | Connor – Lover of hounds, wise |
| Goldie – Made of gold | Crue – Modern invented name |
| Gracie – Grace, elegance | Dawson – Son of David, son of the beloved |
| Hartley – Hart’s meadow, stag’s meadow | Duke – Nobleman, leader |
| Heavenly – From the heavens | Eden – Delightful place, paradise |
| Indie – Independent or Indian | Elliot – The Lord is my God |
| Indigo – Indian dye | Finley – Fair warrior, white warrior |
| Jessie – God is gracious, wealthy | Finnley – Fair hero, white warrior |
| Jodie – Praised | Fisher – Fisherman |
| Jolie – Pretty, beautiful | Fletcher – Arrow-maker, maker of arrows |
| Kaylee – Pure, slender | Forrest – Woodsman, forest |
| Kelsey – Island of ships, from the ship’s island | Hank – Home ruler |
| Kenzie – The fair one | Harley – From the hare’s meadow |
| Kiki – Nickname for names starting with K | Harrison – Son of Harry, son of a ruler |
| Kimber – Royal fortress meadow | Harry – Ruler of the home, home ruler |
| Kimi – Noble or lord | Harvey – Battle worthy, eager for battle |
| Kinley – White warrior, fair-haired hero | Israel – God contended |
| Kira – Sun | Jace – Healing, a healer |
| Kylie – Boomerang, narrow spit of land | Jamison – Son of James |
| Lacey – Lace-like, cheerful | Jasper – Bringer of treasure, treasure holder |
| Lacie – From Lassy, Normandy | Jensen – Son of Jens |
| Lainey – Bright light | Jesse – Gift, wealthy |
| Laney – Pathway | Jett – Jet-black |
| Lexie – Defender of mankind | Kaiden – Companion, friend |
| Libby – God is my oath, consecrated to God | Kannon – Sound of the gods |
| Liberty – Freedom | Kayce – Brave, vigilant |
| Lottie – Free man, petite | Kayden – Companion |
| Luella – Famous warrior | Keanu – Cool breeze |
| Lulu – Pearl | Kennedy – Ugly head |
| Lumi – Snow | Kieran – Black-haired, dark-skinned |
| Macie – Weapon | Kingsley – King’s meadow, king’s field |
| Mackenzie – Son of Coinneach, child of the fair one | Koda – Friend |
| Maisie – Pearl, child of light | Kylo – Narrow |
| Mercy – Mercy, compassion | Kyrie – Lord |
| Milly – Industrious | Lane – Path, roadway |
| Mollie – Bitter | Lux – Light |
| Molly – Bitter, wished for child | Maximo – Greatest |
| Oaklee – Oak meadow | Miller – One who grinds grain, miller |
| Payton – Warrior’s town | Nova – New |
| Promise – Assurance or pledge | Ozzy – God’s power |
| Ruthie – Friend or companion | Peyton – Noble, patrician |
| Saylor – Dancer, leaper | Quincy – Estate of the fifth son |
| Story – Tale | Raylan – Advice, counsel, wise |
| Tallulah – Leaping waters, lady of abundance | Reece – Enthusiasm, fiery |
| Tammy – Twin, palm tree | Reed – Red-haired, reed |
| Teagan – Beautiful, poet | Riley – Courageous, valiant |
| Tegan – Beautiful, fair | Rio – River |
| Tenley – Fairy princess, heavenly meadow | Rory – Red king |
| Tillie – Mighty in battle, battle-mighty | Saint – Holy person |
| Tilly – Powerful battler | Shepard – Sheep herder |
| Tinley – Meadow of tin | Taylor – Tailor, to cut |
| Tinsley – Tynni’s field | Toby – God is good, God is my goodness |
| Tori – Bird, winner | Tommy – Twin, twin brother |
| Trinity – Holy trinity, threefold | Truett – True |
| Waverly – Meadow of quivering aspens | Wilson – Son of William |
| Winnie – Joy, happiness | Wylder – Wild |
| Zoie – Life | Zavier – New House |
Pretty American Names
Our list of pretty American names is full of grace and beauty. These names, with their melodic sounds and inspirational meanings, are often celebrated for their poetic and timeless appeal.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Alana – Little rock or harmony | Ambrose – Immortal, immortal one |
| Alexis – Defender, helper | Amos – Burdened |
| Alicia – Noble | Austin – Majestic |
| Amelie – Hardworking, industrious | Avery – Ruler of the elves |
| Andrea – Brave | Bentley – Meadow with coarse grass |
| Annabelle – Gracious, loving | Blaise – Stammerer, lisping |
| Briella – God is my strength | Blaze – Flame |
| Brielle – God is my strength, strong | Boden – Messenger, herald |
| Brooke – Small stream, water source | Bryson – Son of Brice, son of a nobleman |
| Brynlee – Hill or mound | Byron – Barn for cows, from the cottage |
| Chelsea – Chalk landing place, port | Callum – Dove, dove-like |
| Eliza – Pledged to God | Calvin – Bald, little bald one |
| Elle – She, her | Chase – Hunter, one who hunts |
| Erin – From ireland, peace | Dakota – Friendly one or allies |
| Eva – Life | Declan – Full of goodness, man of prayer |
| Evangeline – Good news, bringer of good news | Devin – Poet, bard |
| Florence – Flourishing, prosperous | Dexter – Skilled, right-handed |
| Genevieve – Tribe woman, woman of the race | Drew – Manly, warrior |
| Isabelle – God is my oath, pledged to God | Finn – Fair, white |
| Jasmine – Jasmine | Flynn – Red-haired, son of the red-haired one |
| Juliana – Youthful, downy | Frederick – Peaceful ruler |
| Juliet – Youthful | Gideon – Great warrior, mighty warrior |
| Juliette – Youthful | Hunter – One who hunts |
| Kayla – Pure, slender | Jax – God has been gracious, son of Jack |
| Laila – Night | Kent – High, border |
| Lauren – Laurel, from Laurentum | Kyle – Narrow, narrow channel |
| Lola – Sorrows | Lucian – Light |
| Lucia – Light | Max – Greatest |
| Madeline – Tower, high tower | Orion – Son of fire, hunter in Greek mythology |
| Matilda – Battle mighty | Oscar – God Spear |
| Melody – Song, melodic | Quinn – Counsel |
| Noelle – Christmas, birth of Christ | Raphael – God has healed |
| Paige – Page, servant | Sawyer – Woodcutter, sawer of wood |
| Piper – Flute player, pipe player | Soren – Strict, stern |
| Rose – Rose flower, grace | Tobias – God is good |
| Ruth – Companion, friend | Tyler – Tile maker, maker of tiles |
| Sloane – Warrior, raider | Wren – A small bird |
| Talia – Morning dew or lamb | Zachary – God has remembered |
| Winter – Winter, cold season | Zephyr – West wind |
Cool American Names
Echoing the nation’s dynamic spirit, cool American names mirror the country’s modern vibe and its influences from popular culture. Many of these names are trendy, originating from various global cultures, making them fresh and familiar.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Arrow – Arrow | Ajax – Eagle |
| Asia – Asia | Atlas – Enduring |
| Blaire – Field, plain | Bear – Bear, strong, brave |
| Bowie – Yellow haired | Bodhi – Awakening, enlightenment in Sanskrit |
| Cadence – Rhythm | Bodie – Shelter |
| Capri – From Capri, Italy | Boston – From Boston |
| Carsyn – Son of Carr | Breck – Freckled or speckled |
| Dakota – Friendly one or allies | Cannon – Firing projectiles, official of a cathedral |
| Danica – Morning star | Carson – Son of Carr, son of the marsh |
| Delta – Fourth letter of the Greek alphabet | Cash – Money |
| Edie – Rich, wealthy | Caspian – From the Caspian Sea |
| Electra – Shining or bright | Chance – Fortune, luck |
| Ever – Always, eternal | Chasen – Hunter |
| Fallon – Leader, superiority | Cisco – Free man |
| Frankie – Free, truthful | Colt – Young horse |
| Halo – Divine aura | Cruz – Cross |
| Harley – Hare meadow, meadow of the hares | Cyprian – From Cyprus |
| Harlow – Mound of the army, rocky hill | Deacon – Servant, messenger |
| Hendrix – Home ruler | Denim – Type of fabric |
| Henley – High meadow, fields with wild birds | Dj – Initials D.J. |
| Hunter – One who hunts | Dutch – From the Netherlands |
| Huntley – Meadow of the hunter | Eddie – Wealthy guardian, wealthy protector |
| Indiana – Land of the Indians | Fox – Fox |
| Indy – Independent or Indian | Gage – Pledge, oath |
| Journey – Trip, travel | Garrison – Fortified town, stronghold |
| Justice – Just, fair | Gunner – Battler, warrior |
| Kai – Rejoice | Hawk – Hawk |
| Karter – Cart driver, driver of a cart | Hendrix – Son of Hendrick |
| Kenya – Kenya | Houston – Hugh’s town |
| Kit – Pure, follower of Christ | Huntley – Meadow of the hunter |
| Kodi – Helpful person | Indiana – Land of the Indians |
| Laken – Of the lake | Indy – Independent or Indian |
| Lexi – Defender of mankind, man’s helper | Kage – Shadow |
| Lux – Light | Kit – Bearer of Christ |
| Lyric – Lyric | Knox – Round-top hill |
| Madden – Little dog, small hound | Kodiak – Island in Alaska |
| Maddox – Son of Madoc, fortunate | Krew – Group of people |
| Marin – Of the sea, from the sea | Luka – Light |
| Maverick – Independent, nonconformist | Madden – Little dog |
| Maxima – Greatest | Maddox – Son of Madoc, fortunate |
| Memphis – Established and beautiful | Marshall – Horse servant, steward |
| Merritt – Deserving of good fortune | Maxim – Greatest, most excellent |
| Montana – Mountain | Maximus – Greatest, largest |
| Oaklyn – Oak tree and lake | Memphis – Established and beautiful |
| Odessa – Wrathful | Montana – Mountain |
| Olympia – From Olympus | Ocean – Ocean |
| Parker – Park keeper, gamekeeper | Rider – Horseman |
| Rain – Rain, blessing of water | Rivers – Streams of water |
| Raine – Queen, sovereign | Rome – From Rome |
| Rebel – Rebel, one who defies authority | Rusty – Reddish-brown color |
| Reem – Gazelle | Ryker – Brave power |
| Rio – River | Salomon – Peace |
| Rogue – Unpredictable or mischievous | Samson – Sun, bright sun |
| Roma – Rome | Saxon – Sword |
| Sahara – Desert | Seven – The number seven, seventh-born |
| Scout – Watcher, observer | Sevyn – Seven |
| Seven – The number seven, seventh-born | Skyler – Scholar, protection |
| Sevyn – Seven | Storm – Storm |
| Sky – Sky, heaven | Talon – Claw of a bird of prey |
| Skyla – Scholar | Tanner – Leather worker, one who tans hides |
| Skyler – Scholar, eternal life | Thor – God of thunder in Norse mythology |
| Star – Star | Troy – Foot soldier, from Troy |
| Storm – Storm | Tru – True |
| Stormy – Stormy | Tucker – Fabric pleater, cloth fuller |
| Tru – True* | Vail – Valley |
| True – Small, true | Westin – From the western town |
| Vail – Valley | Wolf – Wolf |
| Valkyrie – Chooser of the slain | Xander – Defender of the people |
| Wilder – Untamed, wild | Zack – The Lord has remembered |
| Xena – Guest, stranger | Zane – God’s gracious gift |
| Zion – Highest point, fortification | Zeus – King of the gods in Greek mythology |
Rare American Names
The rare American names compiled here fuse Native American, European, African, and other global inspirations. Each name holds profound significance, preserving tales of familial lineage and cultural histories.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Amara – Eternal | Abbott – Father |
| Arabella – Yielding to prayer | Alden – Old friend, wise friend |
| Arden – Valley of the eagle, ardent | Amias – Loved |
| Aristea – Best | Arden – Eagle valley, valley of the eagles |
| Aviana – Bird-like | Asa – Healer, physician |
| Bethany – House of figs, house of poverty | Auden – Old friend, prosperous friend |
| Blanche – White, fair | Augustus – Venerable, great |
| Brea – Tar | Banks – Edge of the river |
| Caia – To rejoice | Booker – Maker of books, scribe |
| Carissa – Grace, kindness | Bridger – Bridge builder, one who builds bridges |
| Carmen – Garden or vineyard | Broderick – Brother |
| Celeste – Heavenly | Calloway – Pebble |
| Chiara – Clear, bright | Campbell – Crooked mouth |
| Clarissa – Clear, bright | Cedar – Type of tree |
| Delphine – Dolphin | Cortez – Courteous, polite |
| Eleni – Light | Crispin – Curly-haired |
| Ellia – God is the Lord | Cullen – Holly, holly tree |
| Fable – Story or myth | Dante – Enduring |
| Fleur – Flower | Edison – Son of Edward |
| Flora – Flower | Elisha – God is salvation |
| Havana – Havana | Enoch – Dedicated, trained |
| Imogen – Innocent, maiden | Everest – Mount Everest |
| Ione – Violet flower | Falcon – Falcon |
| Isis – Throne | Ferdinand – Bold voyager, brave traveler |
| Juno – Queen of the heavens, youthful | Garrett – Spear strength, spear ruler |
| Lara – Protection | Harlan – Hare land |
| Liana – To climb like a vine | Hollis – Holly trees, near the holly trees |
| Lila – Lilac | Jericho – Moon city |
| Marlowe – From the hill by the lake, driftwood | Jude – Praised, thanked |
| Maude – Battle-mighty, powerful in battle | Kael – Mighty warrior |
| Mina – Love, mine | Kip – From the pointed hill |
| Mira – Admirable | Leopold – Bold people, brave ruler |
| Monet – From the monastery, monk-like | Lucius – Light |
| Neve – Snow | Magnus – Great |
| Noemi – My delight | Mercer – Occupational surname for a merchant |
| Nola – White shoulder | Neo – New |
| Ophelia – Help, aid | Nixon – Son of Nick |
| Oriana – Sunrise | Octavius – Eighth |
| Patience – Patience, endurance | Odin – Frenzy, rage |
| Perpetua – Perpetual or ongoing | Orson – Bear cub |
| Peyton – Warrior’s town | Otis – Wealthy, riches |
| Primrose – First rose, first flower | Prescott – Priest’s dwelling |
| Rhea – Flowing | Raleigh – Deer meadow, red clearing |
| Rowena – Famous friend, white-haired | Remi – Oarsman, rower |
| Season – Time of year | Rex – King |
| Seraphina – Fiery ones | Rhett – Advice |
| Shea – Hawk, admirable | Rocco – Rest |
| Sienna – From Siena | Rockwell – Rock spring, rock well |
| Sonnet – Little song | Roscoe – Deer forest, wood of the deer |
| Soraya – The Pleiades | Rufus – Red-haired |
| Temperance – Moderation, self-restraint | Scout – Watcher, observer |
| Tempest – Storm | Slater – Roof slater, slate layer |
| Thea – Goddess, gods | Stellan – Calm or peaceful |
| Trixie – Bringer of joy | Teo – Gift of God |
| Ursula – Little bear, she-bear | Theron – Hunter |
| Vera – True, faithful | Titus – Title of honor |
| Willa – Resolute protection | Tyrell – Thunder ruler |
| Xanthe – Golden, yellow | Vaughn – Small, little |
| Xiomara – Battle ready | Warner – Defender, army guard |
| Zephyr – West wind | Willis – Will’s son |
| Zia – Light or glow | Winslow – Friend’s hill |
Old American Names
Harkening back to the early days of the United States, old American names draw from the nation’s rich tapestry of indigenous, colonial, and immigrant traditions. Selecting a name from this collection is a nod to America’s enduring legacy and history.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Ada – Noble | Abel – Breath |
| Alma – Soul | Abraham – Father of many, exalted father |
| Anastasia – Resurrection | Abram – High father |
| Beatrice – She who brings happiness | Alaric – Ruler of all |
| Beatrix – She who brings happiness | Albert – Noble and Bright |
| Catherine – Pure, chaste | Alfred – Elf counsel, wise counselor |
| Cecilia – Blind | Arthur – Bear, noble one |
| Celia – Heavenly | Clayton – Clay settlement |
| Clara – Clear, bright | Clyde – Warm |
| Daphne – Laurel tree, laurel wreath | Darius – Wealthy |
| Edith – Wealthy, fortunate | Dominick – Belonging to the Lord |
| Elaine – Bright, shining | Edward – Wealthy guardian, rich guard |
| Elisabeth – God is my oath | Edwin – Wealthy friend |
| Elsa – God is my oath | Elliott – The Lord is my God |
| Esther – Star | Emmett – Universal, whole |
| Eve – Life, living one | Eric – Eternal ruler |
| Faith – Faith, trust | Felix – Happy, Fortunate |
| Frances – Free, from France | Francis – Free man |
| Gloria – Glory | Franklin – Free landowner, free man |
| Greta – Pearl | Gael – Stranger |
| Gwendolyn – White ring, blessed ring | George – Farmer, earthworker |
| Harriet – Ruler of the home, estate ruler | Gerald – Brave spear, Bold spear |
| Helen – Bright, shining | Griffin – Strong lord, chief |
| Ingrid – Beautiful, fair | Hector – To Hold |
| Irene – Peace | Jefferson – Son of Jeffrey, son of a peacekeeper |
| Jocelyn – Member of the Gauts tribe | Jonas – Dove |
| Judith – Woman of Judea | Langston – Long stone, tall stone |
| Julia – Youthful | Lawrence – Laurel-crowned |
| June – June, the sixth month | Leonard – Brave lion |
| Katherine – Pure | Lionel – Young lion |
| Louisa – Renowned warrior | Louis – Renowned warrior |
| Mabel – Lovable, dear one | Lyle – Island, island dweller |
| Mae – Month of May, pearl | Marvin – Sea friend, lover of the sea |
| Magdalena – From Magdala | Maximilian – Greatest, greatest rival |
| Maggie – Pearl | Maxwell – Great spring, great well |
| Margaret – Pearl, precious | Mohammed – Praised one |
| Marilyn – Rebellious, wished-for child | Nathaniel – Gift of God |
| Martha – Lady | Pablo – Small |
| Mary – Bitter, beloved | Preston – Priest’s town, town of the clergy |
| Mavis – Songbird, small bird | Quinton – Fifth, fifth-born child |
| Miriam – Wished-for child | Reginald – Ruler’s advisor |
| Myra – Sweet-smelling oil, fragrance | Reuben – Behold, a son |
| Nancy – Grace, favor | Russell – Little red one |
| Olive – Olive tree, olive branch | Stanley – Stony clearing, stone clearing |
| Patricia – Noble | Terrance – Smooth, polished |
| Pearl – Pearl, precious | Thaddeus – Courageous heart, praise |
| Phoebe – Radiant, shining | Victor – Victor |
| Priscilla – Ancient | Vihaan – Dawn |
| Rosalie – Rose | Vincent – Conquering |
| Rosemary – Rosemary, dew of the sea | Vincenzo – Conquering |
| Sylvia – From the forest | Wallace – Foreigner, stranger |
| Theodora – Gift of God, God’s gift | Walter – Ruler of the army |
| Virginia – Maiden, virgin | Watson – Son of Walter, son of the ruler |
| Vivian – Alive, lively | Winston – Joyful stone, joyful town |
More Lists:
Names of Famous American Men and Women
Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights leader who advocated for the rights of African Americans and played a pivotal role in ending racial segregation in the U.S. He is best known for his “I Have a Dream” speech and nonviolent protests. Martin is a name of Latin origin and means ‘warrior.’
Eleanor Roosevelt was a First Lady, diplomat, and activist known for advocating civil and human rights. She served as the U.S. Delegate to the United Nations and chaired the committee that wrote the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Eleanor is of Greek origin and means ‘shining light’ or ‘sunray.’
Neil Armstrong was the first astronaut to walk on the Moon. His words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” are historic. He dedicated his life to space exploration and aviation. Neil is of Gaelic origin and means ‘cloud’ or ‘champion.’
Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist and political activist who played a critical role in the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape to freedom. She was also a spy and nurse during the Civil War and advocated for women’s suffrage. Harriet is of French origin and means ‘estate ruler.’
Theodore Roosevelt, often called ‘Teddy,’ was the 26th President of the United States and a prominent leader in early 20th-century politics. He was a conservationist, reformer, and military leader. Theodore is of Greek origin meaning ‘gift of God.’
References
Information from the U.S. Census Bureau, which conducts various studies and surveys, including the popularity and cultural significance of American names, was consulted for this article. Additionally, data and historical insights were taken from Names in the United States and American given names on Wikipedia. To dive deeper into the history and politics of American names, NPR provided an insightful piece on the topic.
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