Great Britain is a geographic term referring to the island known as Britain. Great Britain consists of the two kingdoms of England and Scotland and the principality of Wales. Consequently, British names carry the Isle’s history, from the ancient Celts and Norman invaders to Renaissance artists and modern leaders. A British name reflects the dynamic and diverse history that makes the island so unique. On this page, you’ll find our thoughtfully curated lists of common British names and popular British baby names.
British Names and Meanings
British names are used throughout Great Britain and its former colonies, giving them both a historical background and international charm. Some of the most popular themes of British names include religious figures and themes like strength, courage, and beauty. These names are associated with British history, as many have been used for centuries, if not longer, and their unique qualities have kept these names in use throughout history.
British names have different origins due to the history of immigration and military excursions that significantly changed the English language. Ancient Welsh, Celt, Latin, and Germanic languages influence many. The Norman invasion brought in Old French names and inspirations, and later cultural shifts like the Renaissance further impacted the names used by the British. Popular names such as Olivia, a Latin-originating name meaning ‘olive tree,’ and Noah, a Biblical Hebrew name meaning ‘comfort,’ attest to these cultural and religious influences. We present our curated lists of common British names and lists of popular British baby names, with meanings organized by theme.
Top 100 British Names
British names are steeped in history, influenced by the country’s past, including its Celtic, Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Viking, and Norman roots. This list comprises common British names from England, Scotland, and Wales and their meanings.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Olivia – Olive tree, olive branch | Oliver – Olive tree, peaceful |
| Emma – Whole, universal | James – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Charlotte – Free man, petite | William – Strong-willed warrior |
| Amelia – Industrious, striving | Henry – Ruler of the home, home ruler |
| Sophia – Wisdom, knowledge | Benjamin – Son of the right hand, son of the south |
| Isabella – God is my oath, pledged to God | Sebastian – Venerable, revered |
| Ava – Bird, life | Daniel – God is my judge, God is my strength |
| Elizabeth – Pledged to God | Jack – God is gracious, supplanter |
| Eleanor – Bright, shining one | Michael – Who is like God?, God-like |
| Emily – Rival, industrious | Alexander – Defender of mankind, man’s helper |
| Chloe – Blooming, young green shoot | Owen – Young warrior |
| Penelope – Weaver, duck | Samuel – God has heard, heard by God |
| Abigail – Father’s joy, source of joy | John – God is gracious, Yahweh is gracious |
| Ella – Beautiful, fairy maiden | Joseph – May he add, he will increase |
| Lily – Lily flower, pure | David – Beloved, friend |
| Ellie – Light, bright | Luke – Light, light-giving |
| Grace – Grace, elegance | Julian – Youthful, downy |
| Isla – Island, island dweller | Grayson – Son of the bailiff, son of the steward |
| Zoe – Life, alive | Matthew – Gift of Yahweh, gift of God |
| Victoria – Victory, conqueror | Dylan – Son of the sea |
| Hannah – Gracious, favor | Anthony – Priceless, highly praiseworthy |
| Lucy – Light, illumination | Thomas – Twin, twin brother |
| Lillian – Lily, pure | Charles – Free man, man |
| Delilah – Delicate, languishing | Christopher – Christ-bearer, follower of Christ |
| Ruby – Ruby gemstone, red | Andrew – Manly, strong |
| Sophie – Wisdom, skill | Adrian – Man of Adria, from the Adriatic Sea region |
| Alice – Noble, of noble kind | Wesley – Western meadow, western clearing |
| Josephine – God will add, God increases | Ian – God is gracious |
| Kennedy – Helmeted chief | Ryan – Little king, kingly |
| Caroline – Free woman, joyful song | Jonathan – Gift of God, God has given |
| Anna – Gracious, favor | Everett – Brave as a wild boar, strong as a wild boar |
| Adeline – Noble | Robert – Bright fame, fame-bright |
| Lydia – Woman from Lydia, beautiful one | Adam – Man, earth |
| Sarah – Princess, noblewoman | Nicholas – Victory of the people |
| Serenity – Peaceful, tranquil | Dominic – Belonging to the Lord |
| Madeline – Tower, high tower | Gael – Generous, hospitable |
| Samantha – Listener, listener of God | Vincent – Conquering |
| Julia – Youthful, downy | Harrison – Son of Harry, son of a ruler |
| Rose – Rose flower, grace | Arthur – Bear, noble one |
| Arya – Noble | George – Farmer, earthworker |
| Daisy – Daisy flower, innocence | Jason – Healer, to heal |
| Millie – Gentle strength, strength in work | Graham – Gravel home |
| Mary – Bitter, beloved | Jude – Praised, thanked |
| Isabelle – God is my oath, pledged to God | Maxwell – Great spring, great well |
| Magnolia – Flower, magnolia tree | Charlie – Free man, strong |
| Georgia – Farmer, earthworker | Justin – Just, righteous |
| Sara – Princess | Kevin – Handsome, kind |
| Alexandra – Defender of mankind, man’s helper | Alan – Handsome, cheerful |
| Molly – Bitter, wished for child | Timothy – Honoring God, honoring God’s name |
| Zara – Princess, radiance | Gavin – White hawk |
| Alaina – Bright, beautiful | Victor – Conqueror |
| Amy – Beloved, loved one | Peter – Rock, stone |
| Phoebe – Radiant, shining | Edward – Wealthy guardian, rich guard |
| Arabella – Beautiful altar, yielding to prayer | Patrick – Nobleman, patrician |
| Rachel – Ewe, innocent lamb | Richard – Brave ruler |
| Evangeline – Good news, bringer of good news | Grant – Great |
| Ophelia – Help, aid | Tristan – Tumult |
| Evie – Life, living | Blake – Pale, dark |
| Celeste – Heavenly | Eric – Ever-ruler |
| Rebecca – To bind, to tie | Simon – Listening, hearing |
| Vivienne – Alive, lively | Jeremy – God will uplift |
| Paige – Page, servant | Mark – Warlike |
| Lauren – Laurel, from Laurentum | Lennox – With many elm trees |
| Catherine – Pure, chaste | Dallas – Dwells by the waterfall |
| Rory – Red king | Paul – Small, humble |
| Poppy – Poppy flower, rest | Kenneth – Handsome |
| Mckenzie – Son of Kenneth | Rory – Red king |
| Fiona – Fair, white | Malcolm – Disciple of Saint Columba |
| Laura – Laurel, bay tree | Brian – Strong, virtuous |
| Brynn – Hill | Colin – Young boy |
| Gwendolyn – White ring, blessed ring | Aidan – Fire, fiery |
| Makenna – Son of Kenneth | Martin – Warlike |
| Matilda – Mighty in battle, strength in battle | Warren – Gamekeeper, park ranger |
| Skye – Cloud, Isle of Skye | Spencer – Dispenser of provisions, steward |
| Rosie – Rose, graceful | Raymond – Wise protector |
| Kate – Pure, chaste | Edwin – Wealthy friend |
| Felicity – Happiness, good fortune | Stephen – Crown, crowned one |
| Holly – Holly tree, to prick | Desmond – Gracious defender |
| Jennifer – White wave, fair phantom | Russell – Little red one |
| Ainsley – One’s own meadow | Archie – Genuine, bold |
| Jessica – God beholds, God’s grace | Bowen – Son of Owen |
| Amber – Amber, gemstone | Franklin – Free landowner, free man |
| Monroe – Mouth of the river Roe | Rhys – Enthusiasm, passion |
| Beatrice – Blessed, bringer of joy | Frank – Free man |
| Clementine – Merciful, gentle | Francis – Free man |
| Katie – Pure, innocent | Frederick – Peaceful ruler |
| Nia – Purpose, radiance | Lewis – Famous warrior, renowned in battle |
| Lennox – With many elm trees | Philip – Lover of horses |
| Eileen – Light | Gregory – Watchful, vigilant |
| Florence – Flourishing, prosperous | Mack – Son of |
| Dallas – Meadow dwelling | Reece – Enthusiasm, fiery |
| Cassandra – Shining upon men | Trevor – Great settlement |
| Mckinley – Son of Fhionnlaoich | Lawrence – Laurel-crowned |
| Bethany – House of figs, house of poverty | Bruce – From the brushwood thicket |
| Kenna – Born of fire | Roy – Red |
| Erin – From ireland, peace | Mac – Son of |
| Megan – Pearl | Roland – Famous throughout the land, renowned in the world |
| Jamie – Supplanter | Marvin – Sea friend, lover of the sea |
| Berkley – Birch tree meadow | Albert – Noble and bright, noble one |
| Marigold – Flower, golden flower | Jamie – Supplanter |
Unique British Names
This list of unique British names celebrates the most creative and interesting names our researchers found. While not commonly used, these unique names have been gaining in popularity as more parents seek to give their children names that stand out.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Ansley – One’s own meadow | Archer – Bowman, one who uses a bow and arrow |
| Arden – Valley of the eagle, ardent | Asher – Happy, blessed |
| Ariel – Lion of God, lioness of God | August – Great, noble |
| Beatrix – Voyager, blessed | Beckham – Homestead by the stream, dweller by the brook |
| Birdie – Little bird, bright | Braxton – Brock’s settlement, town of the badger |
| Brianna – Strong, virtuous | Briggs – Bridge, bridge maker |
| Cameron – Crooked nose | Callen – Rock |
| Campbell – Crooked mouth | Carson – Son of Carr, son of the marsh |
| Camryn – Crooked nose | Carter – Cart driver, one who uses a cart |
| Cara – Beloved, friend | Chase – Hunter, one who hunts |
| Carina – Beloved, dear little one | Clyde – Warm |
| Carla – Strong, free man | Conrad – Brave counsel, bold advisor |
| Carly – Little champion, free woman | Crew – Group, team |
| Chelsea – Chalk landing place, port | Danny – God is my judge |
| Clarissa – Bright, clear | Dawson – Son of David, son of the beloved |
| Cleo – Glory, fame | Derek – People’s ruler |
| Clover – Lucky, fortunate | Duke – Nobleman, leader |
| Coraline – Coral, little heart | Easton – East town, eastern settlement |
| Darcy – Dark | Eden – Delightful place, paradise |
| Dylan – Son of the sea, great tide | Eli – Ascended, my God |
| Eden – Delight, paradise | Ellis – Yahweh is God, the Lord is my God |
| Ellis – Benevolent | Evan – Young warrior |
| Evelyn – Desired, wished for | Felix – Happy, fortunate |
| Fern – Fern plant, green | Ford – River crossing, shallow river |
| Frankie – Free, truthful | Gage – Pledge, oath |
| Gia – God’s gracious gift, heart | Greyson – Son of the gray-haired one, son of the steward |
| Gracie – Grace, elegance | Gunner – Battler, warrior |
| Haven – Safe place, refuge | Harvey – Battle worthy, eager for battle |
| India – India, river | Holden – Hollow valley, from the sunken valley |
| Jenna – Fair, white | Huxley – Hugh’s meadow, meadow of the mind |
| Jessie – God is gracious, wealthy | Isaac – He will laugh, laughter |
| Joelle – God will be willing, Jehovah is God | Israel – Wrestles with God, God contends |
| Jolie – Pretty, beautiful | Jacob – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Kara – Beloved, dear | Jake – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Kathleen – Pure | Jax – God has been gracious, son of Jack |
| Kelsey – Island of ships, from the ship’s island | Kaysen – Son of the fighter |
| Kendra – Greatest champion, knowledge | Knox – Round-top hill |
| Kenzie – The fair one | Kylo – Narrow |
| Kira – Sunbeam, sparkling | Landon – Long hill, ridge |
| Kyra – Throne, lady | Lawson – Son of Lawrence, son of the laurel |
| Lacey – Lace-like, cheerful | Ledger – Keeper of accounts, bookkeeper |
| Lainey – Bright light | Logan – Little hollow, small meadow |
| Lara – Famous, cheerful | Louis – Famous warrior, renowned warrior |
| Laurel – Laurel tree, honor | Marshall – Horse servant, steward |
| Logan – Small hollow | Maverick – Independent, nonconformist |
| Louisa – Renowned warrior | Maximus – Greatest, largest |
| Macy – Weapon, gift of God | Miles – Soldier, merciful |
| Makenzie – Son of Kenneth | Miller – One who grinds grain, miller |
| Marissa – Of the sea, of the sea | Oscar – God’s spear, deer lover |
| Marlowe – From the hill by the lake, driftwood | Quinn – Counsel |
| Meadow – Meadow, field of grass | Ridge – Ridge, crest of a hill |
| Mercedes – Mercy, mercies | Riley – Courageous, valiant |
| Mercy – Mercy, compassion | Ryder – Horseman, mounted warrior |
| Paislee – Church | Samson – Sun, bright sun |
| Rayne – Queen, wise protector | Silas – Wood, forest |
| Regina – Queen, ruler | Solomon – Peaceful, peaceful one |
| Riverlynn – From the lake | Sterling – Little star, genuine |
| Sapphire – Sapphire, precious gem | Tanner – Leather worker, one who tans hides |
| Simone – Hearing, one who listens | Theo – God’s gift, divine gift |
| Tara – Hill, tower | Tobias – God is good, Yahweh is good |
| Tenley – Fairy princess, heavenly meadow | Troy – Foot soldier, from Troy |
| Trinity – Holy trinity, threefold | Walker – One who walks, pedestrian |
| Venus – Love, desire | Weston – Western settlement, western town |
| Waverly – Meadow of quivering aspens, quivering meadow | Wilder – Untamed, wild |
| Willow – Willow tree, graceful | Wyatt – Brave in war, warrior |
| Wrenlee – Small songbird | Xavier – Bright, splendid |
| Yasmin – Jasmine flower, jasmine | Zane – God is gracious, gift of God |
Cute British Names
Cute British names include diminutives of longer names, affectionate forms of traditional names, or names with a light, playful, or sweet meaning. These hand-picked cute British names are instantly charming and reflect a natural grace and ease.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Addison – Child of Adam, son of Adam | Aaron – Exalted, high mountain |
| Aila – From the strong place | Aiden – Fiery, little fire |
| Amelie – Hardworking, industrious | Alex – Defender of mankind, man’s helper |
| Aspen – Aspen tree, quaking tree | Andy – Manly |
| Autumn – Autumn, fall season | Ash – Ash tree |
| Avery – Ruler of the elves, wise | Baker – Baker, one who bakes |
| Billie – Resolute protection, determined guardian | Beckett – Bee cottage, dweller near the brook |
| Blaire – Field, plain | Bellamy – Beautiful friend, fine friend |
| Briar – Thorny plant, from the briar patch | Billy – Resolute protection |
| Brooke – Small stream, water source | Bobby – Bright fame |
| Brylee – Strong, resolute | Boden – Messenger, herald |
| Callie – Beautiful, most beautiful | Braden – Salmon |
| Charlee – Free man, strong | Brody – Ditch, muddy place |
| Charley – Free man, strong | Bryson – Son of Brice, son of a nobleman |
| Charli – Free man, strong | Byron – Barn for cows, from the cottage |
| Charlie – Free man, strong | Casey – Vigilant, watchful |
| Dani – God is my judge, gift of God | Cason – Son of the marsh-dwellers |
| Elle – She, her | Cody – Helpful, cushion |
| Emery – Industrious leader, brave ruler | Colby – Dark town, coal town |
| Emmy – Universal, entire | Cory – Hollow |
| Everleigh – Everlasting, eternal meadow | Devon – From Devonshire, defender |
| Finley – Fair-haired hero, fair warrior | Eddie – Wealthy guardian, wealthy protector |
| Gracelyn – Grace, favor combined with beautiful | Fletcher – Arrow-maker, maker of arrows |
| Gracelynn – Grace, favor combined with beautiful | Frankie – Free man |
| Hadleigh – Heathery meadow, heather clearing | Gentry – Noble, gentleman |
| Hadley – Heather meadow, heather field | Gilbert – Bright pledge |
| Harper – Harp player, harpist | Gray – Gray-haired, gray-haired warrior |
| Hattie – Home ruler, ruler of the household | Gus – One choice |
| Haylee – Hay clearing, hay meadow | Harley – From the hare’s meadow, meadow of the hares |
| Hayley – Hay clearing, hay meadow | Harlow – Army hill, rock hill |
| Jemma – Precious stone, gem | Harris – Son of Harry, son of the army ruler |
| Josie – God will add, God increases | Hayes – Hedged area, enclosure |
| Juniper – Juniper tree, youthful | Jaime – Supplanter |
| Kailey – Pure, victorious | Jamison – Son of James |
| Kamryn – Crooked nose | Jasper – Bringer of treasure, treasure holder |
| Kayla – Pure, slender | Jay – Jay bird, victory |
| Kaylee – Pure, slender | Jesse – Gift, wealthy |
| Kendall – Valley of the River Kent, bright river valley | Joey – God will add |
| Kinsley – King’s meadow, royal field | Jordan – To flow down, descend |
| Kylie – Boomerang, narrow spit of land | Jordy – Farmer |
| Kynlee – King’s meadow | Kai – Keeper of the keys, earth |
| Libby – God is my oath, consecrated to God | Kaiden – Companion, friend |
| Lila – Night, dark beauty | Kenny – Handsome |
| Lillie – Lily flower, innocence | Lane – Path, roadway |
| Lilly – Lily flower, innocence | Micah – Who is like God? |
| Lola – Sorrows, lady of sorrows | Milo – Gracious, merciful |
| Mackenzie – Son of Coinneach, child of the fair one | Moses – Taken out, drawn out |
| Madison – Son of Maud, son of a mighty warrior | Noel – Christmas, born on Christmas |
| Maggie – Pearl | Otto – Wealth, prosperity |
| Maisy – Pearl | Parker – Park keeper, gamekeeper |
| Marlee – Meadow near the lake, pleasant meadow | Payton – Village enclosure, fighting man’s estate |
| Marley – Meadow near the lake, pleasant meadow | Peyton – Noble, patrician |
| Mazie – Pearl | Porter – Gatekeeper, doorkeeper |
| Melina – Honey, honey-colored | Quincy – Estate of the fifth son, from the Queen’s estate |
| Morgan – Sea circle, bright sea | Reed – Red-haired, reed |
| Payton – Village of Paecc’s people, warrior’s town | Ricky – Strong ruler |
| Peyton – Village of Paecc’s people, warrior’s town | Roman – From Rome, a Roman |
| Piper – Flute player, pipe player | Rowan – Little red one, little redhead |
| Reagan – Little ruler, impulsive | Sawyer – Woodcutter, sawer of wood |
| Sawyer – Woodcutter, sawer of wood | Sol – Sun, sunlight |
| Stevie – Crown, garland | Sonny – Son, child |
| Summer – Summer, warm season | Tate – Cheerful, bright |
| Tessa – Harvester | Taylor – Tailor, to cut |
| Tori – Bird, winner | Tyler – Tile maker, maker of tiles |
| Violette – Violet, purple | Watson – Son of Walter, son of the ruler |
| Winter – Winter, cold season | Wilson – Son of William, son of a resolute protector |
| Wren – Small bird, songbird | Zachary – Remembered by God, God has remembered |
Posh British Names
These names are associated with the upper class and have a long-standing history within noble and aristocratic families. For a name that brings to mind Britain’s upper crust, read our list of posh British names.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Alara – Red ornament | Alfred – Elf counsel, wise counselor |
| Annabel – Loving | Alistair – Defender of the people |
| Antoinette – Priceless one | Ambrose – Immortal, immortal one |
| Antonia – Priceless, beyond praise | Angus – One strength |
| Arabelle – Lovable | Archibald – Bold prince, genuine, bold |
| Araminta – Defender | Aston – East town, noble stone |
| Aurelia – The golden one | Atticus – Man of Attica |
| Bridget – Strength or exalted one | Augustine – Great, majestic |
| Bryony – To sprout, climbing plant | Augustus – Great, magnificent |
| Calliope – Beautiful voice | Barnabas – Son of encouragement |
| Camilla – Ceremonial attendant | Barnaby – Son of encouragement |
| Carolina – Free man, song of happiness | Bartholomew – Son of Talmai |
| Catalina – Pure | Benedict – Blessed, blessed one |
| Catriona – Pure | Caspar – Treasurer |
| Clara – Bright, clear | Cecil – Blind, dim-sighted |
| Claudia – Lame or enclosure | Chester – Fortress, camp |
| Cordelia – Heart of a lion | Christian – Follower of Christ, anointed one |
| Cressida – Gold, precious | Clarence – Bright, clear, famous |
| Diana – Divine | Clement – Merciful, gentle |
| Edwina – Wealthy friend | Cornelius – Horn |
| Eleanora – Light, torchbearer | Cuthbert – Famous, brilliant |
| Eleanore – Shining light | Darcy – Dark one |
| Eloise – Famous warrior, renowned in battle | Dudley – People’s field |
| Eugenia – Well-born, noble | Edmund – Rich protector, wealthy guardian |
| Eugenie – Well-born, noble | Freddy – Peaceful ruler |
| Frances – Free, from France | Gabriel – God is my strength, hero of God |
| Francesca – Free one | Gerard – Brave spear |
| Genevieve – Tribe woman | Gideon – Great warrior, mighty warrior |
| Georgina – Farmer | Giles – Young goat or shield bearer |
| Harriet – Ruler of the home, estate ruler | Guy – Guide, leader |
| Helena – Bright, shining | Hamish – Supplanter |
| Heloise – Healthy or wide | Harry – Ruler of the home, home ruler |
| Henrietta – Ruler of the home, estate ruler | Hubert – Bright heart |
| Hillary – Cheerful | Hugh – Heart, mind, spirit |
| Imogen – Innocent, maiden | Hugo – Mind, intellect |
| Jemima – Dove, little dove | Humphrey – Peaceful warrior |
| Juliette – Youthful | Kingsley – King’s meadow, king’s field |
| Katherine – Pure | Leonard – Brave lion |
| Lissette – Pledged to God | Leonardo – Brave lion |
| Lucinda – Light | Lysander – Liberator |
| Madeleine – From Magdala, tower | Marcus – Warlike, dedicated to Mars (the Roman god of war) |
| Margot – Pearl, child of light | Montague – Pointed hill |
| Marguerite – Pearl | Montgomery – From the rich man’s mountain |
| Martha – Lady, mistress | Monty – From the wealthy man’s mountain |
| Meredith – Great ruler, protector of the sea | Nathaniel – God has given |
| Millicent – Strong in work, industrious | Nelson – Son of Neil, son of the champion |
| Octavia – Eighth | Percy – Piercing the valley |
| Ottilie – Prosperous in battle | Phillip – Lover of horses |
| Philippa – Lover of horses | Piers – Rock |
| Pippa – Lover of horses, lover of poetry | Preston – Priest’s town, town of the clergy |
| Portia – Pig, or doorway | Quentin – Fifth, from the Queen’s estate |
| Ruth – Companion, friend | Rafferty – Prosperity wielder |
| Scarlett – Scarlet, red | Raleigh – Deer meadow, red clearing |
| Scarlette – Red | Ralph – Wolf counsel, wise wolf |
| Serafina – Fiery ones | Randolph – Shield wolf |
| Seraphina – Burning ones, ardent | Rhett – Advice |
| Seraphine – Fiery ones | Roderick – Famous power |
| Tabitha – Gazelle, beauty | Rufus – Red-haired |
| Tallulah – Leaping waters, lady of abundance | Rupert – Bright fame, famed ruler |
| Tamara – Palm tree, date palm | Seymour – Marshy land near the sea |
| Tamsin – Twin | St.John – God is gracious |
| Tilly – Strength in battle | Tarquin – Invader |
| Valentina – Strength, health | Teddy – Divine gift, wealthy protector |
| Verity – Truth | Thaddeus – Courageous heart, praise |
| Violet – Violet flower, purple | Theodore – Gift of God, God’s gift |
| Wilhelmina – Resolute protection | Walter – Ruler of the army |
| Zarah – Princess | Wilbur – Wild boar or strong, resolute |
Pretty British Names
Whether rooted in the classics or drawn from nature and other elements of British heritage, these names offer a charming blend of tradition and individuality. Our list of pretty British names exemplifies the natural beauty of Britain’s countryside gardens and fields.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Abilene – Grass, meadow | Adair – Oak tree ford |
| Alicia – Noble, exalted | Aran – Mountain of strength |
| Alisha – Protected by God, noble | Berkley – Birch tree meadow |
| Andrea – Manly, brave | Brooks – Of the brook, son of Brooke |
| Angelina – Messenger of God, angelic | Camdyn – Winding valley |
| Annalee – Graceful meadow | Camryn – Crooked nose |
| Ariana – Very holy, silver | Carsen – Son of the marsh dwellers |
| Azalea – Dry, flower | Cole – Victory of the people, charcoal |
| Blakely – Dark meadow, dark clearing | Damian – To tame, subdue |
| Brielle – God is my strength, strong | Damien – To tame, subdue |
| Brinley – Burnt meadow, hill | Damon – To tame, subdue |
| Brittany – From Britain, exalted one | Dane – From Denmark, God is my judge |
| Cailyn – Pure | Drew – Manly, warrior |
| Camila – Perfect, attendant at a religious ceremony | Edison – Son of Edward, son of a wealthy guardian |
| Charity – Love, generosity | Emmanuel – God is with us, God is among us |
| Christine – Christian | Finn – Fair, white |
| Courtney – Short nose, from the court | Griffin – Strong lord, chief |
| Crystal – Clear, bright | Hayden – Heathen, from the hay downs |
| Davina – Beloved, adored | Hudson – Son of Hudd, son of Hugh |
| Delia – From Delos, born on the island of Delos | Irvin – Green water |
| Demi – Half, small | Jaden – God has heard, thankful |
| Destiny – Fate, destiny | Jameson – Son of James, son of Jacob |
| Elisa – God is my oath | Jared – Descent, ruling |
| Everley – Boar meadow | Jefferson – Son of Jeffrey, son of a peacekeeper |
| Farah – Joy | Jonas – Dove, gift from God |
| Gabriela – God is my strength | Judson – Son of Judd, son of a praised one |
| Gabriella – God is my strength, heroine of God | Julius – Youthful, downy-bearded |
| Hailey – Hay meadow, ingenious | Kaden – Fighter, spirit of battle |
| Haleigh – Hay clearing | Keaton – Place of hawks, hawk settlement |
| Harmony – Agreement, peaceful | Kelvin – Narrow river, from the narrow river |
| Heidi – Noble, of noble birth | Kendrick – Bold ruler, brave leader |
| Karsyn – Son of the marsh-dwellers | Laine – Path, roadway |
| Kasey – Alert, vigilant | Landry – Ruler, sovereign |
| Katrina – Pure, clean | Langston – Long stone, tall stone |
| Kimberly – From the wood of the royal forest, royal fortress meadow | Leland – Meadow land, from the meadow land |
| Kingsley – King’s meadow, king’s wood | London – From London, fortress of the moon |
| Kristen – Follower of Christ, anointed | Malachi – My messenger, my angel in Hebrew |
| Lana – Light, wool | Maximilian – Greatest, greatest rival |
| Larissa – Citadel, cheerful | McKay – Son of Aodh |
| Layla – Night, dark beauty | Morgan – Sea defender, bright sea |
| Leila – Night, dark beauty | Myles – Soldier, merciful |
| Lexi – Defender of mankind, man’s helper | Nolan – Champion, noble one |
| Lilah – Night | Oakley – Oak clearing, meadow of oak trees |
| Liliana – Lily, pure | Orlando – Famous throughout the land, renowned land |
| Lorelei – Alluring, siren | Pierce – Rock, stone |
| Loren – Crowned with laurel, from Laurentum | Quinton – Fifth, fifth-born child |
| Loretta – Crowned with laurel, from Laurentum | Reese – Ardent, enthusiastic |
| Lucia – Light, illumination | Remington – From the raven farm, raven estate |
| Madelyn – High tower, woman from Magdala | Rex – King, ruler |
| Mallory – Unfortunate, ill-omened | Royce – Rose, son of Roy |
| Marla – From the high tower | Rylan – Land where rye is grown, island meadow |
| Marlow – Drained lake, remnants of a lake | Ryland – Rye land, land where rye is grown |
| Melody – Song, melodic | Saul – Asked for, prayed for |
| Noelle – Christmas, birth of Christ | Sutton – South town, southern settlement |
| Paisley – Church, patterned fabric | Tatum – Bringer of joy, cheerful |
| Paris – From Paris, follower of Saint Paris | Tavion – Eighth |
| Quinn – Fifth, wise | Tavon – Twin |
| Reverie – Daydream, fantasy | Tevin – Beautiful at birth |
| Sabrina – From the river Severn, legendary princess | Travis – Crossing, toll collector |
| Serena – Serene, calm | Trent – Gushing waters, dweller by the torrent |
| Sofia – Wisdom, knowledge | Trenton – Trent’s town, settlement on the Trent River |
| Susanna – Lily, graceful lily | Turner – Lathe worker, woodworker |
| Talia – Dew from God | Tyree – Island dweller |
| Tayla – Tailor | Wade – To ford, able to cross water |
| Thea – Goddess, gods | Winston – Joyful stone, joyful town |
| Willa – Resolute protection | Zayden – Abundance, growth |
| Winslow – Friend’s hill, hill of victory | Zechariah – Remembered by God, God has remembered |
Cool British Names
Cool British names blend traditional charm with a modern twist, resulting in names that are both classic and edgy. These cool names honor the revolutionaries, renegades, and rebels of Britain’s storied past and present.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Anniston – Anna’s town, Anna’s estate | Ace – Unity |
| Astrid – Divine strength, divinely beautiful | Baron – Nobleman, title of nobility |
| Baylor – One who delivers goods, horse trainer | Bentley – Clearing covered with bent grass, meadow with coarse grass |
| Bellamy – Fine friend, beautiful friend | Bodhi – Awakening, enlightenment in Sanskrit |
| Blair – Field, plain | Brecken – Freckled, speckled |
| Blake – Dark, fair-haired | Brodi – Ditch |
| Blaze – Flame, fire | Bronson – Son of the brown-haired one, son of the dark one |
| Bowie – Yellow haired | Bruno – Brown, dark complexion |
| Bristol – Place at the bridge, meeting place by the bridge | Cade – Circular, round |
| Brooklyn – Water, stream | Calder – Stream |
| Carter – Cart driver, one who transports goods by cart | Camden – Winding valley, enclosed valley |
| Casey – Alert, watchful | Cannon – Large tube for firing projectiles, official of a cathedral |
| Cassidy – Curly-haired, clever | Channing – Young wolf, official of the church |
| Channing – Young wolf, descendant of Cainnech | Colton – Coal town, from the dark town |
| Drew – Manly | Dayton – Bright, sunny town |
| Easton – Eastern town, east-facing settlement | Drake – Dragon, male duck |
| Ember – Burning coal, glowing fire | Ever – Strong as a boar |
| Empress – Female ruler, queen | Ezekiel – God strengthens, strength of God |
| Ensley – One’s own meadow | Flint – Hard quartz rock, stream |
| Everly – From the boar meadow, wild boar clearing | Freddie – Peaceful ruler, elf counselor |
| Farrah – Beautiful, pleasant | Garrett – Spear strength, spear ruler |
| Harley – Hare meadow, meadow of the hares | Garrison – Fortified town, stronghold |
| Harlow – Mound of the army, rocky hill | Gunnar – Warrior, battle army |
| Henley – High meadow, fields with wild birds | Jagger – Carter, peddler |
| Indigo – Indian dye | Jaxon – God has been gracious, son of Jack |
| Ivory – Ivory, white | Jayce – Healer, healing |
| Jordyn – To flow down, descend | Johnny – God is gracious |
| Journee – Day’s journey, trip | Kade – From the wetlands |
| Journey – Trip, travel | Kam – Lord |
| Kai – Rejoice | Kamden – Winding valley, enclosed valley |
| Kit – Pure, follower of Christ | Kamdyn – Winding valley |
| Lake – Lake, water body | Kameron – Crooked nose |
| Lark – Songbird, cheerful | Kane – Warrior, battle |
| Lennon – Dear one, lover | Karson – Son of the marsh-dwellers |
| Lexie – Defender of mankind | Karsyn – Son of the marsh-dwellers |
| Leya – The law | Karter – Cart driver, driver of a cart |
| London – From London, fortress of the moon | Kason – Son of the marsh-dwellers |
| Maxine – Greatest, greatest woman | Kendrix – Royal ruler |
| Mckenna – Son of Cionaodh | Kent – High, border |
| Oakley – Oak meadow, oak clearing | Keyon – God is gracious |
| Palmer – Pilgrim, palm-bearing pilgrim | King – Ruler, monarch |
| Parker – Park keeper, gamekeeper | Kingston – King’s town, ruler’s estate |
| Presley – Priest’s meadow, priest’s clearing | Kit – Bearer of Christ |
| Rain – Rain, blessing of water | Knoxx – Round-top hill |
| Rebel – Rebel, one who defies authority | Kyson – Son of Kyle, son of a narrow channel |
| Reem – Gazelle | Lamont – Lawyer |
| Reese – Enthusiasm, ardor | Legend – Mythical story, celebrated narrative |
| Ridley – Reed clearing, reed meadow | Mackenzie – Son of the fair one |
| Riley – Courageous, valiant | Macklin – Son of |
| Ripley – Strip clearing, strip of meadow | Maddox – Son of Madoc, fortunate |
| River – River, water stream | Mason – Stone worker, one who works with stone |
| Sadie – Princess, mercy | Nash – By the ash tree, ash tree clearing |
| Sage – Wise one | Orion – Son of fire, hunter in Greek mythology |
| Saige – Wise, prophetess | Ransom – Redeemed, ransomed |
| Saylor – Dancer, leaper | Rockwell – Rock spring, rock well |
| Sky – Sky, heaven | Sky – Sky, heaven |
| Skyla – Scholar | Skyler – Scholar, protection |
| Skylar – Scholar, eternal life | Slade – Valley, dweller in the valley |
| Skyler – Scholar, eternal life | Slater – Roof slater, slate layer |
| Star – Star | Smith – Metalworker, blacksmith |
| Sterling – Little star, genuine | Stirling – From Stirling |
| Stormi – Impetuous nature | Tucker – Fabric pleater, cloth fuller |
| Sydney – Wide island, wide meadow | Ulysses – Wrathful, hateful |
| Tatum – Bringer of joy, cheerful | Xander – Defender of men |
| Timber – Wood, forest | Zack – The Lord has remembered |
| Vayda – Ruler | Zeke – God strengthens, the strength of God |
| Zelda – Gray warrior, blessed | Zion – Highest point, fortification |
Rare British Names
Rare British names have deep roots from various periods, such as the Anglo-Saxon era and Medieval times, or have Celtic and Viking influences. This list of rare names is waiting to be rediscovered.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Alberta – Noble, bright | Alby – Bright |
| Alethia – Truth | Alden – Old friend, wise friend |
| Alexandria – Defender of mankind, man’s helper | Alton – Old town, noble town |
| Alyssa – Noble, rational | Anson – Son of Anne, son of a gracious one |
| Angelica – Angel, messenger of God | Arden – Eagle valley, valley of the eagles |
| Annora – Honor | Auden – Old friend, prosperous friend |
| Arwen – Noble maiden, fair, blessed | Ayden – Little fire, fiery one |
| Arwyn – Muse | Barret – Brave as a bear, bear-like |
| Blossom – Flower, blooming | Bayne – Fair-skinned |
| Brenda – Prince, sword | Bennett – Blessed, blessed little one |
| Callan – Rock | Benson – Son of Ben, son of the blessed one |
| Cambria – Wales, welsh | Benton – Bent grass enclosure, settlement near the bent grass |
| Celia – Heavenly, heavenly | Branson – Son of Brandon, son of a raven |
| Cherish – To treasure, to hold dear | Brigham – Dweller by the bridge, homestead near the bridge |
| Ciara – Black | Carlton – Free peasant settlement, farmstead of free men |
| Colette – Victorious, people of victory | Chad – Battle, warrior |
| Dove – Symbol of peace, gentle bird | Charleston – Town Of King Charles |
| Elaine – Bright, shining | Clifton – Town near a cliff, settlement on a cliff |
| Elena – Bright, shining | Coleman – Charcoal burner, servant of Nicholas |
| Elodie – Foreign riches, foreign wealth | Cordell – Cord maker, maker of cords |
| Embry – Work, industrious | Cyrus – Sun, lord in Persian |
| Emerald – Green gemstone, precious stone | Dirk – Ruler of the people, powerful ruler |
| Emmeline – Hardworking | Dwayne – Dark, swarthy |
| Esme – Emerald, esteemed | Elmer – Noble and famous, noble ruler |
| Estelle – Star, bright | Elton – Ella’s town, noble town |
| Frida – Peaceful, serene | Enoch – Dedicated, trained |
| Gloria – Glory, renown | Fitz – Son, child (used as a prefix in surnames) |
| Guinevere – White phantom, white ghost | Foster – Foster parent, one who nurtures |
| Gwen – White, fair | Gibson – Son of Gilbert, son of bright pledge |
| Gwyneth – Blessed, white | Grover – Groves, one who lives near the grove |
| Heather – Flower, from the heath | Guthrie – Windy spot |
| Helene – Bright, shining | Hagan – Youthful, young |
| Ingrid – Beautiful, fair | Hampton – Home, estate |
| Kaileen – Pure | Hardy – Bold, brave |
| Kathryn – Pure, chaste | Hollis – Holly trees, near the holly trees |
| Laine – Path, roadway | Jarrett – Spear ruler, brave spearman |
| Lavender – Purple flower, aromatic herb | Jeb – Beloved friend, darling |
| Lesly – Garden of holly | Kamren – Crooked nose |
| Lorna – Forsaken, abandoned | Kamrin – Crooked nose |
| Maesie – Pearl | Kelton – Town of the keels, settlement of boats |
| Malina – Yellow as honey | Kenton – From the royal town, town on the river |
| Margo – Pearl, child of light | Kirk – Church, from the church |
| Marilyn – Rebellious, wished-for child | Kurt – Courteous, polite |
| Marina – From the sea, of the sea | Kyel – Narrow |
| Maude – Battle-mighty, powerful in battle | Lawton – Hill enclosure, settlement on a hill |
| Maven – Expert, knowledgeable | Leighton – Meadow town, from the meadow town |
| Mina – Love, mine | Leopold – Bold people, brave ruler |
| Mira – Wonderful, admirable | Lester – Fortress, castle |
| Myra – Sweet-smelling oil, fragrance | Leyton – Meadow settlement, settlement on the meadow |
| Opal – Gemstone, precious stone | Lyall – Loyal |
| Paisleigh – Church | Lyle – Island, island dweller |
| Patience – Patience, endurance | Manson – Son of Magnus |
| Primrose – First rose, first flower | Marlon – Falcon, little hawk |
| Priscilla – Ancient, venerable | Milton – Mill town, settlement with a mill |
| Rae – Female sheep | Nehemiah – Comforted by God, God has comforted |
| Raya – Friend, peaceful | Neilan – Champion |
| Reign – Rule, dominion | Phineas – Oracle, serpent’s mouth |
| Rhiannon – Great queen, divine queen | Ridley – Wood clearing, cleared wood |
| Saffron – Yellow spice, precious and expensive | Roscoe – Deer forest, wood of the deer |
| Shelby – Willow farm, estate with willows | Sheldon – Steep valley, valley with a ledge |
| Temperance – Moderation, self-restraint | Thatcher – Roof thatcher, roof maker |
| Twila – Twilight, dusk | Truman – Faithful one, loyal man |
| Winifred – Blessed peace, fair peace | Vance – Marshland, thresher |
| Winnie – Joy, happiness | Warner – Defender, army guard |
| Ximena – Hearkening, listener | Woodrow – Row of houses by the wood, row of dwellings near the forest |
More Lists:
Names of Famous British Men and Women
Alan Turing was a brilliant mathematician and cryptanalyst whose namesake Turing machine was a major step in developing modern computers. During World War II, he worked as a codebreaker and used his skills to break German ciphers and help win the war. Alan is a British name of Gaelic origin and means ‘handsome’ or ‘cheerful.’
Charlie Chaplin was an iconic actor and filmmaker who rose to international fame through his comedic roles. He is best known for his silent films, where he depicted the character called the Tramp, and for his first sound film, The Great Dictator. Charlie is a diminutive form of Charles, meaning ‘free man.’
Amy Winehouse was a singer and songwriter famous for her soulful voice and music. Her album Back to Black earned critical acclaim and became a best-selling album, leading to her winning 5 Grammy Awards in 2008. Amy is a British name of Latin origin and means ‘beloved.’
Michael Crawford, stage name Michael Patrick Smith, is an actor, comedian, and singer who earned critical acclaim for his theater performances. The Phantom of the Opera, where he played the Phantom, is one of his best-known works. Michael originates from Hebrew and means ‘Who is like God?’.
Audrey Hepburn was a Belgian-born British actress, fashion icon, and humanitarian. Most of her famous roles were in romantic comedies and musicals, and her performance in Romantic Holiday led to her winning an Oscar, BAFTA, and Golden Globe Award, the first of many accolades. Audrey is an Anglo-Norman name meaning ‘strength.’
References
Information from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) which publishes information on the most popular baby names using birth registration data in England and Wales was used in the collection of this data, as was information from the National Records of Scotland (NRS) which publishes information on Scottish names. The UK has laws restricting baby names that contain obscenities, numerals, misleading titles, or are impossible to pronounce. More information on permissible names in the UK can be found on the Law and Religion UK website.
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