Gender neutral baby names

Why pick a unique gender-neutral baby name? While gender reveals are all the rage these days, some mamas-to-be are opting to ignore the baked goods and pyrotechnics, instead keeping the surprise for the delivery room. And if that’s you, then you might want a shortlist of flexible names at the ready! Other mamas, meanwhile, are deliberately sidestepping traditional naming conventions with one eye on their child’s future. A non-binary name could keep gender stereotyping or sexism at bay when your child is ready to enter school, college, or the workplace. So, what are some good unisex names? Without further ado, let’s take a look at ten trendy names for both genders: Alex — Greek in origin, Alex means “protector of humankind” (so, no pressure, little one…). It can be a stand-alone name or a nickname for Alexander or Alexandra. Famous namesakes include the late, great Alex Trebek, and former E.R. and Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston. Blake — Meaning “dark and attractive,” Blake has been a popular boy’s name since the 1940s. However, it has steadily climbed the ranks of cool girl’s names since the ‘90s, and today it has actress Blake Lively to thank for making it mainstream. Cameron — A Scottish/Celtic name, Cameron derives from the Gaelic “cam sròn,” which means “crooked nose.” Famous Camerons include film director Cameron Crowe and NFL quarterback Cam Newton. But when it comes to Cameron as a girl’s name entering the zeitgeist, look no further than Cameron Diaz. Charlie — Old German in origin, Charlie means “free man.” A classic boy’s name derived from the traditional “Charles,” Charlie has grown in popularity with parents of babies of both genders. It can also be a nickname for the girl’s name “Charlotte.” Notable Charlies include actor Charlie Sheen and TikTok sensation Charli D’Amelio. Dylan — A traditional Welsh name (it means “son of the sea”), Dylan has appeared in the top 20 boy’s names on numerous occasions. As a girl’s name, it spent 5 years inside the top 400 between 2014 and 2018. Famous Dylans include model Dylan Penn (daughter of Sean Penn and Robin Wright) and actor Dylan Sprouse. Frankie — Frankie – short for Francis, Frances, or Francesca – is a cute name that works for both a boy and a girl. It has a few variations, including Franky, Franki, or Frankee. Notable Frankies include singer Frankie Valli and actor Frankie Muniz, while the daughter of Drew Barrymore is also called Frankie. Hayden — Hayden is English in origin and means “hedged valley.” Although initially a British surname, it has since become celebrated as a unisex first name. Famous Haydens include actor Hayden Christensen and actress Hayden Panettiere. Leslie — Another Scottish/Celtic name, Leslie means “garden of holly.” Although more popular as a girl’s name these days, the fact that it can be shortened to “Les” makes it a strong choice for boys, too. When it comes to famous Leslies, think actresses Leslie Bibb and Leslie Mann, or the actor and singer Leslie Odom Jr. Robin — An English name, Robin (also spelled “Robyn”) was more commonly given as a girl’s name in the US, but the gap has narrowed in recent years. Notable Robins include the one and only Robin Williams, singer Robin Thicke, and actress Robin Tunney. Sasha — An always-popular Russian baby name, Sasha (also “Sacha”) is short for Alexander/Alexandra and means “defender of humankind” (seriously, no pressure, kid!). Famous Sashas include actor and comedian Sacha Baron Cohen and Sasha Obama, daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama. Read more below….