32 Unique and Meaningful Gender Neutral Names We Love

When it comes to current baby trends, gender neutral names are popular with parents, from small towns to Hollywood. However, if you take a look at baby names throughout history, you’ll find that gender neutral names have been chosen by parents for centuries.

By choosing something that’s gender neutral, your baby’s name will stick out simply because it’s unique, not because it’s associated with gender. So how do you know where to begin?

Don’t let the choices overwhelm you. If you’re searching for a gender neutral name for your baby, we gathered a list of 32 of our favorites.

How to Choose a Name for Baby: 7 Tips

Here are 7 helpful tips you should consider before choosing your baby’s name.

1. Look to the classics – Just because a name is classic, doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Names that have been around for decades or even centuries are rich in history and can connect your baby with their culture or religion.
2. Take a look at your family tree – You can find some great inspiration by looking at your family tree. You may find a name that catches your eye. There is something special about choosing a name with family history.
3. Write out the initials – Take a moment to write out your baby’s initials. By writing them out, you may discover that what it spells is offensive or strange and opt for another name or spelling.
4. Think about sibling’s names – You may want to give your children names that sound the same or start with the same letter. You also should think about giving one child a unique name while another child has a very common name like Michael.
5. Consider nicknames – Think about what nicknames your baby may have based on their name. Ask yourselves, do you feel good about them? Do they work well with their last name?
6. Talk about spelling – Talk with your partner about how you want to spell your baby’s name. By changing the spelling of a common name, you may be making it harder for your little one to spell or for others to pronounce.
7. Say it out loud – Say your baby’s out loud along with their middle and last names. You’ll find out whether or not it has a nice rhythm or if it’s quite a mouthful!

32 Gender Neutral Names

1. Alex – Derived from the English names, Alexander or Alexandra, the name Alex is a strong one, meaning defender of the people. Possible nicknames could be Al, Allie, or Lexi.
2. August – Two of the cutest nicknames, Auggie or Gus, come from this Latin name. It means great, which sets your child up for a life of greatness.
3. Austin – This baby name has become more popular in recent years. Like the name August, it means great, and has some pretty great nicknames too – Aussie and Ozzie.
4. Billie – This unique name is quite musical, with the song “Billie Jean” and singers Billie Holiday and Billie Eilish. Traditionally a nickname itself, this name means protection.
5. Blake – This English name has two very opposite meanings – pale blond one and dark. You may decide to go with nicknames like Bee, Blakie, or Blakers.
6. Campbell – Meaning beautiful field, this Scottish name is typically used as a surname, which makes using it as a first name unique. Possible nicknames include Cam, Cammie, or Bell.
7. Casey – Whether you spell it with a C or a K, this name means vigilant in war. Your little warrior may go by Case, Cay, or Ace.
8. Dakota – Friendship is in the cards for your little one, as Dakota means the allies or considered a friend. Of Native American descent, popular nicknames include Dax, Cody, or Koda.
9. Devon – Meaning deep valley dwellers, this name comes from the English county of Devonshire. Also spelled Devin, it is inspired by British history and breathtaking landscapes.
10. Dylan – This name has two meanings – son of the sea and towards the tide. If the ocean inspires you, this may be the perfect name for your little “Dilly” or “Dill Pickle”.
11. Echo – Meaning reflected sound, it may make you think of the reverberating sound of waves, or the sound of your little one’s coos. Coco would be a sweet nickname.
12. Ellis – This English name traditionally means The Lord is my God. It also means kind or benevolent, traits any parent would want in their child. Choose from nicknames like Ellie or Eli.
13. Finley – Your fair warrior or hero is destined to be courageous. Derived from the Gaelic surname “Fionlagh”, some nicknames include Fin, Finnie, or Finster.
14. Gray – This British name means silver haired. When it comes to nicknames, you can go with Gracie or Stone.
15. Harlow – With two meanings, army hill or the rocky hill, is sure to instill confidence and strength starting from birth. Harry and Ari would be great nicknames.
16. Harper – Your little one may be inspired to play music as this name means harp player. Harps, Harp, or Happy could be a cute nickname.
17. Haven – From English origin, this name means safe place. Also spelled Havyn, nicknames include Have or Havy.
18. Jordan – Meaning to flow down, this is a great name for a boy or girl. Nicknames like Jordy or Jordster are fun options.
19. Kennedy – This strong-sounding Irish name meaning armored may make you think of famous political figures. Choose from nicknames like Ken, Kenny, or Ned.
20. Kieran – This gender-neutral Irish name means little dark one or black haired. Some unique nicknames are Kierni, Kizza, and Kiers.
21. Lennon – Your little dear one or lover will no doubt hold your heart in their hands. Sweet nicknames include Lemon, Lenni, or Len.
22. London – Meaning from the great river, this strong name inspires thoughts of the famous English city. Get creative with nicknames like Donny, Lonny, or Lundy.
23. Lyric – This name is lyrical – literally. Meaning words of a song, it comes from both Greek and French origins. Fun nicknames are Lyra, Lala, and Ricki.
24. Nova – This Latin name means new, which is fitting for your new little one. Nono and Novie are great nicknames.
25. Quinn – Inspire leadership with this name that means queen and wise. Of Irish descent, you can choose nicknames like Quincy, Quinny, or Quint.
26. River – A flowing body of water, this old English name is popular for both boys and girls. Rio, Rivvy, and Riv are some choices for nicknames.
27. Rylan – This name is a variant of the English name Ryland and means land where rye is grown. You may choose to spell it Rilan and nickname your little one Ry or RyRy.
28. Rowan – With English and Irish origins, this name means red-haired. Originally a surname, it has become popular as a first name. Nicknames include Roe or Roey.
29. Storm – Don’t let the meaning of this name, tempest, deter you. Instead, think of your little one’s name representing strength and force. Stormy and Stormtrooper are fun nicknames.
30. Teagan – This Irish name means attractive, beautiful, or perfect. Some nicknames are Tea or Teag (teeg).
31. Willow – Coming from willow tree or from the willow grove, this English name inspires thoughts of grace and elegance like the tree itself. Lolo, Lo, Will, and Willa are some popular nicknames.
32. Wren – Your little songbird is sure to bring beautiful music into your life. Associated with musicians, songwriters, and poets, nicknames include Wrenna, Ren, and Wrennie.

Gender neutral names will surely stand the test of time. Have you found your favorite?

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