Picking a name for your child is no small task—it’s something they’ll carry with them for life. You might find yourself wondering if you should go for something commonly used, like Liam, or venture into less conventional territory. I mean, there are names that feel almost, well, extinct!
Alternatively, you could draw inspiration from the pop culture landscape of 2025. Think about the shows you binge, the music you enjoy, and the sports events that catch your attention—these can all influence baby names.
According to BabyCenter, a site that keeps tabs on naming trends, pop culture is likely to shape the names parents choose in 2026 in interesting ways.
While many trends point to names that are likely to gain popularity, some cultural moments hint at the decline of certain names. For example, names like Kodi and Murphy are facing a drop, although BabyCenter hasn’t specified why. It could be linked to ongoing events in the entertainment world.
Let’s dive into the shows, people, and events that might impact naming choices in 2026.
From Television to Birth Certificates
Recently, BabyCenter noted a rise in specific names featured in popular series. If you’re a fan of the Apple TV show “Severance,” you might recognize Helena, which is currently ranked 313th among girls’ names.
Samira, Heather, and Kathy—names from HBO Max’s “The Pit”—are catching attention too. Kathy, in particular, hasn’t made the top 1,000 girls’ names since 2009, which is quite a shift considering its peak in the 80s.
More unique names such as Belinda and Chelsea are making a comeback for girls, alongside boys’ names like Valentin and Fabian—all predicted to rise next year, partly thanks to cultural hits like “The Summer I Got Pretty.”
Boy Band and Beyoncé
If music is your inspiration, you’ll find that names of popular boy band members are trending too. Think Howie and Nick from the Backstreet Boys or NSYNC, who also have their own notable mentions. K-pop idols like BTS’ Jin and Jun from Seventeen might also sway naming choices in 2026.
In relation to Beyoncé’s recent album, names like Rose and Jane are gaining traction, reflecting lyrics and song titles. Miley, linked to Miley Cyrus, is another name seeing increased interest.
Baby Baller
Basketball is influencing baby names as well. Names of Oklahoma City Thunder players, including Jaylin and Dillon, are on the rise, particularly after the team’s NBA Finals win. WNBA stars’ names like Courtney and Kelsey are also gaining popularity.
Books, the Papacy, and Aesthetics
Literary references are rising, with names inspired by authors like Ernest and Octavia, or characters such as Sawyer and Daisy. Moreover, the “cottagecore” aesthetic may bring names like Sienna and Eloise into the spotlight.
Following Pope Francis’ passing earlier this year, names associated with him—like Francis and Francine—are starting to appear more frequently among newborns.
What Are the Most Popular Names in 2025?
As of November, BabyCenter lists the top names for this year. For boys, the frontrunners are Noah, Liam, Oliver, Elijah, and Mateo. On the girls’ side, the leaders are Olivia, Amelia, Sophia, Emma, and Isabella.
