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Traditional Baby Names

Traditional baby names, by our definition, are those that have been used consistently in English-speaking countries for centuries — and are still in widespread use. While traditional names are often popular, that's not always true. Choices such as Emma and James have always been among the top baby names, while those like Antonia and Theresa have fallen off the popularity charts.

Along with Emma, Traditional girl names among the current Top 10 in the US include Olivia, Sophia, Isabella, and Charlotte. In addition to James, the traditional names at the top of the popularity list for boys include William, Oliver, Henry, and Benjamin.

Traditional baby names might not be the most exciting choices in the book, but they are the most reliable. Here are some of the most traditional baby names for both boys and girls.

Traditional Names for Babies

Antonia

Meaning: from Antium

Origin:Latin
697
Isabel

Meaning: pledged to God

Origin:Spanish variation of Elizabeth
222
Rose

Meaning: rose, a flower

Origin:Latin
52
Esther

Meaning: star

Origin:Persian
105
Naomi

Meaning: pleasantness

Origin:Hebrew
118
Miriam

Meaning: drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved

Origin:Hebrew or Egyptian
157
Daniel

Meaning: God is my judge

Origin:Hebrew
150
Laura

Meaning: from Laurentum or bay laurel

Origin:English from Latin
113
Irene

Meaning: peace

Origin:Greek
195
Madeline

Meaning: high tower or woman from Magdala

Origin:English variation of Magdalen
103
Ruth

Meaning: compassionate friend

Origin:Hebrew
255
Louise

Meaning: renowned warrior

Origin:French and English, feminine variation of Louis
377
Susannah

Meaning: lily

Origin:Hebrew
1030
Leo

Meaning: lion

Origin:Latin
48
Arthur

Meaning: bear

Origin:Celtic
32
Isaac

Meaning: laughter

Origin:Hebrew
60
Nathaniel

Meaning: gift of God

Origin:Hebrew
41
Philip

Meaning: lover of horses

Origin:Greek
153
Malcolm

Meaning: devotee of St. Colomba

Origin:Scottish
130
Vincent

Meaning: conquering

Origin:Latin
52