1. Home
  2. Topics

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

Sophia

Meaning: wisdom

Origin:Greek
152
Lucy

Meaning: light

Origin:English variation of Lucia, Latin
25
Anna

Meaning: grace

Origin:Variation of Hannah, Hebrew
106
Oliver

Meaning: olive tree

Origin:Latin
7
Emily

Meaning: rival

Origin:Feminine variation of Emil, Latin
120
Emma

Meaning: universal

Origin:German
102
Julia

Meaning: youthful or sky father

Origin:Latin
133
Elizabeth

Meaning: pledged to God

Origin:Hebrew
86
Grace A name associated with elegance, poise and b...
Origin:English, virtue name
76
Katherine

Meaning: pure

Origin:Greek
262
Jane

Meaning: God is gracious

Origin:English
77
Claire

Meaning: bright, clear

Origin:French form of Clara
90
Sarah

Meaning: princess

Origin:Hebrew
345
Matthew

Meaning: gift of God

Origin:Hebrew
120
Jacob

Meaning: supplanter

Origin:Hebrew
137
Andrew

Meaning: strong and manly

Origin:Greek
118
William

Meaning: resolute protection

Origin:German
128
Thomas

Meaning: twin

Origin:Aramaic
59
Samuel

Meaning: told by God

Origin:Hebrew
87
Alexander

Meaning: defending men

Origin:Greek
42