Baby Name Ideas: 200 Names With Meanings, by Style

October 7, 2026

Choosing a name is one of the first big decisions you'll make for your baby.

Here are names grouped by style, with commonly given meanings. Name meanings vary between sources, so treat them as a guide.

Classic girls' names

Elizabeth: 'God is my oath'
Charlotte: 'free'
Grace: 'grace'
Alice: 'noble'
Eleanor: 'light'
Sophia: 'wisdom'
Emily: 'industrious'
Florence: 'flourishing'

Classic boys' names

George: 'farmer'
Henry: 'ruler of the home'
William: 'resolute protector'
Thomas: 'twin'
James: 'supplanter'
Arthur: 'bear'
Oliver: 'olive tree'
Edward: 'wealthy guardian'

Nature names

Ivy
Willow
Hazel
Rose
River
Rowan
Ash
Jasper
Iris
Bear

Short and sweet

Ava
Mia
Eva
Isla
Leo
Max
Finn
Kai
Theo
Zac

Unisex names

Charlie
Alex
Frankie
Riley
Jude
Sam
Robin
Ellis
Harley
Morgan

Welsh, Scottish and Irish

Seren (Welsh): 'star'
Rhys (Welsh): 'ardour'
Eilidh (Scottish): often linked to 'light'
Callum (Scottish): 'dove'
Niamh (Irish): 'bright'
Oisín (Irish): 'little deer'
Cerys (Welsh): 'love'
Ruairi (Irish/Scottish): 'red king'

Key things to remember

Say the full name out loud with your surname.
Check the initials don't spell anything awkward.
In England and Wales, you have 42 days to register a birth.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose a baby name?

Shortlist names you both like, say them aloud with the surname, and sleep on it.

When do you have to register a baby's name?

Within 42 days in England and Wales, 21 days in Scotland.

What is a good example of baby name ideas?

"Elizabeth: 'God is my oath'" is one of 54 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

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Personalised Baby Girl Wooden Memories Keepsake Box Vintage Style

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