Parenting
30 unique baby names that will stand out in 2025
By Cradlewise Staff
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Parenting
30 unique baby names that will stand out in 2025
By Cradlewise Staff
Choosing the perfect baby name is a big deal! Whether you’re an expecting parent on the hunt for the right name or just curious to see if your baby’s name made it to the unique baby names list, we’ve got you covered.
Baby name trends in 2025 are being shaped by pop culture, nostalgic revivals, nature, and international influences. TV shows, movies, and celebrity baby names continue to spark inspiration (hello, Renaissance babies!).
At the same time, vintage names are making a comeback—think timeless names that feel both fresh and familiar. Parents are also embracing celestial and nature-themed names, as well as cross-cultural names that celebrate heritage and global connections.
Ready to explore? Here are 30 unique baby names that are set to shine in 2025!
10 unique girl names that are going to trend in 2025
Looking for a unique girl name that stands out? These names are equal parts beautiful, bold, and unexpected.
1. Lyra
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Lyre (a musical instrument)
A name that’s as lyrical as it sounds! Lyra is also the name of a constellation, giving it a celestial touch. It became widely known thanks to the His Dark Materials series, making it a great pick for literary lovers and stargazers alike.
Did you know?
Actress Sophie Dahl and musician Jamie Cullum named their daughter Lyra—a perfect blend of music and storytelling.
2. Eloise
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Healthy, wide
With vintage charm and a playful twist, Eloise is as spunky as the beloved book character from Eloise at the Plaza. This name is perfect for a little adventurer who brings energy and elegance in equal measure.
3. Zara
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Princess, flower
Short, chic, and sophisticated, Zara is a royal-approved name (Princess Anne’s daughter is named Zara!). It has an effortlessly international feel, making it a stylish choice for modern parents.
4. Juniper
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Juniper tree
If you love nature-inspired names but want something beyond Lily or Rose, Juniper is a fresh and fun pick! It symbolizes protection and positivity, and it’s full of playful nickname potential (Juni or Juno, anyone?).
5. Ophelia
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Help
Shakespearean, melodic, and undeniably romantic, Ophelia is a name with drama and depth. Despite its tragic literary roots, it has a soft, dreamy sound that makes it a favorite for parents who love classic names with a twist.
Did you know?
The Lumineers made this name even more popular with their hit song Ophelia!
6. Indigo
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Indian dye
A deep, rich, and artistic name, Indigo is perfect for a free-spirited child. It’s a gender-neutral color name with a mysterious yet calming vibe.
7. Selene
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Moon goddess
Soft, celestial, and effortlessly elegant, Selene is the name of the Greek goddess of the moon. If you love lunar names but want something more unique than Luna, this is a dreamy choice.
8. Marigold
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: A golden flower
A vintage floral name that radiates warmth and joy. Marigold feels both classic and fresh—ideal for parents who want a golden, sunshine-y name for their little one.
9. Iris
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Rainbow
A name that symbolizes color, beauty, and hope. Iris is short, sweet, and full of personality, making it a great pick for a bright and bold little girl.
10. Hazel
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Hazel tree
Earthy, warm, and vintage-chic, Hazel has been making a major comeback. Celebrities like Emily Blunt and John Krasinski chose this name for their daughter, proving that nature-inspired names are here to stay.
10 unique boy names that are going to trend in 2025
These unique boy names strike the perfect balance between strong, stylish, and unexpected. From mythological powerhouses to literary inspirations, each name has a distinctive charm that will surely make a statement for years to come.
1. Apollo
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: God of the sun
A name drenched in mythological power and cosmic coolness. Apollo was the god of music, light, and exploration—qualities that make it a stellar choice for a future leader, artist, or adventurer. Imagine your little one radiating the kind of energy that lights up a room!
Did you know?
NASA’s legendary Apollo missions were named after the Greek god—talk about a name that’s reaching for the stars!
2. Caspian
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: From the Caspian Sea
A name with literary flair, Caspian brings to mind Prince Caspian from The Chronicles of Narnia, filled with a sense of adventure and nobility. It’s a grand yet mysterious name that’s perfect for a little explorer with a wild heart and a curious soul.
3. Bodhi
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: Enlightenment
A peaceful, spiritual name that evokes wisdom, mindfulness, and a sense of calm. Bodhi is not just a name; it’s a reflection of deep meaning and inner peace. It’s becoming a popular choice for parents who seek a name that embodies tranquility and growth.
4. Leander
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Lion man
A strong yet poetic name from Greek mythology, Leander balances power with elegance. It brings to mind strength, courage, and resilience, making it ideal for a child destined to be both fierce and graceful in life.
5. River
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Flowing water
A nature-inspired name that feels as calming as it is full of energy. River has a fluidity and depth that mirrors the unpredictable yet peaceful movement of water. It’s perfect for a little one who will flow through life with ease and adventure.
6. Jasper
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Treasurer
A classic name with an old-world charm, Jasper is gaining popularity thanks to its vintage appeal and strong meaning. It suggests someone who holds value, whether it’s in their wisdom, presence, or talents. It’s a name that’s been around for centuries but still feels fresh and timeless.
7. Finley
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Fair-haired hero
A name with deep roots in Scottish history, Finley carries a long-standing tradition of strength and bravery. It has a gentle, approachable sound, while still maintaining a strong, heroic essence. Perfect for a little one who’s destined to be both brave and kind.
8. Soren
- Origin: Danish
- Meaning: Stern
Sleek and sophisticated, Soren has a cool, modern edge thanks to its Scandinavian origins. The name suggests clarity and focus—ideal for a child who’s destined to follow their path with determination and strength.
9. Dashiell
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Page boy
Dashiell is a literary-inspired name made famous by the writer Dashiell Hammett, known for his hard-boiled detective novels. It’s a bit quirky, a bit mysterious, and a whole lot of cool. Perfect for a little one with an old-school charm and a sharp mind.
10. Atticus
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Man of Attica
Linked forever with To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus is a name that exudes wisdom, integrity, and strength. It’s a name that speaks to the values we hope to instill in our children—courage, fairness, and compassion. A name with history, heart, and purpose.
10 Unique Gender-Neutral Names That Are Going to Trend in 2025
For parents looking to step away from traditional gender-specific names, these unique gender-neutral names are the perfect choice. They blend creativity, nature, and modern style, making them ideal for the modern family.
1. Milo
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Soldier or merciful
Milo has a soft yet strong sound and an endearing meaning—”soldier” or “merciful” in Latin. It’s a name that suggests kindness and strength, perfect for a little one who will grow up to be both fierce and compassionate. Whether your child will follow a path of service or offer support to others, Milo is a name that conveys both protection and generosity.
2. Sage
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Wise, healing herb
A name with layers of meaning, Sage represents both intelligence and nature. It’s a name that signifies wisdom, growth, and healing, making it ideal for a child who will bring peace and insight into the world.
3. Sky
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Cloud, atmosphere
For parents drawn to celestial names, Sky brings with it the limitless potential of the heavens. Whether it’s a clear, sunny sky or one filled with clouds, this name suggests vast possibilities and boundless imagination.
4. Remy
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Oarsman
Short and effortlessly stylish, Remy carries a chic European flair that makes it feel both modern and timeless. The name suggests someone who’s capable, determined, and ready to steer their own course in life.
5. Cedar
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Cedar tree
Strong, grounded, and full of life, Cedar is a nature name that’s gentle yet resilient. It’s perfect for parents who want a name that reflects both the beauty and strength of the natural world.
6. Orion
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: A hunter in Greek mythology
Orion is a celestial name tied to one of the most famous constellations in the night sky. It’s a name that inspires adventure, discovery, and a sense of wonder.
Did you know?
The Orion constellation is one of the easiest to spot and has been used for navigation for centuries!
7. Atlas
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: To carry
A bold name linked to Greek mythology, Atlas represents endurance and adventure. In myth, Atlas carried the world on his shoulders, making this an ideal name for a child who will go on to shoulder big dreams and challenges.
8. Echo
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Sound, reflection
A name that echoes through history, Echo has a poetic, almost musical quality. It’s a name that reflects back the world around it, making it a perfect choice for a child who is introspective and deeply connected to others.
9. Nova
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: New, star explosion
Cosmic and bright, Nova symbolizes a new beginning or a burst of light. It’s a name that suggests both fresh starts and lasting impact—ideal for a child destined to shine brightly in everything they do.
10. Lennox
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: Elm grove
Strong yet soft, Lennox offers a modern twist on a traditional name. With its earthy feel, it represents both strength and nature—a name that feels grounded yet contemporary.
What’s shaping baby name trends in 2025?
From pop culture and literature to celestial and nature themes, unique baby names in 2025 are all about creativity and meaning. No matter what you choose, the perfect name is the one that feels just right for your little one.