Choosing baby names is both the best and worst part of pregnancy. Choosing a name for your child is a great honour, and it’s fun searching through books of baby names to find the perfect one. However, it’s also depressing to discover that you and your partner don’t have similar tastes.
One of the current naming trends for 2024 is gender neutral baby names. Unisex baby names have always been popular, with many parents opting for names that work for both sexes. With gender norms slipping away and more people choosing to eschew expectations based on gender, unisex baby names are a trend we think will continue for years to come.
What are the gender neutral names used in 2024?
Gender neutral names are also known as nonbinary names, full-spectrum names, or unisex baby names. Popular gender neutral names work well for either sex, making it a fantastic name-choosing strategy if you don’t find out the sex of your baby before the birth.
As people begin to look past gender norms, it’s likely that genderless names will become more popular. We might also see a traditionally gendered name being used for kids of the opposite gender identity, as parents strive to break down ideas of femininity and masculinity.
Aesthetic gender neutral baby names
The idea of aesthetic unisex baby names or nonbinary names is relatively new, so you can be forgiven for not knowing what it means. To describe something as ‘aesthetic’ means it is stylish or beautiful. An aesthetic name is considered to be desirable and in vogue.
Casey
Casey is a good name for both boys and girls. It is one of those cute unisex baby names that is also charming for adults of either sex. The name Casey has Irish origins and means ‘vigilant, watchful, and brave’.
Eden
Eden is an aesthetic unisex name that is associated with nature, paradise, and beauty. According to the Bible, the Garden of Eden was the first home of Adam and Eve.
Unique gender neutral baby names
A relatively common name can feel unique when given to the opposite gender and will help your child stand out from the crowd. Rare gender neutral names are growing in popularity, as couples look for unisex baby names with a difference.
Atlas
This Greek baby name is rooted in Greek mythology and is associated with strength and courage. The name suggests endurance, hinting at a child who will overcome any challenges.
Indy
Indy is a cool, modern name for your child. Indy is still relatively unknown, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an unusual name for their child.
Modern gender neutral names
Names come in and out of fashion, with some feeling more modern than others. If you want a gender neutral name that is very much of these times, the following unisex names are great options:
Jesse
Jesse is a fantastic name for baby boys or girls. It is simple, cute, and modern, giving off strong boy or girl-next-door vibes.
Mackenzie
Mackenzie is a cool, modern-sounding name for both boys and girls. With Scottish roots, Mackenzie means good-looking, so it’s perfect for your gorgeous baby.
Old gender neutral names
Vintage unisex names are making a comeback. They’re growing in popularity, with many of the old classics coming back into favour.
James
James is a classic name with origins in Hebrew and Latin. It is a powerful name associated with Kings, Presidents, and others in positions of power. Although traditionally a male name, it has a unisex feel.
Pip
This cute nickname connotes Englishness and a well-to-do society. It is fun to say, sounds adorable, and has traditionally worked for both genders. Short for Philip, Philippa, Pippa, and many other variations on those names, Pip is a tried-and-tested gender neutral name.
Gender neutral baby names with meaning
If you want to choose a name because of its meaning, you might be drawn to nature, or to religious or mythological names. There are so many gender neutral names with rich meanings, so you’ll have plenty to choose from. It’s always worth looking online for the meaning of any names you like because most names have meanings, even if they’re not commonly known.
River
River is a perfect name if you want to conjure up images of beautiful scenery, freedom and wildness. It works for both sexes and is ideal for families who appreciate nature. The name is associated with depth, freedom and independence. This might be the perfect name if you’re hoping for a nature-loving child who goes with the flow.
Emerson
This beautiful unisex name means brave and powerful, making it perfect for your future change-maker. It works well for both genders, though it is currently more associated with boys. With nods to names like Emma and Emily, it is a gorgeous name for a strong girl.
Should I give my baby a gender neutral name?
Will life be easier for your child if you choose unisex names? Although you might hope that doing so will prevent a future name change, for many trans adults, a name change is part of transitioning. Choosing a gender neutral name is no guarantee that it will be with your child for life. There are other reasons, though, why people choose popular unisex baby names. Not only does it potentially future-proof the name, but it might prevent bias when applying for jobs. According to Psychology Today, girls with unisex names are more likely to take maths and science at a higher level.
If you’re struggling to find a name you both love, don’t worry.
Look at BellyBelly’s article Struggling To Pick A Name – Help! for top tips on choosing a name.
What do you call a gender neutral baby?
Some parents are choosing to raise their babies without gender norms. There are many reasons why people choose to do this, and it’s excellent you’re finding out how to support the parents in this choice. For gender neutral babies (or ‘theybies’), they/them are usually the correct pronouns. If in doubt, check with the parents how they would like you to refer to their child. Although this might feel like a strange question, it’s a fantastic way to show your support. The parents will appreciate that you are discovering and using the correct pronouns for their child.
Gender neutral names for miscarried babies
Losing a baby at any stage of pregnancy is devastating. Parents will be forever changed by the loss of a baby, and it’s crucial the loss is recognised. Choosing a name for your lost baby can help you to grieve the loss and remember your baby. If you don’t know the sex of the baby you lost, you might want to choose a gender neutral name for your angel baby. Some parents choose to use the name they liked best during pregnancy, as they were already thinking of that as their baby’s name.
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