Parenting
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Top 50 baby boy names 2025: What new trends emerged and why parents loved them
Cradlewise Staff
Baby boy names in 2025 told a very clear story: parents leaned into soft, meaningful, global, and timeless classics, but also made room for modern, stylish picks with personality. It was truly the year of “balanced baby naming”: a little vintage charm, a little new-age cool, and a whole lot of thoughtful intention.
And if you’re curious to see whether your baby’s name made the Top 50 trending list, you’re in the right place. Below, we broke down the Top 50 baby boy names of 2025 into four categories to show the trends families loved most this year.
Classic baby boy names of 2025
These names stayed at the top of the charts all year, familiar, comforting, and beloved across generations. They were the names parents kept returning to because they simply felt right.
1. Noah
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Rest” or “comfort.” Noah stayed on top because it has that calm, grounded vibe every parent dreams of for their baby. It feels peaceful, like quiet mornings and soft baby snuggles. Plus, with so many lovable characters named Noah in books and shows, it just feels warm and familiar.
Did you know?
Noah got a serious romantic boost from Ryan Gosling’s iconic “If you’re a bird, I’m a bird” moment in The Notebook, and it’s still riding that wave. More recently, actor Noah Centineo has kept the name in the spotlight with his soft, rom-com charm. From Biblical hero to Hollywood heartthrob, Noah just never goes out of style.
2. Liam
Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Strong-willed protector.” Liam is short, breezy, and full of charm, the kind of name that fits a toddler learning to walk and a CEO in the making. It also helps that the name has major movie-star vibes thanks to Liam Hemsworth and Liam Neeson. Parents in 2025 clearly kept loving its mix of softness and strength.
3. Oliver
Origin: Latin / Old French
Meaning: “Olive tree,” symbolizing peace. Oliver gives off gentle, bookish energy, the kid you imagine with a big imagination and a kind heart. It’s both whimsical and sturdy, like your favorite classic storybook character. No wonder parents kept this one at the top.
4. Elijah
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “My God is Yahweh.” Elijah has a beautiful, spiritual depth that attracts parents who want a meaningful name with soft edges. It sounds melodic when you call it across the playground. And “Eli” is one of the cutest nickname options out there, which definitely didn’t hurt its popularity.
5. James
Origin: Hebrew / Latin
Meaning: “Supplanter.” James stayed strong because it’s that effortless all-ages name, adorable on a baby, cool on a teen, and polished on an adult. Think James Bond for timeless sophistication. It’s classic without feeling old, which is a tough balance to pull off.
6. Henry
Origin: German
Meaning: “Estate ruler.” Henry has major royal energy, but in a cozy, cardigan-wearing kind of way. It brings to mind kids who love books, nature walks, and LEGO castles continuing to charm parents in 2025.
7. William
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: “Resolute protector.” William is the kind of name that makes grandparents swoon but still feels totally current. Parents love that it can be formal (William), friendly (Will), or adorable (Liam). It’s like getting three great names in one.
8. Benjamin
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Son of the right hand.” Parents love Benjamin because it has this warm, gentle, boy-next-door charm. “Ben” feels trustworthy, like someone who’ll always share his snacks. It’s also rooted in tradition, which gave families a sense of stability in 2025.
9. Lucas
Origin: Latin / Greek
Meaning: “Bringer of light.” Lucas feels bright and uplifting, like the first rays of morning light sneaking into the nursery. It’s friendly, easy to spell, and globally beloved. And yes, its cool factor probably got a boost from the Lucas in Stranger Things.
10. Jack
Origin: English
Meaning: “God is gracious.” Jack is that universally likable kid whose name fits a superhero, an artist, or a scientist equally well. It’s short, bold, and has that approachable charm parents love. No wonder it stayed so high in 2025.
Modern and trending baby boy names of 2025
These names were strong climbers, stylish, fresh, and packed with personality. Parents went all-in on short, chic names with a soft, friendly sound.
11. Mateo
Origin: Spanish / Hebrew
Meaning: “Gift of God.” Mateo stayed hot because parents loved that it’s both global and effortlessly cool. It’s warm, musical, and has a sweet softness to it. Plus, it fits right into the rise of multicultural, bilingual-friendly names.
12. Levi
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Joined in harmony.” Levi has that calm, grounded energy in a name that feels stylish and modern. It’s easy to imagine a little Levi as the cool, kind kid in class. And the denim connection gives it an Americana vibe that parents find fun.
13. Ezra
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Helper.” Ezra hits the sweet spot between vintage and hipster-cool. It feels like the name of a gentle artist or a thoughtful little soul. With rising literary references and TV characters named Ezra, parents kept falling in love with it.
14. Asher
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Happy” or “blessed.” Asher radiates pure sunshine energy, cheerful, upbeat, and full of good vibes. It’s the name you picture on a baby who’s always smiling in photos. And the cute nickname Ash gives it instant modern polish.
15. Luca
Origin: Latin / Italian
Meaning: “Light.” Luca feels stylish and European, like gelato on a summer trip. It’s soft but lively, making it perfect for parents who want something global but familiar. This year parents adored how effortlessly chic it sounded.
16. Leo
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Lion.” Leo is short, sweet, and full of personality, a tiny name with big energy. It gives bold, adventurous vibes without trying too hard. And any name meaning “lion” naturally appeals to parents hoping for a confident kid.
Did you know?
This name stays trending thanks to the ever-iconic Leonardo DiCaprio, whose roles, from Titanic to Inception, keep Leo feeling bold, adventurous, and effortlessly cool. Bonus: parents love its cosmic tie to the Leo star sign.
17. Hudson
Origin: English
Meaning: “Son of Hugh.” Hudson gives rustic-cool vibes, like mountains, road trips, and cozy cabins. It’s modern but grounded, aligning perfectly with 2025’s outdoorsy parenting trend. Families loved how confident it sounded.
18. Elias
Origin: Greek / Hebrew
Meaning: “The Lord is my God.” Elias feels lyrical and soulful, with a softness that parents really leaned into this year. It has a storybook quality that makes it feel timeless. And the nickname “Eli” is always a crowd-pleaser.
19. Michael
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Who is like God?” Michael stayed consistent because it’s the ultimate comfort name, familiar, warm, and stable. Parents still love its superhero associations (hello, Michael Keaton and Michael B. Jordan). It’s classic with a modern glow-up.
20. Samuel
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Heard by God.” Samuel gives gentle, thoughtful vibes, kind of like the sweet kid who always helps others. “Sam” is one of the friendliest nicknames out there. Parents loved that it felt grounded and humble in 2025.
Friendly, familiar: most loved baby boy names 2025
These names were easy to spell, easy to say, and fit every personality, the “can’t go wrong” picks of 2025.
21. Daniel
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “God is my judge.” Daniel feels steady and dependable, like the main character in a heartwarming family film. “Dan” and “Danny” give it nostalgic charm. Parents loved it for its kindness and timelessness.
22. Ethan
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Strong, firm.” Ethan is one of those names that instantly feels warm and trustworthy. It’s the kid who helps others zip their coats at school. Its long-standing popularity shows how comforting it is for families.
23. Owen
Origin: Welsh
Meaning: “Young warrior.” Owen strikes the perfect blend of soft and strong. It has a friendly, open sound, and parents loved its nature-forward vibe. Thanks to celebs like Owen Wilson, it stayed charming and familiar.
Did you know?
The name Owen has had a major cool-factor comeback thanks to actor Owen Wilson, whose laid-back charm in movies like Marley & Me and Wedding Crashers made the name feel funny, friendly, and effortlessly lovable. Bonus? Owen also pops up in popular fiction and video games, giving it that “everywhere but never overused” appeal parents adored in 2025.
24. Jackson
Origin: English
Meaning: “Son of Jack.” Jackson is modern, cool, and energetic, like a kid who’s always ready for a game. Parents continued loving how it feels fresh yet classic. And Jax as a nickname is pure 2025 energy.
25. Carter
Origin: English
Meaning: “Transporter/driver.” Carter gives polished, modern-boy vibes, stylish without trying. It sounds like a kid who’ll grow up loving adventures, sports, and maybe entrepreneurship. Parents adored that it’s fun but also wearable as an adult.
26. Alexander
Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Defender of men.” Alexander is the kind of name that grows beautifully, fierce as “Alex,” adorable as “Xander,” classic as “Alexander.” It carries hero energy (thank you, Alexander the Great). In 2025, parents appreciated its strength and versatility.
27. Joshua
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “The Lord is salvation.” Joshua feels warm and familiar, like the friendly, charismatic kid everyone adores. “Josh” has been a staple nickname for decades. Parents kept loving its comforting and steady presence.
28. Matthew
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Gift of God.” Matthew gives soft, gentle energy, the kid who loves stories and nature walks. It’s dependable and sweet, with that nostalgic ’90s charm resurfacing in 2025. Matt still feels effortlessly cool.
29. Luke
Origin: Latin / Greek
Meaning: “Light.” Luke stayed bright and simple, the kind of name that never feels heavy or complicated. Parents loved its warmth and ease. And the Star Wars connection continues to keep it timelessly cool.
30. Gabriel
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “God is my strength.” Gabriel has a soft glow to it, magical, musical, and gently powerful. “Gabe” is breezy and fun. Parents loved that it feels angelic without being delicate.
Rising stars: fast-climbing baby boy names of 2025
These names weren’t always in the top 10, but they skyrocketed in popularity this year as parents searched for names that felt modern, meaningful, and just a little unique.
31. Sebastian
Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Venerable” or “revered.” Sebastian sounds elegant with just the right hint of drama; parents love that it feels both artistic and adventurous. Think Sebastian from The Little Mermaid mixed with modern-day cool kids. It’s classic but full of flair.
32. Wyatt
Origin: English
Meaning: “Brave in war.” Wyatt comes with rustic, cowboy energy (thank you, Yellowstone era). It feels bold, rugged, and a little mischievous. Parents in 2025 gravitated to names with grit and sweetness; Wyatt delivers both.
33. Thomas
Origin: Aramaic
Meaning: “Twin.” Thomas brings gentle tradition back in style. It’s a name you imagine on a kind-hearted kid with a big imagination (remember, Thomas the Tank Engine nostalgia). Parents loved its warm familiarity.
Did you know?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) data showed a significant rise in vintage revival names, with Henry, Theodore, and Thomas all climbing faster than expected.
34. Caleb
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Whole-hearted.” Caleb has been quietly climbing because it feels earnest and kind, like the kid everyone trusts. It’s rooted in loyalty and heart. Parents appreciated its positive, grounded feel.
35. Isaiah
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Yahweh is salvation.” Isaiah feels poetic and spiritual, with a musical flow that parents adore. It’s both soulful and strong, perfect for families looking for depth. And with cool nickname options like “Zay,” it feels fresh again.
36. Nolan
Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Champion.” Nolan gives sporty, upbeat energy, the kind of kid who’ll try everything with enthusiasm. It’s confident without being showy. Parents looking for a friendly, athletic name kept coming back to it.
37. Christian
Origin: Greek / Latin
Meaning: “Follower of Christ.” Christian remained appealing because it feels serene and steady. It carries gentle strength and works across cultures. Parents loved its calm, graceful vibe.
38. Carson
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: “Son of Carr.” Carson has a modern, slightly preppy vibe that parents found irresistible. It feels smart, friendly, and energetic. Plus, surnames-as-first-names stayed huge in 2025.
39. Parker
Origin: English
Meaning: “Park keeper.” Parker gives playful, outdoorsy energy, think picnics, scooters, and sunny afternoons. It’s cheerful and easygoing. Parents loved how breezy and modern it felt.
40. Wesley
Origin: English
Meaning: “Western meadow.” Wesley feels soft and airy, like open fields and calm mornings. “Wes” adds a dash of modern cool. Parents looking for gentle, vintage names found this one irresistible.
Bonus favorites: Top 50 baby boy names 2025
These names showed up consistently across Social Security Administration (SSA) data and most baby name sites. They are solid, stylish, and very 2025.
41. Jacob
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Supplanter.” Jacob stayed popular because it simply feels right, classic, warm, and universal. It’s like the comfort food of names. Parents loved its timeless, trustworthy feel.
42. Maverick
Origin: American
Meaning: “Independent, nonconformist.” Maverick gives bold, rebellious energy (thanks, Top Gun). It’s for parents who want a name that feels fearless and adventurous. And the nickname “Mav” is pure cool-kid magic.
43. Adam
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Man of the earth.” Adam is simple, grounded, and quietly strong. It’s the kind of name that never goes out of style. Parents appreciated its humility and timeless charm.
44. Theodore
Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Gift of God.” Theodore (or Theo!) brings old-school sweetness with modern appeal. It’s whimsical, cozy, and gives vintage children’s book vibes. Parents kept falling in love with its gentleness.
Did you know?
One of the most beloved U.S. presidents, Theodore Roosevelt, helped popularize the name, giving it that adventurous, outdoorsy, “national parks and fresh air” vibe parents adore.
45. Julian
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Youthful.” Julian feels breezy and romantic, like ocean waves and summer days. It’s artistic, stylish, and endlessly soft. Parents loved its smooth, lyrical flow.
46. Adrian
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “From the Adriatic.” Adrian has an adventurous, international vibe that parents loved in 2025. It’s polished but cool, easy to imagine on a future traveler or creative. It just sounds effortlessly handsome.
47. Miles
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Soldier” or “merciful.” Miles feels musical (thanks to Miles Davis) and gentle all at once. It gives upbeat, ready-to-explore energy. Parents adored how soft but confident it sounds.
48. Joseph
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “God will increase.” Joseph feels humble and strong, a steady, comforting name. “Joey” brings sweetness, while “Joseph” feels refined. Parents loved its layered versatility.
49. David
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Beloved.” David is the definition of timeless biblical roots, global familiarity, and warm, loving energy. Families picked it because it feels like a lifelong hug. It’s a classic that parents never regret.
Did you know: David is one of those names that’s quietly everywhere in pop culture, like David Bowie, whose legendary music and fearless style made the name effortlessly cool. Add in literary and classic icons like David Copperfield and Michelangelo’s David, and the name carries a perfect mix of creativity, courage, and timeless charm.
50. Jaxon
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: “God is gracious.” Jaxon rode the wave of cool “x” names and stayed hot in 2025. It feels edgy, modern, and strong. Parents loved that it adds a trendy twist to the classic Jackson.
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