Experts specializing in baby names at Nameberry have revealed their forecasts for the top trends in 2026, sparking mixed reactions. Sophie Kihm, a renowned baby name specialist, suggests that the trendiest names of 2026 are heavily influenced by escapist media, encompassing books, music, films, and other forms of entertainment that offer solace during times of uncertainty and gloom in the real world.
These trends draw inspiration from romantasy series, historical novels, and reality TV programs, reflecting an inclination towards idealized pasts and envisioned futures, imbuing the names with a touch of magic and optimism.
Among the anticipated names for 2026 are those rooted in ancient civilizations, such as Adhara, Agastya, and Cassander. Additionally, names classified as ‘showgirl names,’ like Azura, Caliana, and Elodie, are gaining popularity, along with soulful choices such as Cedar, Dove, and Jubilee.
The experts have categorized names like Beverly, Bruce, and Darla under A-OK Boomer names, while romantasy names such as Bronwen, Cordelia, and Elspeth are also making waves. Another category, ‘vowel hiatus’ names, features options like Amael, Aya, and Deia.
Some names, such as Billion, Cinco, and Four, draw inspiration from numbers, whereas others like Brighton, Bronson, and Coast are dubbed as ‘straight out of Utah.’ Anime-inspired names like Aura, Issei, and Jinu are gaining traction, alongside ‘Brit lit names’ including Briony, Bronte, and Conrad.
Sonya, a baby name consultant from New Zealand known as the BB Namer, shared her reactions to the names on her @thebbnamer TikTok account. Expressing her admiration for showgirl names like Ophelia, Roxie, and Farrah, she also found interest in soulful names like Vera and Kyrie.
She expressed a fondness for A-OK Boomer names such as Bonnie, Bruce, and Ginny but was less enthusiastic about romantasy names like Azlan and Lilivere. Sonya also appreciated some of the number-inspired names, particularly Ivy and Octavia, and showed a liking for anime names like Mira, Rinji, and Rumi.
Opinions on the name list varied in the comment section, with some remarking on the uniqueness of the names, while others expressed love for certain choices, like Cordelia. One individual shared their surprise at seeing their daughter’s name on the list, emphasizing its beauty and rarity.
For a comprehensive list of the top 10 baby name trends for 2026, refer to Nameberry’s official publication below.
Nameberry highlights that these names serve to connect children to historical roots, offering a sense of tradition and continuity.
Predictions suggest that names from Taylor Swift’s latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, as well as names of real-life and fictional starlets, will trend in 2026.
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