What’s in a name? Well, more than you might think…
Popularity ebbs and flows, and some of the names we couldn’t seem to avoid just a few years ago are now heading for a dip.
Knee-deep in baby name selections? If you’ve shortlisted Jamie, Katie or Liv for your daughter, you’ll be surprised to learn these once-all-the-rage names are now on the decline.
Jamal, Idris and Matthias for strapping young lads? Considered ‘vintage’ from this point in time.
Pretty wild, right?
It just goes to show that baby names are much like those limited-edition trainers: hot one minute, gathering dust the next. How many baby Karens, Myrtles or Winstons do you know? That’s because trends shift, preferences change, and suddenly, that name you thought was so unique…well, isn’t.
In this guide, we’ll quickly run through 20 baby names disappearing in 2025.
Let’s take a closer look…
The Name Shift: Baby Names Most At Risk
Every year, Baby Centre lists the most popular names for little ones. It’s basically the barometer of baby names, where thousands of parents submit their choices, revealing the year’s top trends.
Some skyrocket in popularity; others take a nosedive.
Let’s take a peek at the 2024-2025 shift:
Girls
| Name | Spots down |
| Jamie | 320 |
| Katie | 290 |
| Remy | 277 |
| Liv | 257 |
| Analia | 245 |
| Karina | 243 |
| Belle | 242 |
| Erin | 231 |
| Bristol | 230 |
| Lilia | 230 |
Boys
| Name | Spots down |
| Jamal | 433 |
| Esteban | 283 |
| Cannon | 268 |
| Emery | 241 |
| Taylor | 199 |
| Kareem | 193 |
| Idris | 187 |
| Camilo | 185 |
| Matthias | 179 |
| Danny | 176 |
Name Nosedives: The Reasons Behind Declining Popularity
So, what causes once-popular names to take a nosedive? Well, the influence of pop culture, the connection with an older generation and “personal association” are a few culprits.
Influence of pop culture and media
We all know how influential pop culture is.
A character on a hit show can ignite a naming frenzy.
A viral TikTok trend can propel a name into the spotlight.
Fictional characters or a celebrity can send a name soaring or plummeting.
Remember when everyone named their kids Cindy, Billy or Alfie in the 80s? These kids are all grown up and cringe at their parents’ obsession with EastEnders.
Association with older generations
Names tend to follow generational cycles and become associated with specific eras. While these can create a sense of nostalgia, they can also make a name feel outdated, giving off “Nan and Granddad” vibes.
For instance, Gertrude, Mildred and Edna were in vogue in the 1930s but parents would think twice about giving their child one of these names nowadays. Right?
However, not all is lost. Some “old-fashioned” names are also making a comeback like David, Charlotte and Iris.
Emergence of new naming trends and preferences
It’s no secret that naming trends evolve over time, often influenced by cultural shifts and social media. Today’s parents are always on the lookout for unique names that break the norm.
This means they’re moving away from the common Saras and Jakes and leaning more towards unusual choices like Atlas, London or Elijah.
The power of association
Another possible reason for the decline in certain children’s names likely has something to do with the influence of personal association.
Think about it: if you’ve had a particularly difficult experience with someone called Harry, Harrison or Harper, you might subconsciously steer clear of those names for your own kid.
This can apply to anyone, whether it’s a misbehaved student, a bully from college, or anyone who gives you that “Oh, not that name” feeling!
Impact On Future Naming Trends
As we’ve discussed, the fall in certain children’s names often reflects broader societal movements––here’s why:
- Perception of “old” names: Names often lose their appeal when associated with older generations. For example, names like Dorothy or Walter were once common but modern parents steer clear as they view them as outdated.
- Globalisation: With travel adventures and cultural exchanges at our fingertips, parents have been known to swap traditional names like Mary or James for Savannah or Ellie.
- Unisex norms: Due to their versatility, names like Bailey, Jordan or Blake have become increasingly popular in recent years.
If there’s one thing we can count on, it’s that name popularity goes in cycles. Names that are tumbling today will likely be the classic treasures of tomorrow.
Just look how Archie, Alfie and Florence are back in fashion after being dubbed an “only Nan would use that” category for decades. Interestingly, according to Kidspot, names generally resurface after 100 years to come back into fashion.
So, if you’re dead set on Jamal or Erin for your little bundle of joy, your kid’s name might be trendsetting for the 2125 baby boom!
What this means for your naming journey
If you’re busy racking your brain and scrolling through baby name apps deciding what to call your moppet, here are a few things to consider:
- If you love a declining name: Go for it! Lower popularity can also mean uniqueness and your child won’t be one of four Jamies in class. Not to mention, you’ll look like a visionary when the name makes a comeback.
- Do your research: Before picking a name, explore its meanings, origins, and cultural associations. While John’s Hebrew meaning is “God is gracious,” it’s also American slang for the loo.
- Trust your instincts: Ultimately, the best name for your kid comes down to what resonates with you and your partner.
The Conversation Continues
So there you have it: a quick rundown of baby names slipping through the ranks. Jamie, Katie and Remy are among the top girls’ names, while Jamal, Esteban and Cannon are declining for lads.
Is your favourite on the brink of existence, or perhaps you know someone with one of these names in mind? Let’s keep the conversation going. Pop your thoughts into the comments section below.
