By Libby Ryan
The days of dividing names into boys versus girls are over. More and more parents are opting to break down gender norms as soon as they name their little ones. “A growing number of parents are looking for nonbinary names that leave their children free to shape their own gender identities without stereotypes or definitions imposed by conventionally gendered names,” explains Pamela Redmond, name expert and cofounder of Nameberry.
She adds that while a generation or two ago, it was OK for a girl to have a “boyish” or unisex name but not as desirable for a boy to have a gender-neutral name, nowadays nonbinary names are growing in popularity for babies of all sexes.
Jennifer Moss, founder and CEO of BabyNames.com, agrees, adding, “As there is more education and information about gender roles currently, gender-neutral names are becoming more popular on both sides of the binary chart.”
From nature-inspired monikers to celestial picks, here are 15 trending nonbinary baby names that work for any gender.
1. Harper
Harper is a traditional English name that quite literally means harp player and is a favorite gender-neutral name. Looking for a similar musical vibe? Consider Piper, which brings to mind pipe or flute melodies.
2. Avery
The name Avery dates back to the Middle Ages, based on a loose translation meaning “ruler of the elves.” Nameberry’s number 1 ranking unisex name, it’s extremely popular for both baby girls and boys.
3. Nova
Looking for a celestial name? A nova is an astronomical event where a star suddenly burns so brightly that it appears brand new. The name’s roots come from the Latin word for “new” and was a popular name in the 1930s, giving Art Deco vibes.
4. Riley
A name of Irish origin meaning courageous and drawing images of old Irish rye fields, Riley is trending strong among parents looking for a gender-neutral option. Rifs on the original Irish spelling also include Rilee, Rylee and Ryleigh.
5. Juniper
Named for the plant that often features in holiday wreaths, juniper has a crisp winter feel–perfect for a December baby. If you’re searching for a gender-neutral nature name, you could also consider Briar, Aspen, Rowan or Sage.
“Many people use place names as gender-neutral names like Dakota, Paris, London, Brooklyn. That’s a great category to consider, since you can choose a place that has meaning to you.”
— JENNIFER MOSS, FOUNDER AND CEO OF BABYNAMES.COM
6. Hudson
An English surname and a river in New York, this name taps into a sentimental gender-neutral baby name trend. “Many people use place names as gender-neutral names like Dakota, Paris, London, Brooklyn,” notes Moss. “That’s a great category to consider, since you can choose a place that has meaning to you.”
7. Genesis
If you’re looking for a nontraditional biblical name that still honors your faith, consider Genesis, named for the first book of the bible. Another biblical option for any gender? Eden, for the garden of god.
8. Kennedy
Irish name Kennedy might bring you back to the 1960s, bringing to mind President John F. or Senator Robert Kennedy. Other similar political nod names include Reagan and Carter.
9. Rory
As “Gilmore Girls” fans grow up and have kids of their own, Rory has become a fun nod to pop culture. The name dates back to a Gaelic translation meaning “red king” so is a top notch choice for a little redhead. It also plays into the popular “R” name trend, like Riley or Remi.
10. Parker
A great option for an outdoorsy family, Parker means “park keeper” or the Old English translation “keeper of the forest.” If you’re leaning more literal, you could opt for Forester.
11. Arden
Its literal English meaning is “valley of the eagle” but Arden is also a callout to Shakespeare’s As You Like It’s magical forest. Another literary option could be Poe, for the American author (or a subtle “Star Wars” reference for sci-fi fans). Or consider Emerson for Ralph Waldo Emerson.
12. Finley
Scottish and Irish name Finley means fair-haired hero and calls to mind Old Norse battles and mythology. Alternative spelling Finlay also ranks highly in gender neutral choices for new parents.
13. River
A popular celebrity baby name, both Kelly Clarkson and Jason Schwartzman chose to name their daughters River or Rivers. Conjuring peaceful flowing vibes, water-inspired names, are a great trend to tap into. Others include Ocean, Rain, or Brook (or even Brooks).
14. Artemis
Fans of mythology can reach into the deep roster of myths for gender neutral baby names including Artemis, the ancient Greek goddess of wild animals and childbirth, Zephyr, the Greek god of the west wind or Jupiter, the Roman god of thunder.
15. Hayes
Originally used as a surname, Hayes is growing in popularity for boys or girls. It also hits a big new trend for 2022, says Redmond, combining nature and word names and names ending in S to create such names as Rivers, Evers, Hayes, Oakes.
Libby Ryan is a freelance journalist and editor covering health, culture and travel.
