Expect The Unexpected

One growing category in the baby name world has been unisex names; gender neutral names used for both boys and girls.

A lot of parents today have been intentionally gravitating towards these unisex names because they recognize a name can feel like a lifelong commitment and they want their child to feel like they have a voice and can say their name proudly as they get older.

These names aren’t just for newborn babies but for all who identify as nonbinary or who identify more with a genderless name. That’s why we’ve gathered 12 unisex nicknames that have potential whether your birthname traditionally leans masculine or feminine.

And remember: Your birthname name feel like a commitment but it is not. You’re birthname is a gift you can return it if it doesn’t fit!

Arlo

Oh Arlo, we adore you so! Quirky cool and essential on every unisex list. Arlo is currently in the top 100 in Australia, England, Ireland, Scotland and New Zealand. We see it increasing here in the United States soon too.

• Archibald - Ancient German Archibald is rare nowadays but has a clunky vintage feel we favor.

• Arlene - Arlene is the Irish variant of Charlene and a derivative of Charles. Adorable Arlo would be an amazing way to honor an Arlene within your family tree.

• Arlington - Arlington is the ultimate place name with many locations all over the map! With cities in Australia, Canada, South Africa, the UK and the US it’s impossible not to drive through a city named Arlington.

• Arnold - Meaning ‘as strong as an eagle’, Arnold celebrates courage, strength and wisdom flying high with the Almighty.

• Aurelio - Italian originated Aurelio’s meaning of ‘golden’ will come to mind with every sunset, Harry Styles hit and Outsiders catchphrase.

• Charles - Arlo feels like an unexpected option for Charles and yet feels as timeless as Charlie does.

• Harlow - Harlow is a gender neutral name that is admittedly more popular with the girls. With the nickname Arlo it may reiterate it’s unisex history.

• Marlowe - Similarity to Harlow, Marlowe is also a unisex leaning feminine name that has been in the top 1,000 the last three years.

Asa

Derived from the Old Testament, this Hebrew name has become a miniature moniker for both genders. Asa, meaning ‘doctor’, ‘healer’ and ‘born in the morning’ is related to the name Jason. Traditionally more popular for boys, Asa has many full name options for boys and girls.

• Ambrose - Ambrose returned back to the charts in 2019 after a 65 year hiatus. Today Ambrose is found in the sweet spot on the charts being ranked at #671. Between this full name and nickname, Ambrose “Asa’ translates to Immortal Healer. How Powerful!

• Asani - If you love a bold name like Maverick, Danger or Rebel, you might want to consider Asani. While Asani is a traditional Swahili male name this ‘rebellious’ name feels feminine.

• Astoria - We love a good story and Astoria is our fairytale dream come true! Astoria has a subtle avian connection fitting in to today’s animal inspired name trend yet is extremely rare being given to less than 50 girls in 2021.

• Augusta - Move over Auggie and Gus their is a new nickname in town. From August to Augustus to Augustine, it’s obvious this monthly inspired name is loved in all it’s forms. All except Augusta. Some parents may feel this name is a bit to “city” for their darling daughters but I feel it’s quite divine.

• Azariah - From biblical figures to guardian angels to high priests Azariah’s angelically, wholesome support with grow your heart times three.

• Cassia - This name is as sweet as the fragrance it shares it’s meaning with. Cassia is a Greek name meaning ‘cinnamon’ related to the cassia tree that blooms yellow petals.

• Eustace - If floral fragrances are your favorite, maybe a more ‘fruity’ find suits your fancy? Eustace is a Hebrew Saint name with ties to the name Ethan.

• Lazarus - From the Old Testament to the new. Lazarus is a Hebrew name meaning ‘God has helped’. The name day of Lazarus is celebrated on July 29th.

Billie

Depending on your generation Billie brings to mind two powerhouse singers; Holiday and Eilish. Thanks to the latter Billie has returned to the charts after a 24 year absence. Billie and Billy alike are often used as a nickname for Wilhelmina and William respectfully but we have found eight other names Billie can be short or.

• Abigail - If Abby isn’t your style, what about Billie? The nickname Billie gives Abigail a revitalizing spin giving her life again.

• Abilene - An extremely rare place name that proved southern charm. Abilene is the name of two southern cities in Kansas and Texas. Abilene is also the name of country singer Cole Swindell’s daughter.

• Arabella - Bella and Ella feel quite frilly for this regally royal name. The nickname Billie brings Arabella down to earth with a more playful side to her.

• Bartholomew - A boy name beyond Bart? Billie could be the clear winner, however we recommend the Billy spelling for boys.

• Liberty - Lady Liberty would turn heads with an unexpected nickname like Billie and yet it’s so far unexpected it’s absolutely refreshing.

• Sibyl - A spiritual prophetesses became a beautiful baby name in the early 1900’s. The name has since gained modern recognition from the hit drama Downton Abbey. Between Abbey and Sibyl, Billie feels like a no brainer.

• Wilhelm - William has planted his roots in the top ten over the last two decades. Today William is the sixth most popular boys name in the entire United States. For a more unique twist we love the name Wilhelm!

• Wilson - Okay, there’s William and Wilhelm, but what about Wilson? Meaning ‘son of Will’ the nickname Billie is so much more eye-catching compared to junior.

Eden

Eden is currently ranked at #121 for girls and #501 for boys. Making Eden a well established name in it’s own right. But Grow beyond the garden and you’ll find a plethora of exquisite name for itty-bitty Eden.

• Cadenza - The Italian form of Cadence sings to our souls! This musical name is a must have on any baby name list.

• Ceridwen - So sophistacaed, so elegant. Ceridwen will make your heart skip a beat. The name Ceridwen comes from the Welsh “cerdd” meaning poetry or song. Making her the Celtic goddess of poetry and as "‘beautiful as a poem’.

• Edith - Edith is a classic vintage find that needs too make a comeback. Could Eden help Edith relive her glory days? We think so. Eden sounds just as classy but more modernized.

• Edison - I’ve seen Edison have multiple meanings; ‘son of Edith"‘, ‘son of Edward’ and ‘son of Adam’. Whomever you want to honor in your family tree Eden is a exceptional way to do so.

• Edwina - This ‘rich and prosperous’ name has been rare to come by since the 60’s. Yet it sounds so modern next to Georgina and Valentina.

• Eluned - Shining as bright as the moon Eluned nicknamed Eden gives Luna a run for her money.

• Madeline - A feminine staple in the top 100 Madeline is magnificent. The name Madeline often gets shortened to Maddie but the idea of Eden is magical indeed.

• Theoden - The talk of the town has been Theodore and don’t worry we’ll talk about him more in a minute, but we want to highlight Theodore’s cousin Theoden. Made famous by J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings Theoden is still a underrated take on Theodore while the nickname Eden makes it feel more approachable instead of character tied.

Ellis

I think we can agree every parent wants their child to grown up to be ‘kind’ and ‘benevolent'; so choosing a name with that exact meaning puts them on the right path. Ellis a lesser used name within the popular El- family but it is lovely nonetheless.

• Celeste - Heavenly sent Celeste is a breathtaking classic that has been in the top 1,000 every year since 1880.

• Cornelius - Quirky and clunky Cornelius has a variety of literacy ties; from Shakespeare to Harry Potter, this New Testament classic is more popular that you’d think.

• Elizabeth - An upmost classic and reigning royal Elizabeth is the only girls name that has consistently remained in the top 25 since 1880.

• Eliezer - Elias meets Ezekiel, Eliezer falls just outside the top 1,000 but is as timeless as it’s biblical history.

• Ellington - Thanks to jazz orchestrated composer Duke Ellington Ellington feels like it fits the vibe for a century revival.

• Elliott - Elliott has been used as a gender neutral name for years now. Today Elliott ranks #169 for boys and #552 for girls.

• Eloise - From the Old French name Heloise, Eloise is one of the most talk about names expected to break into the top 100 next year.

• Elsinore - The famous home of Hamlet offers many nickname options from Elsie to Nora and our personal favorite, Ellis!

Finn

Finn would be a cute name to give a baby born under a water zodiac and these namesbelow add an element of creativity to the idea of Finn.

• Alvin - Most commonly known as an animated chipmunk, Alvin is another name that has never departed from the top 1,000.

• Daphne - Darling Daphne has gained a lot of buzz lately thanks to the Bridgerton protagonist. This floral favorite is perfect for springtime.

• Finneas - You can’t have Billie without Finneas. The musical older brother gives a unique spelling on traditional Phineas.

• Griffin - A Celtic surname turned first name has found a home within the top 200 with 1,579 births last year alone.

• Josephine - The feminine form of Joseph is as timeless as they come. While not as popular as her masculine counterpart, she stands on a pedestal all her own. With the nickname Finn, Josephine feels more tangible for girly girls and tomboys alike.

• Odafin - Law and Order fans may recognize this Yoruba originated name meaning ‘establisher of laws’. This Finn find may inspire your child to choose a career in the justice field.

• Seraphina - Equally firery and angelic, sweet Seraphina will become the light of your life.

• Stephen - Hey Stephen! We love your hidden nature meaning almost as we love your namesakes. Cleveland, Hawking and King too it’s impossible not to love this name.

Kit

Kit is a British-based nickname that is often tied to Saint Christopher but there are various ways to get to this mini moniker. Take a look!

• Atticus - It’s challenging to think about the name Atticus without following it up by Finch, but the nickname Kit gives t some separate from the character that makes us fall in love with Atticus all over again.

• Beckett - Sweet Bee Beckett is one of the biggest baby names of the decade. If the nickname Beck is too rugged for you, Kit offers a softer feel that may appeal to parents.

• Clementine - Oh My Darling (Clementine), we adore this fruit inspired name that holds steady in the sweet spot on the charts at #549.

• Christopher - Christopher is one of the most fashion forward formals for Kit giving this classic a modern approach that departs from Chris and Topher.

• Kathalia - Call her Kit! This Spanish originated name meaning ‘rejoice’ and ‘shining’ is a rare name in the United States offering a joyous alternative to common Katherine.

• Kismet - The name Kismet comes from the Araic word “qisma” meaning ‘portion’. Borrowed from the Turkish language in the 1800’s where it was used as a synonym for fate.

• Nikita - My personal favorite form of Nicholas, Nikita is a gender neutral Russian name that also has ties to Sanskrit origins.

• Patrick - An Ireland favorite that feels rather Americana. Patrick, the angelized version of Padraig, has never departed from the top 200.

Milo

Milo alone is a great name with military ties that we think could work for both boys and girls equally. Just think of Nina Foch’s character in An American in Paris.

• Camillo - Now that Camilla has gained recognition in the pop world, why not consider the male version Camillo? The Italian form of Camillus is “a term that denoted a youth of noble birth who assisted at sacrifices”.

• Emilio - Popular in Italy, Portugal, Spain and even the United States. Emilio is originally derived from the Roman surname Aemilius.

• Hamilton - Shakespearian inspired this Scottish name gives you an open field to run free in as far as nicknames go, however for a human we highly recommend Milo compared to taunting Ham.

• Michelangelo - World renowned artist left a legacy to be inspired by and this name evokes the same beauty. Michelangelo would be an unforgettable formal to approach the nickname Milo.

• Miller - Occupational names ending in -er were one of the most popular trends in 2021 and Miller hits all the marks! This unisex moniker makes a great alternative to Millie or Miles.

• Miloslav - A Slavic masculine name meaning ‘merciful glory’ is an easy way to get the nickname Milo if you use the Czech pronunciation.

• Milton - Milton is an English Place name that has poetic ties that lead to the ultimate paradise.

• Wilhelmina - While Billie is the most common nickname for Wilhelmina we want you to consider Milo for a minute. Is it a bit out there? Yes; but it totally works! Bringing this quirky contender back to everyday wearability all thanks to Milo.

Remy

Remy is a place name, most notably Saint-Remy-de-Provence, France, that is almost equally used between boys and girls. Currently ranking at #357 for boys and #550 for girls.

• Artemis - The Greek goddess of the moon, hunting and chastity makes for a special way to honor a Diana in your life.

• Emerson - Another unisex favorite on our list is Emerson! Emerson is currently ranked at #167 for girls and #279 for boys, a very close tie.

• Ephraim - A biblical moniker that make his return to the charts this year; Ephraim currently ranks at #978.

• Jeremiah - An Old Testament prophet that feels more upbeat compared to Jeremy or Gerald. Add the nickname Remy and now the Jeremiah feels even more spunky.

• Ramsey - Originally a surname, Ramsey has become a rare unisex first name. Ramsey is strong and sturdy as well as a little rugged but very versatile all around.

• Rembrandt - The name of a famous Dutch painter brings grand creativity to this list we’d love to see more of.

• Remigius - Remigius is an ancient Latin name in which Remy originally derives from.

• Rosemary - A beloved botanical herb that symbolizes love and loyalty as well as protection and self respect.

Ryan

Ryan also falls in the top 1,000 for both boys and girls lending itself to many full name options from Bryan to Tristian.

• Bryan - A ‘strong, virtuous and honorable’ Irish name that is slightly more popular than the traditional Brian.

• Kieran - Another Irish name derived from the Gaelic surname O’Ciaran born by Clonmacnoise Saint.

• Orion - This celestial star is rising high on the charts and glows as bright as his belt.

• Rhiannon - Both a top charting anthem and a top charting baby name in the 70’s, this divine goddess still shines as bright as the moon.

• Rhydian - A rare name placed outside of the top 1,000 Rhydian is of Welsh origins meaning ‘ardor, passionate, red’.

• Rihanna - Multi billionaire, cosmetic mogul and pop superstar Rihanna made this name a household staple in the early 2000’s.

• Riordan - An Irish nickname deserves an Irish full name as well and Riordan is the one our hearts desire. Meaning ‘royal poet’ is just as beautiful and as breathtaking as Ceridwen.

• Tristian - Despite it’s sorrowful meaning Tristian isn’t far departed from the top 1,000.

Sasha

A traditional Russian name that holds impeccable nickname potential beyond Alexander and Alexandria.

• Alexander - Sasha is the Russian equivalent of Alexander but that doesn’t dismiss it’s nickname potential for the formal.

• Alyosha - Alyosha is a variation of Alexander and an uncommon option that peaks an interest.

• Anastasia - Anastasia is of Greek origin that is popularity used during Easter thanks to it’s meaning of ‘resurrection’.

• Natasha - Another holiday inspired name is Natasha meaning ‘born on Christmas Day’.

• Saskia - Saskia is of Dutch origin meaning ‘Saxon woman’ however some sources also suggest the name is Danish meaning ‘valley of light’.

• Sashenka - If Alexander and Alyosha aren’t your style maybe this variation would appeal to you.

• Shamina - Shamina is a stunning girls name of Arabic origin meaning “peace and patience’ as well as ‘sweet breeze’.

• Susannah - If Susie is too cutesy for you, we love the idea of Sasha! An unexpected nickname for a recognizable girls name.

Teddy

As expected as Theo, Teddy is a great nickname for Theodore; but also for Dorothy, Dorothea, and Theodora. Some may think Teddy is too masculine but Disney Chanel proved otherwise with the introduction of Teddy Duncan on the hit show Good Luck Charlie.

• Althea - An ethereal name found in Greek mythology that brings ‘wholesome healing’ to the world around her.

• Arthur - A timeless boys name whose meaning inspired this nickname potential.

• Dorothy - A delightful baby name for those who love Theodore but are on the hunt for a feminine substitute.

• Edmund - If we can get Ed from Ted, we can certainly achieve Teddy from Edmund.

• Graham - A very playful namesake based on the summery treat, the smore.

• Humphrey - One of the most rarest names on this list given to only 7 boys in 2021 is one of our top choices thanks to it’s meaning.

• Mischa - Similarity to Arthur and Humphrey, Russian unisex name Mischa also has ties to the beloved teddy bear.

• Theodora - Okay let’s talk about Theodore! While this name skyrocketed into the top ten in 2021 we also have to express our appreciation for the feminine form Theodora. While certainly not as popular, Theodora is still a top 1,000 contender that is expected to climb from here.