Appellation Mountain Where every name has a story 2026-08-13T12:43:06Z https://appellationmountain.net/feed/atom/ WordPress Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Popular in New Hampshire Baby Names]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79849 2026-08-13T12:43:06Z 2026-08-13T12:43:03Z Time to consider New Hampshire baby names. One of the original 13 colonies, New Hampshire’s history runs deep. The state’s…

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Time to consider New Hampshire baby names.

One of the original 13 colonies, New Hampshire’s history runs deep. The state’s motto “Live Free or Die” references the American Revolution. While it wasn’t officially adopted until 1945, it was informally used far earlier. 

Originally inhabited by Algonquin peoples like the Abenaki, English settlers arrived in the region early in the 17th century. A province was established in 1629, and the state played a prominent role in the early history of the fledgling United States. 

The New England state borders Quebec, Canada to the north, and a significant number of state residents claim French-Canadian heritage. To the east, the sea coast stretches along the Gulf of Maine. It’s tiny as states go by any measure – seventh smallest in terms of land, and 41st out of 50 by population.

What’s more, New Hampshire is not terribly diverse. More than 85% of the population identifies as white, non-Hispanic. Race and language impacts names chosen, so New Hampshire baby names will look very different than California or Maryland. 

Despite this small size, the state looms large in the American political process. New Hampshire famously holds the nation’s first presidential primary. 

SURPRISING POPULARITY LISTS

The state’s Top Tens and Top 100s might be among the most surprising of any profiled so far – if only because there’s not a clear reason why certain names rise to the top. It’s not a specific language influence or a clear cultural vibe, like Colter in North Dakota or Santiago in Texas.

Some note that New Hampshire ranks in the top ten most educated states, not too far behind neighboring Massachussetts. In fact, the Boston metropolitan area stretches into New Hampshire. Phillips Exeter Academy and Dartmouth College are both located here. So there’s a buttoned-up, polished energy, very blue blazers and boat shoes.

But it’s also a state with a significant history in manufacturing. Plenty of areas first developed as mill towns, and there’s an industrial backbone to much of the area.

Mixed in with those contrasting images is all of the state’s natural beauty, from mountains to beaches, all pressed together into a small, but ever-surprising, part of the world.

Let’s look at how all of that makes for the most popular New Hampshire baby names, along with some surprises.

HAMPSHIRE AS A BABY NAME

Unlike many states, Hampshire really isn’t used as a given name.

It comes from an English county. 

Take Hampton, add -shire, and it will eventually reduce to Hampshire. 

Hampton might mean near a riverbend, or homestead, or maybe even high. It’s possible more than one of these applies. Scir referred to a district in Old English; that became shire in Middle English. 

While Hampton and variants remain fairly common as surnames in the UK and beyond, Hampshire is effectively unused as a given name. 

TOP TEN BOY NAMES IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

10. OWEN (#31 in the US)

Owen is one of those names that almost always over-performs in states without a significant Spanish-speaking population.

9. WESLEY (#52 in the US)

There’s something polished and smooth about Wesley, but Wes also feels at home with names like Wyatt and Maverick. Maybe it’s that versatility that makes this name so appealing in New Hampshire.

8. NOAH (#2 in the US)

The top names nationally under-perform here.

7. LUCAS (#10 in the US)

A classic popular nearly everywhere. 

6. LIAM (#1 in the US)

In the Granite State, Liam falls back to #6. That’s despite a significant population of Irish descent, though of course Liam is particularly popular with Spanish-speaking parents, too. 

5. JAMES (#6 in the US)

Evergreen.

4. JACK (#15 in the US)

Once a nickname for chart-topping John, Jack has long since stood on its own. 

3. OLIVER (#3 in the US)

Oliver is a favorite everywhere.

2. HENRY (#5 in the US)

Traditional Henry surges here.

1. THEODORE (#4 in the US)

The top name reflects the state’s demographics. 

TOP 100 NEW HAMPSHIRITE BOY NAMES

  1. Theodore
  2. Henry
  3. Oliver
  4. Jack
  5. James
  6. Liam
  7. Lucas
  8. Noah
  9. Wesley
  10. Owen
  11. William
  12. Benjamin
  13. Levi
  14. Lincoln
  15. Wyatt
  16. Carter
  17. Jackson
  18. Thomas
  19. Bennett
  20. Charles
  21. John
  22. Miles
  23. Rowan
  24. Joseph
  25. Mason
  26. Hudson
  27. Colton*
  28. Elijah
  29. Leo
  30. Maverick
  31. Luca
  32. Daniel
  33. Asher
  34. Cooper
  35. Grayson
  36. Matthew
  37. Nolan
  38. Callum*
  39. Logan
  40. Beau
  41. Luke
  42. Michael
  43. Gabriel
  44. Robert
  45. Sawyer*
  46. Griffin*
  47. Julian
  48. Samuel
  49. Andrew
  50. Elliot*
  51. Everett
  52. Arthur
  53. Calvin*
  54. Carson
  55. Alexander
  56. Brooks
  57. Jameson*
  58. Roman
  59. Ryder*
  60. Weston
  61. Connor*
  62. Landon*
  63. Parker
  64. Ryan
  65. Silas
  66. Cole
  67. Elias
  68. Emmett*
  69. George*
  70. August
  71. Callan*
  72. Cameron
  73. Waylon
  74. Dawson*
  75. Dean*
  76. Declan*
  77. Ethan
  78. Grant*
  79. Harrison*
  80. Archer
  81. Caleb
  82. Greyson
  83. Nathan
  84. Atlas
  85. Caden*
  86. Dylan
  87. Easton*
  88. Beckett*
  89. Ezra
  90. Graham*
  91. Jaxson*
  92. Myles
  93. River*
  94. Callahan*
  95. Finn*
  96. Isaac
  97. Maxwell*
  98. Theo
  99. Chase*
  100. Christopher

* indicates name does not appear in the current US Top 100

TOP TEN GIRL NAMES IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

10. ELEANOR (#12 in the US)

A sister for Henry and Theodore.

9. ISLA (#28 in the US)

A slightly suprising over-performer.

8. NORA (#20 in the US)

Like Owen and Jack, a name that reads a little buttoned-up.

7. LUCY (#25 in the US)

Traditional vibes make this name a New Hampshire favorite.

6. AMELIA (#4 in the US)

Everybody loves this antique name with a dash of daring.

5. VIOLET (#13 in the US)

A nature name with a strong, distinctive image.

4. MAEVE (#76 in the US)

Liam falls back, but the ever-so-Irish Maeve leapfrogs to the top of the charts.

3. SOPHIA (#5 in the US)

The top three aren’t terribly surprising – long-time favorite Sophia comes in third place.

2. OLIVIA (#1 in the US)

The top two names flip-flop with national favorite Olivia retreating to second place.

1. CHARLOTTE (#2 in the US)

As is the case in many states, it’s Charlotte on top for the girls’ list. 

TOP 100 NEW HAMPSHIRITE GIRL NAMES

  1. Charlotte
  2. Olivia
  3. Sophia
  4. Maeve
  5. Violet
  6. Amelia
  7. Lucy
  8. Nora
  9. Isla
  10. Eleanor
  11. Harper
  12. Emma
  13. Evelyn
  14. Grace
  15. Lainey
  16. Penelope
  17. Eloise
  18. Elizabeth
  19. Lily
  20. Ava
  21. Isabella
  22. Abigail
  23. Ellie
  24. Aurora
  25. Hazel
  26. Mia
  27. Scarlett
  28. Willow
  29. Layla
  30. Paisley
  31. Riley
  32. Vivian
  33. Madeline
  34. Chloe
  35. Kennedy
  36. Avery
  37. Josephine
  38. Ella
  39. Madelyn
  40. Lillian
  41. Addison
  42. Clara
  43. Natalie
  44. Sadie
  45. Audrey
  46. Emerson*
  47. Emilia
  48. Hannah
  49. Madison
  50. Sofia
  51. Sophie
  52. Rose*
  53. Alice
  54. Aria
  55. Elena
  56. Kinsley
  57. Adeline
  58. Eliana
  59. Eliza*
  60. Lydia
  61. Millie
  62. Zoey
  63. Hadley*
  64. Ivy
  65. Piper*
  66. Autumn
  67. Claire
  68. Daisy
  69. Delilah
  70. Everly
  71. Georgia
  72. Margot*
  73. Peyton*
  74. Vera*
  75. Zoe
  76. Cecilia*
  77. Elsie*
  78. Emily
  79. Mackenzie*
  80. Nova
  81. Ruby
  82. Anna
  83. Cora*
  84. Gianna
  85. Lennon*
  86. Mabel*
  87. Maya
  88. Quinn
  89. Summer*
  90. Charlie*
  91. Luna
  92. Mila
  93. Skylar*
  94. Stella
  95. Allison*
  96. Amara*
  97. Callie*
  98. Caroline
  99. Hallie*
  100. Iris

* indicates name does not rank in the current US Top 100

toddler boy wearing red winter coat and hat standing by wooden railing on snowy day; New Hampshire baby names

DISTINCTIVE NEW HAMPSHIRE PLACE NAMES

ECHO

Borrowed from Echo Lake State Park in the mountains.

HUDSON

A common place name, both because of the Hudson River and explorer Henry Hudson. While rumors likely connected the New Hampshire town to one or both of these references, neither is correct. But the tow name stuck, and it’s a popular boy’s name, too. 

JENNESS

The name of a beach in the state, surname Jenness comes from Jeans, a French form of John. That makes Jenness a very compelling alternative to Jackson or Joanna.

KEENE

Actor Keen Ruffalo – son of Mark – raises this short surname name’s profile. As with many single-syllable names, Keen and Keene can claim multiple origins and meanings – battle, bold, wise, family. It might be related to personal names like Conrad or Christian. All of these possible origins are a plus, because the town of Keene, New Hampshire was named after British diplomat Benjamin Keene, who profited from the slave trade. You might recognize the town as the setting for much of the original Jumanji movie from the 1990s. 

LINCOLN, MADISON, MONROE 

And Adams, Jefferson, Lafayette, Washington, too. A long list of mountains in the state take their names from presidents and founding fathers. It sounds a bit like the cast of Hamilton. 

MEREDITH

Another 18th century politician, Sir William Meredith, inspired the name of this small New Hampshire town. He opposed taxing the colonies. Primarily a resort town today, Meredith is located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.

WALLIS

Wallis Sands State Park, located near Rye, takes its name from the family who previously owned the land.

WINNIE

Winnipesaukee is the state’s largest lake, popular for swimming, boating, fishing, and all sorts of outdoorsy pursuits. It became briefly famous in late 2020. Talk show host Jimmy Fallon announced he and film producer wife Nancy Juvonen had named their daughter Winnie. The reason? The couple’s many vacations to Lake Winnipesaukee.

NAMES FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE HISTORY & SYMBOLS

AUTUMN

Leaf-peeping in New England is a tradition for many. Cold winters create the conditions for vibrant autumn leaves from late September into early October. That makes autumn a spectacular season, and perhaps inspiration for one of the best New Hampshire baby names.

BERYL

A vintage gemstone name, and the state’s official mineral.

LILAC

Purple lilac is the state’s flower.

ROCKY, STONE

Nicknamed the Granite State, New Hampshire parents might not name a kiddo Granite … but names like Rocky and Stone could hold some appeal.

FAMOUS GRANITE STATERS

ALAN

Astronaut Alan Shepard was born in East Derry. He became the first American in space, paving the way for the lunar landing.

BENNING

18th century governor Benning Wentworth was born to a locally prominent family. Benning was his grandmother’s maiden name. The most famous place named for him is actually Bennington, Vermont – but this might make an interesting New Hampshire history choice, too.

BODE

It’s no suprise that plenty of American winter sports are big in New England. Bode Miller has won six Olympic medals in alpine skiing. He’s a native of Easton, New Hampshire.

CHRISTA

Alan Shepard isn’t the only New Hampshirite with ties to outer space. Christa McAuliffe was teaching social studies in Concord when she was selected for NASA’s Teacher in Space program in 1985. She lost her life with the crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986.

FRANKLIN

It tends to make us think of Benjamin, but Franklin Pierce served as 14th President of the United States. The New Hampshire native was the son of a former governor of the state. 

JOSIAH, JED

A Revolutionary war patriot, Josiah Bartlett became the second signer of the Declaration of Independence, He served as governor of the state, as well as chief justice of the state’s supreme court. Fans of The West Wing may know that the fictional Josiah “Jed” Bartlet was said to be descended from the historical figure.

MANDY

Actress and singer Mandy Moore was born in Nashua.

SALINGER

While author JD Salinger is strongly assocaited with his native New York, he lived in Cornish, New Hampshire for three decades. 

SARAH

Two famous Sarahs are associated with the state. Born in Newport in 1788, Sarah Josepha Hale became a 19th century writer who successfully campaigned to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. Also noteworthy: Hale wrote Mary Had a Little Lamb, the nursery rhyme and founded the very first American magazine for women: Godey’s Lady’s Book. More recently, comedian Sarah Silverman is also a native of the state.

SETH

Bedford-born Seth Myers is known as a late night talk show host and successful comedian. 

Do you have any favorite New Hampshire baby names? What would you add to this list?

The post Popular in New Hampshire Baby Names appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 0 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Choosing Beloved Family Name Angelica for a First Daughter]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79826 2026-08-11T16:42:25Z 2026-08-11T16:42:23Z Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays.…

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Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays. We’re relying on thoughtful comments from the community to help expectant parents narrow down their name decisions. Thank you in advance for sharing your insight! To have your question considered, email appmtn (at) gmail. Looking for your own private #namehelp post? Order one here.

PUTTING THE NAMES TOGETHER

Mikayla writes:

We’re first-time parents and we’re feeling a little bit of pressure to honor my husband’s late grandmother, his yaya. She passed away about a year after we got married, and at a very emotionally intense moment, my husband told his mother that we’d name a daughter in her memory.

Part of me feels like we’re not bound to this promise, but I also know that it would mean a lot to my husband and his family, and they’re really wonderful people and love me like their own.

Her name was the Greek equivalent of Angelica, but everyone called her Koula. She was named after a famous Greek actress.

Our last name sounds like Pet-true.

Right now, we mostly agree that we will use a form of Angela or Angelica as our daughter’s middle name. We cannot agree on a first name. I think our last name is hard to work with, but it feels like having her middle name decided is making it harder, partly because of initials spelling things.

Here are the name we talked about:

  • Willow – My favorite, and I really love Willow Angeline/Angelina, but the initials W.A.P. are a big no.
  • Luna – Another name I really like, but don’t like the U sound with our last name.
  • Lily – My favorite forever, what I named all of our dolls and even my cat. I’ve mostly moved past it, but I do like the sound of Lily Angeline.
  • Mia – I know this is popular, but we never hear it. I think the initials M.A.P. are good, or at least not bad.
  • Millie – A friend suggested it and I liked it immediately but everyone keeps asking what it would be short for, and that bothers me for some reason.
  • Sienna – Husband suggested, and I think it’s very pretty, but I don’t like the initials S.A.P.

There are maybe a dozen other names that we’ve talked about, but these are the ones we keep coming back to without getting any closer to a decision.

We have also talked about naming her Angelica/Angelina/Angela but I think we’ve mostly ruled that out. I really don’t like the sound of Angie. Koula just doesn’t sound like a name to me.

Please read on for my response and leave your thoughtful suggestions in the comments.

baby wearing knit hat with pacifier sleeping on blanket; using family name Angelica

FINDING THE RIGHT FIRST

Abby replies:

Congratulations on your new daughter!

You’re absolutely right – having a middle name set in advance does present a constraint. And yet, it sounds like this is one you’d probably like to use. It links your daughter to her dad’s family, and to someone beloved. That’s not a bad thing.

And because it’s a middle name? You still have plenty of latitude to choose a great first. Plus Angeline seems like a solid choice, related to your husband’s grandmother, while working with plenty – if not all – firsts.

From your current list, I do think Mia has potential. The family name Angelica works as a middle; I like both Mia Angeline and Mia Angelica with your surname. The initials M.A.P. sound adventurous. And you’re absolutely right – Mia may be popular, but even Top Ten names aren’t nearly as often heard as was once the case.

One other consideration: the initials are a known factor. In some ways, it might be better to choose MAP or DAP or LAP than, say XAP that might end up being a future acronym or slang term or multinational corporation. Then again, I’m not sure I’d rule out my favorite name just in case – but it’s another vote for Mia.

If not Mia, let’s see if we can find some more suggestions. We’re looking for names that are complete, without nickname issues (like Millie’s what-is-it-short-for), and avoiding awkward initial combinations. I think we’re also looking for a strong L sound, if possible, as that occurs in many of your favorites.

FRESH SUGGESTIONS

CLARA

Sweetly old-fashioned like Lily and Millie, but also very current.

CHLOE

Maybe leaning into all things Greek too much, but I do love the way Chloe ends with the EE sound of Millie, but is complete. I could suggest Daphne, Phoebe, and Zoe, too – but I’m guessing you might hear a lot of Greek girls’ names, so I’ll just put Chloe on this list for now.

DELILAH

The first name that came to mind! It has the lovely L of Lily and Luna, and some of the flow of Sienna, too.

IVY

Thinking about brief and complete names, Ivy almost always comes to mind. Like Lily, Luna, and Willow, it’s a nature name.

LYDIA

Another slightly longer, but complete and unlikely-to-be-shortened option, Lydia is classic, but not too common.

LYLA

If Delilah is too long, Lyla is another option. It’s also spelled Lilah and Lila – and that’s the order of popularity: Lyla is most common, hovering just inside the US Top 100, with Lilah and Lila following in the Top 200. Worth noting: all of these spellings mean that it’s tough to get a handle on Lyla’s actual popularity.

MAYA

There’s no real reason to choose Maya over Mia, but Maya ranks around the #50 to #60 mark in the US, and has for a few years. So if popularity becomes a hesitation with Mia, this small shift might change that.

TALIA

Thalia is a Greek name meaning “to blossom,” borrowed from one of the Muses. Talia is typically considered Hebrew, a name meaning “dew.” But I wonder if the Talia spelling is a little more accessible in American English? It’s also far more popular.

Overall, if not Mia, I think I’d put Lyla second. It seems like the best of Lily and Luna combined. And Delilah seems like another compelling option. It has that flowing sound your husband likes with Sienna, but with plenty of the qualities that seem to appeal to you, too.

Readers, over to you! What would you name a firstborn daughter with a middle related to the family name Angelica?

The post Choosing Beloved Family Name Angelica for a First Daughter appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 11 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Names in the News 8.9.26]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79807 2026-08-09T17:58:22Z 2026-08-09T17:58:20Z Looking for even more name talk? Join us on the AM Baby Names Patreon. Join for free to keep up…

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Looking for even more name talk? Join us on the AM Baby Names Patreon. Join for free to keep up with Name Games. Can you guess this name in three clues?

Can we talk about Preferences versus Problems?

I often come across questions on Reddit and other forums that read something like this: my loved one is about to give their child a horrible name. I feel like I need to speak up.

Nine times out of ten, if the name is shared, I will disagree. While the original poster (OP) might not like the name, and it might indeed be a little different, chances are that it’s not a problem. In fact, often the choice is pretty mainstream for a 2020s kid, and the OP is just stuck in another naming moment.

Sometimes, though? There’s a legit issue. It might be worth a mention, even if it changes nothing.

So how do you know the difference?

Preferences are unexamined. We don’t consult popularity data or other info. It’s based on our own, personal gut reaction. Or if we do any kind of a search, we’re out to validate our own opinion and find that one Reddit thread that trashes the name.

Problems carry nuance. We’ve thought about it, checked our gut reaction against data and information. Maybe our parents are Chinese, and while our children probably won’t speak Mandarin, the fact that Dylan can be translated as “low IQ” – maybe that’s worth a mention. Or maybe our sister can mentioned that she disliked being one of three Jessicas in her class, and she plans to name her daughter something very different: Elianna. She might actually appreciate you mentioning that Eliana just entered the US Top Ten – whether it changes her mind or not.

ELSEWHERE ONLINE

Yes to Lennon and Bowie and Hendrix, but what about Rocker? That’s the name country music’s Parker McCollum and wife Hallie Ray named their new son. Rocker Tommy Light McCollum joins big brother Major Yancey Tyler McCollum. It strikes me as surprising, but very wearable in our Rocky/Carter moment.

Ooh, I really like these sister names: Tate Colette and Blair Collins. Parents are reality television couple Kacie Adkinson and Cole McBee. Their family appears on the Bravo show The McBee Dynasty about the family’s ranch in Missouri. I’m not up on all the drama, of which I’m sure there is plenty …

Nancy’s analysis of rising names from the new England & Wales data is fascinating. Mabel tops the girl’s list, but how about Evara? And everybody loves Luca, but will American parents embrace Ronnie? That whole two-countries-divided-by-a-common-language thing holds true in names, too.

UPDATING & THINKING ABOUT

Truett blends virtue vibes with surname style, for a winning combination.

Zelda feels effortlessly offbeat but also sweetly vintage.

Delphine is just plain overlooked, the obvious alternative to Top Ten Charlotte.

That’s all for now. As always, thank you for reading and have a great week!

trending boy names 8.9.26
trending girl names 8.9.26

The post Names in the News 8.9.26 appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 0 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Strong Boy Names: A Brother for Jack and Ben]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79764 2026-08-07T12:50:43Z 2026-08-07T12:50:41Z Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays.…

The post Strong Boy Names: A Brother for Jack and Ben appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]>

Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays. We’re relying on thoughtful comments from the community to help expectant parents narrow down their name decisions. Thank you in advance for sharing your insight! To have your question considered, email appmtn (at) gmail. Looking for your own private #namehelp post? Order one here.

THIRD BOY, OUT OF NAMES

Kiara writes:

I’m due with our third child, and third son, in a few weeks. Naming our first two boys was easy. This time, we’ve got NOTHING.

Our boys are:

  • Jack Easton – We agreed on Jack as soon as we knew we were having a boy. We picked Easton from a list we found online.
  • Bennett “Ben” Vaughn – We both liked Ben but couldn’t agree on Benjamin. Somehow we both came up with Bennett and it just felt right. Once we had his first name, we found Vaughn on another list.

Our last name sounds like the letter M plus ler, so it rules out M names and names ending with R.

Names we have discussed this time:

  • Logan – Husband’s runner-up name from Jack, but I never warmed up to it and I like it even less now.
  • Drew/Andrew – Another name we talked about for Jack, not really working for me this time.
  • Gray/Grayson – I think this is my favorite right now, but is Gray too different compared to Jack and Ben? I like that our boys’ names are very strong, traditional names without being too old-fashioned.
  • Theo – Kind of breaks our pattern, and I worry that it’s weird to not name him Theodore. Husband is a hard no on Theodore, but on board with Theo.
  • Henry – Loved this name for Jack, but husband was a no. He’s coming around now, but I’m not sure this time.
  • Wells – A friend suggested this one, and I really like it, but when I say it with our last name, I don’t like it as much.
  • Wes/Wesley/Weston – Wells came up because I was saying I was disappointed that Wesley didn’t sound great with our last name. We talked about Weston, but with Jack’s middle name, this just seems weird.
  • Case – Husband’s newest suggestion, and I like the sound, but I don’t think it’s enough of a name. Also, I dislike the way that it can be spelled so many different ways.
  • Ryder – Jack’s suggestion because Paw Patrol. If not for the Ryder M-ler of it all, maybe we’d use it at this point!

I think we need some new ideas, or someone else to tell us if The Name is already on our list.

Please read on for my response and leave your thoughtful suggestions in the comments.

sleeping baby boy with arms out wearing white onesie with toy heart by his side; brother for Jack and Ben

FINDING MORE NAMES LIKE JACK & BEN

Abby replies:

Congratulations on your third son!

Sometimes it’s tough to name our first child because we’re starting with a blank slate. We choose anything! Bob. Anaximander. Lucius. It’s all possible, at least in some sense.

But as our family grows, we start to feel a very different constraint. We’re not just naming our child. We’re naming our older kids’ new sibling, and there’s an urge to match – without duplicating – that can feel really limiting.

It sounds like you’re straddling a line between more classic names, like Jack and Henry, with more modern ones, like Ryder and Case. Bennett feels like a perfect midpoint between the two styles.

Call them modern traditionals. It’s a deep category, with plenty of different options.

From your list, Grayson strikes me as the obvious choice. Jack, Ben, and Gray go together really well, but so do Jack, Bennett, and Grayson.

It’s exactly as you describe: strong, traditional, not too old-fashioned.

Also worth noting: Grayson/Gray is pretty close to Case, one of your husband’s favorites.

If not Grayson, let’s see if we can brainstorm some more names that fit the same general vibe.

MODERN TRADITIONALS LIKE JACK AND BENETT

AUGUST

Nickname Gus has a similar sound to Wes. August blends traditional roots – it’s been used for millennia – with a modern, word name sensibility.

DEAN

Dean is such a fun name. It’s got that old world, elite university vibe – think Oxford or Princeton – with 1960s surfer energy, and a hint of James Dean, too. But it’s also strong, straightforward and rising in use again today.

HAYES

Blend the sounds of Case, Wells, Wes, Gray, and maybe even a touch of Henry and you’ll arrive at Hayes. Strictly speaking, it’s a cousin to early 2000s favorite Aiden, and shares the meaning: fiery.

HUGO

If you’re feeling like Theo is great, but incomplete, might I suggest Hugo instead? It’s every bit as established as Theodore, but Hugo is the full name. It means heart or mind, which holds plenty of appeal. Hugo balances traditional with 21st century style nicely.

MILES

I almost took this one off the list because you mentioned your surname – M plus ler – rules out M names. But does it? I struggled more with strong L sounds. I think something likes Miles M-plus-ler could be the perfect amount of repeating sound. And I think you’re style exactly.

REID

On the other hand, I agree that a two-syllable first name ending with R isn’t ideal with two-syllable surname ending with R. Would Reid work instead of Ryder? There’s no Paw Patrol tie-in, but it’s a great sound that fits your criteria.

TATE

If not Gray, possibly Tate would appeal? I love the strong, bright sound for you.

WYATT

Some of these names, like Case and Ryder, seem to have a sort of cowboy, home-on-the-range appeal. And you do seem drawn to W names. Wyatt does have a little bit of that Wild West pedigree, thanks to historical figure Wyatt Earp. But it also feels traditional(ish), thanks to so many years in the US Top 100. One drawback? I’m not sure Wy feels like a viable short form. And it is another TT ending name. But if you’re calling your boys Jack, Ben, and Wyatt, it works nicely.

Overall, I do think Grayson could be exactly right. Grayson Henry, maybe? If not Grayson, my next favorite would be Hayes. I like Hayes Ryder. But if I can convince you to consider an M. name, then Miles Henry would be my top pick.

Readers, over to you! What would you name a brother for Jack and Bennett called Ben?

The post Strong Boy Names: A Brother for Jack and Ben appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 15 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Popular in North Dakota Baby Names]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79788 2026-08-05T16:39:25Z 2026-08-06T07:33:00Z Let’s talk about North Dakota baby names! Way up in the Upper Midwest, on the Canadian border, North Dakota sits. …

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Let’s talk about North Dakota baby names!

Way up in the Upper Midwest, on the Canadian border, North Dakota sits. 

Admitted to the Union in 1839, on the same day as South Dakota, it’s considered the 39th state. It’s massive and sprawling, the 19th largest by area, but only 47th out of 50th in terms of population.  

While the percentage continues to decrease, well over 80% of North Dakotans report their race as white. Around 5% identify as biracial, followed by another 4.5% who consider themselves indigenous and just over 3% are black or African American. 

Race plays a key role in the names we choose. It’s wrapped up with language. With less than 2% of North Dakota households reporting their primary language as Spanish, the top girl names don’t include Sofia. Mateo and Isabella, favorites in places like Texas, fall farther down the ND list, too.

Known for its national parklands, productive agriculture, and rich indigenous culture, the Roughrider state is wrapped up in American history. Whether you’re a native of North Dakota or just curious to see what names come out on top here, this is your list. 

DAKOTA AS A BABY NAME

In 1985, Dakota debuted in the most popular boy names in the US. By 1990, it made the girls’ Top 1000, too. 

The name comes from the Dakota people, native to the region. In their language, it means friends or possibly allies.

It filtered into use as a given name thanks to a soap opera. In 1985, the world met Dakota Smith on soap opera Ryan’s Hope. He was the illegitimate son of a major character, Johnny. Parents embraced the name as rugged and outdoorsy – just like the state. 

As actress Dakota Fanning became better known, the numbers shifted. Today it’s about equally popular for boys and girls. Figures like the NFL’s Dakota “Dak” Prescott help keep the image balanced. 

Despite a long run of popularity and place name-status, parents often hesitate to use names taken from indigenous peoples now. 

TOP TEN BOY NAMES IN NORTH DAKOTA

10. COLTER (#157 in the US)

Tell me your culture is all about ranches and wide open spaces without telling me your culture is all about ranches and wide open spaces. Rugged Colter surges to the Top Ten in the Roughrider state. 

9. JAMES (#6 in the US)

A classic nearly everywhere.

8. BENNETT (#40 in the US)

One of several names that tends to out-perform in homogeneous states. Without Spanish-speakers, Bennett steps into a spot often occupied by Mateo. Also interesting: Bennett makes the state-wide Top Ten, while national favorite Benjamin does not. 

7. HUDSON (#17 in the US)

Another name, like Bennett, that often rises in the rankings in situations like this.

6. COOPER (#27 in the US)

Another name outperforming the national stats in North Dakota.

5. OLIVER (#3 in the US)

One of the names of the 21st century.

4. NOAH (#2 in the US)

A former #1 favorite slides a few more spaces down.

3. THEODORE (#4 in the US)

A traditional favorite on the rise.

2. HENRY (#5 in the US)

As in several other states, Henry surges to #2 here.

1. LIAM (#1 in the US)

The top name nationally comes out at #1 here, too.

TOP 100 NORTH DAKOTAN BOY NAMES

  1. Liam
  2. Henry
  3. Theodore
  4. Noah
  5. Oliver
  6. Cooper
  7. Hudson
  8. Bennett
  9. James
  10. Colter*
  11. Asher
  12. Jack
  13. Leo
  14. Elias
  15. Elijah
  16. Stetson*
  17. Brooks
  18. Wesley
  19. William
  20. Owen
  21. Weston
  22. Luke
  23. Rowan
  24. Walker
  25. Waylon
  26. Beau
  27. Archer
  28. Lincoln
  29. Maverick
  30. Hayes
  31. Jett
  32. Carter
  33. Myles
  34. Samuel
  35. Silas
  36. Everett
  37. Ezekiel
  38. Graham*
  39. Grayson
  40. Luca
  41. Mateo
  42. Nolan
  43. Wyatt
  44. Atlas
  45. Benjamin
  46. David
  47. Isaac
  48. Lucas
  49. Gabriel
  50. John
  51. Levi
  52. Roman
  53. Axel
  54. Beckham*
  55. Briggs*
  56. Daniel
  57. Easton*
  58. Michael
  59. Otto*
  60. Thomas
  61. Baker*
  62. Beckett*
  63. Ezra
  64. Joseph
  65. Arlo*
  66. Benson*
  67. Charles
  68. Jackson
  69. Josiah
  70. Alexander
  71. Barrett*
  72. Caleb
  73. Camden*
  74. Harrison*
  75. Isaiah
  76. Rhett*
  77. Colton*
  78. Emmett*
  79. Harvey*
  80. Jace*
  81. Knox*
  82. Ryker*
  83. Sebastian
  84. Theo
  85. Tucker*
  86. Anthony
  87. Arthur
  88. Dawson*
  89. Jasper*
  90. Jude*
  91. Luka
  92. Tate*
  93. Andrew
  94. Eli
  95. Elliot*
  96. Griffin*
  97. Jacob
  98. Jameson*
  99. Ledger*
  100. Logan

* indicates name does not appear in the current US Top 100

TOP TEN GIRL NAMES IN NORTH DAKOTA

10. EMMA (#3 in the US)

Former #1 name falls all the way back to #10 here.

9. IVY (#39 in the US)

Nature names for girls over-perform in North Dakota, starting with Ivy.

8. HAZEL (#21 in the US)

Hazel is another borrowed-from-nature name that rises higher.

7. ELLA (#29 in the US)

North Dakotans love a good El- name.

6. AMELIA (#4 in the US)

Top Ten pretty much across the US.

5. EVELYN (#8 in the US)

A favorite most places.

4. ELLIE (#24 in the US)

The second El- name to over-perform in the state.

3. OLIVIA (#1 in the US)

Olivia falls back to the third spot.

2. LAINEY (#30 in the US)

Like Colter, Lainey brings all the rugged, Western vibes.

1. CHARLOTTE (#2 in the US)

This classic name steps up to the very top of the list.

TOP 100 NORTH DAKOTAN GIRL NAMES

  1. Charlotte
  2. Lainey
  3. Olivia
  4. Ellie
  5. Evelyn
  6. Amelia
  7. Ella
  8. Hazel
  9. Ivy
  10. Emma
  11. Aurora
  12. Harper
  13. Isla
  14. Lucy
  15. Nora
  16. Violet
  17. Elizabeth
  18. Eleanor
  19. Elsie
  20. Willow
  21. Clara
  22. Paisley
  23. Eden
  24. Lillian
  25. Scottie*
  26. Ava
  27. Hattie*
  28. Millie
  29. Scarlett
  30. Emery
  31. Lennon*
  32. Lily
  33. Adeline
  34. Lydia
  35. Ruth*
  36. Sophia
  37. Emersyn*
  38. Iris
  39. Wrenley*
  40. Avery
  41. Brynlee*
  42. Hadley*
  43. Isabella
  44. Josephine
  45. Josie
  46. Layla
  47. Lyla
  48. Vivian
  49. Eloise
  50. Penelope
  51. Ruby
  52. Zoey
  53. Aria
  54. Chloe
  55. Grace
  56. Hallie*
  57. Margaret*
  58. Adalynn*
  59. Audrey
  60. Cora*
  61. Eliana
  62. Eliza*
  63. Everly
  64. Gianna
  65. Isabelle
  66. Kinsley
  67. Liliana
  68. Mia
  69. Quinn
  70. Riley
  71. Stella
  72. Addison
  73. Aubrey*
  74. Brooklyn
  75. Freya*
  76. Mila
  77. Oaklynn*
  78. Palmer*
  79. Parker*
  80. Aspen*
  81. Blakely*
  82. Collins*
  83. Ember*
  84. Indie*
  85. Natalie
  86. Nova
  87. Sage*
  88. Sutton*
  89. Tatum*
  90. Victoria
  91. Ada*
  92. Alina*
  93. Charlie*
  94. Elena
  95. Gracie*
  96. Jade
  97. Maria
  98. Olive*
  99. Sloane*
  100. Sophie

* indicates name does not appear in the current US Top 100

mom and child on horseback; North Dakota baby names

DISTINCTIVE NORTH DAKOTA PLACE NAMES

ARTHUR

A tiny North Dakota town, Arthur was originally called Rosedale. While there’s no connection to former president Chester A. Arthur, the town was later re-named in his honor.

BENSON

A North Dakota county created in 1883, Benson’s name comes from Bertil Benson, a legislator in Dakota Territory prior to statehood.

HAZEN

From the name of a small city south of North Dakota’s largest lake, Lake Sakakawea. It’s named after early postmaster, A.D. Hazen.

NIELS

It looks like a cousin to Neal or Neil, but Niels is actually a cousin to longer names like Nicholas or Cornelius. It reads quite Scandinavian, which tracks with settlers to the snowy state. The National Register of Historic Places lists The Neils Nielsen Fourteen-Side Barn Farm, built by a Danish immigrant.

RAMSEY

Another county name, this one named for Minnesota Senator Alexander Ramsey. 

RAY

Founded in 1902 and named for a railroad official, Ray is a tiny town with a surprisingly rich history. The town’s main street includes a building known as Ray Opera House. Strictly speaking, the opera house perched atop a grocery and general store. At the turn of the 20th century, it drew entertainers – and audiences – from miles around. The building still stands today.

WILLIS

Williston counts as a large city by this state’s standards, even though the population tops out below 30,000. There’s a state college and the Williston Basin, which drove the state’s 21st century oil boom. It was named for merchant Daniel Willis James back in 1887. 

NAMES FROM NORTH DAKOTA HISTORY & SYMBOLS

HONEY

Quick, what state is the largest producer of honey in the US? It’s North Dakota. 

JUNE

Also known as the Saskatoon berry, the juneberry grows wild in the state. They actually ripen closer to July, at peak summer, when locals gather them to make them into jam and bake juneberry pies. 

LARK

Inspired by the western meadowlark, the official state bird.

LEGEND

The state’s tourism bureau adopted “Be Legendary” as the current state tagline.

LIBERTY 

It might make some think of New York City’s famous statue, but North Dakota’s motto is “Liberty and Union Now and Forever, One and Inseparable.”

PAX

One of the state’s nicknames is The Peace Garden State. Situated on the border of Canada and the US, the International Peace Garden reflects a committment between the two nations, first signed in 1932.

PRAIRIE

For the state’s prairies, of course, but also for the official flower of North Dakota, the prairie rose.

RYDER

Back in 1898, the US army was small, its ranked dwindled after the Civil War. So for the Spanish-American War, they needed tor rebuild. The 1st United States Volunteer Cavarly became known as the Rough Riders. Colonel Leonard Wood headed the regiment. His second in command? Future US president Theodore Roosevelet. The main requirement to join? Horsemanship skills. The unit served admirably in Cuba, and became a pop culture sensation. Roosevelt settled in the state after his presidency, and was long associated with North Dakota. But the nickname only took hold during the 1970s, when the state tourism board starting describing the state as such. Still, Ryder seems like a subtle nod to North Dakota’s history.  

WINTER

North Dakota knows winter. It’s among the coldest states, with all those snow-covered prairies. Winter – and wintry names in general – feel like a fit. 

FAMOUS NORTH DAKOTANS

ANGIE, ANGELINE

During the 1960s and 70s, North Dakota native Angeline “Angie” Dickinson was a major star, both in Hollywood and later on television. She is one of many famous North Dakotans awarded the annual Rough Rider Award by the state’s governor.

CARIDEE

Fargo native CariDee English won America’s Next Top Model in 2006, and went on to serve as a model and television host.

CARSON

He’s best known as part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning team, but Carson Wentz spent his high school and college years playing football in North Dakota. 

Born in North Carolina but high school college fix 

KELLAN

Dickinson native Kellan Lutz rose to fame playing Emmett Cullen in the Twilight franchise. 

LOUIS

Author Louis L’Amour was born in Jamestown. He became famous as the writer of many Western novels, which he described as stories of the frontier. Many of his more than 100 published works remain in print more than forty years after L’Amour’s death, and many have been adapted for the screen. Louis is a polished, classic choice, but the author takes it to American West. 

THEODORE

New York City-born Theodore Roosevelt spent time as a young man in rugged North Dakota, and chose to build his post-presidential Elkhorn Ranch in the state. He extoled the talents of a cowboy and ranch life. His image is forever part of the state, and perhaps that’s why the baby name Theodore continues to over-perform slightly here.

TRUCK

Baseball’s Truck Hannah was born James Hannah. When he joined the New York Yankees in 1918, he became the very first professional baseball player from the state. 

WIZ

Minot native Cameron Jibril Thomaz moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and became a rapper. You know him as Wiz Khalifa. While the Grammy-nominated performer is more strongly associated with Pittsburgh, North Dakota can claim him, too. 

Do you have any favorite North Dakota baby names? What would you add to this list?

The post Popular in North Dakota Baby Names appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 1 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[New Names Showdown 2026: The Winners]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79773 2026-08-04T15:47:50Z 2026-08-05T07:33:00Z Drum roll, please! The votes are in and we have two more champions to join our list of victors in…

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Drum roll, please!

The votes are in and we have two more champions to join our list of victors in the annual New Names Showdown.

But first, what is the New Names Showdown 2026?

EVERY YEAR BRINGS NEW TOP NAMES

Every year, when the US Social Security Administration updates their popularity data, there are risers and fallers. Some names debut in the US Top 1000 for the very first time. Others return after an absence. It could be just a year off, a tiny wobble out of the data. But often, it’s decades of hibernation.

Those new and returning names attract a lot of attention, even if they’re only being given to 300 kids or so. (The average Top Ten name is given to around 10,000 kids in a single year.)

Many will eventually climb the popularity charts, becoming established favorites.

After all, names don’t skyrocket to #1 – or even #27 or #113 – overnight. It takes time for expectant parents to consider their options.

Appellation Mountain readers excel at spotting those trends.

So every year, after the Social Security Administration releases the new popularity data, I choose eight boys’ names and eight girls’ names.

Then it’s your turn to vote your way through ’em, bracket-style, until just two names are left standing.

In 2026, we started with:

BEST NEW GIRL NAMES

  • KYOMI (#548)
  • ODETTE (#883)
  • MARIEL (#893)
  • ELIORA (#914)
  • WINIFRED (#923)
  • DARLA (#941)
  • ELARA (#942)
  • LAKEN (#990)

BEST NEW BOY NAMES

  • JASAI (#439)
  • HAZIEL (#795)
  • COAST (#875)
  • BOAZ (#891)
  • MARCELLO (#900)
  • BECK (#913)
  • STONE (#916)
  • MONTGOMERY (#962)

As of last week, we had reached the finals! Here’s how they turned out.

RESULTS OF THE FINAL MATCHES

WINIFRED versus ODETTE

With just over 57% of the total, antique Winifred bested the equally vintage Odette. One reason Winifred might’ve pulled off the win? We’re wild for Winnie, a nickname that entered the US Top 500 as an independent choice this year.

MONTGOMERY versus BECK

It was the year for long names, as Montgomery swept past Beck, again with more than 57% of the total. Montgomery is a name I’ve been watching for years, and it feels like this is the right moment for a surname name with the same little gentleman vibes as Theodore or Sebastian. Jaunty nickname Monty is a bonus.

That means that Winifred and Montgomery are our 2026 New Names Showdown champions, joining an elite group of names.

girl and boy wearing sunglasses on beach; New Names Showdown 2026 The Winners

WINNING GIRL NAMES

From our first contest in 2016 to today, here are the names that have won each year.

  • Winifred (2026)
  • Romy (2025)
  • Seraphina (2024)
  • Marigold (2023)
  • Guinevere (2022)
  • Etta (2021)
  • Elodie (2020)
  • Zora (2019)
  • Marlowe (2018)
  • Sylvie (2017)
  • Arden (2016)

WINNING BOY NAMES

And on the boys’ side, here’s the complete list of victors.

  • Montgomery (2026)
  • Heath (2025)
  • Hollis (2024)
  • Rhodes (2023)
  • Benedict (2022)
  • Leif (2021)
  • Callahan (2020)
  • Archie (2019)
  • Wells (2018)
  • Shepherd (2017)
  • Wilder (2016)

One of the things I love most? Even though we vote our way through the boy names and girl names independently, most years the winners sound so compatible. From 2022’s Guinevere and Benedict to 2018’s Marlowe and Wells, I feel like readers really do have a vibe that guides their thinking – even if it’s not always obvious until we see the results.

That’s all for this year’s New Names Showdown. Thank you, as ever, for your votes!

The post New Names Showdown 2026: The Winners appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 2 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Names Like Eleanor for a First Daughter]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79741 2026-08-03T16:17:07Z 2026-08-04T07:33:00Z Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays.…

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Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, we discuss reader’s name questions, usually on Tuesdays and Fridays. We’re relying on thoughtful comments from the community to help expectant parents narrow down their name decisions. Thank you in advance for sharing your insight! To have your question considered, email appmtn (at) gmail. Looking for your own private #namehelp post? Order one here.

FIRST NAME/LAST NAME MISMATCH

Brooke writes:

We are due with our first child, a girl, in early September. I always loved the name Eleanor with the nickname Ellie. But our last name sounds like Hen-en-ger, and Eleanor Hen-en-ger is a mouthful. (Note: it’s a hard G sound, like girl or get.)

My husband wants to name her just Ellie, but that doesn’t feel like enough name to me.

For different reasons, we have ruled out Katherine, Margaret, and Elizabeth. I know Eleanor is another very traditional name, but nothing else on the lists of traditional names really works for me.

I never liked how my name didn’t have a nickname, so I’d like my daughter to have more flexibility, but it feels like I’m drawn to short names like my own, like Sage, Jade, Blair, Lou, and Mae, but I don’t want to use those names. The names that I think of as serious and formal all seem like a little much.

What am I missing?

Please read on for my response and leave your thoughtful suggestions in the comments.

baby girl wearing floral headband with hands in front of her face; finding names like Eleanor

NAMES LIKE ELEANOR: TRADITIONAL WITH A SPARKY NICKNAME

Abby replies:

Congratulations on your daughter!

I think you’re on the right track. After all, if your married surname were Smith, this baby would be Eleanor “Ellie” Smith, right?

You’re faced with giving up a long-time favorite because of a first-last mismatch, and that’s always hard. But I don’t think you should abandon your goal of finding a longer first with a fun nickname. If that speaks to you – and it sounds like it does, for lots of reasons – let’s find one that works with Hen-en-ger.

Lists of traditional names might be a good place to start, but I’d like to expand the circle just a tiny bit wider. After all, if Katherine-called-Kate spoke to you, then this would be straightforward, right?

AMELIA

Eleanor is a popular name, so I’m going to suggest other names that rank in the US Top 100. In Amelia’s case, that’s actually the Top Ten. It shares some of Eleanor’s vintage style, could also shorten to Ellie or Mia or Lia or a few other options. I really like Amelia called Mimi, for a great classic/unexpected combination.

CECILIA

Like Amelia, Cecilia is vintage. Both names are flowing, with lots of soft, liquid sounds. Cecilia nickname Ceci/Cece seems like it might appeal.

ELOISE

Or maybe the real challenge is finding another Ellie name? I love the sound of Eloise with your surname, and Ellie is just right there. Other possibilities: Eliza, Elowyn, Elodie, and so many more.

JOSEPHINE

Like Eleanor, Josephine is traditional and gently French. Both names are quite popular name. And again, both come with so many nickname options.

LOUISE

If you love Lou, would Louise or Louisa work? Or even Lucia, Lucille, or another longer Lu/Lou name? Tallulah feels quite bold, while Louise is more understated and timeless.

MARIEL

Mary makes every list of classic choices. Marie and Maria, too. But I wonder if the slightly elaborated Mariel might be the best choice? It shares the EL of Eleanor and shortens to Ellie nicely.

ROSALIE

Would you consider Rosie? If so, plenty of formal names work nicely, but I think Rosalie could be the sweet spot for your family.

SOPHIA

Like Amelia, Sophia is very popular. But Sophie and even Sosie are sweet short forms, and it’s a traditional name with a great meaning – wisdom – and a soft-meets-strong sound.

Overall, I’m most drawn to Eloise. Eloise “Ellie” Blair Hen-en-ger. Bonus: Eloise also shortens to Lou, so another of your favorite names could be worked in.

Or maybe Mariel “Ellie” or “Mimi” Sage Hen-en-ger, particularly if finding a slightly less popular first matters.

Readers, over to you! Can you suggest names like Eleanor that flow better with the surname Hen-en-ger?

The post Names Like Eleanor for a First Daughter appeared first on Appellation Mountain.

]]> 21 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[Names in the News 8.2.26]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79735 2026-08-03T01:21:32Z 2026-08-03T01:21:30Z Looking for even more name talk? Join us on the AM Baby Names Patreon. Join for free to keep up…

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Looking for even more name talk? Join us on the AM Baby Names Patreon. Join for free to keep up with Name Games. Upgrade and unlock even more great content, like this deep dive into substitutes for Lucy. Wendy, Dinah, or Neve, maybe?

Have you heard of The Killer Isn’t Alice?

It’s a book that’s nothing but a list of names, with instructions for how to narrow the list down to a single name until the actual murderer is identified.

I just ordered a copy and I’m working my way through. After spending so much time playing games like Wordle on my phone, it’s so old school to pick up a pencil and cross things off by hand.

Right now, you can try little mini games on their site – one for every day of August!

ELSEWHERE ONLINE

Charlotte, Juliette … Gabbriette? Model Gabbriette uses just a single name professionally. She and the lead singer of The 1975, Matty Healy, recently got married. The headlines prompted me to Google Gabbriette. Turns out she was born Gabriella Leigh Bechtel. I’m not sure how I feel about the name Gabbriette. Both the double-B, double-T spelling, as well as Gabriette, are virtually never used as given names in the US. But I get the appeal …

Rosie ranks in the Scotland girls’ Top Ten, Archie in the boys. Not too far behind: Maisie, Hallie, Freddie. The casual-cozy vibe is strong.

Here’s a fun rabbit hole I tumbled down the other day: the surname Cates or Kates does not come from Katherine. Instead it’s from Káti, from the Old Norse kátr, meaning merry or cheerful. Kind of love that. And, as it happens, Katie was not used as a short form of Katherine during the Middle Ages. It was definitely in use by the time Shakespeare gave us Katherina called Kate in The Taming of the Shrew in the 1590s. One more thing I discovered: there are a handful of instances of Katherin as a masculine name formed from the feminine Katherine.

UPDATING & THINKING ABOUT

Elias is racing up the popularity charts, not just in the US but everywhere – in fact, American parents are the last to catch on.

Jolene is forever tied to the Dolly Parton song, but it’s also sparky and sort of retro-Western in a very appealing way.

Ferdinand counts as a classic throughout much of Europe, but is nearly always overlooked in the US.

That’s all for this week. As always, thank you for reading and have a great week!

trending girl names 8.2.26
trending boy names 8.2.26

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]]> 0 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[New Names Showdown 2026: Boys Final]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79744 2026-08-01T16:56:44Z 2026-08-01T16:56:42Z How can it already be August 1st? Summer is going by in a flash. That means we’re ready for the…

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How can it already be August 1st? Summer is going by in a flash.

That means we’re ready for the very last vote in this year’s New Names Showdown for the boys!

Where do the new names come from? Every year, typically in May, the US Social Security Administration updates the Top 1000 Baby Names. (Actually, make that Top 2000 – one list for girls, one list for boys.) Inevitably, some names fall off the list, making way for new choices, or for former favorites to return.

I choose the eight most intriguing names for boys and girls alike, then your votes select a single winner.

PAST NEW NAMES SHOWDOWN CHAMPIONS

  • Heath (2025)
  • Hollis (2024)
  • Rhodes (2023)
  • Benedict (2022)
  • Leif (2021)
  • Callahan (2020)
  • Archie (2019)
  • Wells (2018)
  • Shepherd (2017)
  • Wilder (2016)

BOYS SEMIFINALS RESULTS

With 65% of the vote, Montgomery swept past Marcello. There’s reason to believe we’ll hear more of both names in the coming years, but for now? It’s the buttoned-up surname-name that advances.

Beck bested Stone with over 73% of the total. Midway between Beckett and Jack, Beck is brief, complete, and somehow almost traditional-ish, too.

NEW NAMES SHOWDOWN 2026: BOYS FINAL MATCH

And that sets up our final match in the New Names Showdown 2026!

MONTGOMERY versus BECK

Voting remains open for just a few days. As always, thank you for playing along with our summer contest and be sure to check back soon to see the results!

boy child with wet hear eating ice cream cone on beach; new names showdown 2026 boys final

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]]> 0 Abby Sandel https://appellationmountain.net/about/ <![CDATA[New Names Showdown 2026: Girls Final]]> https://appellationmountain.net/?p=79728 2026-07-30T16:37:52Z 2026-07-30T16:37:48Z July flew by so fast, and now it’s time for the final match-up in the New Names Showdown 2026! Get…

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July flew by so fast, and now it’s time for the final match-up in the New Names Showdown 2026! Get ready for the girls’ final, where your vote decides which name will join the winners’ circle.

As a reminder, every year the United States Social Security Administration updates the most popular baby names: 1,000 for girls and 1,000 for boys. Inevitably, some names leave, while others return or debut.

The annual New Names Showdown is about those returning or debuting names. Which are the best of the best? Which will likely continue to climb?

The eight names competing are chosen for being interesting. Different. Emblematic of a trend, maybe, or names that have been beloved on the site for years. (AM readers have great taste.)

And then your votes decide which one is really the top of the new and returning names. Your choice will join:

  • Romy (2025)
  • Seraphina (2024)
  • Marigold (2023)
  • Guinevere (2022)
  • Etta (2021)
  • Elodie (2020)
  • Zora (2019)
  • Marlowe (2018)
  • Sylvie (2017)
  • Arden (2016)

We’ll vote in just a minute, but first, let’s look at results of the last round.

GIRLS SEMIFINALS RESULT

Winifred handily defeated Laken, with nearly 77% of the vote. These two names couldn’t be more different. Antique powerhouse Winifred versus smooth, nature-plus Laken. Still, this wasn’t a surprise – AM readers adore Winifred.

Odette slipped past Mariel with just over 52% of the total. These names were evenly matched. Both blend a long history of use with a very current sound. And they’ve been on fringes of the Top 1000 for ages. But it’s Odette that advances this year.

GIRLS FINAL MATCH

WINIFRED versus ODETTE

Voting remains open for just a few days. As always, thank you for playing along with our summer contest and be sure to check back soon to see the results!

blonde toddler girl wearing pink sunglasses eating ice cream; new names showdown 2026 girls final

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