In an increasingly digital, fast-paced world, many parents are seeking grounding elements in their children’s names. Natural inspirations—like water, trees, seasons, and even weather—are quietly making a comeback. But it’s not just about being trendy; it’s about reconnecting to something timeless, calming, and real.

Parents are favoring names that evoke peace, balance, or inner strength, often drawing inspiration from forests, oceans, or celestial bodies. These names tend to be poetic, soft on the ears, and subtly empowering.

Names inspired by nature:

• Girls: Iris, Wren, Ocean, Maple, Solène

• Boys: River, Orion, Ash, Sage, Elio

Gone are the days when names were chosen solely for how they sounded. In 2025, more parents are digging into etymology, cultural roots, and personal symbolism before making a decision. It’s not uncommon for expectant parents to spend weeks researching the origin and historical context of their top contenders.

This trend is closely tied to a desire for legacy: giving a child a name that carries a message, a blessing, or a story that will grow with them.

Names rich with meaning:

• Aria : “air” or “melody”

• Niko : “victory of the people”

• Thea : “goddess”

• Zev : “wolf”

• Amara : “eternal”

The conversation around gender identity continues to shift globally, and baby naming is following suit. Parents today are less attached to rigid “boy/girl” labels and more interested in choosing names that offer flexibility.

Rather than thinking in binaries, they're asking: Will this name allow my child to define themselves freely? The result is a surge of soft-but-strong, lyrical, and beautifully neutral names that suit any gender expression.

Popular unisex picks:

• Blake : Artistic, strong, and short.

• Noa : A minimalist favorite with Hebrew roots.

• Avery : A long-standing favorite, meaning “ruler of the elves”.

• Quinn : Sleek, modern, and full of charm.

• Marley : Friendly and rhythmic, with reggae vibes.

Another big theme in 2025 is cross-cultural naming. Whether it’s honouring heritage or choosing a name heard on a trip abroad, parents are more open than ever to borrowing globally. These names tend to be rhythmic, fresh, and often less common in North America—giving kids names that stand out while staying meaningful.

What’s driving this trend? A growing appreciation for diversity, plus the desire to raise children who feel part of a larger world.

Beautiful names from around the globe:

• Leandro : Portuguese

• Aya : Hebrew/Japanese

• Bodhi : Sanskrit

• Inès : French

• Zaki : Arabic