Selecting a suitable middle name for your child can be challenging. It should complement the first name, sound pleasant, and hold significance. That’s why many parents opt for common middle names, which stand the test of time and sound classic for generations.
In this list, we present 100 best middle names for boys and girls that have been popular over the years. Though not always trendy, these names have enduring beauty and strength that make them timeless. So whether you prefer traditional or modern, explore these middle name options to find the perfect fit for your little one.
Table of Contents
- 100 Popular Middle Names for Boys and Girls
- Adam
- Addison
- Alexander
- Alice
- Allen
- Amy
- Ann
- Anthony
- Avery
- Belle
- Bradley
- Brian
- Brooke
- Cameron
- Caroline
- Carter
- Catherine
- Charles
- Christopher
- Claire
- Cole
- Cooper
- Daniel
- David
- Dawn
- Edward
- Elliot
- Eugene
- Faith
- Faye
- Florence
- Grace
- Graham
- Gregory
- Grey
- Harlow
- Harper
- Hudson
- Hunter
- Isabella
- Jack
- James
- Jane
- Jean
- John
- Jude
- June
- Kate
- Kay
- Kennedy
- Laurence
- Lee
- Leigh
- Leo
- Lily
- Lou
- Louise
- Lynn
- Mackenzie
- Mae
- Marie
- Mary
- Mason
- Max
- Michael
- Michelle
- Morgan
- Nicole
- Nolan
- Oliver
- Parker
- Peter
- Presley
- Quinn
- Ray
- Reid
- Renee
- Richard
- Riley
- Robert
- Rose
- Sage
- Sawyer
- Scott
- Sean
- Seth
- Simon
- Sophia
- Sue
- Sutton
- Tate
- Taylor
- Theodore
- Thomas
- Victoria
- Violet
- Wayne
- Wesley
- William
- Wren
- Best Middle Names FAQs
100 Popular Middle Names for Boys and Girls
Keep reading to discover the cutest middle names for your 21st-century babe!
Adam
Adam is a religious choice on our list of middle names for boys, associated with the first man created by God in the Bible. This old-school classic has been in the U.S. top 500 names for boys since the late 1800s. It’s unlikely Adam will fall out of favor anytime soon.
Addison
Addison was initially an English surname. It became a popular girl’s name in modern times, given its similarity to adorable Madison. Addison’s religious undertones make this a sweet middle name for a girl of the Christian faith.
Alexander
Strong and bold, Alexander has been in the U.S.’s top 300 names for boys since 1900. This beloved classic is associated with several historical powerhouses, such as Alexander Hamilton and Alexander the Great. Choosing Alexander as a middle name could give your son a sense of power and authority.
Alice
Alice was one of the most common names in England from the 12th to 15th-centuries. It has a playful, whimsical quality, given its association with the young girl who falls through a rabbit hole in the famous book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865). Alice could be a perfect middle name for a girl who’s anything but ordinary.
Allen
Allen is a long-standing favorite for Americans, ranked in the top 1,000 boy names since the 1880s. Allen is also a popular middle name, with famous bearers like singer Robert Allen Zimmerman (AKA Bob Dylan) and Modern Family actor Eric Allen Stonestreet. Allen is simple yet strong, making it the perfect middle name to balance out more creative first names.
Amy
Amy is typical for American girls, ranked in the U.S. top 500 since 1900. Although the name is a bit generic, it’s also classic. Amy could be a safe bet if you enjoy traditional middle names that are beloved by all.
Ann
Ann is an old-school girl’s name prevalent in the U.S. from 1900 to 1970. In the 2020s, it has been replaced by more popular names like Anna and Hannah. As a middle name, Ann’s simplicity ensures it’ll sound great with everything.
Anthony
Anthony comes from the Roman family name Antonius, which is of unknown origin. This ancient name has taken off globally, previously ranked in 14 countries. A few prominent bearers include Roman general Mark Antony, Christian monk Saint Anthony the Great, and Welsh actor Anthony Hopkins. This could be a powerful middle name choice for your future world-changer.
Avery
Avery was initially an English surname, derived from the Germanic Alberich (elf ruler) or Old English Alfred (elf counsel). This lovely name is trendy for American girls, ranked in the top 20 since 2011. Avery is bold and whimsical, making it an exciting middle name option for your tiny elf!
Belle
You’d be hard-pressed to find a name more lovely than Belle, synonymous with the French word for “beautiful.” Belle’s feminine beauty makes it an elegant middle name option for your little flower. The name’s association with the bookish Disney princess adds to its girliness.
Bradley
Bradley was previously an Old English surname, first used as a given name in the mid-1900s. This charming title was ranked in the top 100 names for American boys in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, before cooling off a bit. As a middle name, Bradley is just getting started.
Brian
Brian ranked in the top 50 names for American boys from 1954 to 2001. In the 2020s, the name’s a bit outdated. Middle names for boys tend to be less original than first names. So, Brian could be a solid option if you want something cute but generic.
Brooke
Brooke is relatively modern, first becoming popular in the 1950s. It has many beautiful bearers, including American socialite Brooke Astor and Blue Lagoon actress Brooke Shields. Brooke’s similarity to Brook (a small stream) could appeal to nature enthusiasts.
Cameron
Cameron is derived from the Gaelic “cam” (crooked) and “sron” (nose). The name was popular among girls in the 90s, inspired by American actress Cameron Diaz. Cameron is now more prevalent for boys, making this the perfect middle name for gender-neutral name enthusiasts.
Caroline
Elegant and tasteful, Caroline is the French feminine form of Carolus – the Latin form of Charles (man). Caroline is a favorite in the U.S., ranked in the top 500 girl names since 1880. If you’re searching for popular middle names that are universally beloved, Caroline could be a keeper.
Carter
Carter has evolved from an Old English surname into one of the trendiest middle names for boys, ranked highly since the early 2000s. This is the surname of prominent rapper Lil Wayne, making it a cool middle name option for music enthusiasts.
Catherine
Catherine is the French version of Katherine. It’s also used heavily in English-speaking countries like the United States. This is one of the most popular middle names for girls, with famous bearers like American actresses Claire Catherine Danes and Shelley Catherine Hennig. Your friends and family are bound to love this timeless classic.
Charles
Charles is a powerful choice among our middle names for boys, associated with several rulers of England, Sweden, and France. It has been in the U.S. top 50 since the late 1800s. If you’re looking for a timeless middle name that’s fit for a king, Charles could be calling your name.
Christopher
Christopher is a religious option on our list of common middle names, derived from the Greek “Christos” (Christ) combined with “phero” (to bear, to carry). This was initially a metaphorical name for a Christian who always held Christ in his heart. This could be an excellent option if you raise your son in the Christian faith.
Claire
Claire is the elegant French form of Clara – derived from the Late Latin “clarus” (clear, bright, famous). Claire peaked for American girls in 2014 and has remained popular ever since. This is among the best middle names for parents who want something feminine and refined.
Cole
Cole was originally an English surname before becoming a popular given name in the early 1980s. Although Cole is basic, it sounds great with everything. This could be a great middle name option for a little guy with a complex first name or surname.
Cooper
Cooper was originally an occupational surname derived from the Middle English “couper” (barrel maker). The name skyrocketed in the mid-2000s, often attributed to American actor Bradley Cooper. Cooper is very “hip and now,” making it a perfect middle name option for your future trendsetter.
Daniel
Daniel is an Old Testament name associated with a Hebrew prophet who had many prophetic dreams. Daniel is well-liked, with millions of bearers across the globe. If you want a classic middle name with biblical ties, Daniel could be a strong contender.
David
David is a classic choice on our list of middle names for boys, associated with the biblical hero who fought against the giant Goliath. Pairing David with a less-traditional first name could be an excellent way to celebrate the old and the new.
Dawn
Dawn is one of the best middle names for nature lovers, associated with the early morning hours before the sun rises. This picturesque name received its highest rating for American girls of 14th in 1971. Although Dawn isn’t as prevalent as it once was, its exotic beauty will never truly go out of style.
Edward
Handsome and refined, Edward is derived from the Old English “ead” (wealth, fortune) combined with “weard” (guard). This elegant pick is associated with several monarchs, including Edward the Elder, King Edward I of England, and King Edward of Portugal. Choosing this middle name for your son could make him feel like royalty from birth.
Elliot
This bold and exciting boys’ name is on the rise, increasing in popularity every year since 2010. We predict Elliot will make the U.S. top 50 by the end of the 2020s. Choosing Elliot as a middle name for your son now ensures you’ll be ahead of the naming trends.
Eugene
Eugene is a lovable, geeky name associated with the goofy nerd in Grease and Grease 2. Nowadays, being a self-proclaimed “nerd” is pretty cool. If you’re a family of super-intelligent tech geeks or fantasy lovers, choosing Eugene for your son’s middle name celebrates what makes you unique.
Faith
Faith is a virtuous pick among our adorable middle names for girls, derived from the Latin “fidere” (to trust). This was a popular choice among 17th-century Christians, who often named their children after traits they’d like them to exhibit. Faith could be a sweet middle name if you want your girl to have “faith” in a power greater than herself.
Faye
Faye is a vintage middle name derived from the Middle English “faie” (fairy). It was prominent for girls in the early 20th-century. Faye is slowly rising in the ranks in the 2020s, and we predict it’ll be a favorite in the next five years. Add it to your daughter’s name before it’s too popular!
Florence
Florence was a big hit in the early 1900s, making it one of the best middle names for vintage name enthusiasts. Vintage names are super fashionable, so Florence could also appeal to those who love following the latest naming trends.
Grace
Want your daughter to be as graceful as a swan? Then, consider Grace, favored among Americans, British, and other English-speaking peoples since the end of the 19th-century. Grace flows nicely with nearly every first name, making it a great middle name option if you want something generic yet beautiful.
Graham
Graham hails from Scotland, initially used as a surname during the 12th-century. Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, is the most famous middle name bearer. Graham is very trendy in the 2020s, making this one of the most popular middle names on our list.
Gregory
Gregory is a great middle name for Christians, born by several early saints. It’s derived from the Late Greek “gregoros” (watchful, alert), giving it a cautious air. Vintage names like Gregory are rising in popularity, so it may become a hit in the next few years.
Grey
Grey is a variation of “gray,” originally chosen for someone with gray hair, features, or clothing. Grey is elegant but also edgy, making it a badass middle name option for a little girl or boy.
Harlow
Harlow was initially a place name derived from the Old English “haer” (rock) or “here” (army) combined with “hlaw” (hill). Although technically unisex, it’s far more popular for females, with 1263 American girls receiving the name in 2021. Harlow was chosen by American TV personality Nichole Richie for her daughter. It could be a cool celebrity-worthy middle name for your future star.
Harper
Pleasant and melodic, Harper was originally a surname for a person who made harps. Today, the name’s favored for girls, likely inspired by To Kill a Mockingbird author Harper Lee. Harper is lovely enough to work as a first or middle name for your future music maker.
Hudson
Hudson is a stylish choice for American and British boys, rising in popularity since the early 2000s. The name has an adventurous past, born by prominent English explorer Henry Hudson after whom the Hudson River was named. Choosing Hudson for your son’s middle name could destine him for a life full of adventure.
Hunter
Hunter was originally an occupational surname for someone who hunted animals. The name’s steadily risen in popularity for American boys since the 1970s. Hunter is also on the rise for American girls, ranked 816th in 2021. Hunter could be a bold and adventurous middle name option for a baby of either gender.
Isabella
Beautiful and timeless, Isabella is very popular across the globe. Celebrity middle name bearers are plentiful, including British actress Lenora Isabella Crichlow and American actress Zoë Isabella Kravitz. Isabella’s melodic cadence will make your daughter’s name sound as lovely as a song.
Jack
Jack is simple yet endearing, appealing to parents looking for middle names that aren’t overly complex. Its association with the fairytales Jack and the Beanstalk, Jack Sprat, and Little Jack Horner give it a childish air. Jack could pair nicely with a more mature first name like Theodore or Gregory.
James
James is a biblical name associated with two apostles in the New Testament. It was one of the most prevalent male names in the U.S. during the 20th-century. James is basic and traditional, appealing to those who want a standard middle name that isn’t flashy.
Jane
Jane is the generic feminine form of John and has been popular in the English-speaking world since the 16th-century. Jane could appeal to those who want a classic middle name that’ll stand the test of time.
Jean
Jean was originally a Medieval English variation of Jehanne. It’s typically chosen for girls in America and England and boys in France. Jean’s old-timey sound could add vintage charm to your little one’s name.
John
John has been prevalent in English-speaking countries since the 1500s. Although John’s a bit basic, it’s also well-liked, making it a safe choice if you want a middle name the majority of your friends and family will approve of.
Jude
Jude is a variation of Judas – a New Testament name associated with an apostle of Jesus. It has ranked in the U.S. top 1,000 since 1954. Jude sounds hip and fresh despite its old-timey origins, making it a stylish middle name option for your 21st-century babe.
June
June is the name of a month derived from Juno – the Roman goddess of marriage and women. If you’re looking for a middle name that’s youthful, lively, and fresh, June could be the one.
Kate
Kate is a classic short form of Katherine, often used independently. It’s been popular for American and British girls since the mid-1900s. Beautiful bearers aren’t hard to come by, including English actress Kate Winslet and American actress Kate Hudson. Adding Kate to your daughter’s name could make her as beautiful and talented as her predecessors.
Kay
Kay is a short form of Katherine and other girls’ names beginning with “K.” It could be a great middle name option if you want something basic that’ll allow your daughter’s first name to shine.
Kennedy
Kennedy is a powerful name, often given in honor of American president John F. Kennedy. Its popularity for girls was inspired by Lisa Kennedy Montgomery, who hosted MTV’s program Alternative Nation throughout the 1990s. It could be the perfect middle name for a future world leader.
Laurence
Laurence is an old-timey name most popular for U.S. boys in the mid-1900s. It was a popular girl’s name in France in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, comparable to the English Florence. Although Laurence is old, it’s also strong and refined, making it a powerful addition to your little one’s name.
Lee
Lee has been among the most common middle names for boys and girls since the late 1800s. This isn’t surprising since it’s one of those names that goes with anything! Lee is simple, vibrant, and cheerful, making it a happy addition to your child’s name.
Leigh
Leigh is a variation of the surname Lee. Leigh’s ending makes it sound slightly more feminine than its gender-neutral counterpart. Although Leigh isn’t a popular first name, its simplicity gives it great middle name potential.
Leo
Are you searching for a middle name as powerful and bold as a lion? Then, you can’t go wrong with Leo, the Latin word for “lion,” and the name of the lion-shaped constellation in the Northern sky. Leo could be a great middle name for animal lovers, space enthusiasts, or fans of Leonardo DiCaprio.
Lily
The lily is a beautiful white flower symbolizing purity, innocence, and rebirth. This lovely flower name took off for American girls in the 1980s and has since risen in popularity. Lily is among the best middle names if you want something inspired by nature.
Lou
Lou is a short form of Louise of Louis. This old-timey name was popular in the early 20th-century, with bearers like musician Lou Reed and baseball player Lou Gehrig. Lou could be the perfect middle name for an old soul.
Louise
Louise is the French feminine form of Louis. This adorable name fell out of the U.S. top 1,000 in 1991 but was reentered in 2016. It’s rapidly increased in popularity ever since. We predict Louise will be a big hit in the next five years. So, choosing it as a middle name could keep you ahead of the naming trends.
Lynn
Lynn was initially an English surname derived from the Welsh “lynn” (lake, waterfall, pond). Initially, it was a common first name for boys in the 1800s. Today, it’s more often used as a middle name or a suffix for female first names, such as Kaitlynn, Madalynn, or Emmalynn.
Mackenzie
Mackenzie is an adorable choice on our list of common middle names, initially used as a Scottish surname. In the 2020s, the name’s more popular for boys in Scotland and girls in the United States. Mackenzie’s warm and cheerful sound makes it a happy middle name for a baby of either gender.
Mae
Mae is a variation of May that was popular in the early 1900s. Vintage girl names are all the rage, causing Mae’s popularity to skyrocket in the 2020s. Mae is simple and elegant, elevating your daughter’s name to new heights.
Marie
Marie is a common middle name for girls, born by American singer Selena Marie Gomez, American lawyer Megyn Marie Kelly, and Wheel of Fortune hostess Vanna Marie White. Marie could be the perfect middle name for those who want something basic yet elegant.
Mary
Mary was the mother of Jesus in the Bible. Because of this, the name is prevalent throughout the Christian world. Mary is among the best middle names for girls in faith-filled families.
Mason
Boy’s names ending in “son” are trendy, with Jackson, Emerson, and Hudson all ranked in the U.S. top 1,000 in 2021. Mason is no exception, ranked highly among Americans since the 1980s. This could be an excellent middle name for a little guy who loves to build new things.
Max
Max is a short form of Maximilian or Maxwell also used independently. It was traditionally a boys’ name but has seen more female bearers recently, possibly inspired by Max Mayfield from Stranger Things. Max could be a short yet badass middle name for your little rebel in the making.
Michael
Michael is a powerful middle name for boys, associated with a biblical archangel standing guard over Israel. In 2021, it was ranked highly in England, Australia, Scotland, the U.S., and many other countries. Michael is beloved, ensuring it won’t go out of fashion in your lifetime (or your son’s).
Michelle
Michelle is the feminine form of Michel – the French version of Michael. Although its popularity has declined recently, it’s stayed relevant thanks to first lady Michelle Obama. Michelle is a classy middle name option for your future world changer.
Morgan
Morgan hails from Wales, derived from the Old Welsh “mor” (sea) combined with “cant” (circle). This traditionally masculine name skyrocketed for American girls in the mid-2000s, declining in popularity since. It may take time for Morgan to reestablish its first name popularity. But Morgan is still an excellent middle name option – especially for a baby born by the sea.
Nicole
Nicole is the French feminine form of Nicholas, prevalent in the U.S. since the 1940s. While Nicole isn’t as exciting as newer French exports like Adelina or Clémentine, it’s a classic. We predict it’ll remain among the most popular middle names for girls in the 2020s.
Nolan
This stylish boy’s name hails from Ireland, derived from the medieval given name Nuallán. It’s steadily climbed in U.S. popularity since the 1970s, making its way into the top 100 boys’ names in 2011. Nolan could be a great middle name option if you enjoy following the latest trends.
Oliver
Oliver is very fashionable, topping the charts for American, British, Irish, and Australian boys in 2021. The name’s association with Charles Dickens’s beloved orphan character, Oliver Twist, adds to its charm. Oliver’s could be a great middle name option – especially if you think it’s too overused to earn your son’s first name slot.
Parker
Parker was initially an occupational surname for someone who up kept a park. Today, it’s a trendy unisex name, with 3823 boys and 2406 girls receiving the title in 2021. Marvel fans will appreciate the connection to Spiderman (AKA Peter Parker).
Peter
Peter is a biblical name born by one of the apostles of Jesus in the New Testament. The name also has a whimsical side, associated with several childhood characters like Peter Pan, Peter Rabbit, and Peter Parker. It could be a great middle name for traditionalists and dreamers alike.
Presley
Presley is a groovy choice on our list of popular middle names, often associated with music icon Elvis Presley. Despite this, it’s favored for females, with 1400 girls receiving the title in 2021. You’d be hard “pressed” to find a cooler middle name than Presley!
Quinn
Quinn is among the most popular middle names for girls and boys in the U.S., steadily rising in popularity since the 1960s. Quinn is edgy and modern-sounding, appealing to parents who want to break away from tradition.
Ray
Ray is an old-school classic associated with musician Ray Charles and Fahrenheit 451 author Ray Bradbury. Its simplicity is one of its greatest qualities, offering you a short middle name that won’t cause a fuss. Ray’s association with light makes it a happy choice – perfect for your tiny “ray” of sunshine!
Reid
Reid is derived from the Old English “read” (red). It was originally a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion. Even if your little one isn’t ginger, Reid could be an exciting middle name that’ll add “color” to your son’s title.
Renee
Lovely and refined, Renee is the English form of the French Renée. This classy title was favored in the 60s, declining in popularity since. Although Renee isn’t as popular as it once was, its elegant sound could add sophistication to your daughter’s name.
Richard
Richard is derived from the Germanic “ric” (ruler, mighty) combined with “hard” (brave, hardy). Richard’s first name popularity has significantly declined since the 1950s. But, as a middle name, it adds power and authority.
Riley
Riley was initially an English and Irish surname before becoming a popular given name in the 1980s and 90s. In the 2020s, Riley is more popular for girls in America and boys in England and Australia. Riley could be a simple and attractive middle name for a baby of either gender.
Robert
Robert is a gorgeous vintage option among our middle names for boys, ranked in the U.S. top 10 from 1880 to 1989. It’s derived from the Germanic “hrod” (fame) combined with “beraht” (bright). Although Robert isn’t as fashionable as it once was, it’s still a powerful middle name option that emits strength and authority.
Rose
Flowery and fresh, Rose is the name of a fragrant flower associated with love, beauty, and courage. Rose could be a great middle name for a girl who is as beautiful as she is tough.
Sage
Sage is an English word denoting a type of shrub or a wise person. This middle name is earthy and free-spirited and could be perfect for your little flower child!
Sawyer
Are you a classic book lover? Then, you’ll probably adore Sawyer, associated with Mark Twain’s hero in his famous novel, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876). Although Sawyer sounds old, it was rarely used as a given name before the 1980s. Sawyer could be an excellent compromise between a traditional and contemporary middle name.
Scott
Scott is derived from the Latin “Scoti” (Gael, Gaelic speaker), referring to someone from Scotland who spoke Scottish Gaelic. Scott could be a meaningful middle name for boys with Scottish ancestry.
Sean
Sean was a top choice for U.S. boys from the 1960s to the early 2000s, declining in popularity since the 2010s. This generic boy’s name is simple, attractive, and easy to spell. A fantastic middle name option if you enjoy the simpler things in life.
Seth
Seth is an Old Testament name belonging to the third son of Adam and Eve. It’s been popular in the Christian community since the Protestant Reformation. Seth was also the name of the Egyptian god of chaos and the desert. Depending on how you look at it, this middle name could be heavenly or rebellious.
Simon
Simon is an Old Testament name, born by the second son of Jacob. The name also has many non-biblical associations with Paul Simon from Simon and Garfunkel, and Simon Cowell from X Factor. Any of these awesome Simons can inspire your son’s middle name.
Sophia
Sophia is an elegant girl’s name, popular among European royals during the Middle Ages. Many parents are choosing this sophisticated title for their little princesses, with 12,496 American girls receiving the title in 2021. Sophia is one of those names that goes with anything, making it a perfect middle name option for your tiny empress.
Sue
Sue is a retro girl’s name, often used independently or as a short form of Susanna. You’re more likely to meet a mom or a grandma named Sue than a baby. However, when used as a middle name, Sue has a sweet, Southern twang, which could appeal to parents from the South.
Sutton
Sutton is trendy, only ranked in the top 1,000 names for U.S. girls since 2013 and boys since 2015. This contemporary middle name will make your little one sound hip and fresh.
Tate
Tate is derived from the Old Norse “teitr” (bright, glad, cheerful). This happy name has been on the U.S. radar since the 1970s. Tate is simple but not basic, appealing to simplistic name lovers who want something more original than Michael or John.
Taylor
Taylor was a common name for boys in the early 1900s. By the 1990s, however, it became more popular among girls, likely inspired by pop singer Taylor Swift. Taylor is still considered unisex, appealing to parents who want to follow gender-neutral naming trends.
Theodore
Classic and timeless, Theodore is derived from the Greek “theos” (God) combined with “doron” (gift). This name has been used since ancient times, born by several early saints, emperors, and popes. In the 2020s, Theodore is on the rise, making this the perfect middle name if you want something trendy yet traditional.
Thomas
Thomas was an apostle in the New Testament. American boys have favored this biblical name for hundreds of years. If you want a timeless middle name for your son, Thomas is certainly one to consider.
Victoria
Victoria is a powerful option on our list of popular middle names for girls associated with the Roman goddess of victory. It was the 43rd most popular name for American females in 2021. Your daughter will feel invincible with such a strong middle name.
Violet
Violet comes from an English word for the beautiful purple flower. Violet’s represent honesty and wisdom, making this a symbolic middle name choice for your tiny truth seeker.
Wayne
Wayne was originally an occupational surname for a person who made wagons. Prominent Hollywood actor John Wayne likely inspired its popularity. Wayne’s southern charm could make it a perfect middle name for your future cowboy.
Wesley
Wesley is derived from the Old English “west” combined with “leah” (woodland, meadow, clearing). Wesley’s popularity is on the rise. We predict it’ll surpass its 1977 rating of 66th in the next few years. Choosing Wesley as your son’s middle name could set you ahead of the naming trends.
William
William is one of the most common middle names for boys, with celebrity bearers like former One Direction singer Louis William Tomlinson and English actor Thomas William Hiddleston. William is classic, timeless, and sounds great with everything, making it a solid choice across the board.
Wren
Wren is very new to the U.S. scene, first entering the top 1,000 girl names in 2013. The name was inspired by a small North American bird, giving it a natural appeal. If you hope your daughter will be as beautiful and free as a bird, Wren could be the middle name for her.
Best Middle Names FAQs
Middle names were first used in ancient Rome. A male child would receive a praenomen (personal name), a nomen (family name), and a cognomen (branch of the family they were from). The more name’s someone had, the higher their place in society.
The middle name tradition carried over to the Middle Ages when parents couldn’t decide whether to give their children family names or to name them after saints. To solve this dilemma, they gave each child a given name followed by a baptismal name and surname. This is considered the root of modern Western middle name traditions.
While middle names are common among Americans, they are not necessary. The U.S. government does not require them. Whether you want your child to have a middle name or not is entirely up to you.
Middle names are highly subjective and are often chosen based on the parent’s preferences. Some parents choose middle names in honor of beloved family members. Others use the mother’s maiden name or pick name’s that flow nicely with the first name. You can choose any name that is meaningful to you.
Yes. The United States has no strict rules about how many middle names a baby can have. However, there are character limitations in most states. So, make sure to check your state’s laws to determine how long your child’s name can be.
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