The Most Popular Baby Names

Picking a name for your new baby can be one of the hardest decisions that you have to make. While many people stick with family names, others prefer less traditional ones.

The most popular boys' names according to the birth statistics for 2007 include ones that originally come from Hebrew, English, Irish, Welsh, and American. The top names that are Hebrew are Ethan (which means strong), Jacob (which means Supplanter), Noah (which means peace), and Caleb (which means rage like a dog). The Irish names are Connor (wolf lover) and Aidan (little fire). The name Jaden is a combination of the Irish Aidan and Jay (which is Latin for "a member of the crow family"). From the British Isles come Braden, which is English and means "from the wide valley" and Dylan, which is Welsh for "son of the sea." The only American name that made the most popular list is Kaden, which means "fighter.

If you would rather give your son a more traditional name, there are many of these to choose from as well. Some common names that originally come from Hebrew include Michael (Who is Like God?) and John (God is gracious). The name Stephen is Greek in origin (crown) while Mark is Latin (warlike). Common English names include Richard (brave ruler), William (strong warrior), Matthew (gift of God), and Robert (bright fame).

If you are expecting a daughter, the most popular girls' names in 2007 includes ones that are Greek, Hebrew, Latin, English, Italian, Irish, and American. Chloe is a popular Greek name which means "blooming," while the Latin names include Emma (universal) and Ava (like a bird). The Italian contribution to the most popular names list is Isabella, which means "God is my oath" while the name Abigail is Hebrew and means "joy of the father." Girls' names that originated in the British Isles include the English Madeline (Woman of Magdala) and Olivia (elf army) and the Irish Brianna (high noble). Cailyn and Caitlyn are both American names in origin and mean "pure."

If you are interested in a more traditional name for your daughter, there are many of these to choose from as well. Mary (sea of bitterness) and Elizabeth (God is my oath) are both Hebrew in origin, while Grace (grace of God) and Victoria (conqueror) are both Latin. Two names that are Greek in origin are Catherine (pure) and Melissa (bee). Two names that mean "pearl" are Margaret (which is English) and Megan (which is Welsh). The name Nicole is French in origin and means "victory of the people."

In today's society, you can name your child just about anything that you want to (for example, Moon Unit). While many parents decide to name their children after other family members, others choose to come up with their own. If you would like to consider a variety of names for your new baby, there are numerous books and Websites that can give you a complete listing and will also tell you the language in which a name originated and its original meaning. You should have no difficulty in finding a name that is perfect for your new arrival. Happy hunting!