11057 Unisex Baby Names With Meanings

Unisex Baby Names With Meanings

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

When it comes to naming your baby, there are no hard and fast rules. With the recent trends shifting towards unisex baby names, the traditional gender norms have been revoked. Celebrities like Kim and Kanye named their daughter North while Kristen and Dax named their daughter Lincoln.

Historically, while some cultures had laws preventing the use of unisex names, others have maintained a degree of flexibility in naming practices. In Native American cultures, names were tied to nature, qualities, or achievements rather than gender. Such names were given to a child based on the traits they seemed to possess. Similarly, Tibetan cultures had names made of familiar words and, thus, were used commonly for both genders. The culture majorly relied on their lineage, and thus such names reflected familial or communal values more than gender-specificity. Several African cultures, such as the Bantu group of Shona, have used unisex names to indicate worship and days of birth. Indian names have been known to follow a unisex format since immemorial, especially when interpreted into other languages. For instance, among the Sikh community, names such as Baldeep, meaning lamp of strength, Dalbir, meaning soldier, and Gurdeep meaning radiance of the guru, are all gender-neutral. Such names thus require a suffix such as Singh or Kaur to identify whether the person is male or female.

In modern times, there has been a significant rise in unisex names among the Vietnamese and Israeli populations. However, in Vietnamese, unisex names are identified by the use of the middle name, while the Israelis use Hebrew unisex names as first names. With celebrities choosing unconventional names for their children, character names from books, movies, and television shows are becoming inspirational for those seeking names that defy traditional gender norms.

The increasing acceptance of non-binary and transgender identities further fuels the popularity of unisex names, thus acting as the medium for communicating one’s gender. So, if you are still unaware of the gender of your baby, but want to decide on a name beforehand, do consider taking a look at this list of unique unisex names.

NameGenderMeaning
heart image Afsana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fairy tale or legend
heart image Aftan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Powerful; Intellectual; Poise; Charming; Attractive
heart image Afton heart image baby boy sign Unisex A name of a small Scottish river
heart image Aftonio heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who does not have any jealousy
heart image Aftyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Derived from Afton; A place in Scotland; Feminine strength
heart image Afuom heart image baby boy sign Unisex On the field
heart image Ag heart image baby boy sign Unisex Good
heart image Agamani heart image baby boy sign Unisex A precious stone which is priceless, magnificent and unique; One of a kind gemstone
heart image Agan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful or handsome and intelligent; Pearl; A precious stone that is very expensive
heart image Agaran heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and noble
heart image Agas heart image baby boy sign Unisex The pear fruit
heart image Agent heart image baby boy sign Unisex Representative
heart image Aggy heart image baby boy sign Unisex Pure; Holy
heart image Agharid heart image baby boy sign Unisex The melodious musical songs of the birds
heart image Agi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Pure; Holy
heart image Agpa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Thick-billed Murre
heart image Aha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Sacred thread
heart image Ahanti heart image baby boy sign Unisex War-like
heart image Ahari heart image baby boy sign Unisex Defiant and independent spirit
heart image Ahe heart image baby boy sign Unisex softly blowing breeze
heart image Aheahe heart image baby boy sign Unisex A variant of Ahe
heart image Ahiyan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Eternal, timeless, divine
heart image Ahlani heart image baby boy sign Unisex Heaven
heart image Ahlia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful, beloved, cheerful
heart image Ahliya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, exalted, respected
heart image Ahmadi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Belonging to Ahmad; Follower of Ahmad
heart image Ahmani heart image baby boy sign Unisex Faith; Trustworthy
heart image Ahmar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Red Color
heart image Ahmi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Exotic; Feminine
heart image Ahni heart image baby boy sign Unisex Indomitable; Unconquerable
heart image Ahri heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful, Fox-like, Enchanting
heart image Ahria heart image baby boy sign Unisex Music; Melody
heart image Ahsoka heart image baby boy sign Unisex Powerful warrior, wise and spiritual
heart image Ahtziry heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dewdrop
heart image Ahya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Alive; Life
heart image Aiah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Vulture; Falcon; Raven; An Isle
heart image Aian heart image baby boy sign Unisex Chief; Leader
heart image Aiana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Forever blossoming
heart image Aibileen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Helper, nurturing, caring
heart image Aidan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little fire
heart image Aiden heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little fire
heart image Aidette heart image baby boy sign Unisex Princess; Noble helper
heart image Aidin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fire, warrior
heart image Aidon heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fire; Passionate; Strong
heart image Aidoneus heart image baby boy sign Unisex Greek god of the Underworld
heart image Aigner heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Graceful; Dignified
heart image Aiham heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble and generous
heart image Ailah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Oaktree; Ascending
heart image Ailan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Moonlight
heart image Ailany heart image baby boy sign Unisex Seren; Tranquil
heart image Ailo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Joyful; Bringer of happiness
heart image Aily heart image baby boy sign Unisex Light; Moonlight; Bird
heart image Aima heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved; Cherished
heart image Aimar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Industrious
heart image Aion heart image baby boy sign Unisex Eternal; Timeless; God
heart image Aiona heart image baby boy sign Unisex Everlasting love or eternal flame
heart image Air heart image baby boy sign Unisex Breath; Life; Atmosphere
heart image Airah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Virtuous; Noble; Graceful
heart image Airam heart image baby boy sign Unisex Mirror image or reflection
heart image Aire heart image baby boy sign Unisex From the east wind
heart image Aireen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful; Elegant; Noble
heart image Airen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift from God
heart image Aires heart image baby boy sign Unisex Air; Little fire
heart image Airi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Colorful; Cheerful; Fresh
heart image Airic heart image baby boy sign Unisex Ruler; Eternal ruler
heart image Airin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Peaceful; Graceful; Beautiful
heart image Airis heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bestowed by God
heart image Airish heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Pleasant
heart image Airo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Air; Breath; Life
heart image Airon heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong life
heart image Aisel heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Gentle; Radiant
heart image Aisen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Clear; Transparent
heart image Aishan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Loving; Life-giving
heart image Aison heart image baby boy sign Unisex Nimble; Swift
heart image Aissatou heart image baby boy sign Unisex one who brings happiness or bringer of joy
heart image Aita heart image baby boy sign Unisex Father
heart image Aithen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Firm; Steadfast
heart image Aither heart image baby boy sign Unisex Personification of the pure upper air breathed by the gods
heart image Aiva heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life giver
heart image Aivan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Leader; Intelligent
heart image Aiven heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God; Radiance
heart image Aivy heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God
heart image Aiya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bird
heart image Aiyan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God; Appear
heart image Aiyanah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift from God
heart image Aiyonna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Eternal blossom
heart image Aizah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Respected
heart image Aizal heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Repectable
heart image Aizan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fire; Soul of the moon
heart image Aizel heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Strong
heart image Aizen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved; Affectionate
heart image Ajak heart image baby boy sign Unisex Leader; Powerful
heart image Ajarae heart image baby boy sign Unisex A made-up name; The name of an actor
heart image Ajayi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Born face-down
heart image Ajee heart image baby boy sign Unisex From the perfume brand Ajee
heart image Ajia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Asia
heart image Ajin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gold; Precious
heart image Ajira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Not slow; Quick; Rapid; Another name for Durga
heart image Ajiya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful, Noble, Exalted
heart image Ajuni heart image baby boy sign Unisex Eternal; Beyond birth or death

Throughout history, names were often closely linked to gender roles, and societal expectations. Unisex names stand as a testament to the power of language to shape and reflect our world. From Tibet to India to America, while some cultures have grown to adopt gender-neutral names, others have had them from time immemorial. These names highlight the ongoing evolution of societies' attitudes toward gender and identity. The above names are some such unique names that draw their awe-inspiring meanings from diverse cultures, histories, nature, and global religions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which unisex baby names are associated with different colors?

Unisex baby names are associated with different colors based on cultural and personal interpretations. For example, 'Indigo' is a unisex name associated with indigo, representing leadership (1). the name 'Green' represents nature and growth. 'Azure' is linked to the blue of the sky and sea. 'Jade' is a green gemstone and a bluish-green color, symbolizing elegance and natural beauty.

2. Why would someone choose a unisex name?

By choosing a name that is not distinctly associated with a specific gender, individuals can challenge traditional norms and encourage inclusivity. Unisex names also offer flexibility and can be seen as more modern and progressive. Additionally, a unisex name can provide practical benefits, such as avoiding potential bias or discrimination in certain situations and providing a sense of uniqueness and individuality.

3. What are some unisex but feminine names?

Unisex names that have a feminine touch include Charlie, Taylor, Parker, and Remi' These names can be used for both boys and girls. Still, they are commonly associated with femininity due to their softer sounds and cultural references.

4. What are some unisex names associated with royalty?

Some unisex names associated with royalty include 'Emyr,' Welsh for 'king' or 'lord.' Another option is 'Reagan,' an Irish name meaning 'little king.' The name 'Rex' is also derived from Latin and directly translates to 'king.' These names can evoke a sense of regality and grandeur without being tied to a specific gender.

5. Is Kai considered a unisex name?

Yes, the name 'Kai' is considered a unisex name. It originates in various cultures and can be used for both sexes. 'Kai' means 'sea' in Hawaiian and 'forgiveness' in Japanese, highlighting its gender-neutral nature.

6. Is Karina a unisex name?

Karina' is typically considered a feminine name rather than a unisex name. It is derived from 'Katherine' and is commonly associated with girls.

7. What are some unisex names commonly used in India?

In India, several popular unisex names are widely embraced. One such name is 'Kiran,' derived from the Sanskrit word 'kiraṇa,' meaning 'ray' or 'ray of light' or 'beam of light.' Another commonly used unisex name is 'kamal,' which denotes a lotus. Additionally, the name 'Lucky,' commonly referred to as a lucky person, is a popular choice for both sexes in India.

8. What are some unisex baby names inspired by mythology?

Here are some unisex baby names inspired by mythology. 'Loki,' originating from Norse mythology, is a name that possibly means 'lock (2).' 'Phoenix,' derived from Greek mythology, symbolizes rebirth and is associated with dark red (3).' Another option is 'Rowan,' which has roots in Celtic mythology and is connected to the rowan tree, often seen as a protective symbol. 'Rowan' is also associated with the color 'red (4).'

9. What are some unisex baby names inspired by pop culture?

Unisex names influenced by pop culture have become popular. Examples include 'Harley,' associated with Harley Quinn from DC Comics, meaning 'hares' meadow.' 'Peyton,' inspired by pop culture and known from 'One Tree Hill,' means 'fighting man's estate.' 'Charlie,' meaning 'free man,' draws inspiration from various characters, including Charlie Bucket from Charlie and the chocolate factory.

Infographic: Unisex Baby Names With Meanings

Unisex names reflect qualities that embody adaptability and relevance through time. Discover a collection of one-of-a-kind names with rich stories and cultural roots. The following infographic contains a list of interesting unisex baby names that offer a fresh perspective on naming your child.

impressive baby names to consider for your baby (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. WHAT IS INDIGO?
    https://indigo.site.seattleartmuseum.org/what-is-indigo/
  2. LOKI
    https://sites.psu.edu/miamidolphins/2017/03/16/loki/
  3. Mountain ash
    https://treetour.wwu.edu/details.aspx?treeID=54
  4. The Phoenix Through the Ages
    https://www.swarthmore.edu/bulletin/archive/wp/october-2008_the-phoenix-through-the-ages.html
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