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 With the recent trends shifting towards unisex baby names, the traditional gender norms have been revoked.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 Ak heart image baby boy sign Unisex Kind; Merciful; King
heart image Akai heart image baby boy sign Unisex Red
heart image Akaisha heart image baby boy sign Unisex A lively and independent spirit
heart image Akala heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright; Clear
heart image Akan heart image baby boy sign Unisex a brave person or someone who is strong and courageous
heart image Akani heart image baby boy sign Unisex To build; Construct
heart image Akara heart image baby boy sign Unisex Chief deity; One who loves change and challenges
heart image Akasa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Open air; Space
heart image Akashdveep heart image baby boy sign Unisex Light in the sky; Sky light; A wend; Born of fire; Wonderer, A light candle
heart image Akashi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Red bridge; Bright stone
heart image Akatsuki heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dawn; Daybreak
heart image Akay heart image baby boy sign Unisex Near a full moon; Illuminating light of full moon; Full moon
heart image Akaya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Vibrant; Fiery
heart image Akeela heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligent and wise
heart image Akeema heart image baby boy sign Unisex Wise; Intelligent
heart image Akeira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright; Clear; Ideal
heart image Aken heart image baby boy sign Unisex Brave; Courageous
heart image Akeno heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright, shining
heart image Aker heart image baby boy sign Unisex God of the earth
heart image Akeyla heart image baby boy sign Unisex Honest; Responsible; Morally upright; Moral; Trustworthy
heart image Akhanda heart image baby boy sign Unisex Nonstop; Without part; Whole; Indestructible
heart image Akhilarka heart image baby boy sign Unisex All pervading radiance and brilliance like the Sun
heart image Akhira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Last; The end
heart image Akhirah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Hereafter or the afterlife
heart image Akiana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful; Wise
heart image Akiara heart image baby boy sign Unisex A bright person
heart image Akie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful, intelligent, serene
heart image Akili heart image baby boy sign Unisex Wisdom; Intellect; Sense
heart image Akima heart image baby boy sign Unisex Wise; Intelligent
heart image Akino heart image baby boy sign Unisex Autumn field
heart image Akir heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, powerful, intelligent
heart image Akirah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligence; Conclusion
heart image Akire heart image baby boy sign Unisex Peaceful; Serene; Calm
heart image Akisha heart image baby boy sign Unisex She who is intelligent
heart image Akita heart image baby boy sign Unisex Breed of bear-hunting dog from the mountainous regions of northern Japan
heart image Akito heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright person; Autumn season
heart image Akiva heart image baby boy sign Unisex Grasp by heel
heart image Akiya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright; Autumn
heart image Akoya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright; Precious; Pure
heart image Akpenvwoghene heart image baby boy sign Unisex To praise God
heart image Akpobome heart image baby boy sign Unisex My own life
heart image Akporovwovwo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Good life in later years
heart image Akrish heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique and uncommon
heart image Aksamata heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unbroken; Unhusked
heart image Aksary heart image baby boy sign Unisex The Aksaray town
heart image Aksha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Visible; Divine; Gracious
heart image Akshada heart image baby boy sign Unisex Blessed or sacred
heart image Akshitha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Eternal, limitless, boundless
heart image Akuma heart image baby boy sign Unisex Demon; Devil
heart image Akupara heart image baby boy sign Unisex Free; Unbounded; The ocean
heart image Akura heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, strong, majestic
heart image Akya heart image baby boy sign Unisex The only one
heart image Akyli heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Modern
heart image Akyra heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong-willed and determined
heart image Ala heart image baby boy sign Unisex Defending men; Excellence; Fragrance; Esteem
heart image Alaan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble or handsome
heart image Alaaya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exalted or highly praised
heart image Alabaster heart image baby boy sign Unisex A vessel of the Goddess Bast
heart image Alador heart image baby boy sign Unisex Owner of many horses
heart image Alae heart image baby boy sign Unisex Winged or fly
heart image Alafair heart image baby boy sign Unisex Cheerful; Joyous
heart image Alagumani heart image baby boy sign Unisex Handsome gem; Beautiful gem
heart image Alaiah heart image baby boy sign Unisex God is my refuge
heart image Alaiha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exalted or highly praised
heart image Alaijah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Loyal; Noble
heart image Alaila heart image baby boy sign Unisex Heavenly; Night
heart image Alailah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Rising
heart image Alaine heart image baby boy sign Unisex Precious, radiant, graceful
heart image Alair heart image baby boy sign Unisex Cheerful; Merry
heart image Alaisa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble and spirited
heart image Alaisha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exalted; Protected by God
heart image Alajah heart image baby boy sign Unisex God is my refuge
heart image Alakai heart image baby boy sign Unisex The leader; Guidance
heart image Alakay heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who brings joy
heart image Alaki heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong warrior
heart image Alala heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warrior or battle cry
heart image Alamin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Knowledgeable or learned
heart image Alamo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Cottonwood tree
heart image Alanah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful' Serene
heart image Alanda heart image baby boy sign Unisex Living world
heart image Alandra heart image baby boy sign Unisex Protector of mankind
heart image Alandria heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, graceful, and strong
heart image Alania heart image baby boy sign Unisex Precious; Awakening
heart image Alanie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful, serene, peace-loving
heart image Alaniz heart image baby boy sign Unisex A Spanish surname; Variant of Alanis
heart image Alanni heart image baby boy sign Unisex Serene; Graceful; Precious
heart image Alanoud heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Outstanding; Exceptional
heart image Alansari heart image baby boy sign Unisex The supporters; The one who supports
heart image Alanta heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and determined
heart image Alany heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Noble
heart image Alanya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bright; Beautiful; Captivating
heart image Alar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Foreign ruler; Ruler of all; Blossom
heart image Alaria heart image baby boy sign Unisex Joyful; Radiant
heart image Alarna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Rock; Harmony
heart image Alary heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who rules the Elves
heart image Alas heart image baby boy sign Unisex Expression of grief, pity, or concern
heart image Alaska heart image baby boy sign Unisex Great land; Object towards which sea is directed
heart image Alauna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble or fair one
heart image Alaye heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exalted or noble
heart image Alayha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Upon her; On her

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

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

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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