150+ Popular 1960s Baby Names For Boys And Girls

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60s Baby Names

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Trendy and timeless are just a few words to describe the 60s baby names. Although bell bottoms and tie-dye swirls defined this era, it went beyond the colorful fashion. The 60s was a decade of cultural revolution, social change, and an echo of seismic shifts in the baby boom. Names were influenced not only by celebrities like Doris Day and Elvis Presley but also by the moon landing and the fight for equality and justice. If you are looking for names that reflect peace, love, and a bit of rebellion, the 60s offer a lot of inspiration. Jump into a world where flower power and classic elegance co-existed peacefully, and explore names still cradling babies today.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • 60s baby names are a mix of classic and hip names.
  • Many baby names were inspired by Biblical characters such as Thomas, Peter, Ruth, David, and Daniel.
  • It was a common trend for names to be shortened. Laurie, Debbie, Tony, Tina, and Terry are a few examples.
  • Parents were inspired to choose names borne by famous actors, musicians, and influential figures of the time.

60s Girl Names

Baby names from the 60s have a retro feel to them. Choosing a name from this decade connects you to the glorious past and can reflect timeless beauty that remains in trend.

1. Amy

An English given name with tangles in Old French. Amy is taken from the French feminine name Amée and it means ‘beloved’. Amy Jade Winehouse was a powerhouse singer known for her contralto vocals.

2. Andrea

Many feminine names have their roots in masculine appellations. Andrea is one of them. Andrea is the feminine form of Andrew and it means ‘manly’ or ‘masculine’. It is found in English, Italian, German, Spanish, and Czech-speaking countries to name a few.

3. Angela

Perfect for little angels, Angela is taken from the masculine name Angelus, which means ‘messenger’. One of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2023, Angela Evelyn Bassett is a popular bearer of this name. She is also a two-time Golden Globe Awards winner.

4. Ann

Ann is the English and Manx spelling of Anna or Hannah. It is a Hebrew name, which means ‘favor’ or ‘grace’. Ann Radcliffe was an English novelist and one of the pioneers of Gothic fiction.

5. Annette

Annette is the French and English diminutive of Anne. It means ‘favor’ and ‘grace’.

6. Barbara

Taken from its Greek roots, Barbara means ‘foreign’. With several variants, it is quite a popular name across Europe.

7. Beth

Either a diminutive of Bethany or Elizabeth, Beth was one of the it-names in the 60s. It can either mean ‘my God is an oath’ or ‘my God is abundance’. With Hebrew origins, it can also mean ‘house of figs’.

8. Brenda

It is possibly the feminine form of Brendan or taken from the Old Norse name Brandr. It means ‘fire’, ‘torch’, or ‘sword’.

9. Carol

Carol is an English name that is shortened from Caroline. It can either mean ‘song’ or ‘hymn’. It is quite a preferred choice across English-speaking countries.

10. Carolyn

A spelling variant of the traditional Caroline. Carolyn means ‘free person’ or ‘strong’.

11. Catherine

With Greek origins, Catherine means ‘pure’. It comes from the word ‘katharos’.

12. Cathy

Cathy is a shortened version of Catherine and it means ‘pure’ or ‘each of the two’. It has several variations and is mainly used as a nickname.

13. Cheryl

Cheryl is an interesting English given name. It is an extended version of Cherie, which means ‘darling’ or ‘beloved’. In pop culture, Cheryl is made popular by the fictional character in Archie Comics, Cheryl Blossom. She is iconic for her red hair and lipstick.

14. Christina

The Latin feminine form of Christian, Christina means ‘follower of Christ’. A notable name in the pop music industry, Christina María Aguilera is an American singer famous for her powerful vocals.

15. Cindy

Cindy is a variation of either Cynthia or Lucinda. It can mean ‘woman from Mount Kynthos’ or ‘light’.

16. Connie

Connie is derived from Constance and it means ‘constant’ or ‘steadfast’. It is also believed to be a habitational name.

17. Cynthia

Cynthia is an English and French name with roots in Greek mythology. It means ‘woman from Cynthus’.

18. Dawn

Inspired by the beauty of nature, Dawn is taken from the English word ‘dawn’. It means ‘break of day’. Dawn Staley is an American basketball Hall of Fame player and coach. She won three Olympic gold medals, initially as a player and then as a coach.

19. Debbie

Debbie is a shortened form of Deborah. It has Hebrew origins and means ‘bee’. It has several variations often used as nicknames.

protip_icon Did you know?
Not everyone from the ’60s is referred to as Gen X. People who were born between 1946 and 1964 are referred to as Boomers. The name emerged from a phenomenon known as the ‘baby boom’, which marked a rise in the birth rate after World War II (1)

20. Deborah

Deborah is a Biblical and an English name that means ‘bee’. It has Hebrew origins.

21. Denise

Denise is the feminine form of Denis and a variant of Dionysus. It is commonly used in Dutch and French families.

22. Diana

Diana is a regal and magnificent feminine name. It is used in different cultures all over the world and it means ‘divine’, ‘luminous’, or ‘sky’. Diana, Princess of Wales was the most famous bearer of the name. The princess was renowned for being a humanitarian.

23. Diane

Diane is the French form of Diana, a name which means ‘like a goddess’ or ‘divine’. It is also probably inspired by the Goddess of hunting and moon in Roman mythology.

24. Donna

Donna is the feminine form of Donald. It has its roots in Italian and it means ‘lady’. Donna Karan is a renowned name in fashion. She is an American fashion designer and the creator of Donna Karan New York and DKNY clothing labels.

25. Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a classic and elegant name for girls. It is a Hebrew name, which means ‘my God is an oath’. Elizabeth II, the former Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms, is perhaps the most famous bearer of this name.

26. Gina

Gina is a shortened form of many feminine names such as Georgina, Regina, and Luigina. It can mean ‘queen’, ‘farmer’, ‘earth-worker’, or ‘famous in battle’.

27. Heidi

Heidi is the German diminutive of Adelheid or Heidemarie. It carries a regal connotation and means ‘nobleness’ or ‘nobility’.

28. Jacqueline

Jacqueline is the French and English feminine form of the masculine name Jacques. It comes from the root name Jacob, a Hebrew name which means ‘supplanter’.

29. Janet

Names have undergone different changes over the years. Janet is the medieval respelling of Jane and the feminine form of John. It is an English name, which means ‘Yahweh is gracious’. Janet Jackson, an American singer-songwriter and actress, is probably the most famous bearer of this name.

30. Janice

Janice is the extended form of Jane and the feminine form of John. It means ‘God is gracious’.

60s baby names, Janice means ‘God is gracious.’

Image: Momjunction Design Team

31. Jennifer

Jennifer is the Cornish form of the Welsh feminine name Gwenhwyfar. It has its roots in Arthurian Legend, taken from the famous Guinevere. It means ‘white spirit’ or ‘fair one’. A few famous Jennifers in the entertainment industry are Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, and Jennifer Lawrence.

32. Jill

A shortened spelling of Jillian and a feminine form of Julian, Jill means ‘youthful’. Jill Tracy Jacobs Biden, wife of President Joe Biden, is the first lady of the U.S. since 2021.

33. Julie

Julie is a popular name in French, Danish, Norwegian, and Czech regions. It is derived from the Roman family name Julius or the Latin name Julia, and means ‘downy-bearded’ or ‘youthful’.

34. Judy

Taken from Judith, Judy is the shortened form of this Hebrew name. It means ‘Jewish woman’ and was born by Judy Garland, a well-known American actress and singer.

36. Karen

Karen has been used in different cultures and languages around the world. In Japanese, Karen means ‘lotus flower’ or ‘water lily’. It is also the shortened Danish form of Katherine. With old Norse and Greek origins, the name means ‘pure’.

36. Kathleen

Kathleen is the anglicized spelling of the Irish name Caitlín. It means ‘each of the two’ or ‘pure’.

37. Katherine

Katherine is an English name with possible connections to the Greek goddess Hecate. It can mean ‘each of the two’ or ‘pure’. Katherine Mansfield was an author and critic from New Zealand who had a major influence on the modernist movement.

38. Kelly

Kelly is a unisex name that has been anglicized from the Irish masculine name Ceallach. It means ‘bright-headed’ and ‘warrior’, and is borne by the winner of the first season of American Idol, Kelly Clarkson.

39. Kim

Kim is a popular unisex name in different cultures and languages. In Korean, Kim means ‘gold’ or ‘metal’. In English, it is a shortened form of Kimberly and is often used as a nickname for other names.

40. Kimberly

Kimberly is a habitational name inspired by various places of similar names. The most talked about Kimberly is Kimberly ‘Kim’ Kardashian. She is an American media personality, socialite, and businesswoman.

41. Laura

Laura is a popular feminine name across the world. It has its roots in Latin and means ‘laurel’ or the bay laurel plant.

42. Laurie

A top choice for unisex names, Laurie can be a diminutive of the feminine Lauren or the masculine Laurence. It is an English and Dutch given name that means ‘from Laurentum’ or ‘laurel’. It symbolizes victory and honor.

43. Leslie

Most surnames are taken from given names, however, Leslie is a first name inspired by a Scottish surname. It is a unisex name taken from a place in Aberdeenshire and it means ‘garden of holly’.

44. Linda

Linda is a linguistically rich name. Initially, it was used as a shortened form of German names that contain the element ‘linde’, which means ‘soft’ and ‘flexible’. Later on, it was found to coincide with the Spanish word ‘linda’, which means ‘beautiful.’

45. Lisa

Lisa is the shortened form of Elizabeth and Elisheba. The name has spread in popularity thanks to Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece ‘The Mona Lisa’.

46. Lori

Lori is a shortened form of names that begin with ‘Lor’ or names such as Laura or Lorraine. It can mean ‘laurel’, ‘kingdom of Lothar’, or have other meanings from the name it is derived from.

47. Lynn

Lynn is a unisex name that has been derived from an English surname. It has its roots in Welsh, taken from the word ‘llyn’, which means ‘lake’.

48. Margaret

Margaret is an English name with French and Greek roots and it means ‘pearl’. A name borne by the longest-serving British prime minister of the 20th century, Margaret Thatcher is also the first woman to hold the position.

49. Mary

Mary is a Biblical name for Maria. It has roots in Hebrew and carries different connotations, such as ‘beloved,’ ‘rebelliousness,’ or ‘exalted’. Parents who appreciate timeless vintage girl names will love this name. Often people are inspired to choose this name because of its relation to the Virgin Mary from the Bible.

50. Melanie

Melanie is the German, Dutch, and English form of the Latin name Melania. It means ‘black’ or ‘dark’.

51. Melissa

A name that has been drawn from the depths of Greek mythology, Melissa means ‘bee’. It is also the name of Procles’s daughter and an epithet for nymphs and priestesses.

52. Michele

Michele is a spelling variant of Michelle and the feminine form of Michel. It is of Hebrew origin and it means ‘who is like God’ or ‘a godly woman’.

53. Michelle

Michelle is the French feminine form of Michel or Michael. It has its roots in Hebrew and means ‘one who resembles God’. The name is borne by the former First Lady of the US Michelle Obama, who served from 2009 to 2017.

54. Nancy

Many would be surprised to find out that Nancy is a diminutive of Anne and previously the medieval diminutive of Annis. The name means ‘grace’, ‘favor’, or ‘beautiful’. In the fictional world, the name has been popularized by teenage detective Nancy Drew.

55. Pamela

Pamela was derived and popularized by poet Sir Philip Sidney in his poem Arcadia. It comes from the Greek words ‘pan’ and ‘meli’, which means ‘all sweetness’.

56. Patricia

The feminine form of Patrick or Patricius, Patricia is a Spanish, German, and Late Roman name. It has roots in Latin and means ‘noble’.

57. Paula

Paula is the feminine form of Paul and it means ‘small’ or ‘humble’. Paula is derived from a Roman family name and is a popular choice for girls all over the world. Paula Julie Abdul is an American actress, singer, choreographer, and TV personality. She has worked for numerous well-known shows, including American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, Live To Dance, and more.

58. Rebecca

Rebecca is a Hebrew name that is also found in the Old Testament. Rebecca is the wife of Issac and the mother of Jacob and Esau. This name has Semitic roots and means ‘join,’ ‘tie,’ or ‘bind’.

59. Renee

Renee is the English spelling of the accented French and Dutch Renée. It is taken from the Late Latin masculine name, Renatus, and means ‘born again’. Renée Kathleen Zellweger is a very famous American actress, and she has won two Academy Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, and four Golden Globe Awards.

60. Rhonda

Rhonda is probably a combination of names like Rhoda and Linda. However, it is also assumed that the name is inspired by the Rhondda Valley in South Wales. It could mean ‘noisy’ or ‘good lance’.

60s baby names, Rhonda means ‘good lance’

Image: Momjunction Design Team

61. Robin

Robin is a unisex name and is the shortened form of Robert. However, in the contemporary world, Robin is used as an independent name. It means ‘bright’ and ‘fame’.

62. Ruth

Ruth is used all over the world in different cultures and languages. It is also a famous Biblical name borne by an ancestor of King David. This 1900s name has Hebrew origins and has connotations of empathy and compassion.

63. Sandra

Sandra is the shortened form of Alexandra and it means ‘defender of the people’. This name is borne by one of the world’s highest-paid actors, Sandra Bullock. She was also named Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2010.

64. Sheila

The anglicized form of Irish Síle or Cecilia, Sheila has its roots in the family name Caecilius. It means ‘blind’ or ‘heavenly’.

65. Sherry

Sherry is an English name with distinct hints of French. It is taken from the French word ‘chérie’, which means ‘darling’.

66. Stephanie

Stephanie is the English and German feminine form of Stephen. It means ‘crown’ or ‘wealth’. One of the most famous contemporary fantasy writers, Stephanie Meyers, is known for her vampire series, Twilight.

67. Susan

Susan is a popular spelling variant of Susanna. It means the fragrant ‘lily of the valley’ or ‘a lotus flower’.

68. Suzanne

The French spelling of Susanna, Suzanne means ‘lily’. It also means ‘rose’ in modern Hebrew. Suzanne Collins, the author of the young adult dystopian book series The Hunger Games, bears the name.

69. Tammy

Tammy is a shortened form of Tamara or any other name that begins with ‘tam’. Tamara has its roots in Hebrew and it means ‘date palm’.

70. Teresa

Teresa is a spelling variant of Therese. The name has Greek origins and means ‘summer’ or ‘to harvest’. Some other variations of this name is Tereza, Tess, Tracey, and more.

71. Terri

Terri could be a diminutive of Theresa or the feminine variant of Terry. It could either mean ‘summer’, ‘to harvest’, or ‘ruler of the people’.

72. Tina

Tina is a shortened name possibly taken from Christina, Martina, Katarina, or any other name ending with ‘tina’. It takes on its meaning from the original name. It may also be derived from Old English words such as ‘tyne’ or ‘tyna’, which mean ‘river’.

73. Tracy

Tracy is a unisex name that comes from a Norman French place name. It means ‘domain belonging to Thracius’. It can also mean ‘powerful’ or ‘warlike’.

74. Valerie

Valerie is the English and German spelling of Valeria. It is also the feminine form of Valerius, a Roman family name that means ‘to be strong’.

75. Wendy

It emerged as a created name, taken from the nickname Fwendy, which means ‘friends’. It was used in J. M. Barrie’s play, Peter Pan. Wendy is one of the female protagonists in the play. The name could also be associated with the Welsh name Gwendolyn, which means ‘white ring’.

60s boy names

Masculine names in the 60s have a certain charm and swagger to them. These names are borne by some of the most popular celebrities you may be familiar with.

76. Alan

Alan is a given name with Scottish, French, and Breton origins. Although the exact meaning of the name is unknown, it is assumed to mean ‘little rock’ or ‘handsome’. Country star singer-songwriter Alan Jackson is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has won numerous awards throughout his career.

77. Andrew

An English name taken from the Greek masculine appellation Andreas, Andrew means ‘manly’ or ‘masculine’. It carries a royal touch as it is borne by Prince Andrew, Duke of York, the third child of Queen Elizabeth II.

78. Anthony

With roots in the Roman family name, Antonius, it derives its meaning from the Greek word ‘anthos’, which means ‘flower.’ The name also means ‘priceless’ or ‘praiseworthy’.

79. Billy

Billy is a shortened form of William, a powerful name that means ‘will-helmet’. One of the renowned bearers of the name is William Martin Joel, who is popularly known as Billy Joel. He has several awards under his name and is famously referred to as the Piano Man.

80. Bradley

For parents who wish to use nature-inspired names, Bradley can be a great choice. With roots in Old English, Bradley came into use first as a surname. It means ‘broad clearing.’ Bradley Charles Cooper is an American actor and filmmaker who won several awards, such as the British Academy Film Award and two Grammy Awards.

81. Brian

Distinctly Irish, Brian could be related to a Celtic word that means ‘hill,’ ‘high,’ or ‘power.’ Variations such as Brion and Bryan also exist.

82. Bruce

Bruce is an English and Scottish name that may mean ‘thicket’ or ‘the willowlands’. A renowned bearer of this name is Bruce Lee. He was a Hong Kong-American martial artist and actor who invented Jeet Kune Do, a hybrid martial arts philosophy.

83. Bryan

Bryan is a spelling variant of Brian, an Irish name that means ‘high’, ‘hill’, or ‘power’. It also means ‘virtuous’ and ‘noble’.

84. Carl

Carl is the German and Scandinavian spelling of Charles. It means ‘man’ or ‘army.’ World-renowned psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Carl Jung, was an important bearer of the name.

85. Charles

The English and French form of Carolus, Charles is a powerful name that has been used by many royal families. It means ‘free man’ or ‘army’. King Charles III of the United Kingdom and the 14 other Commonwealth realms who ascended to the throne in 2023 is a famous bearer of this name.

86. Chris

Chris is a shortened version of names that begin with ‘Chris’, such as Christopher, Christian, or Christine. There are many famous celebrities with this name in Hollywood, such as Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pine, and more.

87. Christopher

The name Christopher has a religious connotation. It comes from the Greek word ‘Christoforos’, which means ‘bearing Christ’. Thus, it is a very popular Christian name.

88. Craig

Craig is a Scottish given name with Welsh and Gaelic roots. It means ‘rocks’, ‘rocky’ or ‘a steep, rocky cliff’.

89. Dale

Dale was first used as a topographic surname for someone who lived near a dale or a valley. The name has English and German roots. It also makes a great name for girls.

90. Daniel

Daniel is a powerful Hebrew name that means ‘God is my judge’. Daniel is one of the prophets who wrote the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. It is a revered name among Christians.

60s baby names, Daniel means ‘God is my judge’

Image: Momjunction Design Team

91. Danny

Danny is a Dutch and English name. It is also the shortened version of Daniel. Danny Antonucci is famous for creating the animated comedy series Ed, Edd n Eddy.

92. David

One of the most popular Biblical characters of all time, King David went from being a shepherd to a king by slaying Goliath. David is a Hebrew name that means ‘beloved’ or ‘uncle’. King David also wrote the Book of Psalms in the Old Testament.

93. Dennis

The Dutch, German, and English spelling of Denis, Dennis is used both as a first and a last name. At its root, the name comes from the Greek god Dionysus, which means ‘of Zeus’.

94. Donald

Donald is the Scottish and English form of the Scottish Gaelic ‘Dòmhnall’. It carries the meaning of ‘ruler of the world’. Donald John Trump is one of the popular bearers of the name. He was the 45th president of the U.S.

protip_icon Trivia
Four Presidents served the U.S. during the 1960s. In order of office, Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-61), John F. Kennedy (1961-63), Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-69), and Richard Nixon (1969-74) (2)

95. Douglas

Taken from a Scottish locative surname, Douglas means ‘dark water’. The name has many spelling variations such as Dowglas, Duglas, Duglass, and more.

96. Edward

Edward is a Polish and English given name that has roots in Old English. It means ‘rich guard’. Several members of noble families bore this name.

97. Edwin

Edwin is a Dutch and English name composed of Old English elements. It means ‘rich friend’. One of the well-known bearers of the name is Edwin Powell Hubble. He is famous for the Hubble Space Telescope, one of the largest telescopes in the world.

98. Eric

Rooted in Old Norse, Eric is a name commonly used in Swedish, German, Spanish, and English-speaking countries. It means ‘ever ruler,’ indicating a striking sense of royalty. Eric Patrick Clapton is famous for his guitar-picking skills. He has been named one of the best guitar players in different magazines.

99. Gary

Gary is derived from an English surname, which is inspired by a Norman given name. It also contains German roots, which means ‘spear’.

100. George

George is a Romanian and English name that comes from the Greek name Georgios. It means ‘farmer’ or ‘earth worker’. The most notable bearer of the name is George Washington, the American Founding Father and the first president of the U.S.

101. Gerald

Gerald is a Germanic name that is composed of two elements, ‘ger’ and ‘walt’. The complete interpretation of Gerald is the ‘power of the spear.’

102. Glenn

Taken from the Gaelic word ‘gleann’, Glenn is an English name derived from the Scottish surname. It means ‘valley’. The name was borne by Glenn Lewis Frey, an American musician and founding member of the band, Eagles.

103. Gregory

A popular name among Christians, Gregory is an English name that has been translated from Latin and Greek names. It means to be ‘watchful’ or ‘alert’.

104. James

James is the English alternative of Jacob, a Hebrew name. It carries different connotations such as ‘supplanter,’ ‘holder of the heel,’ and ‘may God protect’.

105. Jeffrey

A medieval spelling of Geoffrey, Jeffrey is an English name. It contains Germanic elements and it means ‘pledge of peace’ or ‘peaceful foreigner’. This name is borne by the third-wealthiest man in the world, Jeffrey Preston Bezos.

106. Jerry

Jerry is one of the popular diminutive names of the 60s. It is a shortened form of Jeremy, Jerome, Gerald, or Geraldine. The meaning of the name depends on its extended version.

107. Jimmy

Jimmy is a diminutive of James, which in turn is a spelling variant of Jacob. The name means ‘supplanter,’ ‘holder of the heel’ or ‘may God protect’.

108. Joe

Joe is the shortened spelling of Joseph, a Biblical name. It comes from the Hebrew name Yosef, which means ‘He will add’. Joe Biden Jr. is the the 46th President of the U.S., serving his term from 2021.

109. John

John is a popular masculine name that means ‘Yahweh is gracious’. John Fitzgerald Kennedy was the 35th U.S president. He was the youngest president in the history of the U.S.

protip_icon Quick fact
The Beatles rose to popularity in 1963, which caused ‘Beatlemania’ around the world. Many parents were influenced to name their children John, Paul, George, and Ringo, after these superstars.

110. Johnny

A spelling variant of John, Johnny also carries the same meaning. Johnny Depp is one of the most popular bearers of the name. He is an American actor and musician who received a Golden Globe Award.

111. Jonathan

Jonathan is a name with Hebrew roots and Biblical origins. It means ‘Yahweh has given’, and it is also the name of Saul’s eldest son in the Old Testament..

112. Joseph

Joseph comes from the Hebrew name Yosef which means ‘He will add’ or ‘praise’. In the New Testament, Joseph is the name of Jesus’ earthly father.

113. Keith

Keith is a name derived from a Scottish locative surname. It also has Celtic elements and means ‘wood’. Keith Urban is a renowned Country Music artist with fifteen Academy of Country Music Awards.

114. Kevin

Kevin is a popular masculine name and is the anglicized version of Caoimhín. It means ‘beloved birth’ or ‘handsome by birth’. The name is borne by well-loved American comedian and actor, Kevin Hart.

115. Larry

A diminutive of Laurence, this name is taken from the Roman cognomen Laurentius. Larry means a person ‘from Laurentum.’

116. Lawrence

Lawrence is a popular English name for boys and is the spelling variant of Laurence. It can be used as a given name as well as a surname.

117. Mark

Mark is the English, Belarusian, Russian, Dutch, and Danish spelling of the Latin name Marcus. The origin of the name is inspired by the Roman god, Mars. The name also means ‘God of war’, ‘warlike’, and ‘defender’.

118. Martin

Martin is a name with a long history. Going back to Roman mythology, Martin is probably derived from Mars, the god of war. Martin can mean ‘male.’ It is also a name borne by revolutionary activist Martin Luther King Jr, who was one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

119. Matthew

One of the most popular Biblical names, Matthew has roots in Hebrew and  means ‘gift of Yahweh’. Matthew Langford Perry was one of the renowned individuals who shared the name. He is known for his role as Chandler Bing in the NBC sitcom Friends.

120. Mike

Mike is a shortened version of Michael, a masculine name that means ‘who is like God?’ Also known as ‘the Baddest Man on the Planet,’  Mike Tyson is one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.

60s baby names, Mike means ‘who is like God?’

Image: Momjunction Design Team

121. Neil

Taken from the Irish name Niall, Neil is the Scottish and Irish spelling of the name. It could mean ‘cloud’, ‘fury’ or ‘hero’. Neil Alden Armstrong is another man who made the headlines during the 60s. He was an American astronaut, an aeronautical engineer, and the first man to walk on the Moon.

122. Patrick

A name that has been made popular by Saint Patrick, the apostle and patron saint of Ireland. Patrick is taken from the Latin name Patricius and means ‘nobleman’.

123. Paul

Paul was an important figure in Christianity. The name is derived from the Roman family name Paulus, which means ‘humble’ or ‘small.’ In the contemporary world, the name is borne by a famous member of The Beatles, Sir James Paul McCartney.

124. Peter

Peter can be regarded as a divine name if we take into account its Biblical origins. It is a name bestowed upon the apostle Simon by Jesus Christ. Peter has its roots in Greek and its meaning can be interpreted as ‘stone’.

125. Phillip

Phillip is another masculine name with a royal streak. It is a spelling variant of Philip, with one ‘l’ and it means ‘friend of horses’.

126. Randall

Randall comes from the given name Randel or Randolf. It is an English name created using German elements. Randolf means ‘shield of a wolf’. The name was brought to England by the Normans. Asian-American actor, Randall Park is one of the famous bearers of the name. He is famous for his role as Louis Huang in Fresh Off the Boat.

127. Randy

Randy can be used as a unisex name since it is a shortened version of names like Randall, Randolf, or Miranda. Randy’s meaning is versatile because it is derived from the name it is a diminutive of. Randal Keith Orton is one of the notable bearers of the name. He is known as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.

128. Raymond

Raymond is a French and English name with German roots. It means ‘advice and protection’. This name is quite popular thanks to the sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond.

129. Richard

Richard is a name fit for a king or a ruler, which is exactly what it means. It is a popular male name composed of German elements and means ‘brave ruler’.

130. Ricky

Ricky is a fun and shortened version of Richard. It carries the same meaning, which is ‘brave ruler’. This name has several variations, such as Ricard, Eric, Rico, etc.

131. Robert

A name that was brought in by the Normans to Britain, Robert is taken from a German name that means ‘bright fame’. Robert De Niro is one of the greatest actors of the 21st century. He has won numerous awards and accolades, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom presented to him by former U.S. President Barack Obama.

132. Rodney

Rodney is a name inspired by a locative surname. It contains Old English elements that may point to ‘fame’, but it is more commonly interpreted as ‘Hroda’s island’.

133. Roger

Another Germanic name brought to England by the Normans, Roger means ‘famous spearman’ and is borne by Roger Federer who was ranked world No. 1 in singles by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) for 310 weeks.

134. Ronald

Ronald is the Scottish form of Ragnvaldr, an Old Norse name. It means ‘ruler’s advice’ or ‘ruler’s counsel’ and was brought to Britain by the Scandinavians.

135. Russell

Russell is derived from an English surname that means ‘little red one’ or ‘red-haired’. One of the most prominent Hollywood actors, Russell Ira Crowe, bears the name. He has won an Academy Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and a British Academy Film Award for his acting skills.

136. Scott

This name is derived from an English and Scottish locative surname, which is used for someone who is from Scotland. It refers to someone who is a ‘Gaelic speaker’.

137. Sean

Sean is an English and Irish form of Seán or John. It has Hebrew roots and it means ‘Yahweh is gracious’. Sir Thomas Sean Connery, commonly known as Sean Connery, was a Scottish actor who was also the first to play the role of the famous James Bond.

138. Shawn

Shawn is the anglicized version of Seán and is sometimes used as a feminine name. Shawn has deep roots in Hebrew and it means ‘God is gracious’. Shawn Mendes is a Canadian singer-songwriter who claimed a spot on the US Billboard 200 chart as one of the five artists ever to debut at number one before 18.

139. Stephen

Stephen is a name with Greek origins. It means ‘wreath,’ ‘crown,’ or ‘that which surrounds’. American author and King of Horror, Stephen Edwin King is a bestselling author who has sold more than 350 million copies.

140. Steve

Steve is the shortened spelling of Steven, which means ‘crown’ or ‘wreath’. One of the world-famous bearers of the name is Steve Jobs, the inventor of Apple Inc.

141. Steven

The Dutch and English spelling of Stephen, Steven means ‘crown,’ ‘wreath,’ or ‘that which surrounds.’ The name is borne by one of the most commercially successful directors in history, Steven Allan Spielberg. His work has won him three Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and four Directors Guild of America Awards.

142. Terry

Terry is a name with various origins. It can be used as a unisex name depending on which name it is derived from. Terry is the shortened spelling of Terence, Theresa, Thierry, or Theodoric.

143. Thomas

Thomas has roots in Greek, Aramaic, Hebrew, and the Bible. It signifies ‘twin’. Thomas was one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ.

144. Timothy

Timothy is a wonderful name for a baby boy. It comes from a Greek name and means ‘honoring God.’ Timothy is also a Biblical name and he is one of Paul’s companions in the New Testament.

145. Todd

Todd comes from an English surname that means ‘fox’. Todd was one of the names that boomed in popularity during the 60s and 70s. Canadian comic book creator Todd McFarlane is known for his work as the artist of The Amazing Spider-Man.

146. Tony

Tony is the short and sweet version of Anthony. It is an English name derived from a Roman family name and it possibly means ‘flower’. It may also mean ‘flourishing’ or ‘praiseworthy’.

60s baby names, Tony means ‘flower’.

Image: Momjunction Design Team

147. Troy

The given name Troy comes from the locative surname used to indicate someone from the city of Troyes in France. In Greek mythology, Troy is popularly known as the battleground for the Trojan War. The name also means ‘foot soldier’ and ‘curly-haired’.

148. Victor

This masculine name, which means ‘conqueror’ in Latin, is perhaps one of the oldest Christian names. It symbolizes Christ’s victory over sin and death.

149. Vincent

Vincent is the English, French, Dutch, Swedish, Slovak, and Danish spelling of the Roman name Vincentius. It means ‘to conquer’. The name reminds us of the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, Vincent van Gogh, whose works remain inspirational and influential to this day.

150. Wayne

Wayne is used as a given name but it also emerged as an occupational surname for a wagon maker. In the world of football, Wayne Mark Rooney is considered one of the greatest football players of his generation.

151. William

A protective given name, William comes from a Germanic name that means ‘will-helmet’. The name also means ‘protector’ or ‘strong-willed warrior’. One of the most famous names in literature is William Shakespeare, whose works are still being read, enjoyed, and studied today.

Discover More Names

When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What were common themes or specific naming trends in 60s names?

Many baby names in the 60s followed the traditional or classic route. It was also common to see shortened or diminutive names such as Ricky, Steve, Debbie, and Lisa. Parents also leaned toward Biblical names such as Matthew, David, Ruth, and Deborah. People also preferred unisex names.

2. Are 60s names still in vogue today?

Many names popular in the 60s are still in use today. Some appellations remain timeless and their charm will never fade away. Some names still popular today are Jennifer, Michelle, Stephen, Sean, and Neil.

Evergreen and fashionable, these 60s baby names make great choices even today. Whether you prefer classic names like Mary or more trendy picks like Wayne, they belong to an era that dared to think big and challenge the conventional order. Most importantly, it’s great that these names can grow with your child and won’t feel out of place at any age or setting. So, let these baby names inspire you and help you find an appropriate one for your munchkin.

Infographic: Fun Baby Names From The ’60s

The 60s represented a whole spectrum of hip happenings, from the moon landing to Motown hits. These names have been influenced by the world around them. Travel back in time with our infographic to learn more about the trendy names of the ’60s decade.

funky baby names from the '60s (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. Baby Boomer Generation: Birth Years and Characteristics.
    https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/baby-boomer-generation-characteristics
  2. Chronological List of Presidents, First Ladies, and Vice Presidents of the United States.
    https://www.loc.gov/rr/print/list/057_chron.html

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Benidamika holds a masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Assam Don Bosco University and another masters degree in English Literature from North Eastern Hill University. At MomJunction, Benidamika writes on human psychology and relationships.

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Poulami Nag
Poulami NagMA, PG Dip.
Poulami is an associate editor at MomJunction. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

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Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a clinical coordinator, medical content writer and medical conference coordinator. Her continuous interest in medical journals and writing makes her write well-researched articles for MomJunction.

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