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 With the recent trends shifting towards unisex baby names, the traditional gender norms have been revoked.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
Favorite baby name Zeta heart image baby boy sign Unisex The sixth letter of the Greek alphabet
Favorite baby name Zeth heart image baby boy sign Unisex Appointed; Olive
Favorite baby name Zeus heart image baby boy sign Unisex God of sky and thunder
Favorite baby name Zeva heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, beautiful, gift
Favorite baby name Zevin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God
Favorite baby name Zey heart image baby boy sign Unisex Adorned; Decorated
Favorite baby name Zeya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Success
Favorite baby name Zeyah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exotic and unique
Favorite baby name Zeyar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Success
Favorite baby name Zeydan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Abundance; Plenty
Favorite baby name Zeza heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved; Love
Favorite baby name Zeze heart image baby boy sign Unisex Boys
Favorite baby name Zhane heart image baby boy sign Unisex God is gracious
Favorite baby name Zhanna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God
Favorite baby name Zhari heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warrior, strong, powerful
Favorite baby name Zhea heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life-giving; Goddess of life
Favorite baby name Zheng heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strength; Upright; Conqueror
Favorite baby name Zhi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligence, wisdom, knowledge
Favorite baby name Zhora heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dawn; Daybreak
Favorite baby name Zi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Purple; Violet
Favorite baby name Zia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiance, light, brilliance
Favorite baby name Ziaan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Shining star
Favorite baby name Ziah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Light; Glow
Favorite baby name Zian heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life; Strong
Favorite baby name Ziane heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong, ambitious, determined
Favorite baby name Ziani heart image baby boy sign Unisex Honest
Favorite baby name Zianna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift from God
Favorite baby name Zianne heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful; Kind-hearted
Favorite baby name Ziara heart image baby boy sign Unisex Visit; Pilgrimage
Favorite baby name Ziare heart image baby boy sign Unisex River
Favorite baby name Zibah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Sacrifice
Favorite baby name Zibiah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant or Gazelle
Favorite baby name Zie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Creative and unique
Favorite baby name Ziel heart image baby boy sign Unisex Goal; Destination
Favorite baby name Zielle heart image baby boy sign Unisex Target; Goal
Favorite baby name Zienna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Graceful; Divine
Favorite baby name Zier heart image baby boy sign Unisex Ornament; Decoration
Favorite baby name Ziera heart image baby boy sign Unisex Blossom; Flower
Favorite baby name Zig heart image baby boy sign Unisex Energetic; Adventurous
Favorite baby name Zihao heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligent, accomplished, determined
Favorite baby name Ziko heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God
Favorite baby name Zila heart image baby boy sign Unisex Shadow
Favorite baby name Zilah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, celestial, serenity
Favorite baby name Zildjian heart image baby boy sign Unisex Turkish origin, associated with music
Favorite baby name Zilla heart image baby boy sign Unisex Shadow; Shade
Favorite baby name Zilo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Rhythmic; Creative
Favorite baby name Zima heart image baby boy sign Unisex Winter
Favorite baby name Zimi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Limitless; Creative; Unique
Favorite baby name Zimri heart image baby boy sign Unisex Prince, musical
Favorite baby name Zin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Precious or valuable
Favorite baby name Zinat heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beauty; Ornament
Favorite baby name Zinedine heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift of God
Favorite baby name Zinn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Someone who works with tin; A tin blacksmith
Favorite baby name Zinna heart image baby boy sign Unisex A type of flowering plant; Symbol of endurance
Favorite baby name Zinzan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful; Attractive
Favorite baby name Zinzi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful life
Favorite baby name Zio heart image baby boy sign Unisex Light, strong, unique
Favorite baby name Zion heart image baby boy sign Unisex Holy place
Favorite baby name Ziona heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bringer of happiness or joy
Favorite baby name Zionah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Faithful and strong
Favorite baby name Zionne heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Strong; Divine
Favorite baby name Ziora heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gift from God
Favorite baby name Zira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Seed; Grain; Truth and respect
Favorite baby name Zircon heart image baby boy sign Unisex A type of mineral stone used as a gem
Favorite baby name Ziri heart image baby boy sign Unisex Sparkling, radiant, bright
Favorite baby name Zirwa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, blessed, unique
Favorite baby name Zisha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Joyful; Energetic; Radiant
Favorite baby name Zishan heart image baby boy sign Unisex adorned with good qualities or decorated with splendor
Favorite baby name Ziska heart image baby boy sign Unisex Free
Favorite baby name Ziven heart image baby boy sign Unisex Alive, vibrant, spirited
Favorite baby name Ziya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiance or light
Favorite baby name Ziyah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, luminous, brilliance
Favorite baby name Ziyan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligent and wise
Favorite baby name Ziyana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful, radiant, intelligent
Favorite baby name Ziza heart image baby boy sign Unisex Abundance; Plentifulness
Favorite baby name Zizi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exotic, unique, spirited
Favorite baby name Zo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Spiritual leader
Favorite baby name Zoa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life; Living being
Favorite baby name Zoah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life
Favorite baby name Zoel heart image baby boy sign Unisex God's favorite; Blessed by God
Favorite baby name Zoelle heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life
Favorite baby name Zoen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life
Favorite baby name Zoeya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Light; Radiant; Joyful
Favorite baby name Zohar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiance or brilliance
Favorite baby name Zohara heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, luminous, shining
Favorite baby name Zohra heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant or blooming flower
Favorite baby name Zolan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and courageous
Favorite baby name Zolie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life
Favorite baby name Zona heart image baby boy sign Unisex Girdle; Belt
Favorite baby name Zonaira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique, elegant, mysterious
Favorite baby name Zooey heart image baby boy sign Unisex Life
Favorite baby name Zophia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Wisdom, strength, beauty
Favorite baby name Zoraida heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exotic, mysterious, empowering
Favorite baby name Zoravar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warrior or Brave
Favorite baby name Zorawar heart image baby boy sign Unisex Brave warrior; Fearless warrior
Favorite baby name Zoraya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Radiant, Resilient, Empress
Favorite baby name Zori heart image baby boy sign Unisex Simplicity; Tradition
Favorite baby name Zoria heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dawn; Morning light
Favorite baby name Zoriah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Sunrise; Dawn
Favorite baby name Zorie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dawn

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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Ipshita Chakraborty is a creative content writer with an avid interest in human relationships and literature from around the world. She completed her bachelors in English literature at Patna University and masters in English literature at Sharda University. While pursuing her MA, she presented a research paper on marital rape at the Students’ Academic National Seminar in India. She started...read full bio