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 With the recent trends shifting towards unisex baby names, the traditional gender norms have been revoked.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 Caid heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warrior, fighter, strong
Favorite baby name Caidyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bold; Creative
Favorite baby name Cailey heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fair and slim darling
Favorite baby name Caiman heart image baby boy sign Unisex Reptile-like river creature; Protector
Favorite baby name Caimin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little crooked one
Favorite baby name Caique heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exotic; Lively; Bird-like
Favorite baby name Caira heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved
Favorite baby name Cairi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Young; Cheerful
Favorite baby name Cairn heart image baby boy sign Unisex A pile of stones used as a marker or monument
Favorite baby name Cairo heart image baby boy sign Unisex The victorious; The conqueror; The place of combat
Favorite baby name Cais heart image baby boy sign Unisex Rejoicing individual
Favorite baby name Caisen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warrior; Strong; Victorious
Favorite baby name Caisley heart image baby boy sign Unisex Lively; Curious; Adventurous
Favorite baby name Caison heart image baby boy sign Unisex Spirit of battle; Fighter
Favorite baby name Caisyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Modern
Favorite baby name Caitanya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Divine radiance
Favorite baby name Cal heart image baby boy sign Unisex A devoted person
Favorite baby name Calais heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who changes colors
Favorite baby name Calamity heart image baby boy sign Unisex Calamity
Favorite baby name Calandria heart image baby boy sign Unisex Hummingbird
Favorite baby name Calcifer heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fiery helper
Favorite baby name Calden heart image baby boy sign Unisex Cool; Clear spring
Favorite baby name Calea heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful; Strong
Favorite baby name Caledon heart image baby boy sign Unisex A tough person
Favorite baby name Calel heart image baby boy sign Unisex Voice of God
Favorite baby name Caleo heart image baby boy sign Unisex To call; To summon
Favorite baby name Calex heart image baby boy sign Unisex Most beautiful or handsome
Favorite baby name Calia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful, Beautiful, Enchanting
Favorite baby name Caliah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful; Graceful; Strong
Favorite baby name Caliber heart image baby boy sign Unisex Quality or level of ability or skill
Favorite baby name Calihan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong, determined, courageous
Favorite baby name Calisi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Studious; Confidence
Favorite baby name Callah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful
Favorite baby name Callas heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful
Favorite baby name Callin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful; Fair
Favorite baby name Callon heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and noble
Favorite baby name Calloway heart image baby boy sign Unisex Relating to others
Favorite baby name Calm heart image baby boy sign Unisex Peaceful; Undisturbed; Tranquil
Favorite baby name Calvary heart image baby boy sign Unisex Place of crucifixion
Favorite baby name Calwa heart image baby boy sign Unisex A place name in California
Favorite baby name Calyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Pure; Noble; Graceful
Favorite baby name Calynn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Variant of the name Carolyn; Combination of calm and lynn
Favorite baby name Calysta heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful and charming
Favorite baby name Camari heart image baby boy sign Unisex Teacher
Favorite baby name Camaro heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fast and powerful automotive icon
Favorite baby name Camaron heart image baby boy sign Unisex Shrimp
Favorite baby name Cambell heart image baby boy sign Unisex Warlike, crooked mouth
Favorite baby name Cambry heart image baby boy sign Unisex Changeable; Exchange
Favorite baby name Camera heart image baby boy sign Unisex Capturing life's moments
Favorite baby name Cameran heart image baby boy sign Unisex Twisted; Bent
Favorite baby name Camia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fragrant flower
Favorite baby name Camilia heart image baby boy sign Unisex attendant at a religious ceremony
Favorite baby name Camp heart image baby boy sign Unisex Outdoorsy, adventurous, campsite
Favorite baby name Camran heart image baby boy sign Unisex Shining; Radiant
Favorite baby name Camren heart image baby boy sign Unisex Crooked nose; Crooked river
Favorite baby name Camry heart image baby boy sign Unisex Crown
Favorite baby name Camy heart image baby boy sign Unisex Helper or attendent
Favorite baby name Canada heart image baby boy sign Unisex Country of the north
Favorite baby name Canan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved, grace
Favorite baby name Canary heart image baby boy sign Unisex A small songbird native to the Canary Islands, known for its bright yellow feathers and melodious song
Favorite baby name Canberra heart image baby boy sign Unisex A meeting place; The name of the capital city of Australia
Favorite baby name Candramohan heart image baby boy sign Unisex To be like the moon
Favorite baby name Canelo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little cinnamon
Favorite baby name Canen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Determined; Honorable
Favorite baby name Cao heart image baby boy sign Unisex Grasp
Favorite baby name Capone heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who has a large head; Leader
Favorite baby name Capricorn heart image baby boy sign Unisex A zodiac sign; A goat
Favorite baby name Capulet heart image baby boy sign Unisex An Italian surname appearing in Romeo and Juliet
Favorite baby name Caraleigh heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved; Strong; Free-spirited
Favorite baby name Cardan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Rock structure; Wool carder
Favorite baby name Carder heart image baby boy sign Unisex Skilled worker
Favorite baby name Cardi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Short form of the name Cardigan
Favorite baby name Cardin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong, brave, leader, determined
Favorite baby name Cardinal heart image baby boy sign Unisex Bird, leadership, vibrant
Favorite baby name Care heart image baby boy sign Unisex Kindness; Protection; Concern
Favorite baby name Carelle heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful; Elegant; Strong
Favorite baby name Cariad heart image baby boy sign Unisex A darling and beloved person
Favorite baby name Carisma heart image baby boy sign Unisex Charismatic; Captivating
Favorite baby name Carlan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and determined
Favorite baby name Carmody heart image baby boy sign Unisex Son of the brave
Favorite baby name Carmon heart image baby boy sign Unisex Carmine color; Song of joy
Favorite baby name Carmyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Garden; Orchard
Favorite baby name Carol heart image baby boy sign Unisex Hymn; Song; Free Person
Favorite baby name Carpenter heart image baby boy sign Unisex Occupational surname commonly associated with woodworking or construction
Favorite baby name Carrigan heart image baby boy sign Unisex A very pointed spear
Favorite baby name Carrington heart image baby boy sign Unisex A person from the Marsh town
Favorite baby name Carrion heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dead flesh or decaying animal matter
Favorite baby name Carris heart image baby boy sign Unisex Grace; Kindness
Favorite baby name Carron heart image baby boy sign Unisex Rock; Stony place
Favorite baby name Cartel heart image baby boy sign Unisex An association of manufacturers or suppliers with the purpose of maintaining prices at a high level and restricting competition
Favorite baby name Cartia heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unconditional love; Parents love for their children
Favorite baby name Cartier heart image baby boy sign Unisex Charter; Cartographer
Favorite baby name Caru heart image baby boy sign Unisex A lovely person
Favorite baby name Caruso heart image baby boy sign Unisex Dear one; Beloved
Favorite baby name Casca heart image baby boy sign Unisex Empty; Vain
Favorite baby name Cascade heart image baby boy sign Unisex To fall; A cascade
Favorite baby name Cascaida heart image baby boy sign Unisex A falling, descending land
Favorite baby name Casden heart image baby boy sign Unisex From the fighter's farm
Favorite baby name Cashe heart image baby boy sign Unisex Hidden treasure; Reserved storage
Favorite baby name Cashmere heart image baby boy sign Unisex Luxurious fabric

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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