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 With the recent trends shifting towards unisex baby names, the traditional gender norms have been revoked.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 Adamas heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unconquerable; Invincible; Diamond
heart image Adani heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gentle; Delicate minded
heart image Adante heart image baby boy sign Unisex Smooth; Graceful
heart image Adanya heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Strong; Divine
heart image Adarah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Exalted, noble, radiant
heart image Adari heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Exalted
heart image Adasa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beautiful addition; Ornament
heart image Adav heart image baby boy sign Unisex A pleasant, gentle, and graceful one
heart image Adayah heart image baby boy sign Unisex God's ornament; Adorned by God
heart image Add heart image baby boy sign Unisex To include more content
heart image Addie heart image baby boy sign Unisex Nobility; Variant of Adela
heart image Addisen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Son of Adam
heart image Addler heart image baby boy sign Unisex An eagle; A person with the quality of an eagle
heart image Addley heart image baby boy sign Unisex From the meadow
heart image Addox heart image baby boy sign Unisex A deep thinker
heart image Addysen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Modern
heart image Adean heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Gracious
heart image Adee heart image baby boy sign Unisex Graceful; Kind-hearted; Enthusiastic
heart image Adeena heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, righteous, beautiful
heart image Adeera heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Noble; Respectable
heart image Adelai heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble and noble-hearted
heart image Adelay heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, radiant, loving
heart image Adeleke heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble, brave, born into wealth, strong
heart image Adelredus heart image baby boy sign Unisex A red-haired noble person
heart image Adera heart image baby boy sign Unisex She who will bloom
heart image Adesuwa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Royal wealth
heart image Adeya heart image baby boy sign Unisex God's gift; God's miracles
heart image Adeyemi heart image baby boy sign Unisex Royalty or crown brings honor
heart image Adh heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who is from or of someone or something
heart image Adhan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Call to prayer
heart image Adiam heart image baby boy sign Unisex Precious; Diamond
heart image Adian heart image baby boy sign Unisex Llittle fire; Fiery one
heart image Adidev heart image baby boy sign Unisex God, immortal, supreme deity
heart image Adik heart image baby boy sign Unisex Younger brother; First son
heart image Adinah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Delicate, graceful, serene
heart image Adis heart image baby boy sign Unisex First, noble, or supreme
heart image Adiyan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Godly or belonging to God
heart image Adlan heart image baby boy sign Unisex brave or noble
heart image Adlartok heart image baby boy sign Unisex Clear sky
heart image Adlin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Just; Fair
heart image Adlina heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble and graceful
heart image Adline heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Gentle; Delicate
heart image Adly heart image baby boy sign Unisex Just; Fair
heart image Adlyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; honorable
heart image Adolfo heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble wolf
heart image Adonay heart image baby boy sign Unisex Lord or my Lord
heart image Adonis heart image baby boy sign Unisex A beautiful young man
heart image Adorah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beloved or adored
heart image Adriana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Woman from Hadria
heart image Adrianna heart image baby boy sign Unisex Woman from Hadria
heart image Adrienn heart image baby boy sign Unisex From hadria
heart image Adrienne heart image baby boy sign Unisex From Hadria
heart image Adrin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Strong; Leader
heart image Adrit heart image baby boy sign Unisex Supporter; Sun
heart image Adrith heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Noble; Intelligent
heart image Adriti heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unfathomable; Divine
heart image Adrix heart image baby boy sign Unisex Gentle
heart image Adriyan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong and powerful
heart image Advet heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Another name for Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu
heart image Advita heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique, spiritual, eternal
heart image Advitha heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Independent; One-of-a-kind
heart image Adwaith heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique, spiritual, unity
heart image Adweta heart image baby boy sign Unisex Non-duality; Unique
heart image Adwin heart image baby boy sign Unisex An artist or creative person
heart image Adyah heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique and noble
heart image Adyen heart image baby boy sign Unisex Beginning or new beginning
heart image Adyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little and fiery
heart image Aed heart image baby boy sign Unisex A fire; Flame; Burning fire
heart image Aeda heart image baby boy sign Unisex Happy; Content
heart image Aeden heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fiery or born of fire
heart image Aedh heart image baby boy sign Unisex From the Scottish word Aodh; Fire
heart image Aedion heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble and powerful warrior
heart image Aedon heart image baby boy sign Unisex Little fire; Nightingale
heart image Aegan heart image baby boy sign Unisex One and only
heart image Aegis heart image baby boy sign Unisex Protection; Support; Shield
heart image Aelfhun heart image baby boy sign Unisex A mystical favor from God
heart image Aeli heart image baby boy sign Unisex Ascender; Exalted
heart image Aeliana heart image baby boy sign Unisex Heavenly or sunshine
heart image Aelyn heart image baby boy sign Unisex Ethereal; Graceful; Radiant
heart image Aeon heart image baby boy sign Unisex An indefinitely long period of time; Eternity
heart image Aeren heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strong; Mountain
heart image Aeres heart image baby boy sign Unisex Unique; Enigmatic
heart image Aeri heart image baby boy sign Unisex Airy, ethereal, beautiful
heart image Aerial heart image baby boy sign Unisex Relating to the sky or atmosphere; Existing or happening in the air
heart image Aerian heart image baby boy sign Unisex Elevated; Airy; Ethereal
heart image Aerie heart image baby boy sign Unisex A nest of a bird of prey, typically located high on a cliff or a tall structure; A high or lofty place or structure
heart image Aeriel heart image baby boy sign Unisex Lion of God
heart image Aerika heart image baby boy sign Unisex Noble; Strong; Leader
heart image Aero heart image baby boy sign Unisex Modern, futuristic, air
heart image Aeros heart image baby boy sign Unisex Powerful, innovative, dynamic
heart image Aery heart image baby boy sign Unisex Airy, ethereal, or otherworldly
heart image Aerys heart image baby boy sign Unisex Fiery leader; Ruler
heart image Aesa heart image baby boy sign Unisex God-like; Divine strength
heart image Aescby heart image baby boy sign Unisex One who lives by the ash tree
heart image Aether heart image baby boy sign Unisex Pure; Upper sky; The air breathed by the Gods
heart image Aevin heart image baby boy sign Unisex Strength; Creativity; Uniqueness
heart image Afa heart image baby boy sign Unisex Victory or Grandfather
heart image Afaan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Language or Speech
heart image Affaan heart image baby boy sign Unisex Intelligent
heart image Afon heart image baby boy sign Unisex A river, a stream, or water

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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