You can break from the norm and give your baby a genderfluid name that is rare and badass.
Gender-neutral names have increased in popularity in the U.S. as more genderqueer people or allies of the trans community are becoming parents.
If you’re looking for uncommon or modern names that put a unique spin on the more traditional stylings, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get right into this list of nonbinary baby names to help you find the best one for your little one on the way.
100 Popular Nonbinary and Gender-Neutral Names for Your Baby
No gender, no problem, this list of baby names is anything but typical!
Adrian
In the popular 1976 film Rocky, Adrian, played by Talia Shire, was Rocky’s love interest. Its variant Adrienne is more common now for girls ranking 1,182. Adrian ranked 2,946 in the U.S. and has been a popular name for boys for decades.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Son of Adria, dark one
- Variations: Adrienne, Adrien
- Namesakes: Adrian Gonzales, a Mexican American baseball player. Adrien Brody, an American actor, best known for his role inThe Pianist. Adrienne Bailon, an American television personality.
- Popularity: Adrian was the 66th most popular name for boys in 2021 in the U.S.
Ainsley
Ainsley is a pretty, flowy name that may have a more feminine sound, but famous football players and cricketers sport the name with pride. Nicknames such as Lee or Annie could be used as shortened variations.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: One hermitage, meadow
- Pronunciation: AYN-slee
- Variations: Ansley, Anslie
- Namesakes: Ainsley Battle, an American football player. Ainsley Hall, a Jamaican cricket player.
Alex
Alex can be a standalone first name, but in the U.S., it’s often used as a diminutive of Alexandra, Alexandria, or Alexander. Although Alex is more common for boys, it’s still a common nickname for girls in the U.S.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Defender of humankind
- Namesakes: Alex Rodriguez, an American baseball player. Alex Isley, an American singer.
Arden
In the US, 1,500 and 2,000 baby boys and girls were named Arden in 2022. The English Forest of Arden, integral to many Shakespeare plays, also shares this name. For Anglophiles and lovers of literature, Arden has an aesthetic appeal.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: Great forest
- Namesakes: Arden Key, an American football player. Arden Rose, an American author.
Ari
Ari’s Scandinavian origins provide several meanings for the name. Popular American singer, Ariana Grande, is affectionately called Ari by her fans. Her appeal has made Ari a hot trendy name for babies.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Eagle, lion, sun-like
- Pronunciation: AH-ree
- Namesakes: Ari Lennox, an American singer. Ari Boyland, a New Zealand actor.
- Popularity: In the U.S., Ari is within the top 500 names for girls and boys.
Arlo
Arlo can be a name that fits both boys and girls since it’s genderfluid, but at the moment, more boys have the name worldwide. It’s not a common name in the States. However, U.S. celebrities Leighton Meester and Toni Collette named their children Arlo, a girl for Meester and a boy for Collette.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Between two highlands
- Namesakes: Arlo Parks, a British singer. Arlo Guthrie, an American folk singer.
Armoni
Armoni is a rare name for babies in the U.S. This name’s androgynous style and nature-based meaning could be suitable for a demigirl or demiboy.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Chestnut
- Pronunciation: AHR-moan-ee
Artemis
In Greek mythology, Artemis was the goddess of hunting, the moon, and chastity. She also lived on Mount Olympus and was highly regarded as one of the twelve Olympians. Although Artemis is a rare name in the U.S., it’s chosen almost equally for boys and girls.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Twin of Apollo, butcher
- Pronunciation: AHR-tee-mus
Ash
Ash is typically a surname in the U.S., but it could be a great unisex name for a baby. Ash is unique enough for those who identify as non-binary and use “they” or “them” pronouns.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Ash tree
- Variations: Ashe
- Namesakes: Arthur Ashe, an American tennis player. Mary Kay Ash, an American businesswoman.
Aubrey
The Germanic origins of Aubrey are rooted in folklore. The name is derived from Alberich, which means “elf ruler.” This figure was the most powerful among dwarfs in mythological tales.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Elf ruler
- Variations: Aubri, Aubree
- Namesakes: Aubrey Plaza, an American actress. Aubrey Drake Graham, a Canadian rapper, and entertainer.
- Popularity: Aubrey was ranked 65th for U.S.-born girls in 2021.
Audrey
One of the most famous Hollywood actresses, Audrey Hepburn, helped make this name a feminine staple for girls in the U.S and U.K. It’s rarer for boys, with only six boys named Audrey in the U.S. in 2021. It’s a name that can easily fit anyone.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Noble, strength
- Namesakes: Audrey Hepburn, a British actress best known for her role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
- Popularity: Audrey was ranked 77th in 2021 for U.S. girls.
August
August is derived from Augustus, which means “exalted.” Caesar Augustus, the famed Roman emperor, represented this name well. The more modern name August is popular for boys and girls as it’s currently within the top 1,000 names for babies in the U.S.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: To increase, great
- Namesakes: August Alsina, an American singer. August Wilson, an American playwright, best known for writing the play Fences.
Avery
In 2020, Avery was the 19th most popular name for girls and the 212th most popular name for boys in the U.S. It’s one of the rare unisex names fairly common for all babies.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Ruler of elves
- Namesakes: Avery Johnson, an American basketball coach. Avery Sunshine, an American singer.
Ayomide
Ayodime has the sweetest meaning, linked to the Yoruba people from Nigeria. Since it’s rooted in Yoruba culture, Ayomide is a rare name globally for those who aren’t linked to the tribe. Regionally, Ayomide is mostly a popular name in Nigeria.
- Origin: Yoruba
- Meaning: My joy has arrived
- Pronunciation: AH-yoe-mee-day
Beck
Beck is a common surname, but it can be a unique given name for a boy or girl. In the hit, Netflix show You, season one’s love interest was referred to by her surname Beck. It’s a short and unique name that can even be a nickname for longer names such as Beckham or a cute spin on Rebecka.
- Origin: German, Hebrew
- Meaning: Brook, stream
- Namesakes: Noelle Beck, an American actress best known for her role in the soap opera Loving.
Blake
Blake is a cool name equally popular for boys and girls. In 2022, 224 boys and 221 girls were named Blake in the U.S. Blake can also be a surname, but its popularity as a given name deserves some recognition.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Dark, black, bright, shining, pale
- Namesakes: Blake Griffin, an American basketball player. Blake Shelton, an American singer.
Branch
Branch lends itself to more than one meaning. It’s a popular surname in the U.S. but can also make for a unique first name for a baby of any gender. Branch was also the name of the fictional, beloved troll voiced by Justin Timberlake in the Dreamworks Trolls franchise.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Tree branch, extension
- Namesakes: Michelle Branch, an American singer.
Brook
Don’t consider it weird that you rarely hear Brook as a name for babies. Although it’s a rare name, it’s certainly a unique and beautiful one. In this instance, a “small stream” ironically signifies how unlikely it is to find someone with this name, but it’s such a beautiful treasure to stumble upon.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Small stream
- Variations: Brooke
- Namesakes: Brooke Shields, an American actress best known for her role in The Blue Lagoon.
Carlin
Our babies do a lot of growing and transforming inside the womb to become the fully formed mini people they are when we finally meet them. Carlin meaning “little champion,” is a sweet and cute name that signifies resilience.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little champion
- Namesakes: George Carlin, the American comedian.
Casey
Casey is a popular name for boys in the U.S. and has been for many years. The name doesn’t sound overly masculine, and it could also be a beautiful name for baby girls.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Brave in battle
- Variations: Caicey, Kasey, Kacie
- Namesakes: Casey Kasem, an American DJ. Casey Affleck, an American actor.
Christian
Christian is a popular name for boys globally. It was traditionally a female name in the Middle Ages. After the widespread popularity of the Christian religious book Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan in 1678, the name was given to boys far more frequently.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Follower of Christ
- Variations: Kristian
- Namesakes: Christian Bale, an American actor. Christian Serratos, an American actress, best known for her role in The Walking Dead TV series.
- Popularity: Christian is the 82nd most popular name for boys in the U.S.
Colby
Colby is a short name more popular for boys in this spelling. The variant spelling, Colbie, is more common for girls, although it’s still a rare name for baby girls in the U.S.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Swarthy person’s settlement
- Variations: Colbie
- Namesakes: Colbie Caillat, an American singer. Colby Armstrong, a Canadian hockey player.
Cory
Cory is a variation of Cora, the birth name of the Greek goddess of the underworld, Persephone. From its origins, Cory means “from the hollow” or “in a cauldron.” Cory is a short and sweet name that has a deep meaning.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: From the hollow
- Variations: Corey
- Namesakes: Cory Hardict, an American actor best known for his role in the film Brothers. Cory Kennedy, an American model.
Cree
Cree is a rare name used for boys and girls in Native American tribes. Cree originated from the word Kristineaux, a name for Native Americans by French fur traders. The word was shortened to Kri and Cree over time. American actress, Tia Mowry, named her son Cree Taylor in 2011.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Tribe Name
- Variations: Kri
- Namesakes: Cree Summer, an American actress best known for her role in the TV series A Different World.
Dakota
Dakota ranked 340 in popular names for boys and 270 for most popular girl names in the U.S. in 2021. North and South Dakota are two American States filled with plenty of U.S. history. Mount Rushmore is a historical monument in South Dakota.
- Origin: Native American
- Meaning: Friend, ally
- Namesakes: Dakota Fanning, an American actress known for her role in the filmI Am Sam. Dakota Johnson, an American actress known for her role in the Fifty Shadesfilm franchise.
- Popularity: In the U.S., Dakota is a popular name for babies.
Dell
Dell is a rare name in the U.S., with less than 4,000 people in the U.S. having the name. Dell can be a nickname for Adeline, Delilah, or Delvin.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Small valley, glen
- Namesakes: Dell Curry, a former American basketball player.
Denver
Denver is a fairly common surname in the U.S. As a given name, Denver was listed in the top 1,000 names for boys and girls in the U.S in 2021.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Green valley, from Anvers
- Namesakes: John Denver, an American entertainer, best known for his folk song Take Me Home.
Derby
Derby has a rustic meaning that could fit a playful baby or a family that lives for adventure.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Park with deer
Duffy
Duffy has a dark meaning, but it sounds light too. Duffy is a rare surname in the U.S., and an even more rarely used given name.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Dark
- Namesakes: Patrick Duffy, an American actor known for his role in the TV series Step by Step. Aimee Ann Duff, a Welsh singer.
Dylan
Dylan is a common surname globally and a common given name for boys in the U.S., ranking 78th in popularity for 2021. Famed fashion designer, Ralph Lauren, has a daughter named Dylan. She is the owner of Dylan’s Candy Bar in New York.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Son of the sea
- Pronunciation: DILL-uhn
- Variations: Dillon
- Namesakes: Bob Dylan, an American singer-songwriter.
Ellery
Ellery is a rare name for boys and girls in the U.S. It doesn’t crack the top 1,000 baby names, but it’s a wonderful choice among cool nonbinary names.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: Joyful, lives by the Alder tree
- Pronunciation: EHL-ehr-ee
- Namesakes: Ellery Eskelin, an American jazz musician. Ellery Sprayberry, an American actress who starred in The Young and the Restless.
Ellington
Much like jazz compositions, Ellington dances and is rhythmic yet classic. American actress, Cynthia Nixon, gave her son, Max, the middle name Ellington.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Ellis’s town
- Namesakes: Duke Ellington, an American jazz musician.
Ellis
Ellis can be a middle name, similar to Tracee Ellis Ross, or even a given name since it has such a sweet and open meaning.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Benevolent
- Namesakes: Jay Ellis, an American actor best known for his role in the TV series Insecure. Tracee Ellis Ross, an American actress who starred in the TV series Girlfriends.
- Popularity: Ellis ranks 113th as one of the most popular surnames in the U.S.
Emery
Any gender can be loving and powerful, and Emery encapsulates those characteristics. In various spellings, Emery looks and sounds beautiful and bold.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Loving, industrious, powerful
- Pronunciation: EMM-err-ee
- Variations: Emory
- Namesakes: Emery Welshman, a professional footballer for Forge FC of the Canadian Premier League.
Emerson
Emerson, typically a surname and often a name given to boys, has become increasingly popular for girls. Teri Hatcher, an American actress, best known for her role in Desperate Housewives, named her daughter Emerson. Popular TV show creator Shonda Rhimes also has a daughter named Emerson Pearl.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Brave, powerful, child of Emery
- Namesakes: Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American poet, and author.
Everest
Mount Everest is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world. The Tibetan name for Everest is “holy mother.” Something that the few brave souls who try to climb it each year have possibly expressed. Star Wars creator George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, named their daughter Everest in 2013.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: Dweller on the Eure River
Evren
Evren is simply out of this world. It is rarely used and has a cosmic meaning. There are no limits here, which makes it the perfect pick among gender-neutral names.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Universe, cosmos
Frankie
Frankie is typically a nickname, short for Frances, Francine, or Franklin. It is most popular in the U.K., particularly England and Wales.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: From France, free man
- Namesakes: Frankie Grande, an American entertainer. Frankie Beverly, an American singer.
- Popularity: Over 1,000 babies were named Frankie in the U.K. in 2021.
Gemini
Zodiac names have become a small cult trend in the U.S. Gemini is still a rare name for babies, but it would be a cute name for a baby born under that zodiac sign.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Twins
Gianni
Gianni is a shortened version of Giovanni. Over 94% of Giannis born in the U.S. are boys, but it could be a beautiful name for a girl. In 2021, over 250 U.S.-born baby girls were named Gianni.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: GEE-yahn-ee
- Namesakes: Gianni Versace, an Italian fashion designer.
Hale
Hale is a common U.S. surname. It is also androgynous. A parent born with this surname could name their child Hale to preserve their birth surname.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Someone who lives in a hollow
- Namesakes: Lucy Hale, an American actress, known for her role in the Pretty Little Liars TV series.
- Popularity: In 2021, Hale was ranked 362 for popular surnames in the U.S.
Halston
Once a famous yet commonly forgotten fashion house, Halston was an eponymous label. The designer dedicated his middle name to the line and created a stylish brand. Halston can be used as a given name due to its open meaning and non-restrictive style.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Hallowed stone
- Pronunciation: HALL-stun
- Namesakes: Roy Halston Frowick, an American fashion designer.
Harper
The sound of harps playing is angelic, which might explain why Harper is such a popular name for girls. It has been among the most popular U.S. girls’ names for several years. Harper is rarely used for boys, but it’s also an excellent fit for them.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Someone who plays the harp
- Namesakes: Harper Lee, an American novelist.
- Popularity: Harper is the 11th most popular name for girls in 2022 in the U.S.
Hayden
Hayden is popular for both male and female-born babies. It’s in the top 500 names for all babies born in the U.S.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Hedged valley, hay valley
- Variations: Haiden
- Namesakes: Hayden Bryerly, an American actor who starred in The Fosters TV series.
Honor
Honor is exceptionally rare as a given name across the world. It’s one of those rare names that stand out and can easily fit anyone.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Honor
- Variations: Honour
- Namesakes: Honor Carter, a New Zealand field hockey player.
Iman
This beautiful name sounds like the end of a prayer, “amen.” Iman was the wife of famed rockstar David Bowie, and her beauty is unmatched. Iman Shumpert, the NBA player, and actor, proves that boys can also wear this name proudly.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Faith
- Pronunciation: EE-mohn
- Variations: Eman
- Namesakes: Iman Bowie, a Somalian supermodel. Iman Shumpert, an American basketball player.
Jackie
Jackie as a given name is rare, as it’s often a nickname for Jacqueline or Jackson. The ambiguity of Jackie makes it a perfect gender-bending moniker for girls and boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: May God protect, God is gracious
- Namesakes: Jackie Chan, a Chinese actor known for his role in the Rush Hour film franchise.
Jalen
Jalen has been a traditionally masculine name, but through spelling variations, it can be more ambiguous. In 2021, Jalen was ranked 2,482 for most popular names for girls.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Calm
- Pronunciation: JAY-lin
- Variations: Jaylin, Jai’Lynn
- Namesakes: Jalen Rose, an American basketball player.
- Popularity: Jalen was the 330th most popular name for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Jamie
In 2022, Jamie ranked in the top 1,000 names for girls and boys in the U.S. It’s often a shortened version of James for boys. Girls tend to have it as a given name rather than a nickname.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Namesakes: Jamie Pressly, an American actress best known for her role in the TV series My Name is Earl. Jamie Foxx, an American entertainer.
Jessie
In the U.S, Jessie ranks 692 in popularity for baby girls and 1,385 for baby boys. Jessie is also a common nickname for girls named Jessica.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: He sees us, the Lord exists
- Variations: Jesse
- Namesakes: Jessie Reyez, a Canadian singer. Jesse McCartney, an American entertainer.
Jordan
The Jordan River is a popular namesake. It’s a well-known landmark in Christianity, as the site where Jesus was baptized. In 2021, Jordan ranked in the top 100 names for boys and the top 500 for girls in the U.S.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: To flow down, descend
- Variations: Jordyn, Jordin
- Namesakes: Michael Jordan, an American basketball player, and businessman. Jordin Sparks, an American singer.
- Popularity: Jordan was a popular name for babies in the U.S. in 2021.
Justice
Justice is typically a surname in America, but it’s growing in popularity as a given name. In 2021, Justice ranked 554th for boys and 732nd for girls. Justice has a powerful meaning, and breaking gender norms is one powerful statement to make.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: To deliver what is just
- Namesakes: Victoria Justice, an American entertainer.
Kapri
Kapri is a rare name in the U.S. For American baby boys, Kapri ranks at nearly 5,000 in popularity. Although an uncommon name, it sure is a beautiful one. Kapri is derived from Capri Island in Italy.
- Origin: Italy
- Meaning: Caprice, whim
- Pronunciation: KUH-pree
- Variations: Capri
- Namesakes: Kid Capri, an American DJ.
Karsyn
Karsyn ranks 501st for baby girls and 782nd for baby boys in the U.S. in 2022. The standard spelling Carson is most common for boys, landing at 104 on the popularity ranking in 2022. No matter how you spell it, Karsyn is suitable for all genders.
- Origin: American
- Meaning: Christian
- Pronunciation: CAR-sin
- Variations: Carson
- Namesakes: Carson Daley, an American TV show host best known for hosting MTV’s TRL.
Kelby
Kelby is an adorable name for a baby. It is rare for U.S. babies, which makes it stand out even more.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Willow farm
- Namesakes: Kelby Tomlinson, an American baseball player.
Kendall
Kendall is a gender-neutral name, but you’re far more likely to meet girls named Kendall in the U.S.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: The Kent River Valley
- Namesakes: Kendall Jenner, an American model and reality TV star.
Kennedy
Kennedy is a common surname in the U.S. Kennedy ranks 77th as one of the most popular names for U.S.-born girls. It’s not uncommon for boys or girls to be named Kennedy as a tribute to the former president or Scottish ancestry.
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: Helmet headed
- Namesakes: John F. Kennedy, a former American president.
Khari
Your little prince or princess deserves a name that signifies their regality. Khari is growing in popularity in the U.S., ranked at 805th in popularity for boys in 2022. There has been a steady increase in American-born baby girls receiving the name.
- Origin: West African
- Meaning: Kingly
- Pronunciation: CAR-ee
Kiernan
Kiernan is closely related to another common Irish surname, Kieran. Kiernan is a rare given name in the U.S. for all babies. It ranks at nearly 10,000 on the most popular U.S. baby name charts.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little dark one
- Pronunciation: KEY-yer-nin
- Namesakes: Kiernan Shipka, an American actress, known for her role in Netflix’s The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Kirby
In the U.S. Kirby is not a common name, but it is an adorable one. American singer Kirby Dockery, goes by the capitalized mononym KIRBY. Kirby is also a beloved video game character who is cute pink, and fluffy with a bit of an edge.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Church settlement
- Namesakes: Kirby Law, a Canadian ice hockey player. Kirby Dockery, an American singer.
Kodi
Cody is the Irish name from which the Americanized Kodi comes, with the same meaning. They are just a few spaces away from one another on the popularity rankings for boys’ and girls’ names in the U.S.
- Origin: American
- Meaning: Helpful
- Pronunciation: KOE-dee
- Variations: Cody, Codi
- Namesakes: Kodi Smit-McPhee, an Australian actor best known for the movie Alpha. Cody Simpson, an Australian entertainer, and swimmer.
Koi
Koi is an unusual name in the U.S. It’s pronounced very similar to the word “coy,” meaning “shy.” Koi originates from Japan, but across the globe, these three letters have a variety of meanings. For instance, in Hawaii, Koi means “to implore” or “urge.”
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Carp, panther
Landry
Landry is a classic name and a common surname in the U.S. Landry is a rare given name. Landry is a definitive name that looks and sounds great for just about anyone.
- Origin: French, English
- Meaning: Ruler
- Pronunciation: LAN-dree
- Namesakes: Landry Bender, an American actress in The Sitter film.
Lee
Lee is a common surname in the U.S. Traditionally a masculine name, Lee is used for both boys and girls now. Surprisingly, the more feminine variation, Leigh, is used less as a given name than the traditional spelling of Lee for girls in the U.S.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Pasture, meadow
- Variations: Leigh
- Namesakes: Spike Lee, an American filmmaker. Tommy Lee, an American musician.
Lennon
Lennon has become a far more popular name for girls than boys in the U.S. It’s often a choice for parents as an ode to the rock legend John Lennon. Oasis band frontman Liam Gallagher and his wife named their son Lennon in 1999.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Lover
- Namesakes: John Lennon, the famous American musician, and member of The Beatles band. Lennon Stella, a Canadian entertainer.
Lennox
Although it is a common surname in Scotland, Lennox is quite common as a given name in the U.S. It’s gender-neutral and almost equally given to girls and boys at birth.
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: With many elm trees
- Namesakes: Annie Lennox, a Scottish musician, best known for her song Sweet Dreams with The Eurythmics.
Leroux
In 2009, British pop group LaRoux made this name more well-known worldwide with their eponymous debut album.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: The red-haired one
- Pronunciation: LAH-roo
- Variations: Le Roux La Roux
Leslie
Leslie is a common Canadian surname. There are an estimated 25,000 Americans who have Leslie as a surname. Leslie is a rare U.S.-given name, but it would still be fitting for a girl or boy.
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: Small meadow, holly garden
- Variations: Lesley, Lesly
- Namesakes: Leslie Jordan, an American comedic actor. Lisa Leslie, a former American basketball player.
Lexington
Lexington sounds classic, but it’s not as common of a surname in the U.S. as it once was. Lexington as a given name is even less frequently seen.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Town of the new law
Lucky
Your baby may have an interesting birth story that would make a plausible case for this inspiring name.
- Origin: American
- Meaning: Fortunate
- Namesakes: Eli Lucky Thompson, an American jazz musician.
Marion
In the U.S., Marion started as a more feminine identifiable name, but in recent years, Marion has become more popular for boys than girls.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Star of the sea, beloved
- Variations: Marian
- Namesakes: Marian Anderson, an American contralto singer.
Marley
Marley is a fun name. It’s also musical, thanks to reggae musical pioneer Bob Marley and his musical family members.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: Marshy meadow, pleasant wood
- Variations: Marly
- Namesakes: Maley Shelton, an American actress known for her role in the film Bubble Boy. Bob Marley, the Jamaican musician.
Mars
Mars is a common surname in the U.S. and a very quirky and cute given name. American singer Erykah Badu named her daughter Mars Merkaba in 2009.
- Origin: Roman
- Meaning: God of War
- Namesakes: Bruno Mars, stage name of American musician Peter Hernandez.
Morgan
This perfectly unisex name easily fits strong-voiced actors like Morgan Freeman and silver screen sirens like Morgan Fairchild. Morgan ranks 239th on the U.S. popularity chart for girls and 661st for boys.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Sea-born, Sea-song
- Namesakes: Morgan Freeman, an American actor known for his role in Driving Miss Daisy. Morgan Fairchild, an American actress, best known for her role in the Falcon Crest TV series.
Natale
Natale is the unisex variation of the more feminine Natalia. Natale is primarily popular in Italy and rarely used abroad.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Birthday of the Lord
- Pronunciation: NUh-tah-lay
- Variations: Natalia
Peyton
Peyton, a common unisex name in the U.S., is beloved by many parents. It’s currently ranked 111th among the most popular girl names and 629th for boys in the U.S.
- Origin: Irish, English
- Meaning: Fighting man’s estate
- Pronunciation: PAY-tun
- Namesakes: Peyton Manning, a former American football player. Peyton List, an American actress, known for her role on Disney’s Jessie.
Phoenix
Phoenix List and his big sibling, actress Peyton List, both have gender-bending names. Phoenix is a popular name for all genders. It currently ranks 208th for boys and 238th for girls in the U.S.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Dark red
- Pronunciation: FEE-nicks
- Namesakes: Phoenix List, an American actor starring in the film Rabbit Hole.
Quinn
Quinn is a popular name in the U.S., particularly for baby girls. In 2021, Quinn ranked 92nd among the most popular names for girls. It ranked 458th for boys in the U.S. the same year.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Counsel
- Namesakes: Quinn Bailey, an American football player.
Raleigh
Raleigh has traditionally been a surname in the U.S. As a given name, it has been more commonly given to girls than boys in the U.S.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Meadow of roe deer
- Pronunciation: RAL-lee
Reagan
Reagan is most popular as a given name for U.S. girls. Reagan ranked 139 for girls and 1,053 for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Little king
- Pronunciation: RAY-gin
- Namesakes: Ronald Reagan, a former U.S. president. Reagan Gomez-Preston, an American actress known for her role in TheParenthood.
Reese
Hollywood actress, Reese Witherspoon, has taken Reese into the stratosphere with her stardom. In 2021, Reese ranked 191 in popularity among girls.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Enthusiasm, fiery, ardent
- Namesakes: Reese Witherspoon, an American actress best known for her role in the Legally Blonde film franchise.
Riley
Riley ranked the 30th most popular name for girls in the U.S. in 2021. Riley, a traditional Irish surname, is a fairly common name for boys. It has grown in popularity for boys in the U.S.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Wood clearing
- Variations: Reilly
- Namesakes: Riley Keough, an American actress, known for The Girlfriend Experience TV series.
Robby
Robby or Robbie is a nickname for Robert or Roberta. As a given name Robby is uncommon, ranking 20,000 on the popularity charts for U.S.-born girls. This uncommon name could still be the perfect choice for your baby.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Bright fame
- Variations: Robbie
- Namesakes: Margot Robbie, an American actress known for her depiction as Harley Quinn in the DC film franchise.
Rory
Rory is a traditional Irish name derived from “ruadh,” which means “red.” Rory is an adorable name gaining popularity in the U.S. for girls and boys.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Red king
- Namesakes: Rory Anderson, an American football player. Rory Kennedy, an American filmmaker.
Rylan
Rylan is an invented name derived from the more common names Ryland and Riley. Rylan is not common in the U.S. but is more common for boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Wise king
- Pronunciation: RIE-lin
- Variations: Rylan
- Namesakes: Rylan Clark, a British pop singer. Rylan McKnight, an American YouTube star.
Rumi
Rumi was an Afghani poet who lived in the 12th-century. In 2017, Beyoncé gave birth to twins and named one of them Rumi. We don’t tend to make bold assertions, but if Rumi is fit for Queen Bey’s child, then we think it could be the perfect choice for anyone.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Beauty, Flow
- Pronunciation: ROO-mee
Sage
Sage is a herb often used to cleanse away negative energy by spiritualists. In the U.S., more girls are named Sage than boys, but it’s growing in popularity for boys. Sage is currently ranked 374th for boys in the U.S.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Wise
- Namesakes: Sage Beckett, an American professional wrestler. Sage Steele, an American sports reporter.
Santana
St. Anne is a Spanish saint who watches over women in various states of their lives, when: unmarried, in child labor, as a homemaker, and as grandmothers. Santana beautifully speaks to this spiritual connection.
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Holy, follower of St. Anne
- Namesakes: Carlos Santana, an American musician.
Seven
Numerical words as names is an uncommon trend. In 1997, American singer Erykah Badu and rapper Andre 3000 named their son Seven Sirius Benjamin.
- Origin: Turkish
- Meaning: Loving one
- Variations: Sevyn
- Namesakes: Sevyn Streeter, an American singer.
Shannon
Shannon was once a more common given name in the U.S. Shannon has also become a rare surname in the U.S.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Old and wise
- Namesakes: Shannon Sharpe, an American sports reporter. Shannon Elizabeth, an American actress, known for her role in the American Pie film franchise.
Shiloh
Shiloh speaks of peaceful moments. Shiloh was also among the top 1,000 names for babies born in the U.S. in 2021.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Tranquil, Abundant, His gift
- Pronunciation: SHIE-loe
- Namesakes: Shiloh Fernandez, an American actor starring in the Jericho TV series.
Sidney
Saint-Denis is one of the 14 Holy Helpers in Roman Catholic Christianity. He was a martyr, and it is believed that he, along with the holy helpers, was influential in fighting against illness and disease.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Saint-Denis
- Variations: Sydney
- Namesakes: Sidney Poitier, the American actor known for his role in the film Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.
Skylar
Ranked 73rd on the list of most popular names for girls, Skylar is definitely a popular choice. There are certainly boys named Skylar as well, it’s just not as common.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Scholar
- Variations: Skyler
- Namesakes: Skylar Astin, an American actor known for his role in the Pitch Perfect film franchise.
Sloan
Sloan is a bold and unique choice for an agender name. Meaning “warrior,” Sloan is an uncommon name for boys and girls in the U.S.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Raider, warrior
- Variations: Sloane
- Namesakes: Sloane Crosley, an American writer.
Taylor
Pop singer Taylor Swift has helped this name gain notoriety. Commonly a surname in the U.S., Taylor has become a common given name for girls. It’s currently ranked 209th for girls.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Cutter of cloth, tailor
- Variations: Tailor
- Namesakes: Taylor Swift, an American singer.
Terry
Terry is often a nickname for Terrance or Teresa in the U.S. It can still be perfect as a given name.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Powerful, Ruler of the people
- Variations: Terri
- Namesakes: Terry McMillan, an American author. Terry Bradshaw, an American sports reporter.
Tory
Tory is a rare given name in the U.S. It is far down the list of trending names for boys and girls, but it’s still cute with a powerful meaning.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Victory
- Variations: Torie
- Namesakes: Tory Burch, an American fashion designer.
Truth
Truth is indeed an unusual name for babies. It ranks high in popularity for boys in the U.S. compared to girls. Khloe Kardashian named her daughter True in 2019, giving it a slight boost for U.S.-born girls.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Truth
- Variations: True
Zaire
The Zaire River is the Congo River. It’s the second-largest river in the world and the second-largest river in Africa. No wonder it means “the river that swallows all rivers.” Zaire is unique and rarely used as a given name, but it could be a great choice for your gorgeous baby.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: The river that swallows all rivers
- Pronunciation: ZIE-year
Zen
Hollywood actress Zoe Saldana and her husband named their son Zen. Zen sure is a keeper if you’re looking for a peaceful name that is also rare and unique!
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Mediation
Nonbinary Names FAQs
How Many Genders are There?
Gender is best understood if we look past the two gender binaries and look at gender as more of a feeling than a biological makeup. According to Medical News Today, although there are several recognized genders in the U.S. and abroad, there is no fixed gender limit (1).
In What Age Can You Identify Your Gender?
Around age two is when children begin to identify gender differences, and at age five or six, they may have a more fixed gender identity (2). Providing children with gender-expansive language and various gender examples will help them to understand themselves and others more.
How Do I Choose a Non-Binary Name?
The beauty of choosing a non-binary name is that it can happen at any point. If you are a parent, you can choose a name for your child that is androgynous. Suppose you are transitioning or exploring your gender identity as a teenager or in adulthood. In that case, you can choose a name that resonates with your characteristics independent of restrictive gender norms.
Can a Non-Binary Person Change Their Name?
Simply put, yes. If you are a minor, then you’ll need adult consent. If you are an adult, you’ll need to follow the rules of your State and local government to change your name legally. Depending on where you live, the process may take up to a year. In the meantime, you can still have those who support your gender identity refer to you by your chosen name.
