Recent analysis of baby naming trends suggests several boys’ names are on the brink of disappearing from popularity lists. As parents seek fresh and unique options, once-common choices are seeing sharp declines, potentially making them rare in coming years.
Shifting Trends in Baby Names
Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights the top 10 boys’ names dropping in rankings, with projections indicating they may fall out of the top 100 by 2026. These shifts reflect evolving preferences toward more modern or timeless selections.
Top Three Names Losing Ground
Leading the decline is Brody, which plummeted 17 spots from 82nd to 99th in a single year. In 2024, only 553 babies received this name, compared to 630 in 2023, marking the steepest drop and signaling its likely exit from the top 100 soon.
Mason follows closely, slipping 13 positions to 63rd. Once a modern favorite, it was given to 1,118 boys in 2023 but just 806 in 2024, underscoring how even trendy names can fade quickly.
Rounding out the top three is Toby, which fell 10 places to 86th. This classic name saw 678 uses in 2023, down to 621 in 2024, as families turn to newer alternatives.
Expert Perspective on Name Trends
Prashant, a naming expert, explains the phenomenon: “Names are a lot like trends in fashion or home décor. They can rise quickly when they feel fresh or modern, but just as fast they can fall out of favour as parents hunt for something new and unique.”
Prashant adds, “That’s why names like Brody, Mason, and Toby are falling out of favour. They were popular a few years ago, and now parents are moving toward options that feel more current or timeless.”
