How to use the generator
Start broad and narrow down. Pick the gender if you know it - or leave it open and let unisex options surface alongside the rest. Then layer filters one at a time: an origin you have a connection to, a starting letter that matches a family tradition, a syllable range that pairs well with your surname. The shortlist updates instantly.
Tips for choosing a name you'll both love
- Say it out loud with the surname. A two-syllable first name often flows better with a long surname, and vice versa. The syllable slider helps you test this in seconds.
- Consider initials and nicknames. A name you love might shorten into something you don't. Read each shortlist name out as the nickname you'd actually use.
- Don't over-poll. Telling everyone before the baby arrives invites unsolicited opinions. Pick a short list of trusted people - or keep it between the two of you.
- Save options, don't commit early. Many parents change their mind in the delivery room when they finally see the baby. Keep a top-5 rather than a top-1.
Looking for a baby-name angle from your own names?
Try our parent name combiner - enter your name and your partner's, and we'll surface names that share letters, sounds, syllables, or origins with both of you.
Frequently asked questions
How does the generator pick names?
It filters a curated list of names by the criteria you set - gender, origin, starting letter, number of syllables, popularity tier, and a free-text meaning search. Results are ranked by popularity tier (more common first) and then alphabetically, so common names surface unless you ask for uncommon ones.
Can I filter by origin?
Yes. The chips include English, Hebrew, Latin, Greek, Irish, Sanskrit, Indian, Arabic, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, African, Nordic, Persian, Korean, Chinese, French, German, Slavic, Welsh, and Scottish. Pick one or several - results match any of the selected origins. Sanskrit covers classical Vedic-rooted names; Indian covers modern Hindi, Punjabi/Sikh, Tamil, Gujarati, and other regional names.
How are the meanings sourced?
Each name in our dataset has a short, widely-attested meaning compiled from public-domain naming references and etymological sources. Names with multiple traditional meanings show the most common interpretation. If you want the deeper history, treat the result as a starting point and check a dedicated name-history resource.
Can I save my favorites?
Yes. Tap the heart on any name and it's saved to your browser's local storage. The favorites pill above results shows your current count and lets you view just the ones you've kept. Favorites stay on this device and don't sync across browsers.
Is this free?
Completely free. No account, no signup, no paywall. You can share your filter URL with a partner and they'll see the same shortlist on their device.
Are these names popular or unique?
Both. We tag each name with a tier - popular (top-100 common), balanced (well-known but not over-used), or uncommon (distinctive choices). Use the popularity filter to dial in the vibe you want, from familiar to rare.
Can I share my shortlist?
Yes. The filter settings live in the URL, so copying the address bar and sending it to your partner reproduces the same shortlist. Use the Copy button to grab a short summary plus the link.
These calculators give estimates based on cycle averages and standard formulas. They are for general information only and are not medical advice. For anything concerning your health or pregnancy, talk to a qualified healthcare provider.