Truth be told: we’re all rather fascinated by baby names – regardless of whether we ever actually plan on having children or not. And while some names continue to stay popular, others simply fall off the radar, which is what makes BabyCentre’s recent study on the names that are trending in 2018 so far makes for such an interesting read. 

Topping the girl’s chart, Olivia has kept hold of the coveted number one spot for the fourth year running, followed by Sophia. Meanwhile, Muhammed remains at the top for boys, followed by Oliver.

However, it seems the 24-hour news cycle has had an impact on some of the other monikers on the list.

That’s right: ‘zen’ names are on the rise for 2019, in reaction to major headline-making moments such as Brexit and Trump remaining in power. Think Peace (up 66% from last year), Harmony (up 15%) and Hope (up 10%), to name just three.

People are also taking inspiration from children’s cartoons, too, so expect to see names like Beatrix (think Beatrix Potter), Jemima (as in Puddleduck), Chase (the dog from Paw Patrol), Roly (from Hey Duggee) and Elsa (from Frozen).

For us, though, we can’t get enough of people starting to name their wee sprogs after remarkable feminists such as Ada (after Ada Lovelace) which has seen a huge upsurge in registrations. And Emmeline (after Emmeline Pankhurst) has tripled. Additionally, Rosa (after Rosa Parks) and Amelia (after Amelia Earhart) has also gained traction. Have a look at our list of feminist icon names here. 

Find some inspiration in the lists below:

Top 10 girls’ names 

1) Olivia

2) Sophia

3) Amelia

4) Lily

5) Ava

6) Emily

7) Ella

8) Isla

9) Mia

10) Aria

Top 10 boys’ names

1) Muhammad

2) Oliver

3) Noah

4) Harry

5) Leo

6) George

7) Jack

8) Charlie

9) Freddie

10) Arthur

Images: Unsplash