There’s something remarkably useful about having your baby name sorted. But we can’t deny the fun and joy in a genuinely good surprise for everyone! For expecting parents-to-be, it can be tough to find the right name, but we’ve got you covered. Here are 18 of our favourite gender-neutral names of 2018:
1. Akito
Expecting in March, April or May? Bring in positive Asian-esque qualities with this Japanese name meaning ‘bright’, ‘a bright person’ or a ‘bright person who is like the autumn season’. Fun fact: ‘Aki’ is Autumn in Japanese!
2. Blaine
Derived from the Gaelic term “blá” meaning “yellow”, this golden name was traditionally given to blonde or fair-haired children. Don’t let the colour of your little one’s hair hold you back, though. Black or blonde, girl or boy, this name is timeless for any child.
3. Bodhi
Found in Buddhist concepts, this name translates to ‘enlightenment’ and it’s perfect for your upcoming wee bundle of joy.
4. Bowie
A name best suitable for tiny humans with the biggest superstar qualities!
5. Darian
It is no question that babies never cease to surprise us. Sometimes they kick unexpectedly, have interesting food preferences or pop out at the most unexpected times. That’s why this Greek name meaning ‘gift’ embodies what all children are, a surprise gift!
6. Embry
Your little one is guaranteed to rule the world with this name. Of English origin, this name means ‘work rule’ and was once held by famous rulers.
7. Gray
Vibrant colour names like Scarlett and Olive are overrated; take a different direction with this chic name, with an equally feminine and masculine feel.
8. Kai
Although only three letters long, the meaning behind this name spans 12 different cultures. In Swahili, it means ‘loveable’, whilst in Chinese it means ‘victory’ and amazingly, a baby is both loveable and a victory for us parents.
9. Neo
Again, meaning ‘gift’ (African origin) and alternatively derived from the Greek word νεος (neos) meaning “new”. With a clever name like this one, you’ll be in with the new, out with the old.
10. Nova
The abbreviated meaning of Nova in the dictionary is “a star that suddenly increases dramatically in brightness.” Look forward to an inspiring and cosmic birth with this brilliant name.
11. Pax
Pax is the Latin word for peace, and naming your baby so may grant you more peaceful nights. With wishful thinking, of course.
12. Pheonix
Re-birth a traditional creature into a chic and modern name for boys and girls alike.
13. River
Powerful and full of life, bring in a flow of goodness in time for the baby’s delivery with this striking name.
14. Rocky
Win the championship of names with this iconic title for your little fighter.
15. Roshan
Meaning ‘light and bright’ in Persian, Roshan remains a gorgeous name for both girls and boys alike.
16. Sorin
Give your ray of light the best-fitting name with this Romanian word meaning ‘sun’.
17. Wren
An interesting Welsh baby name meaning ruler. But it’s fitting because, I mean, who else rules your heart?
18. Wyatt
This traditional name was altered from the term wigheard in Old English, with ‘wig’ meaning war and ‘heard’ meaning hardy, brave or strong. After nine long months, your warrior will be ready to be just as brave and strong as their name.
By Jianne Takeda
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BUMP & baby is New Zealand’s only magazine for pregnancy and early babyhood. Our team of mums and mums-to-be understand what it’s like to be pregnant in this connected age, and that’s why BUMP & Baby online is geared toward what pregnant women and new mums really want to know.
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