Over 300 English names for boys and girls and their meanings

You've just found out you're pregnant and suddenly your head is spinning: the baby's room, the stroller, the checkups, the clothes… and, of course, the name that will accompany your son or daughter for lifeIt's a beautiful decision, but it also inspires respect, because it will be part of their identity even before they are born. More and more families are looking towards this. English names for boys and girlswhether it's because of their sound, their meanings, or because they see them in movies, series, and social media.

If you're out of ideas, you'll find plenty here: we've gathered Over 300 English names for boys and girls with their meaningsMixing classic British names, modern American options, Scottish, Irish, Welsh, and even unisex names. Plus, you'll see real-life examples commonly used in the UK, the US, and other countries, so you can choose wisely... and with your heart.

English names from A to E: original ideas for boys and girls

Many parents are seduced by the Anglo-Saxon names and their hidden meanings Or perhaps a celebrity has made them fashionable. The distinctive sound of English, so different from Spanish, also plays a role and can give a baby's name a unique touch.

Interestingly, The letter A is one of the favorites for choosing a name In almost every language: Spanish, French, English… Perhaps because it offers so many variations, or because almost all names that begin with A sound soft and elegant. You'll see there's a huge number of options for both boys and girls.

If you're drawn to the idea of a "very British" name, you can look at names that come directly from England, Scotland, Wales or IrelandOthers have Hebrew, Latin or Germanic roots, but have become popular mainly in the English-speaking world, so they are perceived as English names.

We've compiled names from A to E, ranging from the most popular in the UK to lesser-known gems with a literary or mysterious touch. You'll find options. for boys, for girls, and also some suitable for twins if you are expecting a mixed pair (boy and girl).

Uncommon English names for boys (AE)

We begin with some male names of English, Scottish or Hebrew origin that are popular in the United Kingdom but still sound very original in Spanish:

Angus: closely linked to Scotland (think Glasgow and the Highlands). It is associated with the idea of "strong, vigorous".
ArchieArchibald: a short form of Archibald. Its meaning is related to being "brave, daring." It's a charming, classic, very English name.
Archer: It used to be a surname (like many modern names) and literally means "archer".
Barnaby: English variant of Barnabas. It has an ancient and powerful air and is related to a companion of Saint Paul.

CainOf Hebrew origin, in English the form Cain is used. In some contexts it is poetically associated with "clear water".
ConallOf Celtic origin, it is usually understood as "strong as a wolf." It is sometimes confused with Connor, but it is a different name.
duncan: classic Scottish, conveys the idea of someone "open, cheerful and confident".
EuanA variant of Ewan, popular in Scotland. It's not very well known outside of Scotland, which makes it very original.

English names for girls with special charm (AE)

In the realm of women's literature, there are true marvels, many with a literary or mythical air. These are some of the most outstanding:

Alisa: Scottish name associated with the "victory over the elves" and linked to a rocky island.
AnwenVery common in English-speaking countries, it means "very, very beautiful." Ideal if you want a poetic name.
Araminta: recurrent in English novels and plays of the past, a very literary name.
Astrid: linked to royalty and Nordic culture. It is usually translated as "divine beauty" or "princess." It was the name of the creator of Pippi Longstocking.
Birdie: an affectionate diminutive that could be translated as "little bird". Very sweet for very active babies.
Bronwen: associated with the idea of "victor" or "winner". For those who want a name that sounds strong.
BrooksAlthough originally masculine, it is more commonly used for girls and means "stream".
bryony: related to "sprouting" or "being born", perfect for rainbow or much-wanted babies.
Clover: It refers to the clover, so it is associated with "good luck".
Colette: French in style and very international. It means "victorious", and its short versions (Col, Cole, Colle) are ideal.
Ellis: unisex, can be spelled with one or two l's. In many sources it is associated with generous people.
ElsieHighly coveted in the UK, it gained fame because some singers and actors chose it for their daughters.
elspeth: Scottish variant of Elizabeth, closely linked to the United Kingdom and almost unknown outside, which gives it a unique charm.
Etta: it is associated with girls with a lot of vitality, pure energy.
Evie: a much-loved diminutive in the English-speaking world; it comes from Eve/Eva and is associated with "life" and "energy".

Among all these names beginning with AE, there are some that quickly bring to mind historical or fictional characters, such as Albert (after Einstein) or Alice (after Alice in Wonderland), who continue to inspire many parents.

Large mixed list: more than 200 English names with their Spanish translation

Beyond the first letters of the alphabet, there is an immense repertoire of English names for boys and girls with Spanish equivalents or with meanings that are easy to understand. Many come from ancient Britain, Scotland, Ireland, or Wales; others are genuinely North American.

This long list includes names like Abbey/Abbie, Audrey, Barden, Ina, Ulric, Eban, Sienna and many more. Some have a clear Spanish translation or version (for example, Abigail → Abigaíl, Alice → Alicia, Andrew → Andrés), while others are used as is in Spanish, without adaptation.

Let us look at a representative selection from this large group, indicating, where appropriate, its usual form in Spanish or the meaning:

Abbey / Abbie: short form of Abigail, "the joy of the father".
Abigail: very widespread in its English and Spanish versions, with the same meaning.
Adam (Adam): refers to the "man made of red earth".
Adele (Adela): of Germanic origin, related to the "noble".
Aileen: close to Helena/Elena in sound, very commonly used in English-speaking countries.
Alan: classic masculine with different theories of origin, associated with "harmony" or "rock".
Alexis (Alejo): related to "defender, protector".
Alice (Alice): is interpreted as "of a sincere, true nature".
Andrew (Andrés): means "manly, brave".
angelina (Angelina/Ángela): connected with the idea of "messenger".
Anne (Ana): simple and elegant, "grace".
Arnold (Arnaldo): of Germanic origin, "power of the eagle".
Ashley: nowadays mostly feminine in English; it comes from "clearing of ash trees".
Audrey: of Anglo-Saxon origin, associated with "nobility". Very iconic thanks to Audrey Hepburn.
Austin (Agustin): also the name of an American city.
Baldwin (Baldwin): Germanic name with a long historical tradition.
Barden, Barnett, Barton: masculine names with a very English flavor, many derived from surnames or place names.
Becky (Rebeca): a very affectionate diminutive.
Wheat beer (Blanca): means "white, pure".
Brenda, Britney, Bridget (Brigida): three female names that are very common in English-speaking countries.
Bruce: classic masculine with a strong presence in popular culture.
Caden: very current in the United States.
Candice (Candida): associated with "clarity, whiteness".
Caroline (Carolina), Charlotte (Carlota), Chloe (Chloe), Clare (Clara): widely used feminine versions of classic roots.
Chase: masculine, with the sense of "hunting, pursuit".
Chelsea: feminine, originally linked to a London neighborhood.
Courtney: more common as a girl's name, although it is also used for boys.
Dean, Drake: short male names with a strong presence in film and television.
Daphne (Daphne), Dawn: feminine names; the first, of Greek origin, associated with the laurel.
Donald, Edwin, Edgar, Elton: classic masculine styles with a very English feel.
Edith, Elinor (Leonor), Elisabeth (Elisabet), Eliza (Elisa), Ella (Helena)Traditional female names, many with a long real and literary history.
Emily (Emilia), Evelyn, evangeline (Evangelina), Eva / Ewae: different feminine options with religious or classic nuances.
Emil (Emilio): masculine, common in various European languages.
Fanny (Estefanía), Felicity (Happiness): female names with happy meanings.
Florence (Florence), Frances (Francisca), Francis (Francisco): linked to European tradition.
Frederick (Federico), Fulbert (Filiberto), Gilbert (Gilberto), Walter (Gualterio): names of Germanic origin with connotations of strength and authority.
Grace (Funny), Hannah (ana), Georgia (female), Harold, Harrison, Harry: names of enormous Anglo-Saxon tradition.
Hugh (Hugo), Imogen, Ina, Indiana, Ivy: options with a literary, modern or natural feel.
Jackie, Jacqueline (Jacoba), Janet, Janice (Juana), Jasper (Gaspar), Jordan, Josephine (Josefina), Joshua (José), Jude, July, June, Justin, etc.
Kelly, Kim/Kimberly, Kitty (Catalina), Kurtis, Kyla: very present in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Lauren (male and female), Lena (Helena), Leonard (Leonardo) Lewis (Lewis), Lillian (Liliana), Lindsay, Luke (Luke), Louise (Luisa).
Mae, Maggie (Margarita), Margaret, Margot, Mark (Marks), Matilda, Michelle (Micaela), Moses (Moses).
Nadine (Nadia), Naomi (Naomi), Nick (Nicholas), Noah (Noah), Nora, etc.
Paris, Patrick, Pierce, Pippa, Prudence, Raven, River, Roger (Rogelio), Rosalind (Rosalinda), Ruby, Sabine / Sabina.
Scarlett, Selena, Serena, Sheila (Celia), Sienna, Stella (Estela), Summer, Sybill (Sibila).
Tanika, Tatum, Taylor, Terence (Terencio), Terry (Teodoro), Tessa (Teresa), Tiffany, Tilda (Matilde).
Ulric (Ulrico), Usher, Valerie (Valeria), Vincent (Vicente), Vivien (Bibiana).
Walt, Walter, Warden, Weldon, Wendy, Wes, Wesley, Wyatt.
Zayden, Zoe: very current and very strong in Anglo-Saxon countries.

This list illustrates the extent to which Many English names have clear equivalents or adaptations in SpanishThis is useful if you want grandparents or those around you to pronounce them without problems, while maintaining an international feel.

The magic of the letters B, C, D and E in English names

Some guides highlight that the The letter B has an origin linked to ancient Egyptian hieroglyphswhich lends it an air of mystery. It's no wonder that many names beginning with B sound enigmatic and attract attention. Furthermore, it's a letter very common in the entertainment world: Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, Bruce Willis, Blake Lively…

English names starting with B

Among the names that begin with B, we find options for all tastes, both classic and modern:

Babette, Barbara, Berenice, Bernice, Bianca: feminine, some with a French flair.
Baltashar (Baltasar), Basil (Basilio), Benjamin: masculine with biblical or classical tradition.
Betty, Benny, Bernie, Bibi, Billie, BillyHypocoristics commonly used in English-speaking countries.
Blake: unisex, very modern and associated with pop culture.
Bonnie, Brenda, Bridget, Brittany, Brooke: very common in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Boris, Brad, Brandon, Brian, Bruce: masculine with strong and very recognizable connotations.
Bryanna, Bryony: feminine variants where that distinctive sound of the English B is appreciated.

English names beginning with C

Names beginning with C have gained international visibility thanks to figures like Princess Charlotte. Since the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge named her that, Charlotte's popularity has skyrocketed. in half the world. But it's not the only interesting option starting with C.

Calvin, Cameron, Casper, Cedric, Chad, Charles, Charlie, Chase, Connor, Cooper, Corey, Craig, Curtis, Cyril: a wide variety of male names, some very classic (Charles) and others totally modern (Cooper).

Caitlin, Candace, Candice, Candy, Carmen, Caroline, Carrie, Cassandra, Catherine/Catherine, Cathy, Cecilia, Celeste, Chelsea, Cheryl, Chloe, Claire, Clara, Claudia, Clea, Clementine, CleopatraA very wide range for girls, from the most understated to the most sophisticated.
Charlotte, Charlize, Charlene, Charleen: different ways to use the root «Charl-» in the feminine.
Colin, Connor: common in England, Ireland and the United States.
Constance, Corinna, Courtney, Cynthia: feminine options with a strong presence in Anglo-Saxon culture.

English names beginning with D

The letter D includes names closely linked to the recent history of the United Kingdom: David Beckham, Princess Diana, Dorian Gray as a literary character… It is a letter with a strong presence in sports, royalty and literature.

Daisy: flower name (daisy), very sweet.
Dallas: used as a male name, inspired by the American city.
Damien, Damian: with an international flair and a touch of mystery.
Daniel, Danny, Danielle, Dany: a very widespread family of names.
Daphne (Delilah in some interpretations), Daria, Dayana: elegant-sounding feminine.
Dave, David, Davy: multiple forms of one of the quintessential classics.
Deborah, Denise, Destiny: female options that have had periods of great success.
Derek, Dennis, Devin, Dimitri, Donald, Donovan, Douglas, Duncan, Dylan: list of male names with a strong British and American tradition.

English names starting with E

There are parents who are clear that your baby's name must begin with E From there, they start narrowing it down. In English, this letter offers lovely options for both boys and girls.

Edna, Eileen, Elena, Elisa, Elise, Ella, Ellen, Eloise, Elora, Elsa, Elvira, Emer, Emerald, Emily, Emma, Erica, Erin, Estelle, Esther, Eva, Eveline/Evelyne: long list of soft-sounding feminine nouns.
Edison, Edmund, Edward, Edwin, Elliot/Elliott, Elton, Elvin, Enzo, Eric, Ethan, Eugene, Evan: masculine styles ranging from classic to completely modern.
Elia, Elio, Eliott: very current, with an international touch that works well in Spanish.
Erica, Erika: strong female variants.
Erasmus, Emerick, Erwan, ErwinLess common, perfect if you're looking for something different.

The top-ranked English names in the UK today

If you want a name that's trendy in the British Isles, it's helpful to look at the official lists from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) from the United Kingdom. These data reveal the most popular girl and boy names each year in England and Wales.

Other approaches: classical, modern, biblical, literary names and more

In addition to looking at what's fashionable in the UK, it's worth taking a broader view: Classical versus modern names, inspired by nature, biblical, literary, Germanic, royal, or city namesThat helps you focus your search according to the style you like.

Classic English names for boys

William, James, John, Robert, Michael, Thomas, David, George, Henry, Edward: all of them have withstood the test of time and remain a safe bet in the Anglo-Saxon world.

Modern English names for boys

Liam, Mason, Logan, Jackson, Lucas, Aiden, Grayson, Elijah, Owen, CarterThey represent the new wave of current names, many of which are very popular in the United States.

Names inspired by nature

Perfect if you want one direct connection with the natural environment:

Rivers (River), Forrest (Forest), Rowan (rowan), Ash (ash), Brooks (streams), Sage (sage), Clay (clay), Jasper (jasper), Reed (cane), Stone (stone).

Biblical names and names with spiritual meaning

Biblical names are timeless and often have profound meanings linked to faith:

Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Peter, Daniel, Joseph, Isaac, Samuel, David: all very well established in English and with clear equivalents in Spanish.
Noah, Elijah, Asher, Zane (John variant), Caleb: associated with "rest, God is my Lord, happy, God is merciful, faithful and brave."

Short and sweet names

They're easy to pronounce, they go with almost any surname, and They work well in any country:

Max, Leo, Finn, Jay, Ben, Sam, Tom, Jack, Eli, Gus in boy.
Mia, Lily, Zoe, Ella, Amy in a girl.

Irish names used in English

Liam, Connor, Aiden, Finn, Declan, Sean, Patrick, Cian, Ronan, NiallThey blend Celtic musicality with the global reach of English.

Literary names in English

If you're someone who always has a book on your nightstand, you might be drawn to the names of authors or characters from Anglo-Saxon literature:

Atticus (To kill a mockingbird), Holden (The Catcher in the Rye), Homer (Homer), Tristan, Gatsby, Darcy (Pride and Prejudice), Sherlock, Dorian, heathcliff, Orlando.

Germanic names in the English environment

Charles, Frederick, Albert, Richard, Edmund, Hugh, Gerald, Harold, Walter, Raymond: with meanings related to strength, leadership, and protection.

Real and city names

Many names of the british royalty have been consolidated as symbol of elegance and tradition:

Arthur, Philip, Henry, George, Edward, William, Louis, James, Charles, Albert.

And place-inspired names add a modern and evocative touch:

Austin, Dallas, Denver, Lincoln, Orlando, Jordan, Kingston, Hudson, Jackson, Camden.

Names with an artistic touch or positive meaning

If you're drawn to art, you can look at names linked to painters, musicians, or creators:

Leonardo, Pablo, Vincent, Salvador, Diego, Andy, Raphael, Jackson, Dylan, Oscar.

And if what you're looking for is a name that sounds like joy, hope and good vibesYou have options such as:

Felix, Lucas, Asher, Isaiah, Gabriel, Tobias, Ethan, Victor, Emmanuel, Jonah.

English girl names: classic, modern, bohemian and spiritual

When choosing a English girl name It's important to consider not only how it sounds, but also its meaning and the personality it conveys. Some options can be grouped by style to make your decision easier.

Classics with a rich history

Elizabeth"God is my oath." One of the names with the greatest historical weight.
Catherine: «pure», of Greek origin.
Anne: «grace», simple and timeless.
Margaret: «pearl», with a regal air.
Helen: associated with beauty, of Greek origin.

Modern and popular

HarperIt started as a surname, now it's one of the most fashionable girl names.
Avery: "wise advisor".
Skylar: fresh, creative and with an artistic touch.
Madison, AddisonAlthough they originated as surnames or male names, today they are mostly used for girls.

Bohemian, natural and spiritual

Juniper: «juniper», very closely linked to nature.
Indie: ideal if you're looking for a name with personality.
Tinsley, Briar: uncommon, with a fairytale feel.
Nova: "new star".
Autumn, Hazel, Ivy, Willow, Sage: all inspired by seasons, trees or plants.
Faith, Grace, Hope, Charity, Eden: full of spirituality and positive values (faith, grace, hope, charity, paradise).

English boy names: elegant, short, creative and symbolic

As for boy names in EnglishYou can also sort them by style so you can see what best suits your needs.

Elegant classics

James, William, Edward, Henry, Arthur: five great pillars of Anglo-Saxon male naming, all with a stately touch.

Short and powerful

Max, Leo, Kai, Ben, Eli: short names that sound powerful and are easy to pronounce in Spanish.

Uncommon and creative

Rivers: connected with nature.
Arlo: soft to the ear but with character.
Bowie: ideal for music fans.
Zion: spiritual and modern.
Knox: forceful and distinctive.

Historical and literary

Atticus, Holden, Winston, Byron, Sherlock: they all evoke characters or figures with great cultural weight.

Spiritual or symbolic

Noah, Elijah, Asher, Zane, CalebThey combine modern sounds with meanings linked to faith, happiness, or courage.

Unisex English names: an increasingly common choice

The unisex names in English They are being used more and more because they work for both genders and fit well into a globalized world.

Unisex, widely used

Alex: valid for Alejandro/Alejandra.
Taylor: very common in the United States.
Jordan, Riley, Casey: names that are seen in both boys and girls.

Unisex with inspiring meaning

Rowan: «tree of life» or rowan.
Phoenix: mythological bird that is reborn from its ashes.
Sage: aromatic plant and "wisdom".
Avery: as already mentioned, very flexible.
Quinn: of Celtic origin, it sounds elegant and strong.

Choosing a neutral name can help break gender stereotypes And, in addition, they are names that adapt well to different languages and cultures.

How to choose the best English name for your son or daughter

With so much variety, it's normal to find it hard to decide. Some practical tips can help you filter:

Listen to how it sounds next to the last name several times, out loud.
Write it And look at it in writing; sometimes perception changes.
Check that it does not have strange connotations or double meanings in Spanishbecause children can be very cruel at school.
If you're worried about pronunciation, Make sure you know how to say it correctly in English or choose a version that is better suited to Spanish.
Avoid names that might easily confused with others in Spanish if that bothers you.

It also helps to think about what kind of identity you want it to project: something classic and solid, a modern and original name, a spiritual option, a name linked to nature… In the end, it's about the name It suits you and your family, and you can proudly accompany your son or daughter. at all stages of his life.

With over 300 English names for boys and girls, with meanings ranging from the spiritual to the literary, including the natural and the historical, you have a huge range to choose from; now all you have to do is let the lists rest, repeat your favorites out loud and keep that name that, every time you hear it, makes you smile.

Original girls' names and their meanings: a complete guide by style, culture, and trend

Postposmo