Fewer than 10 babies were handed some of the most popular names of the 80s and 90s last year
A list of ‘dad names’ that were popular for babies in the 80s and 90s are now at risk of dying out in the UK as fewer than 20 babies were handed them last year. A UK baby name expert has listed names we may stop seeing altogether in the next few years as a trend for even older names – and gender neutral names – takes over.
Names like Steve, Colin and Craig top the list of those dying out – followed by Roger, Tyrone, and Phil are also on the way out, with less than 10 babies given these names in 2024. But ‘grandma names’ are experiencing a resurgence, with Brits 25% more likely to name their baby after their grandma rather than their grandpa, and grandad names like Edwin, Osmond, Vincent currently not seen as cool as grandma names like Mabel, Betty or Gigi.
The research shows we can be ‘put off’ by certain baby names. Whether it be too common or overused or if a friend already chose the name for their child, there are many factors which play a part in the decision. Plus, with close to half of Brits saying they’d choose a unisex name for their child, the nation may start to see an increase in gender neutral names in the coming years.
There is a list of names that look set to die out as fewer than 20 babies were given them last year.
‘Dad’ names at risk of extinction according to UK baby name consultant, SJ Strum:
- Steve
- Colin
- Craig
- Derek
- Gareth
- Tyrone
- Phil
- Sameer
- Roger
SJ Strum, author of ‘Baby Name Envy’, said: “Name trends are constantly evolving over time, and these names in particular have seen a big decline in recent years. Notably, many of these we often think of as ‘Dad’ names, as a result of them being so popular in the 80s and 90s. Now, new parents are searching for more playful and creative names that have unique meanings. We’re also seeing an ‘upcycling’ trend emerge, with more people putting a twist on traditional names. For example, ‘Steve’, which was once popular for men, is now being adapted to ‘Stevie’ for a baby girl.”
Ahead of Father’s Day, Etsy is partnering with a selection of sellers to offer a 50% discount on select products when personalised with one of the top 10 near-extinct names, to help these once-popular ‘Dad names’ live on.
Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy’s Trend Expert, said: “With over half (57%) thinking the near-extinct male names may see a resurgence in the future , it’s clear many want to see them live on. As the destination for personalised gifts, to lend a helping hand this Father’s Day, we’re helping keep these names alive for generations to come. Head to Etsy’s website now and help protect these names by buying the special Gareth in your life a personalised playing card box, or an engraved leather bookmark.”
Shoppers can visit the campaign landing page here to browse Etsy shops offering the 50% discount.
