Popular Girl Names

These are the girls' names chosen most often by American parents in the latest year of Social Security records. Popularity tells you how familiar a name will feel, and it also means your daughter may share her name with classmates. Some parents find that reassuring, while others prefer something less common.

Many of today's favorites are revivals. Charlotte, Evelyn, Eleanor and Violet were well used in earlier generations, faded, and have come back with a vintage charm. Amelia and Emma have Germanic roots, while Olivia is linked to Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. Sophia and Sofia both come from the Greek word for wisdom, and Isabella is a Spanish and Italian form of a medieval name. Eliana comes from Hebrew and is often explained as my God has answered.

Short, vowel-rich names are another strong trend. Mia and Ava are easy to spell and pair well with longer surnames, and Aurora, the Latin word for dawn, adds a touch of fairy-tale magic. Ailany is a newer name that has quickly found favor. When choosing a popular name, think about spelling and nicknames, and say the full name aloud with your surname. A name used by many families can still feel personal when it fits your family.