Traditional Boy Names for Girls We Love
In recent years, there’s been a growing trend of giving traditionally masculine names to girls. This practice challenges gender norms and offers a unique twist on naming conventions. Here are some boy names that work beautifully for girls:
- James: Originally a boy’s name meaning “supplanter,” it’s gained popularity for girls thanks to celebrities like Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds.
- Charlie: A diminutive of Charles, meaning “free man,” it’s become a trendy choice for girls.
- Ryan: An Irish name meaning “little king,” it’s been used for girls since the 1970s.
- Frankie: Short for Francis or Franklin, it means “free one” and has a spunky, retro feel for girls.
- Billie: Originally a diminutive of William, it’s been popularized as a girl’s name by singers like Billie Holiday and Billie Eilish.
- Spencer: An English surname meaning “dispenser of provisions,” it has a sophisticated sound for girls.
- Stevie: A diminutive of Stephen, meaning “crown,” it’s been used for girls since the 1940s.
- Drew: Derived from Andrew, meaning “manly,” it’s been used for girls since the 1980s.
- Blake: An English surname meaning “dark,” it’s become increasingly popular for girls.
- Elliott: Derived from Elias, meaning “Jehovah is God,” it’s gaining traction as a girl’s name.
Using traditionally male names for girls can be seen as a form of gender-neutral naming, allowing for more flexibility and individuality in name choices. It’s important to note that while these names are becoming more common for girls, they’re still primarily used for boys in most cultures.
When considering a traditionally male name for a girl, think about potential nicknames, how it sounds with your last name, and how your child might feel about it as they grow up. Ultimately, the best name is one that you and your family love and feel represents your child well.