With 2014 almost complete, the name Muhammad has become the most popular boys’ name in Britain. For girls, Sophia proved the most popular (according to BabyCentre).
All the variant spellings of Muhammad – such as Muhammad – were counted together, enhancing its popularity.
Traditionally, Muhammad is often the name given to the first boy in Muslim families. Arabic names are also making their way up the top 100 list showing the ever-increasing diversity of the UK today. The latest trends indicate that popular names from the 1970’s are also making a comeback.
The top 2014 trends for UK boys’ names were:
(Official 2013 rankings in brackets)
- Muhammad (15)
- Oliver (1)
- Jack (2)
- Noah (13)
- Jacob (4)
- Charlie (5)
- Harry (3)
- Joshua (12)
- James (9)
- Ethan (14)
The top 2014 trends for UK girls’ names were:
(Official 2013 rankings in brackets)
- Sophia (15)
- Emily (3)
- Lily (12)
- Olivia (2)
- Amelia (1)
- Isla (5)
- Isabella (8)
- Ava (4)
- Sophie (9)
- Chloe (18)
The official 2013 names list was published in August 2014 by the Office of National Statistics. More than 35,000 different girls’ names were registered – compared to 27,000 for boys. Is your child’s name in the Official list?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a name;
• Family heritage on both sides
• How the first name matches up with the family name
• If you are picking a middle name, does it flow with the first and last name and what will the initials spell out.
• Can you shorten the name and will you be happy with that name sticking instead of the given name you have chosen.
Fun Fact - did you know?
Several countries - such as Germany, Sweden, China and Iceland - restrict what you can call your baby!! In the case of Iceland, it’s about meeting certain rules of grammar and gender, and saving the child from possible embarrassment. There is a list of 1,853 female names and 1,712 male ones, and parents must pick from these lists or seek permission from a special committee.
For more information on favourite names and naming your baby, click here
