250+ compound names for babies

Has become a byword in English for an overly optimistic person, thanks to the eponymous children's book heroine.

Todrick, an invented name that combines Todd with -rick ending names such as Frederick, is heavily associated with performer Todrick Hall. Hall initially became recognized for his success on American Idol, and since then has become a YouTube star and judge on RuPaul's Drag Race.

A sunny sounding name, Mayella is a smoosh name with various meanings, depending on which etymological root you follow for May. The name is perhaps most associated with Mayella Ewell in Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, a character whose loneliness and desperation spark the main plot of the book. This may well put parents off using the name and it is only ever given to a handful of girls every year.

Samwise Gamgee is the name of Frodo's most loyal companion in Lord of the Rings, played by Sean Astin in Peter Jackson's movie adaptations. Like the related Samwell from Game of Thrones, it could be a fun way to commemorate a favorite book while giving your child an easy way out, with nickname Sam.

One of the many names for the Virgin Mary, this name is popular in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking communities.

A pretty smoosh name predominantly used by Italian Catholics.

This modern mash up of Kendrick and Hendrix felt almost bound to happen. Perfect for parents wanting something cool and contemporary but also familiar, Kendrix has in fact been quietly used since the 70s. Given to around 110 babies in 2023, the increased popularity of the name is likely owing to rock musician Jimi Hendrix, rapper Kendrick Lamar, and (female) Power Ranger, Kendrix Morgan.

Stella and Luna are stylish night sky name for girls, from the Latin words for star and moon.

There's only one: Emmylou Harris, the singer who gives dignity to an old-style combo name.

For that rare parent who's torn between Jared and Gareth.

Everlynn combines two of the hottest baby names of the moment — Evelyn and Everly — but can't claim either of their histories. Although if you can't decide between the two, Everlynn is the logical compromise.

Suellen is a smoosh name that combines two classic names into one that feels both mid-century and modern, a little like Carolyn, a bit like Elowen. Notably used by Margaret Hill in her novel, Gone with the Wind, Suellen peaked in the 1940s and is rarely used today.

Elizabella is a much more obscure smoosh than sisters Isabella and Annabelle, but the megapopularity of Isabella may give this unusual combo name a boost.

Aubrianna, along with Aubriella, is an elaboration of a perfectly good if too trendy name, Aubrey. The final -anna or -ana or -ella does not improve on the original. But A names of all kinds continue to appeal to the masses.

A bit like Annelise in reverse, Lisanne is a sleek but gentle Dutch compound name that was popular in the 2010s.

This Dutch name stems from the Greek root word "philos" meaning "love". It is relatively common in the Netherlands.

Diandra is one of many variations on Diana, but lacks its classic class. Associated with Michael Douglas's first wife, who is of Austrian heritage.

Inspired by Taylor Swift's 2020 album Evermore, seven sets of parents chose this name for their daughters in 2022. With a poetic meaning of "forever" or "always", this is one that we could see gaining traction outside of the Swiftiverse. Accessible nicknames Ever and Evie are always an option if Evermore feels too bold for everyday use.

Merrilee has several different origins. It's an alternative spelling of the unusual word name Merrily, as well as a variant of the smoosh name Marilee (Mary + Lee). Merrilee, Merrilees or Mirrlees are also found in Scotland, deriving from a Scottish place name. Merrilee hit the Top 1000 for a few years in the 1940s, but disappeared from the charts completely back in 2007. In 2023, however, 5 baby girls were given name, as it joined a number of vintage revivals making a reappearance in the US.

Mackson, while not unknown as a surname, is more of a modern invention as a first name, a smoosh of the more popular Jackson and Maxon. Authenticity aside, it's not without its appeal. And who can resist friendly diminutive Mack?