Wonderful Word Names for Babies

Oasis is an ultra-rare word name that has only ever been used for a handful of babies born in the US. Its appeal is undeniable, though. An oasis can be a place of refuge, or a place of beauty, in an otherwise harsh environment. It also shares sounds with other popular and trendy names—think Owen, combined with Silas, with a touch of Ocean.

Tree as a first name may have entered the lexicon via Taylor Swift's (female) publicist Tree Paine, but there's no reason Tree can't work for any gender. It's simple, it's nature-connected, it's modern.

Loyalty is one of the Modern Virtue Names rising precipitously for babies in recent years, used last year for nearly 200 children, about 85 percent of them girls. Loyalty may also owe some of its popularity to trendy sister name Royalty.

One Puritan virtue name unlikely to thrive in the 21st century.

Forget Patience and Charity: Here's a Colonial name (and sentiment) that seems perfect for modern times.

When actress Shannyn Sossamon dubbed her newborn Audio Science, it sent out some definite shock waves. We don't recommend Audio or Video for even the most intrepid baby namer.

Perhaps too spicy for some, but this is a popular Gaelic surname that might appeal for those looking to honor a family branch or to fans of legendary British comedian Tim Curry.

Hiking enthusiasts might consider this nature name, though it also has the connotation of someone lagging behind. That hasn't stopped nearly 30 boys being given the name in the US since 2010, however. Ranger, Rocky, Bear, Forrest, Ridge, Canyon, and Falco could be some options with a similar vibe.

Pirate is best known as one of the middle names of pop sensation Billie Eilish, who was born Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell. In a 2017 BBC interview, she revealed, "Pirate was going to be my [only] middle name but then my uncle had a problem with it because pirates are bad." Now Pirate attracting more interest, along with the rest of Billie Eilish's names.

Third place on the sports field, but potentially more wearable than either Silver or Gold, Bronze feels modern and edgy.

It's a nature name evocative of rushing waterfalls. But also a dishwashing detergent.

Sleek color name, though a bit flinty for a little girl.

A beyond-bold shooting-star name choice, sure to raise some relatives' eyebrows.

Solo is a singular word name with special meaning for Star Wars fans. Equally appropriate for girls and boys, it works especially well in the middle.

As a personal name, it may not have much history, but it certainly suggests the subject.

Childish Gambino is the musical alter-ego of writer/producer Donald Glover, creator of the television show Atlanta. Glover got the name Childish Gambino from an online name generator.

With its ties to tranquil Walden Pond, and harmonious meaning, this could be a modern virtue name.

A video-game name ("Final Fantasy VII") with an unappealing sound and meaning.

One of the more unusual nature names, Maize is given to a dozen or so boys and girls each year and is almost completely unisex in terms of usage. Disclaimer: potential for "corny" jokes.

Rugged nature name with possibilities...but more for boys.