For the first time in history, Muhammad has claimed the top spot as the most popular baby boy name in the UK, according to new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). It surpassed Noah, which had been leading in previous years.
Contents
Top Boys’ Names of 2023
- Muhammad (4,661 births)
- Noah
- Oliver
The name Muhammad has steadily risen in popularity since 2016, with alternative spellings—Mohammed and Mohammad—also making the top 100.
Top Girls’ Names of 2023
- Olivia (8th consecutive year at #1)
- Amelia
- Isla
Key Trends and Influences
- Cultural and Religious Influence: Muhammad’s consistent popularity reflects the growing diversity in the UK.
- Pop Culture Impact: Names inspired by music artists like Billie, Lana, and Kendrick, as well as Margot, influenced by Barbie, have seen a surge. Margot climbed 44 spots, with 215 more girls receiving the name compared to 2022.
- Seasonal Names: Names like Autumn and Summer saw an increase during their respective seasons, while Holly and Joseph were popular in December.
Falling Popularity of Royal Names
- George, previously dominant, ranked 4th with fewer than 4,000 babies given the name for the first time in nearly a decade.
- Other royal names such as William (29th), Louis (45th), and Charlotte (23rd for girls) also saw declines.
New Entrants to the Top 100
- Girls: Hazel, Lilah, Nevaeh, Raya
- Boys: Jax, Enzo, Bodhi
Conclusion
The 2023 baby name rankings showcase a blend of tradition, cultural diversity, and modern trends influenced by pop culture and the seasons. While names like Olivia and Muhammad maintain strongholds, new entries and shifts reflect evolving societal tastes.
