What’s new in grandbaby names?
Colors of leaves, the cold crisp nights, and the countdown to the holidays. In a season full of warmth and festivities, it’s easy to see why names inspired by fall are so popular amongst new parents welcoming children at this time of year.
For those expecting the arrival of a little one during September, October, or November, the team at Your Baby Club has provided a selection of the best autumn-inspired baby names that fit into the fall theme – as well as their meanings.
- Maple
The name Maple comes from English origin and is a connotation for the maple tree – which boasts beautiful fall foliage. However, the maple leaf itself is the national symbol of Canada, which was used to represent a symbol of strength and endurance during the First World War.
Maple started to gain popularity in the 20th century; however, it hasn’t been on the most popular names list in the United States since 1902. Actor Jason Bateman and his partner and fellow actor Amanda Anka named their second child Maple in 2012.
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Autumn
The name Autumn originates from the Latin word for fall and is the period of time between summer and winter when the leaves change to a spectacular array of colors, temperatures start to drop, and nights get shorter – resulting in cozy evenings and brisk walks through the park. Autumn is an increasingly popular name, as it celebrates the beginning of a new season and new life. No name quite fits as perfectly to the season as autumn does.
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Hazel
Hazel is a soft name of English origin, deriving from the hazel tree – native to the UK, which transforms colors when the season shifts. The name grew substantially in popularity around the early 2000s and has remained a firm favorite since. We’re unlikely to see a decrease in popularity as more people look for ‘vintage’ and unique baby names.
British actress Emily Blunt and her husband, US Office actor John Krasinski, welcomed a daughter named Hazel in 2014, and Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts also named her daughter Hazel following her birth back in 2004.
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Forrest
Forrest is traditionally a boy’s name with English and French origins. The word essentially means ‘of the woods’ and was usually associated with those who resided in the woods. It’s the perfect name for a little one with a life of adventure and a family who enjoy the great outdoors and exploring new hidden gems – showcasing a bright and playful energy.
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Rowan
Rowan is a name with both Irish and Scottish origins, which comes from the word Ruadhán, meaning ‘red-haired.’ This also refers to the ‘rowan tree,’ a tree with red berries. The name is gender-neutral and is currently the 97th most popular male name and the 276 most popular Female name in the US, according to statistics from Social Security name data.
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Hunter
Another woodsy, outdoors name is Hunter, and yes, you guessed it, it means ‘someone who hunts.’ The name has English origins and was traditionally a surname given to hunters, but it has since been popularized as a first name for both boys and girls.
The name Hunter traditionally signifies a free-spirited individual who loves adventure and being at one with nature. For expectant parents who love exploring the natural world, Hunter is the perfect option as a name filled with character and personality on its own.
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Bryn
The name Bryn is of Welsh origin and a name inspired by nature, meaning ‘hill.’ Byn is a traditionally male name, but is becoming more popular for girls across the US, spelled ‘Brynn.’ The name is fun and unique and the perfect choice for a little one born when the sun is shining and the leaves and temperatures are dropping.
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Acer
How does the name Acer have a connection to fall? Acer, also known as maple, is a type of tree whose leaves turn a beautiful red, yellow, and burnt orange during the fall season. The name Acer is the masculine version of ‘Maple’ and brings connotations of warmth and brightness of the new season.
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Phoenix
Another unique option is Phoenix. The name has Greek origins and means ‘dark red,’ a color typically associated with the changing of seasons, from summer to fall. The name also comes from a mythological bird, symbolizing rebirth and strength.
Phoenix has gradually increased in popularity since the early 2000s. In fact, in 2022, the name was revealed as the 261st most popular boy name in the US.
Spice Girls singer Mel B chose the unique name for her first-born child, 24-year-old daughter Phoenix, back in 1999. More recently, socialite and reality TV star Paris Hilton welcomed a son named Phoenix with her husband Carter Reum.
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Saffron
Saffron is traditionally a female name, originating from England, meaning ‘Yellow Flower’ with precious, glowing, and spice traits. The Saffron Crocus plant – also known as Autumn Crocus – blooms during the Fall season and is known for its rich and spicy flavors. Just think, if your little one has a spicy nature, then ‘Saffron’ will be the perfect fit!
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Russell
The name Russell comes from the French word ‘russel’, meaning ‘red-haired.’ This name visualizes fields and paths lined with fallen red leaves during the fall months. It’s traditionally a boy’s name, but there is no reason why ‘Russell’ can’t be considered a gender-neutral name. Rusty or Russ are just two of the nicknames that Russell can be shortened to. They are both cute and fun.
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Amber
Amber is a popular female name, which has both French and Arabic origins, meaning ‘jewel’ and ‘amber-colored.’ The color amber is symbolic of the fallen leaves of fall, a mid-way color between yellow and orange, making the name a great choice for an autumn baby who will love exploring nature and learning about the great outdoors.
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Aspen
Among all the tree-inspired names, Aspen is one of the most unique options. The aspen is a tall tree that is native to North America and often found in woodland – the tree is notorious for its light leaves that move with the slightest breeze. It brings to mind a free-spirited child who is full of energy and life.
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Bowie
Bowie is creative, a little edgy, and has oodles of charm. The name is derived initially from Scottish origins, meaning ‘yellow-haired’ and ‘blond’ fitting with the signs of the new season – from leaves changing color to fruit falling and the warmth of the golden sun.
Of course, these days, the name is more commonly associated with the late singer-songwriter David Bowie, who chose to replace his given surname of ‘Jones’ with the unique name when he first started out in the entertainment industry.
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Zarina
Zarina has a beautiful meaning that aligns perfectly with fall. The name comes from the Persian word Zarin, which means ‘golden.’ Since autumn is filled with golden hues, the name feels like a great fit for a little one born in September, October, or November. This feminine name has a soft, peaceful feel and feels modern and fresh.
Provided by YourBabyClub.com
Read more in GRAND about grandbaby names here
