Things from the past are often valued, and these baby names prove that point.
If you like neon, leg warmers, headbands, and Michael Jackson’s moonwalk, you may be looking for more popular baby names. But during the early 1980s, many parents chose traditional and Biblical baby names for their kids. After 1985, new naming trends emerged, like using vowels and names of flowers.
If you love the 1980s or grew up in that decade, you may like 80s baby names. Here is a list of cool 80s names for your boy or girl based on the Social Security Administration list, movies, and popular trends from that time.
Popular Baby Names For Boys With Meanings
1. Aaron
In the Bible, Aaron was Moses’ older brother. The name Aaron means ‘mountain of strength’.
2. Adam
Adam is a popular baby name that comes from Hebrew meaning ‘man’.
3. Alexander
Suggesting strength and power, the name Alexander means ‘protector of humans’.
4. Andrew
If you like tennis, maybe you should consider naming your son after the tennis star Andrew Murray. This popular baby name means ‘manly.’
5. Anthony
Anthony is a common Roman name that means ‘priceless’.
6. Arthur
Arthur is a popular name in literature and it means ‘bear’.
7. Ashley
In the 1980s, this name was popular for boys and has a meaning of ‘ash wood’.
8. Atreyu
Atreyu is a popular baby name that was popular in 1980, with the meaning ‘son of all’.
9. Ben
In the 1980s, the name Ben was commonly used by itself, as a short form of Benjamin. Ben is a popular baby name that means ‘son of my right hand’.
10. Benjamin
Benjamin has been a popular baby name for a long time, making it the top baby name of the 1980s just because of its longstanding popularity. The name means ‘son of my right hand’.
11. Brandon
Brandon was popular among the attractive teen idols of the 1980s. This popular baby name means ‘beacon hill’.
12. Brian
This strong and popular baby name means someone who is strong and respectable.
13. Carl
The name Carl comes from the name Charles in English, and it means someone who is independent.
14. Chad
This English name evokes thoughts of a young boy with a cheerful smile. This popular baby name means someone who is strong and brave.
15. Charles
Charles is a grand and dignified name that means ‘masculine’.
16. Christopher
This popular baby name comes from the Greek word Khristophorus and it means ‘Christ-bearer’.
17. Cody
We adore Cody for his welcoming and fun-loving personality. The name means ‘someone who is willing to assist.’
18. Corey
In the 1980s, this popular teen idol’s name meant ‘from the hollow’.
19. Craig
If you are looking for a cute and popular baby name for your son, Craig, which means ‘rock’, could be the perfect choice for you.
20. Daniel
This traditional name has the fun nickname Dan and means ‘God is my judge.’
21. Darren
The popular baby name Darren, which means ‘little great one’, would be a perfect fit for your child.
22. David
The name David originates from the Hebrew language and it means ‘beloved’.
23. Dean
This popular baby name comes from an Old English word that means ‘valley’.
24. Derek
Derek is a shortened version of the name Theodoric and it carries the meaning of ‘ruler’.
25. Drew
In the 1980s, the name Drew was mainly given to boys because it was considered to mean ‘strong and manly’, but now it is more commonly used for girls.
26. Dustin
Dustin Hoffman, the Oscar-winning actor, is associated with this name. This popular baby name means someone who is a courageous fighter.
27. Edward
There were eight kings in England named Edward, so it is considered a great regal name. The name Edward means someone who is wealthy and looks after others.
28. Edwin
We really like the royal vibe of the name Edwin. It is much less common than the name Edward. This popular baby name means ‘wealthy friend’.
29. Elliot
If it worked for E.T., it will work for your son too. The name means ‘Jehovah is God’.
30. Emilio
This name epitomizes the 80s era. Emilio balances fun and classic styles perfectly.
31. Eric
This classy name for an attractive man signifies ‘leader’.
32. Ferris
Name your son Ferris if you want him to be intelligent and clever.
33. Gareth
If you are looking for a baby boy name that wasn’t very common in the 1980s, you could consider choosing the name Gareth, which comes from Middle English and means ‘enclosure’.
34. Gary
In the 1950s, Gary was not doing well but it had success in the 80s. This popular baby name means ‘spear’.
35. Gregory
This popular baby name reminds people of the actor Gregory Peck and means ‘one who keeps a careful watch’.
36. Harrison
One of the latest names to hit the baby name trend, this name is gaining popularity for boys. The name Harrison, which means ‘son of Harry’, was considered the coolest and toughest name of the 80s.
37. Huey
In the 1980s, the nickname ‘Huey’ was very popular as the beloved nephew of Donald. This popular baby name means smart or clever.
38. Ian
If you have Scottish heritage, choose the name Ian for your son, as it is the Scottish equivalent of John and means ‘God is gracious.’
39. Jacob
Jacob, who emerged victorious in the 80s and continues to be successful, has the meaning of ‘supplanter’.
40. Jake
Jake can be used as a nickname for Jacob or as its own name.
41. James
If you like names from the Bible, James, which means ‘supplanter’, would be a good option for you.
42. Jared
During the 1980s, the name Jared, which means ‘descending’, was thought of as a very masculine name.
43. Jareth
Jareth is known for being in the popular movie ‘Labyrinth’ from 1986. This popular baby name means ‘bled of jar’.
44. Jason
In Greek mythology, Jason is known for looking for the Golden Fleece. The name means ‘to heal.’
45. Jeffrey
Once associated with nobility, the name Jeffrey is said to mean ‘peace brought by a divine entity’.
46. Jeremy
The popular baby name Jeremy seems more stylish and contemporary compared to Jeremiah. The name means ‘God will lift up.’
47. Jesse
This popular baby name is commonly associated with Jesse James and it means ‘rich.’
48. John
In every era, the name John remains popular because it means ‘God is gracious’.
49. Jonathan
Jonathan is a popular baby name that is both serious and artistic, and it means ‘Gift of God.’
50. Jordan
This attractive and self-assured baby name means ‘going down’.’
51. Jose
The vibrant Spanish translation of Joseph means that ‘God will make things grow’.
52. Joseph
Joseph is mentioned in the Bible as the father of Jesus, which could be a nice name for Christmas. The name means ‘God will add’.
53. Joshua
Joshua is a popular baby name that originates from the Bible and it means ‘God is my salvation’.
54. Juan
John’s Spanish counterpart is not exclusive to Spanish speakers, and it means ‘Lord is gracious.’
55. Justin
This respectable and popular baby name gained style from Justin Timberlake. The name means ‘fair’ or ‘right’.
56. Keith
Keith is a thin and rebellious name that originates from Wales, and it means ‘battlefield’.
57. Kenneth
Kenneth was a popular name in the 1980s and is commonly associated with being handsome or making an oath.
58. Kevin
This popular baby name became well-known because of Saint Kevin, who established a monastery in Dublin during the 7th century. The name means ‘handsome’.
59. Knox
Before the famous couple Brangelina, the name Knox was well-known in the 1980s. The name means ’round hill.’
60. Kyle
A good-looking Irish name that means ‘land where cattle graze’.
61. Lee
If you want your son’s name to remain the same at school, choose the name Lee, which means ‘meadow’.
62. Lloyd
Lloyd is often associated with the 1980s and has a romantic connotation. In Welsh, this popular baby name means ‘grey’.
63. Luke
Luke is a short and pleasant name for your baby. This popular baby name means someone who brings light.
64. Marcus
The popular baby name Marcus, which means ‘warlike’, is a nice option instead of using Mark.
65. Mark
This popular baby name from the 1980s is anticipated to become popular again in baby name rankings soon. The name Mark is derived from the word meaning ‘man’.
66. Martin
Martin is a popular baby name from the 1980s that is associated with the planets. The name means ‘Mars or man’.
67. Matthew
Matthew is another excellent choice from the Bible as it means ‘gift of God’.
68. Maverick
Maverick is a popular baby name inspired by the popular 80s movie ‘Top Gun’ and it means independent.
69. Michael
Michael, which means ‘Who is like God’ in Hebrew, was the leader of the army that fought against evil.
70. Nathan
It is a lively and popular baby name that means ‘God has given’.
71. Neil
Neil Armstrong is credited with bringing fame to the name Neil by being the first person to land on the moon. This popular baby name means ‘cloud’.
72. Nicholas
The holiday is named after St. Nicholas, who is well-known as Santa Claus, the protector of children. The name Nicholas means ‘people’.
73. Oliver
Oliver is still popular today just like it was in the 1980s. This popular baby name means ‘olive tree.’
74. Patrick
Patrick is the name of the saint who is the patron of Ireland, and it means ‘nobleman’.
75. Paul
Paul is a popular baby name that means ‘small or humble’.
76. Peter
Peter would be a great superhero name for your son, just like Peter Parker. The name means ‘rock’.
77. Philip
Philip is a name that comes from Philippos, and it means ‘horse or friend.’
78. Richard
This name has been popular for a long time. William Shakespeare liked it so much that he included it in many of his plays. The popular baby name means ‘brave or strong’.
79. River
River Phoenix became famous with his role in the movie ‘Stand by Me,’ drawing parents to consider naming their children after him. In this context, the name River means a body of water flowing through the land.
80. Robert
If you want to give Robert a more contemporary feel, you can shorten it to Robbie as a nickname. This popular baby name means ‘bright.’
81. Russell
Russell not only has a gentle voice but also a cute nickname like Russy or Rusty. The name means red hair.
82. Ryan
For many years, the name Ryan has consistently been popular for baby boys. It is of Irish origin and means ‘king’.
83. Samuel
In the 1980s, names that had connections to religion were very trendy. One example is the name Samuel, which means ‘God has listened’.
84. Scott
Are you a mom who loves literature? Consider naming your son Scott, after the author of ‘The Great Gatsby,’ F. Scott Fitzgerald.
85. Sean
This adorable Irish name stands for ‘God is kind and generous’.
86. Shawn
Sean’s spelling variation became popular in the 1980s and it means the meaning ‘God is gracious’.
87. Simon
Simon is a name that is likely to become popular once more. This Hebrew name means the act of listening.
Victorian Era Baby Names
88. Spencer
Spencer is a popular baby name that has a distinct sound. The name means ‘keeper of provisions’ and was popular in the 1980s as both a first and last name.
89. Stephen
The popular baby name Stephan comes from the Greek word ‘stephanos’, which means ‘crown or garland’. You can shorten it to Steve as a nickname.
90. Steven
Steven is a very popular baby name that means ‘crowned’. You can use Steve as a shorter, more casual nickname.
91. Stuart
Stuart is a variation of the traditional English last name Steward, which originally meant ‘guard’.
92. Teddy
Teddy, a nickname for Theodore, was a trendy name in the 1980s. This popular baby name means ‘gift from god’.
93. Thomas
Thomas was a common name for boys in the 1980s and remains popular today. The name Thomas comes from the word meaning ‘twin.’
94. Timothy
If you think ‘Timothy’ sounds too formal, just call him ‘Timmy’ instead. Both names mean ‘honoring God’.
95. Travis
Travis is a strong and good-looking name that originates from the name Travers.
96. Wayne
The name ‘Wayne’ was originally given to a person who drove carts. It is now commonly linked to the fictional character Bruce Wayne, also known as Batman. This popular baby name means ‘wagon.’
97. Westley
Westley, the character from the book ‘Princess Boy’, has a cowboy vibe. The name means ‘western meadow’.
98. William
This name is on the top 50 list and will never go out of style. This popular baby name means ‘will or desire.’
99. Wyatt
The name Wyatt, which means ‘brave in war’, has a cool cowboy vibe because of Wyatt Arp.
100. Zachary
During the 1980s, parents began to understand that the letter ‘z’ was just as trendy as the letter ‘x’. This popular baby name means ‘God remembered’.
Popular Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
101. Alexandra
This name, which means ‘to keep safe,’ is the female form of the name Alexander.
102. Alicia
The popular 80s show is loved by parents today because of Diego’s sister on the spin-off ‘Go, Diego, Go!’. The name means ‘noble’.
103. Alisha
In 1897, the name Alisha was very popular for girls, ranking 118th. The name means ‘protected by God’.
104. Allison
We adore this name because it reminds us of Nicholas Sparks’ ‘The Notebook’. This popular baby name means ‘noble’.
105. Alyssa
This popular baby name in Hebrew means ‘great joy or happiness’, which is how much your daughter means to you.
106. Amanda
This classic and lovely name will always be fashionable. The name Amanda originates from the Latin word meaning ‘beloved.’
107. Amber
The beauty and versatility of amber continue to captivate people around the world. Amber is a very common name for gems. It refers to the stone of amber.
108. Amy
This calm and endearing name, which means ‘beloved,’ brings to mind the character Amy from the novel ‘Little Women.’
109. Anabelle
The popular baby name Anabelle comes from Old French and means ‘lovable’.
110. Andrea
Andrea is a popular baby name among Americans and it means ‘strong’.
111. Angela
Angela may seem old-fashioned compared to Angelina and Angelica, but it has its own unique charm. The name means ‘angel.’
112. Anna
This elegant and straightforward Latin name means ‘grace.’
113. Annie
Anne was considered to be stylish, but Annie was seen as even more fashionable during the 1980s. This popular baby name means grace.
114. Anya
Anya was considered a stylish and trendy name for babies born in the 1980s. The name means ‘grace.’
115. April
The nickname is as refreshing as the season of spring. It symbolizes the act of opening.
116. Atari
If you’re looking for something special for your daughter, think outside the box and choose Atari for her. The name means achievement.
117. Bridget
The lovely Irish name, which means ‘strength’, gives off a feeling of carefree and positive energy.
118. Brittany
The name Brittany is attractive and has a fresh sound, and it means ‘from Britain’.
119. Caitlyn
It is a unique take on the names Catherine and Kathleen. This popular baby name means ‘pure’.
120. Caroline
The popular baby name Caroline is derived from the Scandinavian name Karl which means ‘free man’.
121. Catherine
This popular baby name has royal origins and would be a great fit for your daughter. The name means ‘pure.’
122. Charlotte
This classic piece is essentially the female counterpart of Charles which means ‘free man’.
123. Christina
When Christine transforms into a glamorous celebrity, she adopts the name Christina. This popular baby name means someone who follows Christ.
124. Christine
Christine has a blend of traditional and contemporary vibes. The name is derived from ‘Christian’.
125. Claire
This popular baby name is bright and radiant. It has a feminine sound without being overly girly.
126. Courtney
Courtney was a popular baby name in the 1980s. The name means ‘from the court.’
127. Crystal
This popular baby name, which means ‘shining glass’, is closely associated with the 1980s.
128. Cyndi
A girl named Cyndi Lauper will likely enjoy everything she does because Cyndi means ‘of Cynthus’.
129. Danielle
Danielle is the name for girls that comes from the male name Daniel and it means ‘God is my judge’.
130. Debbie
Is there a more famous figure from the 1980s than Debby Harry? This popular baby name means ‘bee’.
131. Donna
The popular baby name Donna comes from an Italian word that means ‘woman’.
132. Elizabeth
This name from the Bible, which is also associated with kings and queens, has the meaning of ‘god is kind’.
133. Emily
For over two decades, the name Roman has been a trendy choice. This popular baby name means ‘rival’.
134. Emma
This name was popular in the 1980s too. The name Emma means ‘universe’.
135. Erin
Erin is a more modern and friendly name compared to Emily and Emma. This popular baby name means ‘from Ireland.’
136. Gemma
Gemma is a beautiful name for a girl. This name comes from England and means ‘valuable gemstone’.
137. Gertie
Gertie may be a nickname for Gertrude, but it has a unique appeal of its own.
138. Hannah
Hannah is a popular baby name with a gentle and relaxed vibe that also carries a sense of elegance. The name means ‘grace.’
139. Hayley
Choosing a name inspired by nature is always a good choice. For example, the name Hayley means ‘wood meadow’.
140. Hazel
Celebrities really like the name Hazel. Emily Blunt picked this name for her daughter. This popular baby name means a type of tree.
141. Heather
This name brings to mind hairstyles from the 80s that were styled to look like feathers. The name actually means a shrub that produces flowers.
142. Helen
In Greek mythology, Helen was the daughter of Leda and Zeus. Her abduction played a role in causing the Trojan war. The name means ‘shining light’.
143. Holly
In the 1970s, Holly was not very popular but it became a trendy name again in the 1980s as a nature-inspired name. The name means ‘to prick’.’
144. Jaclyn
Jacqueline became very popular in 1988. The name Jaclyn means ‘someone who takes the place of another’.
145. Jamie
In the 80s, Jamie was a popular baby name that was usually only used for girls. The name Jamie means ‘supplanter,’ which is someone who takes the place of another.
146. Jenna
The name Gwenhwyfar, which sounds gentle, is derived from Welsh which means ‘light’.
147. Jennifer
If you have Welsh ancestry in your family, consider honoring it by giving your daughter the name Jennifer, which means ‘white or fair’.
148. Jessica
The name was introduced by William Shakespeare in the play ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and it means ‘God beholds’.
149. Jill
Jill was a popular baby name from 1957 to 1983, consistently ranking in the top 100. The name means ‘youthful.’
150. Joanna
The name Joanna, which has both Greek and English roots, reached the peak of its popularity in 1984. The name means ‘god is gracious’.
151. Joanne
Joanne is a female version of the name John and it conveys the meaning of ‘God is kind and generous.’
152. Jodie
Jodie is a popular baby name that can be used for both boys and girls, but it was more commonly given to girls in the 1980s. The name means ‘praised’.’
153. Julie
The popular baby name Julie, which means ‘youthful’, was the most common name given to babies in the 1980s.
154. Karen
This name is another version of Katherine and it means purity.
155. Kate
A gentle and pleasant name that means ‘clean’.
156. Katherine
The popular baby name Katherine comes from the Greek word katharos. The name means ‘pure’.
157. Kathleen
Kathleen Hanna, the frontwoman of the 80s group Bikini Kill, is associated with this name. The name means ‘pure’.
158. Katie
Katie is a popular baby name which means ‘pure’, has consistently been a popular choice for baby girls’ names.
159. Kayla
The TV show ‘Days of our Lives’ made this name very popular. The name means ‘crown’.
160. Kelly
This name, popular in the 1980s, has a bouncy sound and means ‘war’.
161. Kerry
This popular baby name from Ireland means ‘descendant of Ciar.’
162. Kimberly
Kimberly is a traditional English name that can be abbreviated to Kim and its meaning is ‘meadow’.
163. Kirsty
Kirsty is the Scottish version of the name Kirsten and it means ‘someone who follows Christ’.
164. Kristen
The problem with this name is that it sounds similar to Kirsten, Kristin, and Kirstie. The name means ‘a Christian.’
165. Lacey
This extremely feminine name would be an uncommon choice for a girl in modern times. This name means someone who is from Lassy.
166. Laura
Laura is a name that will always be fashionable because it means ‘laurel tree.’
167. Lauren
This popular baby name is a female variation of Lawrence, and it comes from the meaning ‘from Laurentius.’
168. Leanne
Leanne is a name that is recognized but not very popular. The name means ‘sun’.
169. Lindsey
This lively and popular baby name means ‘linden trees next to the water’.
170. Lisa
During the 1980s, Lisa was a popular nickname for the name Elizabeth. The name Lisa symbolizes a declaration that God is revered and trusted.
171. Louise
Louise is the female version of the name Louis and it means a person who is well-known for their fighting abilities.
172. Lucy
Lucy is a popular and charming nickname for Lucinda. The name means ‘light’.
173. Lydia
Lydia Lunch is credited with popularizing this name in the 1980s. The name Lydia actually means ‘woman from Lydia’.
174. Maria
Maria, which means ‘bitter’, was a popular baby name in 1980 and continues to be well-liked.
175. Marissa
Marissa was somewhat popular in the 1980s, but has since decreased in popularity significantly. The name means ‘little Mary’.
176. Mary
Mary is a simple and popular baby name. The name means ‘bitter’.
177. Mega
In the 1980s, this name was ranked as the 14th most popular, but it later fell to the 308th spot. The name means ‘pearl.’
178. Melissa
The name Melissa is sweet and gentle, and it means ‘honey bee.’
179. Michelle
In the 80s, the name Michelle was very popular baby name. The name means ‘who is like God’.
180. Molly
The name Molly, which means ‘bitter’, is still popular with parents today because it has a friendly and approachable image.
181. Monica
This holy name makes us think of the TV show, ‘FRIENDS’. The name means ‘advisor’.
182. Natalie
If you are expecting a baby around Christmas, the name Natalie, which means ‘the lord’s birthday’, would be an ideal choice.
183. Natasha
Natasha is a Russian name that would be a great choice for a baby born during the Christmas season as it means ‘Lord’s birthday’.
184. Nicola
The popular baby name Nicola is the female form of the name Nicholas and it means ‘people’.
185. Nicole
This beautiful and graceful Latin name means ‘victorious people’.
186. Rachel
From the 1980s to the 2000s, the name Rachel was very popular. The name means ‘ewe’.
187. Rebecca
This very feminine name comes from Hebrew and it means ‘captivating’.
188. Samantha
Samantha is the girl version of the name Samuel and it means ‘God has listened’.
189. Sarah
Sarah, a name meaning ‘princess’, is still popular today, even though it is often associated with the 1980s.
190. Shannon
Shannon is a popular baby name that sounds healthy and sporty, and it means ‘small clever owl’.
191. Sloane
This name, which means ‘fighter’, is elegantly simple and sounds powerful.
192. Sophie
This version of the name Sophia has stayed well-liked for many years. This popular baby name means intelligence.
193. Stacey
The name Stacey is of Greek origin and means ‘abundant grapes.’
194. Stephanie
Stephanie was considered a popular name in the 80s. The name means ‘crowned in victory.’
195. Tara
Tara Reid, an American actress, made this name famous. The name means ‘rocky hill.’
196. Tiffany
Originally, the name Tiffany was given to girls born on the Feast of the Epiphany because it symbolized the manifestation of divinity.
197. Vanessa
This Greek name, which means ‘butterfly’, exudes a feeling of allure.
198. Veronica
Veronica was considered a really cool name in the 1980s.
199. Victoria
This sophisticated name would be perfect for your young daughter. The name means ‘to overcome’.
200. Zoe
This common Greek name from the 1980s means ‘life.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Deciding on a name for your baby is a personal decision. Some parents like trendy names, while others prefer traditional ones. That’s why we put together a list of names from the 1980s for parents who want to remember the past with their children’s names. The list has classic names like Andrew, David, April, and Christina. Make a list of your favorites and pick a name that is special and shows your baby’s personality.
