Numerous well-known celebrities use trendy last names as their first names.
In Western culture, and in many other cultures, it is common to have a name that starts with the first name before the middle and last names. Typically, the last name is the family name. Nevertheless, a lot of people nowadays are using last names as first names. Using a last name as a first name can be seen as trendy or stylish. For instance, the name ‘Dylan’ taken from Bob Dylan is a popular choice for a first name nowadays.
In the United States, it is more popular to use last names as first names than in European countries. This is because many successful individuals are famous for their last names. As a result, when fans want to name their babies after these celebrities, they often use the last name as the first name. It is not uncommon to use last names as first names, and this trend is not new. Over the years, many last names have been used as first names, and vice versa. Many given names have also been turned into family names.
In this article, we have put together a list of common surnames that can also work as first names. Keep reading to discover the perfect name for your baby.
Last Names As First Names For Boys With Meanings
1. Adler
This last name of German origin, which means ‘eagle’, is very popular as a first name. One notable person with this surname is David Abraham Adler, the well-known American author of the ‘Cam Jansen’ book series.
2. Anderson
According to the data, Anderson is now more commonly used as a first name rather than a last name. It could be a unique and interesting variation of the popular name Andrew. This name means ‘son of Andrew.’
3. Beckett
It’s modern and stylish name even now. Plus, it’s connected to Samuel Beckett, the famous Irish writer. The popularity of the name Beckett has been increasing since 1998 and it currently ranks 244th on the Social Security Administration list.
4. Brady
The Irish last name started being used as a first name for boys in 1969 when ‘The Brady Bunch’ TV show was released.
5. Carson
Carson, a name of Scottish origin, which means ‘son of marsh dwellers’, was originally a surname but is now commonly used as a first name. Although Carson can be used for both boys and girls, it is currently more popular for boys.
6. Carter
This calm and pleasant name, which means ‘cart driver’, would be a great choice for your son. It became very popular last year, surpassing many other fancy last names.
7. Channing
Because of the influence of a Hollywood actor named Channing, the British surname meaning ‘young wolf’ has become popular and is now ranked in the top 1000 baby names. Another potential first name option is the Asian surname Chan, which is also attractive.
8. Cohen
The Jewish surname ‘Cohen’ means ‘priest’ and has a pleasant sound. It became popular as a first name in the 2000s because of the character Seth Cohen on the TV show ‘The O.C.’, who was referred to by his last name.
9. Coleman
In our opinion, Coleman is a great alternative to the popular name Cole. This name was popular in the 1960s and 1970s, but has remained consistently chosen over the years. Now is a good time to consider naming your son Coleman, which means ‘son of Nicholas’.
10. Cooper
Out of all the last names that have become first names, Cooper is one of the most popular. This fun and friendly name, which means ‘barrel maker’, is currently ranked 77th.
11. Copeland
Copeland is a special last name that has been used as a first name. It comes from Old Norse and literally means ‘land that was purchased’.
12. Davis
This popular last name becomes more special when used as a first name. People are starting to use it as a replacement for David because it means ‘beloved’.
13. Dixon
The Scottish surname Dixon means ‘son of Dick’ and has a strong, tough image, which we find appealing. It’s a unique way to pay tribute to a relative named Dick or Richard. The ‘x’ in Dixon makes the name more vibrant compared to the standard spelling of Dickson.
14. Duncan
Unfortunately, Duncan is not as popular now as it was in the past. It is confident, lively, has a Scottish vibe, and is full of charm. The name Duncan means ‘dark warrior’.
15. Easton
In recent years, directional names have become popular, largely due to the influence of Kim Kardashian. Easton is a great choice for a boy’s name, as it means ‘east facing place’ and sounds more fitting for boys than girls.
16. Finley
The Scottish last name Finley, which means ‘fair-haired hero,’ has a fun and lighthearted vibe, which makes it a great choice for a first name. You can also go with the trendy and popular nickname Fin if you prefer.
17. Gibbs
Many people may not agree, but we think Gibbs is a really cool first name. One famous person with this name is Cory Gibbs, who is a football player. This name means ‘son of Gibb’.
18. Griffin
The Celtic last name Griffin, which means ‘strong lord’, is also associated with a mythical creature that is part lion and part eagle, adding to its intrigue. This name has been increasing in popularity since 1983.
19. Hendrix
Any child would be thrilled to have the same name as the famous guitar player Jimi Hendrix. The name Hendrix is a more modern and cooler version of the name Hendrik. This name means ‘estate ruler’.
20. Hutton
The surname is popular in Scotland and northern England, and it means ‘enclosure’ or ‘settlement’. Many actors and models have this last name. We also believe it would make a great first name.
21. Jennings
Jennings might seem strange to some people, but it could be a good choice for parents who like the name John but want something different. This name means ‘Little John’.
22. Jones
Jones is often compared to the popular baby boy name John, but it has more impact. Despite common belief, Jones is actually linked to Jonah, not John, and means ‘dove’.
23. Lennon
If you really love the Beatles, you might consider naming your baby after one of the band members. Lennon is an Irish last name that means ‘small cloak or cape’.
24. Lennox
Names with the letter ‘x’ at the end are gaining popularity because they are seen as cool. This is why the Scottish last name Lennox is appealing. Lennox Claudius Lewis made the name Lennox more well-known as a first name. This name means ‘elm grove’.
25. Lincoln
The name Lincoln can be used for both boys and girls, but it is more commonly associated with boys. The name Lincoln has a meaning of ‘town by the pool.’
26. Marshall
This English last name has no connection to war or the military. It actually comes from the Norman French term for ‘a person who takes care of horses.’
27. Mason
Mason is a popular baby name that originated from an occupational surname. Its rise in popularity is credited to American pop culture from the 1960s and 1970s. It remains a top choice, currently ranking third. The name Mason means ‘stone maker’.
28. Miller
This name is commonly used as a first name and is easily recognizable. It is a trendy English occupational surname that ranks 7th in popularity in the United States. The name means ‘someone who grinds grain’.
29. Nash
Steve Nash, the basketball star, has a last name that could be a good choice for parents who want a short, strong name for their baby boy. This name means ‘by the ash tree.’
30. Parker
Parker is a surname that can easily be used as a first name because it has a casual and youthful charm. It is also linked to the popular superhero Spiderman, making it appealing to children. The name Parker originally means someone who takes care of a park.
31. Penn
This classic and stylish last name in English, which means ‘enclosure’, will interest a wide range of people, including history enthusiasts, writers, and photographers. It is also shared by some famous individuals like Penn Badgley and Penn Jillette.
32. Sawyer
The name Sawyer, originally used as a last name for people who cut wood, can also be a good choice as a first name. It is thought of as a name that can be used for both boys and girls, but it is more commonly used for boys. Currently, it is the 110th most popular name for baby boys in the United States.
33. Shaw
Try choosing the name Shaw instead of Shawn if you want something unique. Shaw is an English last name that means ‘someone who lives near a forest’. It is not a common name, but rather one that is memorable and stands out.
34. Smith
Smith is a popular American last name, but it can also be a unique and stylish choice as a first name for your child. This elegant surname has the meaning of ‘blacksmith’ in English.
35. Stone
This surname can be used for people who like the color gray and want something unique. Stone Philips, a well-known TV news anchor, has this last name which is also a reference to a color.
36. Sullivan
The tough Irish last name Sullivan became famous from the movie ‘Sullivan’s Travel’. Many well-known people have had this name, like Sir Arthur Sullivan and Annie Sullivan. You can also go by the cute nickname Sulli. Is there anything more charming than that?
37. Thompson
If you’re unsure how to incorporate the name Tom into your son’s name, you can choose Thompson, which means ‘son of Tom’.
38. Walker
Chuck Norris being linked to this name makes it way cooler. This isn’t the first time ‘Walker’ has been used as a first name. It was very popular at the beginning of the 20th century, reaching the 296th spot in popularity.
39. Wiley
Parents looking for a modern alternative to the common name William may consider naming their child Wiley. The ending with ‘y’ gives it a more boyish feel compared to the traditional and serious image of William. The name Wiley means ‘resolute protector.’
40. Wilson
Wilson has become more popular than its variation William. Additionally, it has the friendly nickname Will. This name means ‘son of William.’
Last Names As First Names For Girls With Meanings
41. Adair
This stunning but little-known English and Scottish last name is very stylish. It was introduced as a name for baby girls in the 1980s on the soap opera ‘Search for Tomorrow’. Adair has a meaning of ‘shallow area in a river near oak trees’.
42. Addison
This last name originally meant ‘son of Adam’, but now Addison is commonly used as a first name for girls. You can use the cute nickname Addy for short.
43. Arden
Arden, an English last name that means ‘valley of the eagle’, is predicted to become popular as a first name due to its strong and simple connotation.
44. Ashley
This surname has been around for a long time and originally meant ‘someone who lives near a meadow of ash trees’. It was first used as a boy’s name but eventually became more popular for girls, partly due to the influence of Laura Ashley.
45. Avery
The last name Avery, which means ‘leader of elves’, has been in use for a long time for both males and females, but its popularity has been increasing rapidly specifically for women.
46. Bailey
Bailey is an occupational surname that means ‘bailiff’ or ‘law enforcer’. It was first used for a female character in 1974 on the show ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’. It’s also popular among celebrities, with Scot Baio and Stella Mc Cartney choosing it for their children.
47. Bardot
The glamorous French film star Brigitte Bardot’s last name, Bardot, could be a cute and charming choice for your daughter. However, some parents may find the meaning of this name, ‘hinny’, to be unsettling.
48. Bellamy
Bellamy, which means ‘fine friends’, is becoming a popular first name for girls, likely because of the trend of names that start with Bella.
49. Blaine
The Irish last name Blaine, which means ‘slender’, sounds similar to the name Blaire. We think it will become more popular in the future.
50. Cameron
Cameron Diaz was responsible for popularizing this elegant Scottish surname as a girl’s name. Since then, it hasn’t become popular as a boy’s name. This name means ‘crooked nose.’
51. Campbell
In recent years, the Scottish surname Campbell, which originally meant ‘crooked mouth’, has become more popular for females. Women like actress Campbell Rose and news reporter Campbell Brown have helped give this unisex name a sense of authority and intelligence.
52. Cassidy
Kathie Lee Gifford, a trendsetter, was one of the first well-known people to name her son Cassidy. Many parents then started choosing the name Cassidy for their children. This name originated from Ireland and means ‘curly haired.’
53. Delaney
When searching for unique last names to use as first names, Delaney is a distinctive choice. This Irish surname means ‘dark challenger’ and has a feminine and cheerful vibe.
54. Ellis
Ellis is a well-known last name in Wales often used for boys, but we think it would suit girls well too, especially if moms want a name that isn’t overly feminine. It was also used as the name of Dr. Meredith Grey’s mother in the show ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. The name Ellis means ‘kind’ or ‘helpful’.
55. Emerson
Emerson is a name that can be used for both boys and girls, but we decided to use it for girls because it is a unique choice compared to the very popular names Emily and Emma. This last name of German origin means ‘son of Emery’ and has cute nicknames like Emery and Em.
56. Everly
Mixing together a little bit of Eva, a touch of Emily, and a bit of Beverly results in the English last name Everly. Everly means ‘Ever’s meadow’ and has a traditional and enduring charm to it.
57. Garcia
This Spanish surname means ‘bear’ and can also be used as a first name for a girl. It’s unique, trendy, and has a feminine ending with ‘ia’.
58. Harlow
The English last name Harlow, which means ‘army’, is always linked with the glamorous queen of the 1930s, Jean Harlow. It seems like Joel Madden, Patricia Arquette, and Nicole Richie had this in mind when naming their daughters. This name means ‘army’.
59. Harper
It seems like a common trend to give girls names that are typically used as last names for boys. The name Harper means ‘harp player.’
60. Hepburn
We fell in love with this last name when we heard it on Audrey Hepburn. If you’re also a fan of this name, giving it to your daughter would be a great choice. The name means ‘high’.
61. Kennedy
The last name Kennedy, which means ‘misshapen head’, has remained popular and timeless. This Irish name is most commonly known for the late President John F. Kennedy but is now the 54th most popular name for girls.
62. Kim
Kim Novak made the name Kim popular in the 1960s, and now it is still used by rapper Lil Kim. The name Kim means ‘bold family’ and is simple yet strong.
63. Langley
Langley is a popular last name in English, but not often used as a first name. It gained more attention as a first name when actress Mariel Hemingway chose it for her daughter. This name means ‘long meadow.’
64. Luna
Luna is a popular surname rather than a first name, despite its strong and shimmering sound. The name Luna means ‘moon.’
65. Madigan
This name is popular because it is unique and a nice alternative to Madison. It is also linked to Elvira Madigan, a famous Danish tightrope walker featured in a Swedish movie. The name means ‘little dog’.
66. Marley
Marley is a good choice if you want something that is recognizable but not too unique. Its meaning is also really nice – it refers to a pretty meadow by the sea.
67. McKenna
McKenna, also spelled Mackena, is a surname originating from Ireland and Scotland. It means ‘child of the handsome one’. The prefix ‘Mc’ typically means ‘son of’, but interestingly, McKenna has traditionally only been used for females. An added bonus is the nickname ‘Mac’.
68. Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is often associated with the name Monroe, but it was actually Mariah Carey who brought attention to it by naming her daughter Monroe. This name is considered feminine and has a distinct sound. Currently, Monroe is ranked 787th on the list of popular baby girl names. The meaning of Monroe is ‘mouth of the Roe river.’
69. Quinn
Quinn is an Irish-sounding name that is considered a smart choice. It became popular for girls in the 1990s when it was featured in the TV show ‘Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.’ This name means ‘wise’.
70. Riley
This cheerful and welcoming Irish last name/first name, which means ‘brave’, is very trendy for girls, in all its different spellings. It is also used for boys.
71. Rose
Yes, Rose is a common name for baby girls, being used as both a first and last name. The popularity of Rose as a first name peaked from 1896 to 1921. However, Rose has been used as a surname for many centuries.
72. Rowan
Parents who love nature will find Rowan to be attractive, as the name is inspired by the Rowan tree. The name Rowan means ‘little redhead’ in Gaelic and originally comes from an Irish surname. Its popularity increased when Brooke Shields chose this name for her daughter.
73. Sutton
An English surname deriving from a place name meaning ‘southern settlement’ in Old English. This fancy English last name, which means ‘from the southern homestead’, is the top choice as a first name for baby girls. Sutton Foster, the award-winning actress, is a famous person with this surname.
74. Taylor
Taylor Swift has popularized the use of this English surname as a first name, particularly for girls. It was a common name in the 20th century, giving it a nostalgic 90s vibe. If you’re looking for a cool nickname, you can go with the trendy ‘Tay.’
75. Peyton
Thanks to former football player Peyton Manning, the name Peyton has become popular as a first name. The name is now more commonly used for girls and originally means ‘royal or farm of Paega.
76. West
This last name that indicates a direction, was recently picked by Tea Leoni for her daughter. It’s simple but romantic. As directional names become more popular, hearing this name won’t even surprise people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Using surnames as first names may not be traditional, but it is becoming more popular. If you are interested in trying out this trend, this list of last names that can be used as first names will be helpful. We have included names that work well for both boys and girls and will result in a distinctive name. Examples include Marley, Walker, and Miller among others. Take a look through the list and pick the one that you believe will make a unique first name for your child.
