Sometimes a common baby name just won't do, and you want something a little different and unique; something lighthearted and carefree to match their spirit. After living through a global pandemic, parents are now seeking out positive baby names.
"Parents are attracted to these positive meanings right now, reflecting the optimism a new baby brings to your life, even when times are dark," Pamela Redmond, founder of the baby-naming website Nameberry, told The New York Times.
More from Mom.com: 10 Music-Inspired Baby Names
Whimsical girl names that are also types of birds
Baby names meaning "playful"
These fun and lively names might be the perfect fit for your bouncing, bountiful, bundle of joy.
8. Jocosa
If you're looking for a truly unique name, Jocosa, derived from Medieval English, means "merry" or "playful." Shortened to Jo it's a cute and fitting name for a playful spirit.
9. Nandita
From the Indian word for "joy," Nandita is a beautiful-sounding girls name with just the right amount of whimsy. The name is most commonly given to babies born in the UK and United States.
10. Jett
Meaning "fast-paced" or "full of wit," the name Jett is a solid boys name that has been quite popular in the U.S. in recent years. In 2022 it was the 210th most popular name given to boys according to the SSA.
There are two schools of thought when it comes to naming a baby; those who believe the most unique names will set their child apart, and others who feel that a name that stands the test of time is the most important. When it comes to the latter, parenting educator Michael Grose has very strong opinions. According to Grose, parents should not choose a "distinctive" baby name.
“I call it the boardroom test, imagine your kid walking into an important meeting and introducing themselves, then picture the reaction of others,” Grose told The New York Post.
Judgemental opinions aside, if you're preferences lean toward unique and distinctive, a playful and whimsical baby name might be a good fit. After all, how many of us are really hanging out in boardrooms anymore?
