Animal-Inspired Baby Names

Ariel

Birdie

Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked

The vintage charm of Birdie makes it sound like it could be your great-grandmother's name, but it doesn't sound dated today. And it will seem like a fitting choice when your own little Birdie is squawking from her crib. Brush up on the "Bye Bye Birdie" soundtrack now.

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Cat

Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked

It's often used as a nickname for names such as Catherine and Cathleen, but feline lovers can use this short and sweet name all on its own. Be warned, though: your little Cat could grow up to be a dog person.

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Dove

Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked

As a symbol of peace, the dove makes a lovely namesake for your little girl. It even has a serene sound as a name, thanks perhaps to its similarity to the word "love." And Dovey makes a pretty cute nickname in our opinion.

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Fox

Popularity rank in the U.S.: Not ranked

Take a cue from the "X-Files" with the name Fox; it's the first name of the endlessly optimistic Mulder. Pop culture aside, Fox could be the name for you. It's short and simple, and a little trendy but not out-there wacky.

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Leo

Popularity rank in the U.S.: #97

Meaning: Lion

It's equal parts boyishly cute and masculinely solid, and the name Leo has serious cred for animal lovers. It's the Latin word for lion and who doesn't swoon over the ultimate Leo: Leonardo DiCaprio? Trust us, your own little Leo will be the king of the jungle (gym).

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Phillip

Popularity rank in the U.S.: #389

Meaning: Friend of horses

Famous horses have stellar names like War Admiral and Seabiscuit. Those titles don't work quite as well for humans, so show your equestrian devotion by picking the name Philip. In Greek, it means "friend of horses."

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