Many parents are inspired to name their little one after a beloved, dearly departed family member or meaningful place, and in those cases, have their baby name all picked out and ready to go before their kiddo arrives. Some waver and debate, considering several names that strike them as a fit. Others struggle to pinpoint the perfect moniker altogether and actually wait until their baby arrives to land on a name, feeling like meeting their child will lead them in the right direction. But no matter how a couple might be going about the naming process, the time of year they welcome their baby might have a say in the matter.
After all, paying tribute to the season in which a baby is born is a time-honored tradition. Some parents may go for a straightforward tribute, opting for a name like Summer or Autumn, while others are inspired by the calendar.
Turns out, the names of several months on the calendar happen to make pretty beautiful, charming baby names. Unsurprisingly, research published in a Slate article found that half of babies named June were born in, well, June. And babies named May … yep, born in May. July is also a go-to, as are variations on all of these names, like Julian, Jules, Maya, etc.
Still, the season during which a baby is born can provide inspiration that's a bit more poetic. And summertime may very well be the best example of this. Inspired by the long, sunny days and bright, early mornings to seasonal flowers and seascapes best enjoyed in the blazing heat, there are tons of summery baby name options. Here, 20 that parents are loving.
Pearl
This classic baby girl name brings to mind the gem found in certain oysters, of course, but also days spent beachside.
Solana
Solana, which means "sunshine" in Spanish, could be a beautifully bright choice for a baby girl.
Aidan
Another one that pays tribute to that flaming star in the sky that warms our skin in the summer months: Aidan, a boys name that is the Anglicized form of the Irish Aodhan, meaning little fiery one.
Iris
The name of the beautiful purple flower, which blooms all summer long, makes a lovely name for a girl. Fun fact, according to Baby Name Wizard: "In England, Iris is one of the flower names and is derived from the genus Iris. Elsewhere in Europe, it is generally taken from Iris, the mythological Greek goddess of the rainbow."
Kyra
Derived from the Persian khur, meaning "the sun," Kyra also has two other meanings: "throne" and, in Greek, "lord."
Julian
Julian is the name of John Lennon's first son, is of Latin origin, and means "youthful, downy." But it may also be used as a way to nod to a baby boy being born in the month of July. Currently, Julian is ranked number 36 on Nameberry's popularity charts.
Cain
The Welsh meaning of this baby boy name is "clear water," so it's perfect for a little one born by the ocean, lake, or just to parents who love the waves.
Cyrus
Another name, of Persian origin, that pays tribute to the king of summer: the sun.
Leo
Sure, the most famous Leo may be DiCaprio, but it's also the name of the sun sign that you would identify with if you were born between July 23-August 22. Leo is represented by the brave, loyal lion. And the meaning of the name, which has German origins, is also lion.
Dayton
This name for girls or boys means "bright and sunny town," which could be perfect for a baby born on vacation.
Alexandria
The birthstone of June is alexandrite, which makes Alexandria a sweet choice for a little girl born in the first month of summer.
August
Not only is it a month your baby may be due during … but it's a name that works for girls or boys and means "great, magnificent."
Chasca
An Incan name meaning goddess of the dawn, Chasca could be a fitting option for a baby born in the bright, early hours of a summer day.
Dahlia
A summer blooming perennial, Dahlia is also a stunning, elegant name for a little girl born in the warmest months.
Lena
Of English origin, Lena means "bright one." The baby girl name is rising in popularity and currently ranks at #304 on Nameberry.
Lucas
This super-popular boy name, which currently ranks at #11 on Nameberry, means "light" in Greek.
Plum
This stonefruit is abundant in early summer and also a sweet, unique girls name.
Ruby
The name of this vibrant precious stone, the birthstone for babies born in July, also happens to come in at #79 on Nameberry's rankings.
Skye
This unisex name calls to mind big, open, bright or star-speckled views above the earth.
Somerset
This baby boy name of English origin means "from the summer settlers." So charming!
Pin It!
Save these unique baby names inspired by summer to your Pinterest boards as an idea for your little one.