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The common naming convention in the Western culture, and many other cultures, is the first name followed by the middle and last names. Here, the last name is usually the family name. However, over time, many people have adopted last names as first names. Having a last name as a first name sounds quite cool in many cases. For example, “Dylan” from Bob Dylan as a first name is a popular option now.
The use of last names as first names is more common in the US compared to European countries. This is because many highly successful people are often known and recognized by their last names. Hence, when their fans and admirers decide to name their babies after the star, the last name ends up as the first name.
Though it’s common to see last names used as first names, it’s not a new trend. Throughout history, many last names have been adopted as first names. In fact, many given names have also been taken up as family names.
In this post, we have listed some popular last names that can be used as first names. Read on to find the best name for your little one.
Cultural Significance Of Last Names As First Names
Using last names as first names has gained cultural significance, reflecting a blend of tradition and modernity. Historically, last names often carried family heritage, professions, or geographic origins, and using them as first names symbolize a connection to ancestry. This trend has grown popular in various cultures, especially in Western societies, where it signifies individuality and uniqueness. The practice challenges traditional naming conventions, showcasing the fluidity of cultural norms. As people become more open to diverse forms of self-expression, this shift highlights a broader acceptance of unconventional names and a blending of identity and legacy.
Cool Last Names As First Names For Boys
1. Adler
This German surname, meaning ‘eagle’ is high up on the list of surnames used as first names. One of the most significant bearers of this name is David Abraham Adler, the American author famous for his “Cam Jansen” series.
2. Anderson
If we go by the records, Anderson is now used more as a first name than the surname. And we feel it would be an excellent twist on regular, and even slightly common name Andrew. Anderson means ‘son of Andrew’.
3. Beckett
We love the sound of this surname. It’s is fresh, modern, and sounds stylish even today. Besides, it’s also associated with Samuel Beckett, the Irish playwright. Beckett, meaning ‘stream’, has been steadily climbing the charts since the year 1998 and is currently on the 244th position of Social Security Administration list.
4. Brady
It’s no coincidence that this Irish surname became popular as a first name for boys in 1969, with the release of the television show “The Brady Bunch”.
5. Carson
Carson, a Scottish name, meaning ‘son of marsh dwellers’, began as a surname, but is now more popular as a given name. While Carson is an androgynous name, it hasn’t caught on with girls yet.
6. Carter
This mellow sounding name, meaning ‘cart driver’, will make a winning first name for your son. This name broke into the top 25 list last year, leaving several other upscale surnames behind.
7. Channing
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Thanks to the Hollywood actor, British surname Channing, meaning ‘young wolf’, has now entered the top 1000 baby name list. Asian surname Chan is also an appealing option to use as a first name.
8. Cohen
This short and sweet Jewish surname, meaning ‘priest’, has a gentle sound and will grow well with your child. Cohen as a first name gained popularity in the 2000s, all thanks to Seth Cohen in “The O.C.”, who was called by his last name.
9. Coleman
Coleman, we feel, is an excellent twist on the commonly used name Cole. This moniker was one of the top 1000 names from the 1960s and 1970s but has been a mainstay even since. So it’s the right time to pick this name for your son. Coleman means ‘son of Nicholas’.
10. Cooper
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that out of all the last names crossed over to become given names, Cooper is one of the most attractive. This friendly and playful name, meaning ‘barrel maker’, is currently in the 77th spot.
11. Copeland
This has to be a unique surnames turned first names on the list. Copeland is an Old Norse surname and means ‘bought land’.
12. Davis
This common surname sounds way more unique when used as a first name. In fact, it’s beginning to be used as an alternative to David. Davis means ‘beloved’.
13. Dixon
Scottish surname Dixon, meaning ‘son of Dick’, has a tough guy vibe to it, which we really like. It’s also an innovative way to honor your uncle or ancestor named Dick or Richard. And the ‘x’ form is a lot livelier than the traditional spelling Dickson.
14. Duncan
It’s a shame that Duncan is not used as much as it was now a few decades ago. It’s confident, jaunty, has a Scottish appeal, and brims with folksy charm. Duncan means ‘dark warrior’.
Did you know?15. Easton
With directional names taken off in the recent years (all thanks to Kim Kardashian), Easton would make a lovely name option for your son. Meaning ‘east facing place’, Easton is a unisex name but sounds better on boys than girls.
16. Finley
Scottish surname Finley, meaning ‘fair-haired hero’, has a playfulness to it, which makes it an excellent candidate to be used as a first name. You also get the option of shortening it to the ever popular and hip name Fin.
17. Gibbs
Not many may agree, but we find Gibbs incredibly cool as a first name. One of the notable bearers of this name is Cory Gibbs, the football player. Gibbs means ‘son of Gibb’.
18. Griffin
This Celtic surname Griffin, meaning ‘strong lord’, is also the name of a mythological creature, which is a half lion and half eagle, making the moniker even more mysterious and attractive. And it has been climbing the charts since the year 1983.
19. Hendrix
Which kid wouldn’t want to share his name with the guitar legend Jimi Hendrix? Hendrix is basically a version of Hendrik but sounds way cooler than the former. Hendrix means ‘estate ruler’.
20. Hutton
This attractive Scottish and northern English surname, meaning ‘enclosure’ or ‘settlement’, is the last name of multiple actors and model. And we feel it will make an excellent first name as well.
21. Jennings
Jennings may sound a bit too odd to some of our readers, but it could be a potential name for parents who like the name John, but want something more unique. Jennings means ‘Little John’.
22. Jones
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We agree that Jones reminds us of one of the most common baby boy names John, but it packs a lot more punch than the former. And contrary to what most people think, Jones is not a version of John, but Jonah, which means ‘dove’.
23. Lennon
If you’re an ardent fan of the Beatles, using the last name of one of the band members would be a nice baby name choice. Lennon is an Irish surname, meaning ‘small cloak or cape’.
24. Lennox
Names ending with ‘x’ are becoming increasingly popular for their cool factor, which is what gives the Scottish surname Lennox its appeal. Lennox Claudius Lewis brought Lennox in the spotlight as a first name. Lennox means ‘elm grove’.
25. Lincoln
You can never go wrong with the last name of one of the most beloved American presidents as the first name for your son. Lincoln is a unisex name but would sound better on a baby boy than a girl. Lincoln means ‘town by the pool’.
26. Marshall
This English occupational surname has nothing to do with martial or military. Instead, it stems from Norman French name for ‘someone caring for horses’.
27. Mason
Mason, another occupational surname turned baby name, owes its popularity to 60s and 70s American pop culture. Even today, it sits high at the third spot. Mason means ‘stone maker’.
28. Miller
This is one of the most obvious last names as a first name option. This stylish English occupational name is currently the 7th most common surname in America. Miller means ‘grinder of grain’.
29. Nash
The last name of Steve Nash, the basketball star, would be a great pick for parents looking for a strong, one syllable name for their baby boy. This English surname means ‘by the ash tree’.
30. Parker
Parker is also one of those of those surnames that can easily transition into a given name because of its boyish and easygoing charm. Besides, it’s also associated with children’s favorite superhero, Spiderman. Parker means ‘park keeper’.
31. Penn
This simple and elegant English surname, meaning ‘enclosure’, will appeal to everyone, from history buffs to writers and photographers. And it has some notable bearers as well, such as Penn Badgley and Penn Jillette.
32. Sawyer
The Sawyer, originating as a surname for the ‘woodcutters’, is also a good option for a first name. The moniker is considered unisex but is still used more for boys. It’s currently on the 110th spot of the most popular baby boy names in the US.
33. Shaw
If you want something distinctive than Shawn, try Shaw, an English surname meaning ‘dweller by the wood’. It doesn’t sound like an ordinary, run-of-the-mill name, but a memorable and distinctive one.
34. Smith
Smith, one of the most common American last names, will look and sound fresh when used as a first name for your little one. This sophisticated English surname means ‘blacksmith’.
35. Stone
This last name, referring to both object and color, would make an excellent option for people who love gray in both names or color, but want something uncommon. Its famous bearer is Stone Philips, the TV newsman.
36. Sullivan
Sullivan, the macho Irish surname, was immortalized in the classic film “Sullivan’s Travel”. There are countless of distinguished bearers of this name as well, such as Sir Arthur Sullivan and Annie Sullivan. And you get the nickname option of Sulli. Could it get any more adorable than this?
37. Thompson
If you’re still trying to figure out how to use your family name Tom for your son, you can safely go for Thompson. The meaning of Thompson is ‘son of Tom’.
Did you know?38. Walker
The association of Chuck Norris with this name increases its style quotient manifolds. And it’s not the first time Walker is being used as a first name. It was extremely popular as a first name at the turn of the 20th century, reaching the 296th spot.
39. Wiley
Wiley is a modern naming option for parents who want an alternative to the ever popular William. The ‘y’ ending makes it look rather boyish, as opposed to the intense and serious image of William. Wiley means ‘resolute protector’.
40. Wilson
Here’s another potential last name as first name option. Wilson apparently, has been growing in popularity than its variation William. It also has an advantage of friendly nickname Will. Wilson means ‘son of William’.
Cool Last Names As First Names For Girls
41. Adair
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This beautiful, yet undiscovered English and Scottish surname has loads of flair. It was first used as a baby girl name in the 1980s in the drama “Search for Tomorrow”. Adair means ‘shallow place in a river near oaks’.
42. Addison
Although this surname means ‘son of Adam’, Addison is now used as a first name for girls. For the nickname, you can go with the cutesy and adorable Addy.
43. Arden
Arden, the English surname, meaning ‘valley of the eagle’, is expected to join the first name list with its robust and straightforward image.
44. Ashley
This long-established surname, meaning ‘dweller near the ash tree meadow’, began as a boy’s name, but soon fell to the girl’s territory, partially because of Laura Ashley.
45. Avery
The English surname Avery, meaning ‘ruler of elves’, has been around for decades for both the genders, but has been rising meteorically for females.
46. Bailey
Bailey, the occupational surname meaning ‘bailiff’ or ‘law enforcer’, was used for the first time for a female character in the year 1974 in the show “WKRP in Cincinnati”. And it’s a favorite amongst celebrities as well, with Scot Baio and Stella Mc Cartney picking it for their children.
47. Bardot
Bardot, the last name of the glamorous French film star Brigitte Bardot, would make an adorable name for your cute, little girl. But the meaning of this name, ‘hinny’, could be disturbing to a few parents.
48. Bellamy
Bellamy, meaning ‘fine friends’, is emerging as a first name for girls, probably because of the Bella series of names.
49. Blaine
This Irish surname Blaine, meaning ‘slender’, sounds like a cousin of Blaire. And we feel it will rise through the ranks in the coming years.
50. Cameron
Cameron Diaz single-handedly moved this elegant Scottish surname to the girl’s shore. And since then, this moniker never caught up with boys. Cameron means ‘crooked nose’.
51. Campbell
Campbell, the Scottish surname, meaning ‘crooked mouth’, has officially drifted to the female side now. Campbell Rose, the actress and Campbell Brown, the news reporter give a sense of authority and intelligence to this unisex moniker.
52. Cassidy
Kathie Lee Gifford, the tastemaker, was one of the first famous figures to use Cassidy as a first name for her son. And this was followed by thousands of little Cassidys. This Irish name means ‘curly haired’.
53. Delaney
Delaney is an offbeat option when you look for surnames as first names. This Irish surname, meaning ‘dark challenger’, has a feminine feel to it along with buoyant enthusiasm.
54. Ellis
Ellis is a popular Welsh surname used commonly for boys, but we believe it will sound better on girls, especially if mommies are looking for a name that’s not too feminine sounding. It has also featured in “Grey Anatomy” as the name of Dr. Meredith Grey’s mother. Ellis means ‘benevolent’.
55. Emerson
Emerson is basically a unisex name, but we’ve picked it for girls as it’s a pretty alternative to the super-popular and common names Emily and Emma. This German surname, meaning ‘son of Emery’, comes with adorable nicknames such as Emery and Em.
56. Everly
What do you get by mixing a dash of Eva, a pinch of Emily, and a spoonful of Beverly? The English surname Everly. Meaning ‘Ever’s meadow’, Everly sounds classic and has a timeless appeal to it.
57. Garcia
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This Spanish last name, meaning ‘bear‘, will also double up as a girl’s first name. It’s funky, cool, and has the perfect ‘ia’ ending for a girl’s name.
58. Harlow
English surname Harlow, meaning ‘army’, will always be associated with Jean Harlow, the 1930s glamor queen. And we believe that Joel Madden, Patricia Arquette, and Nicole Richie had the same in mind when they were naming their daughters. Harlow means ‘army’.
59. Harper
It looks like it’s a trend to bestow on girl’s names that are surnames used typically for boys. Harper means, yes, you guessed it right ‘harp player’.
60. Hepburn
We’re totally smitten by this surname even since we heard it on Audrey Hepburn. So if you’re also a fan of this name, using this surname for your little girl will make complete sense. Hepburn means ‘high’.
61. Kennedy
The surname Kennedy, meaning ‘misshapen head’, has managed to stay trendy and classic at the same time. This Irish moniker is commonly associated with late President John F. Kennedy but is now the 54th most popular name for girls.
62. Kim
The coolest name of the 60s was popularized by Kim Novak and is today maintained by rapper Lil Kim. Meaning ‘bold family’, Kim is short, sweet, and impactful.
63. Langley
Langley is a common English surname but is a lot less common as a first name. It appeared on the first name map when American actress Mariel Hemingway picked it for her daughter. Langley means ‘long meadow’.
64. Luna
What’s more surprising is that this shimmery and strong name is popular more as a surname than a first name. Luna means ‘moon’.
65. Madigan
Now this is one name that we love. Not just because it’s uncommon and a lovely substitute for Madison, but also because it shares a connection with Elvira Madigan, the Danish tightrope walker, who was also the subject of a Swedish film. Madigan means ‘little dog’.
66. Marley
If you’re looking for something that is familiar, but not uncommon, Marley would fit the bill. It has a lovely meaning as well, ‘pleasant seaside meadow’.
67. McKenna
McKenna, or Mackena, is an Irish and Scottish surname, meaning ‘child of the handsome one’. Mc may signify ‘son of’, but McKenna has always been used only for girls. Another plus point is the nickname Mac.
68. Monroe
While Marilyn Monroe is the most notable bearer of this name, it was Mariah Carey who made it famous when she named one of her daughters Monroe. This feminine name with unique sound is currently in the 787th spot on the list of most popular baby girl name list. Monroe means ‘mouth of the Roe river’.
69. Quinn
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A name with a distinctive Irish lilt, Quinn sounds like a smart first name option in more ways than one. The popularity of Quinn for girls rose in the mid-1990s, due to the television series “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman”. Quinn means ‘wise’.
70. Riley
This upbeat and friendly Irish surname/name, meaning ‘courageous’, is super popular for girls, in all its spelling variations. And it’s used for boys as well.
71. Rose
Yes, even Rose is used as both first and last names for baby girls. As a first name, Rose reached the pinnacle of its popularity in 1896 to 1921. But as a surname, it’s been in use for centuries.
72. Rowan
Nature loving parents will find Rowan appealing, which is derived from the Rowan tree. Meaning ‘little redhead’ in Gaelic, Rowan comes from an Irish surname. It reached its name fame when Brooke Shields picked this name for her daughter.
73. Sutton
This swanky sounding English surname, meaning ‘from the southern homestead’, is our favorite last name as the first name for baby girls. Its notable bearer is Sutton Foster, the Tony-winning actress.
74. Taylor
Thanks to Taylor Swift, this English occupational surname is now beginning to be used as a first name, especially for girls. Being one of the top 10 names during the 20th century, Taylor has 90s feel to it, which makes it even more charming. And for the nickname, you can pick the uber stylish Tay.
75. Peyton
All thanks to the former footballer Peyton Manning as he brought the trend of using the English surname Peyton as a first name. But today, the name ranks higher for females. Peyton means ‘royal or farm of Paega’.
76. West
This directional surname, which was recently chosen by Tea Leoni for her daughter, is straightforward yet romantic. And with the rise of the directional names, people won’t even raise eyebrows hearing this name.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose a last name for a first name?
When choosing a last name as a first name, parents must ensure that the chosen name sounds and fits well as a first name. They can also research the meaning of the chosen name, its history, and its popularity before deciding on keeping that name.
2. Can I also use a last name as a middle name?
Last names can also be used as middle names, provided they blend well with the other names and sound good together.
3. Are there any traditional guidelines for using last names as first names?
There are no set rules or guidelines for using last names as first names. However, certain countries and cultures follow naming conventions. Hence, parents must ensure that their chosen name is not legally restricted to be a last name.
Using last names as first names is not conventional, but it is an up-and-coming trend. Hence, if you want to jump on this trend, this list of last names that could be used as first names will come in handy. We have included names that would suit both boys and girls and will make for a unique name. Names such as Marley, Walker, or Miller are some of the many choices we have provided. So scroll through and choose the one you think will be unique enough as a first name for your little one.
Infographic: Last Names As First Names For Boys And Girls
With some well-known personalities having last names as their first name, parents are leaning towards choosing charming and trendy surnames as first names for their little ones. If you, too, are interested in this trend, this infographic can help you choose a unique baby name inspired by a surname. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- The growing trend of using last names as first names for both boys and girls is more common in Western cultures.
- This naming pattern has emerged more common in the US as famous personalities are often known by their last names.
- Adler, Anderson, Carson, and Channing are examples of last names that have become popular first names for boys.
- Adair, Addison, Arden, and Ashley are some last names that have gained popularity as first names for girls.
Watch this engaging video showing a variety of 27 unusual surnames chosen as first names for your tiny bundle of joy.
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