Origin/meaning: English, “Hazel nut tree”
An old-style take on evocative color names—think Indigo, Sienna, Violet—this traditional choice is uniquely sophisticated and very much on the rise. It’s a serious little moniker that doesn’t lend itself to nicknames. And it boasts major super-star cred: Julia Roberts chose it as the name for her daughter
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #893
2010: #262
Origin/meaning: Irish, “Young warrior”
More popular than fellow antique O-name Oscar, this sweet choice is climbing the charts with modern parents. It has literary cache in John Irving’s A Prayer for Owen Meany and a pop culture namesake in cute actor Owen Wilson.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #145
2010: #47
Origin/meaning: Latin, “Star”
This name (like close cousin uber-popular Ella, ranked 265 in 2000 and 13 in 2010) has seen a huge surge in popularity in the last decade. Stella manages to balance refinement and sass, and has a talented namesake in British designer Stella McCartney. The Streetcar Named Desire reference feels old and stale; this name is back in a fun, contemporary way with parents who want to give a stylish nod to their own little “star.” Actor Matt Damon chose it for his daughter.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #656
2010: #85
Origin/meaning: Latin, “Olive tree”
Ollie had an old-guy “gramps” ring to it for decades, but in its full form, it’s back in a big way with parents who want a sweet retro name choice for their son. Dickens’ Oliver Twist gives it major literary clout; it’s classic, with a sensitive, bookish vibe.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #305
2010: #88
