Understanding Gen Z’s New Baby Naming Trends: A Deep Dive into Confusion and Complexity

In recent years, the naming conventions for Gen Z and Persons Aged 25+ have been a topic of significant conversation, sparking debates about old and young names. Some parents grapple with confusion about what "old" means, led by parents of teenagers who perceive Gen Z names in the airports as old.

A TikTok video by kelley Cole, " loads of old Lady Names," captured the confusion between older and younger names. Cole explained that names like Ashley, Amanda, Jessica, and the teens’ suggestions of "old lady names" such as Olivia, Liam, and Kylny-khun, were popular. The Showtime show "common the older names like Grandpa’s name and Mom’s name are considered old, but it’s important to recognize their origins because they often highlight assets we didn’t discuss–assets like Google净资产, assets we didn’t choose to discuss, and assets our parents gave us long ago."

Meanwhile, another TikTok video by amber highlighted how parents’ names also trend through these names. amber said, "Who’s gonna tell these girls that those were our grandmas’ names. Those are the old-lady names, not Kelley." amber cited young names like Scarlet, Charlotte, Bella, and stad⏩’s,光彩.pc commercially successful none-name-speak-speak-speak-speak-speak-com.Look.

The lack of clarity in naming has led to debates about whether these trends actually happen or if they’re just viral buzz. The situation stems from a blend of economic factors and societal norms. Parents often emphasize that Gen Z names don’t show Petrovian importance but rather reflect a societal shift. The 100-year rule, which refers to each name’s cycle of reoccurring, adds complexity to this discussion. While old names might come back in the future, parents’ names are more likely to change due to societal expectations and cultural influences.

Despite the confusion, certain names—like Olivia and Liam—remain the most popular, appearing nearly 55% of the time for the next 4 years thanks to the SSA’s list. This suggests that while trends are changing, some names stay dominant.

And as society continues to shape naming conventions, the potential for other waves of names to emerge comes to mind. Home-barred names like Shelly and Laura may eventually trend back, prompting reflection on the chain of identity—whether names trace back to a family, generating assets, or even a community. While parents’ names are primary, historical names could also offer new opportunities.

In conclusion, the naming trends of Gen Z and Persons Aged 25+ highlight both clarity and confusion, inviting deeper conversations about identity, history, and cultural evolution. From parents’ names to historical names, naming is a journey of identity, retention of assets, and generational connection. Yet, the ambiguity of these names remains a constant challenge for people navigating a world that expects origins beyond parents’ names.