Muhammad tops UK baby boy names in 2023, Olivia leads for girls
The UK's Office for National Statistics has published the most popular names given to boys in 2023. For the first time in a while, Muhammad has come out on top, surpassing Noah. Among girls' names, Olivia was the most popular.
According to the latest statistics, last year 4,661 boys were named Muhammad, the highest number among all names, representing an increase of 484 compared to 2022, reports the "Daily Mail".
The name Muhammad is of Arabic origin and means "praised." It is estimated that around 15 million people bear this name, and they are not necessarily Arabs. It has been in the top ten since at least 2016.
The previous leader, Noah, which was given 4,586 times in 2022, fell to second place with 4,382 names given. In third place is Oliver with 3,556 names given, ahead of George, which boasts 3,494. The top ten also include Leo, Arthur, Luca, Theodore, Oscar, and Henry. Names like Jax, Enzo, and Bodhi also saw a significant increase in popularity.
As the "Daily Mail" reports, among girls' names, Olivia maintained the top position, despite less interest. In 2022, 3,289 girls were given this name, compared to 2,906 in 2023.
The second and third places also remained unchanged. They are occupied by Amelia and Isla respectively. Other popular names include Lily, Freya, Ava, Ivy, Florence, Willow, and Isabella. Names like Lilah, Raya, and Hazel also saw a significant increase in popularity.
The BBC notes that the naming of children in the UK is influenced by culture. The Office for National Statistics recorded names given by celebrities to their children. These include the likes of Kylie Jenner, Margot Robbie, and Billie Eilish. There are also names such as Sunday and Wednesday, which have gained popularity thanks to Netflix. Names of singers like Miley, Elton, Rihanna, and Kendrick were also given, possibly due to album releases or concert tours by these artists.
Meanwhile, royal names were less popular in 2023 - a decline that forms part of an ongoing trend. George, Archie, Harry and Charlotte have all become less popular in recent years, as have Elizabeth and Charles, reports the BBC.
