Are these the most controversial baby names in 2024?

From polarising styles to potentially problematic associations, explore the list sparking interest and discussion among expectant parents and baby name enthusiasts alike this week.

As an almost 49yo named Rebel who grew up in an era of Debbies, Lisas and Nicoles, I’d like to think I am somewhat of an expert when it comes to controversial baby names. So, safe to say I was intrigued when popular baby name website, Nameberry polled their members this week, asking for their take on what tracks as controversial in the baby naming landscape in 2024.

The results might not be what you’d expect!

So what makes a name so offensive? Factors such as inadvertent racism, accidental religious offence and violent associations that parents may not have thought of are all reasons that parents may find themselves in hot water without meaning to.

2024’s most controversial baby names: What’s your take?

Curious about societal trends around baby naming? Find out why these baby names are causing a stir in 2024. The below list reveals which names are generating buzz and why, according to the good folks at Nameberry.

The name: ADONIS
This name, with origins is Greek mythology, comes from the name of Aphrodite’s handsome young lover. In 2024 this strong name has become synonymous with being handsome and desirable.
Why it’s controversial: Oh the pressure to live up to with a virtue name like this! Things could quite awkward if you didn’t bring that Adonis energy.

The name: AZRIEL
With it’s sweet bohemian vibes and funky Z, Azriel is a popular choice for modern parents.
Why it’s controversial: In some Jewish and Abrahamic religions as well as Sikhism, Azrael is the benevolent angel of death who carries the souls of the deceased to the afterlife. That makes this a baby name choice that could leave its bearer or others uncomfortable.

The name: BLAIR
With Scottish origins meaning “battlefield”, this adorable name seems like a great choice for boys and girls.
Why it’s controversial: If they grow up and visit the UK, Blairs will have to come to terms with a certain distaste for the name due to its association with controversial former Primer Minister Tony Blair.

The name: BODHI
This boho name with Sanskrit origins has been a popular choice among celebrities and civilians alike in recent years.
Why it’s controversial: It may be rooted in Buddhism – this name is synonymous with the concept of enlightenment, awakening, nirvana and the final goal of Buddhism – however it is not used as a baby name in Buddhist culture. Can anyone say ‘cultural appropriation’?

The name: COHEN
Nameberry claims: “The prize for the most hotly debated baby name of all time on the Nameberry forums has to go to Cohen!”
Why it’s controversial: This hugely popular C name might seem innocent, but using it if you are not Jewish it is kind of a no-no. Cohen is a sacred Jewish surname that belongs to members of the kohanim, descendants of the sons of Aaron who served as priests in the Temple in Jerusalem.

The name: DIXIE
A sweet name that is right on trend for the popularity of names ending in ‘ie’.
Why it’s controversial: In the wake of Black Lives Matter, using these seemingly cutesie name may be problematic, as Dixie carries heavy historical echoes of slavery and racial segregation during the American Civil War.

The name: GUNNER
Viking and Norse names are hugely popular right now, but this popular name should be used with careful consideration.
Why it’s controversial: When spelled with an ‘ar’ the name Gunnar is a traditional Norse name, however changing the spelling to end with ‘er’ makes it another kind of name altogether. The gun violence associated with being a Gunner can not be discounted.

The name: HARVEY
This adorable name fits right into the hugely popular idea of giving little boys sweet old man names.
Why it’s controversial: The accusations of heinous sexual abuse surfaced against disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein and now the name has a little ick-factor.

The name: HONEY
This name seems super-sweet, literally.
Why it’s controversial: Love it, or hate it there could be a certain awkwardness when teachers, a boss or strangers start calling you ‘honey’!

The name: INDIA
Place names are a popular choice, particularly if you have a cultural connection to that area.
Why it’s controversial: The appropriateness of using unconnected geographical names like India, Asia, Malaysia, or Kenya is up in the air and could be seen as bad taste.

The name: JAMES
It seems like an odd choice for a controversial names list, but those concerned were specifically talking about the use of James for girls.
Why it’s controversial: While undoubtedly edgy and cool, some questioned the fact that feminine names are rarely used for boys which highlights misogony.

The name: JEMIMA
A gorgeous name with Hebrew origins meaning “dove”, this name feels entirely innocent, right?
Why it’s controversial: The problems with this name may be specific to the US. Nameberry explains: “In the US, the immediate association for many is the Aunt Jemima brand of syrup and pancake mix, which until as recently as 2021 featured a strongly stereotyped image of a Black “mammy” character prominently in its marketing. The products underwent a much-publicised rebrand, but unfortunately it will take a lot longer for the racist stereotype to fade from public consciousness.”

The name: KAREN
Here in Australia, the name Karen is a popular choice from days of old, but voting suggests it may be worth retiring.
Why it’s controversial: The memes that depict Karen as a slang term for an obnoxious, angry, entitled, and often racist middle-aged white woman that began in 2020 have not done this name any favours.

The name: KHALEESI
This Game of Thrones inspired moniker was a popular choice as people paid tribute to George R. R. Martin’s ‘Mother of Dragons’.
Why it’s controversial: Khaleesi is something of a cautionary tale … WAIT until the story ends before paying tribute to a character. Khaleesi’s storyline took a dark turn in the final season. Whoops!

The name: LILITH
It may sound like a sweet nod to traditionally old fashioned lady names, but it’s not without it’s controversy.
Why it’s controversial: Nameberry says: “Lilith was a demon in Ancient Mesopotamian mythology and the first wife of Adam in Jewish tradition. She was banished from Eden for refusing to submit to him, and their children became the evil sprits of the world. For some, the demonic undertones are just too strong.”

The name: NEVAEH
A modern name created when someone figured out that spelling “heaven” backwards would make a cute name!
Why it’s controversial: Ambiguous or creative spellings are one of the most controversial choices a parent can make. If your child can’t easily spell it or say it, it might be worth rethinking. Also: as someone with experience, never underestimate the value of being able to find your name on a keychain!

The name: NIXON
Edgy, funky and cool, this name has become a popular cool choice over the last decade.
Why it’s controversial: Names with strong political associations are always a big risk. Controversial former US president Richard Nixon being a prime example!

The name: PIPPA
Originally a diminutive of Philippa and Penelope, Pippa has become a popular name in its own right.
Why it’s controversial: Might be cute in English, but if your little Pippa plans to travel she might run into some awkwardness. Pippa is a Swedish crude slang term for sexual intercourse and an Italian slang word for masturbation. A similar sounding word in Greek is a crude Greek slang term for fellatio!

The name: REX
Three letter boy names are poplar as first or middle names, and Rex is on of them!
Why it’s controversial: Rex, along with names like Duke, Luna and Milo are commonly thought of as dog’s names! Whoops.

The name: SAOIRSE
Pronounced SEER-sha, SUR-sha or SAIR-sha, this beautiful Irish name means “freedom and independence”.
Why it’s controversial: Saoirse, even more than other Gaelic names, is contentious due to its very specific cultural roots due to the fact that it is the the name of a monthly magazine published by the political party Sinn Féin.