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Find the perfect name for your baby

Free, private, no sign-up. Explore hundreds of names from around the world with their meanings and origins, see what is popular in Australia, and build a shortlist you can print and share.

  • 100% free
  • No account needed
  • Shortlist stays on your device

Quick start

Four simple tools for choosing a name

Tips for choosing a name you will both love

  1. Each make a private list first. Write down ten names separately, then compare. Names that appear on both lists are a great place to start.
  2. Say it out loud with your surname. Listen to the rhythm. A long first name often balances a short surname, and the other way around.
  3. Check the initials and nicknames. Spell out the initials and think about the nicknames classmates might come up with.
  4. Think about spelling. A unique spelling can be lovely, but your child will be spelling it for others for life. Decide whether that feels like a gift or a chore.
  5. Consider family and culture. A name that honours a grandparent or your heritage can be meaningful. Middle names are a gentle way to include one.
  6. Look at popularity, but do not be ruled by it. A top 10 name may mean a few others in the same class. If that matters to you, check our popular names page.
  7. Give it time. Keep a shortlist for a few weeks. The name you keep coming back to is often the one.

Frequently asked questions

Is BabyShield really free?

Yes. All tools are free to use and you never need to create an account. The site may show advertising in future to cover running costs.

Do you store the names I save?

No. Your shortlist is saved only in your own browser using localStorage. It is not sent to us, and you can clear it at any time from the generator page.

Where do the name meanings come from?

We use the traditional, commonly accepted etymology for each name and keep it short. Many names have more than one possible origin, so other books and websites may give a different meaning.

Where do the popularity rankings come from?

Our popular names page uses official published data from an Australian state registry of births, deaths and marriages. The source and year are shown on that page.

Can I share my shortlist with my partner or family?

Yes. Use the Print my shortlist button, or print it to PDF from your browser and send the file.

About our name meanings: meanings and origins shown on BabyShield are the traditional, commonly cited etymologies. Sources vary, many names have more than one possible origin, and the same name can carry different meanings in different languages. Japanese name meanings depend on the characters (kanji) chosen. Please treat them as a friendly starting point rather than a definitive record. If you are drawn to a name from a culture other than your own, it is worth learning a little about its background and significance.