What this tool does

Choosing a name for your baby can feel like a tall order, especially when you and your partner have different ideas or you want something that means something to your family. This tool helps you narrow down the options by filtering names against the things that matter to you, such as origin, sound, length, style or meaning.

Instead of scrolling through endless alphabetical lists, you tell us what you are drawn to and we suggest names that fit, along with a short note on where each one comes from and what it means.

Who it is for

It is aimed at expectant parents in the UK, but anyone thinking ahead to names, including grandparents-to-be or people picking a name for a character or a pet, can use it too. You might find it useful if you are stuck between a few favourites, if your shortlist feels a bit too predictable, or if you want something that reflects a particular heritage or faith.

It is also handy when you have a strong idea in your head but cannot quite land on the right word, for example a short nature name, a traditional Irish name, or something that means hope or light.

How it works

You answer a few quick questions about the style of name you are after, any origins or meanings you like, and anything you want to avoid. The tool then returns a personalised list of suggestions with their meanings and backgrounds written in plain English, so you can see at a glance which ones are worth adding to your shortlist. You can tweak your preferences and run it again as often as you like. Your answers are not saved, and nothing you enter is linked to you, so feel free to experiment with combinations you are only half sure about.

Treat the results as a starting point rather than the final word. Say the names out loud, try them with your surname, and see which ones still feel right a few days later.