Choosing a baby name is an exciting and meaningful process for parents. As we entered the 2000s, certain boy names really stood out in popularity, according to Social Security Administration data published in The New York Times. Looking at the most popular baby boy names of the decade gives parents an idea of classic, yet modern, options that withstand the test of time.
In examining the most popular baby boy names of the 2000s according to The New York Times data, several interesting trends emerge. Biblical and traditional names like Jacob, Joshua, Daniel and Ethan retained their appeal. Short, one syllable choices like Aidan and Caden came into fashion. Occupational last names used as first names, like Hunter and Carter, also grew in usage.
Jacob - Meaning "supplanter" in Hebrew, Jacob was the third patriarch of the Hebrew Bible. A bold and complex character, Jacob wrestled with an angel and demanded its blessing. The name Jacob has been one of the most widely used boy names in recent decades.
Michael - From the Hebrew name Mikha'el meaning "who is like God?". Michael is an archangel in Judeo-Christian tradition associated with protection, courage and military conquest. Ranking as one the overall most popular male names since the 1940s, Michael has biblical roots and a strong, valiant image.
Joshua - Meaning "the lord is salvation" in Hebrew, Joshua was chosen to lead the Isrealites into the Promised Land after Moses died. Courageous and faithful, Joshua claimed victory for his people. The name enjoys continued favor due to its uplifting meaning.
Matthew - From the Hebrew name Matityahu, meaning "gift of Yahweh (God)". Saint Matthew was one of the twelve apostles in the New Testament. The name has long been popular partly due to its association with the evangelist and author of the first gospel account.
Daniel - Meaning "God is my judge" in Hebrew, Daniel was a Hebrew prophet whose story is told in the Book of Daniel. He interprets dreams and riddles, displaying wisdom. The strong image of Daniel has kept this name in the top 10 for decades.
Ethan - Meaning "strong, firm" in Hebrew, Ethan appears briefly in the Old Testament as an ancestor of King David. Its solid imagery and connection to biblical kings gives this name wide appeal.
Andrew - From the Greek name Andreas, meaning "manly, masculine". Andrew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. The name has a long history of use thanks to the prominent biblical figure.
William - From the Germanic name Willahelm, made of elements meaning "will, desire" and "helmet, protection". Associated with famous conquerors and royals, William conveys leadership.
Alexander - Meaning "defender of the people" in Greek, Alexander the Great was the powerful Macedonian king and military genius who conquered vast empires. The commanding name remains ubiquitous.
Anthony - From the Roman name Antonius, possibly meaning "invaluable". Saint Anthony is the patron saint of lost things. The name scored in the top 10 in the 1900s and again in the 2000s.
David - Meaning "beloved" in Hebrew, David was the greatest king of Israel who slew Goliath. His rich biblical tales make this a long-running favorite.
Nicholas - From the Greek Nikolaos, meaning "victory of the people". Saint Nicholas, the namesake, is a patron of children and sailors who formed the Santa Claus legend.
Ryan - From the Irish name Rian meaning "little king" or "illustrious". Ryan has shot into popularity the past few decades with its spunky, kingly roots.
Tyler - An English surname derived from the medieval occupation of tile maker. Tyler brings to mind a rugged, hardworking tile artisan while having a trendy, energetic sound.
Caleb - Meaning "faithful, devotion, whole hearted" in Hebrew. Caleb appears alongside Joshua in the Old Testament as one of only two Isrealites allowed into the Promised Land after slavery in Egypt, making this name one of fortitude.
Mason - From an English surname referring to a stone worker. Mason brings images of strength and artistry thanks to its connection to its medieval craftsman origin.
Noah - From the Hebrew name Noach, meaning "rest, comfort". Noah was known for building the ark in the Old Testament. A classic name with a peaceful image.
Christopher - From the Greek name Christophoros, meaning "bearing Christ". Saint Christopher was a 3rd century martyr who carried the Christ child across a river, cementing this name’s connections to bravery and faith.
Jayden - A modern invented name, Jayden has various meanings depending on its interpretation and elements. Its stylish Jay beginning and Den ending help explain its newfound popularity.
Carter - An occupational English surname referring to a transporter of goods by cart or wagon. Carter brings images of hardworking laborers and pioneering settlers moving goods by covered wagons in early America.
Logan - Derived from a Scottish surname, Logan means “little hollow” or “meadow” in Gaelic. The name conjures scenic images from its origins while having a bold, spunky feel.
Aiden - A recently invented Irish name thought to mean “little and fiery”. Its Celtic roots, short form and fiery meaning give Aiden a plucky image. Variations like Ayden or Hayden further modernize it.
Gavin - From the Welsh name Gawain, possibly based on gwalchmei meaning “hawk of May”. Gavin entered the U.S. top 100 for the first time in the 2000s, with its Gaelic charm and stylish V ending.
Nathan - From the Hebrew name Natan, meaning "he has given". Nathan was an Old Testament prophet. The familiar name is kept modern with its brisk, vibrant sound.
Zachary - From the Hebrew name Zekharyahu meaning “Yahweh has remembered”. Zachary was a minor prophet in the Bible credited with prophecy about the coming of Christ.
Robert - From the Germanic Hrodebert meaning “bright fame”, Robert remains a classic. Long favored by royalty and saints, it conveys timeless strength.
Isaac - Of Hebrew origin meaning “he will laugh”. Isaac was the long-awaited son of Abraham and Sarah in the Bible. Its cheerfulness keeps Isaac ever-appealing.
Luke - From the Greek name Loukas meaning “from Lucania”. Luke was a physician and disciple of Paul in the New Testament who later penned a gospel. Its biblical and literary feel is irresistible.
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