Beautiful girl's name makes top 100 baby names list for the first time ever

12 December 2023 , 09:02

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BabyCentre have released the Top 100 baby names - but there's one that's new to the list (Stock Photo) (Image: Getty Images)

The results are in for 2023's most popular baby names - and one dark horse has entered the top 100 chart for the first time.

Many parents are plumping for something a bit more off-piste when naming their newborns, and one name is a reflection of just that in this year's report. BabyCentre, a leading pregnancy and parenting resource, studied thousands of expecting parents' name choices to deliver the goods on what new mums and dads are loving this year.

While there are plenty ofclassic and traditional names still topping the top 100 list, there are a few new lesser-known titles making the cut - including Lyra.

Coming straight in at number 75, it's a brand new contender on the most popular baby names list, having moved its way into the top 100 for its shiny debut. The name has moved up 41 places since 2022, and it's a clear sign parents are choosing unique names that will make their little ones stand out.

With a Greek and Latin origin, Lyra refers to the constellation in the North sky, which is home to the "Vega" star. It's also a reference to the Greek myth of Orpheus's legendary lyre, meaning "harp" or "lyre player".

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Lyra has also been the choice for pop artist Ed Sheeran and his partner Cherry Seaborn, as well as author and model Sophie Dahl and husband Jamie Cullum. It was also seen in shows such as His Dark Materials and The Golden Compass which may have given inspiration to many parents for their name.

Elsewhere in the findings, pop culture remains supreme when choosing a source of inspiration for your tot. Taylor Swift mania continues to influence parents' choices, as many are choosing monikers based on her song titles, and Britney Spears' memoir has inspired new parents too. Jayden, the name of Britney's son, flew up the top 100 to 35

Other inspirations come from social media, including the "cottage core" aesthetic, with gentle names such as Lily, Jasmine and Dahlia. Classics high up on the list include as Olivia, Lily and Amelia, and others such as Lyra, Nova and Luna are making an appearance for the first time.

Niamh Kirk