Most Popular American First Names for Kids

In the United States, names come from all around the world. America is a multicultural country with people of many different backgrounds, so names reflect that rich diversity. While most people speak English and often have English names, you’ll also find names that are French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and more. Some parents even make up new names!

Common First Names for Boys and Girls

Some first names are very popular, and you’ll hear them often. Here are some classic examples:

Popular boy names: Michael, Matthew, Dan, John, Chris
Popular girl names: Emily, Mary, Elizabeth, Ashley, Sarah

These are just a few of the names you might come across in everyday life. Of course, names change in popularity over time, and each family has its own preferences.

How American Names Work

It’s common for American children to have three names:

• First name: chosen by parents (this is what most people go by)

• Middle name: often honors a family member or has special meaning

• Last name: the family name (shared with parents and siblings)

For example, in the name Barack Hussein Obama, “Barack” is the first name, “Hussein” is the middle name, and “Obama” is the last name, passed down from his father.

Using Titles in English

When speaking to adults, it’s polite to use titles:

• Mr. + last name for men (Mr. Smith)

• Mrs. + last name for married women (Mrs. Johnson)

• Ms. + last name for women when you’re unsure (Ms. Taylor)

You’ll often hear these titles in school when talking to teachers.

Nicknames: Fun and Friendly!

Many American children and adults use nicknames, which are short or playful versions of their names:

• Elizabeth → Liz

• William → Will or Billy

• David → Dave

• Katherine → Kate or Katie

Some people love their nicknames, while others prefer their full name. It’s always a good idea to ask what someone likes to be called.

Fun fact: When President Barack Obama was a child, people called him “Barry!”

A Silly Song for Names

There’s a fun children’s song in English that plays with names using silly rhymes. It doesn’t mean anything, but it’s fun to say out loud:

For Jack:
Jack, Jack, bo back.
Fa na na na na fo fack.
Me mi mo mack.
Jack!

For Kelly:
Kelly, Kelly, bo belly.
Fa na na na na fo felly.
Me mi mo melly.
Kelly!

Children love playing with names this way, and it’s a fun way to hear different sounds and rhymes in English.

Tip: You can find more language-learning fun—including songs, games, videos, and flashcards at Dinolingo, where kids can learn English with ease!