Surnames being used as first names is a baby name trend that has been growing in the past few decades. This just shows the flexibility of names and that there really are no strict rules when it comes to baby naming! Most of these surnames-turned-first-names are also unisex and suitable for both boys and girls.
The name Addison would have originally been given as a surname, meaning ‘son of Adam.’ Although the name is technically masculine, it has evolved into a unisex given name.
Archer is a common surname in England, though it can be used as a given name. It is derived from the Middle English word ‘archere’ and was given as an occupational name for skilled bowmen in the 14th century.
Originally a surname given to those who lived near a bailey, Bailey is now predominately used as a unisex first name. The name prevails among girls in America and boys in the UK.
Cameron is a name of Scottish origin. It is a quite common surname, but has become increasingly popular as a first name for both boys and girls.
Most commonly a surname, Dawson is an English boy’s name that has risen in popularity as a first name over the last 10 years in America and England.
Kennedy derives from the Gaelic element ‘ceann’, meaning ‘head.’ It was most likely first used as a nickname for a clan leader, before transferring to a surname. It is now a given name for both boys and girls.
Parker was originally a surname given to gamekeepers in the medieval ages. It is now being used as a first name and is predominately American.
Riley is a spelling variant of the Irish surname Rielly, originally a personal name Raghallach. Its meaning is debatable; however, generally it is taken to mean ‘courageous.’ It is a unisex name and is especially popular in America.
Scott is a popular name, which historically was a surname and is still a common last name today. It means ‘painted warrior.’
Once a surname, Tyler has morphed into a rst name. It can be unisex, but has risen in popularity among boys.
