May 14, 2007

2006 Names of Note

Dickinson. Bronte. Post. They were all named Emily – and chances are, if you had a baby girl last year, she is too.

The Social Security Administration just released its list of the most popular baby names of 2006. Emily has held top spot since 1996, when it knocked Jessica from her throne. Meaning "industrious" or "energetic," the classic name is feminine, simple and pretty – and oh-so-popular.

Following in Emily's footsteps are Emma and Madison, once again ranked second and third as they have for the past few years. What other names should you expect to hear on the playground? The usual suspects like Abigail, Hannah, Sophia and Ava.

On the boys' side, the front runner is Jacob: Number 1 since 1999, the name's Hebrew translation is "he who supplants." Strong names continue to gain steam: Expect to see lots of little Michaels, Joshuas, Ethans and Anthonys, all ranked high in ‘06.

Still looking for something totally original? Tabitha and Terrence held court somewhere in the 500s, while Flor and Jarvis came in dead last on the popularity index, at 1000. Or go with a throwback – Ashley, Brandon, Kimberly and Jason were all big in the ‘80s.

And see where your own names – and your parents' and grandparents' names – rank. Chances are there haven't been too many Barbaras, Bruces, Leonards and Lydias lately. Maybe it's time for a comeback?

To view the complete list go to ssa.gov.

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