You may be on the hunt for 80’s baby names if you are inspired by neon, leg warmers, headbands, and Michael Jackson‘s moonwalk. However, especially in the early 1980s, parents preferred classic and Biblical names for their children. Different naming patterns, such as vowel and flower names, appeared after 1985.
If you have an affection for the 1980s or are a child of the decade, you might be interested in 80’s baby names. Here is a list of bodacious 80’s names for your dude or dudette based on the Social Security Administration list, movies, and historical trends.
Popular 1980s Names For Boys
1. Aaron
In the Bible, Aaron was the name of the elder brother of Moses. Aaron means ‘mountain of strength’.
2. Adam
Derived from Hebrew word ‘adama’, Adam is a generic term for ‘man’.
3. Alexander
A mighty name for your mighty son, Alexander means ‘defender of mankind’.
4. Andrew
If you are a tennis fan, how about naming your son after the tennis hero Andrew Murray. It means ‘manly’.
5. Anthony
Anthony is a Roman family name, meaning ‘priceless’.
6. Arthur
A classic name prevalent in literature, Arthur means ‘bear’.
7. Ashley
This gender-neutral name was commonplace for boys in the 80s. It means ‘ash wood’.
8. Atreyu
Atreyu, meaning ‘son of all’, stands out as a unique baby names of 1980.
9. Ben
This short form of Benjamin was used as a standalone name in the 80s. Ben means ‘son of my right hand’.
10. Benjamin
Benjamin has reigned as one of the top 100 names for centuries, so that makes it the top baby name of 1980s by default. It means ‘son of my right hand’.
11. Brandon
Brandon was borne by all the teen hunks of the 80s. It means ‘beacon hill’.
12. Brian
This robust and dependable name means ‘strong and honorable’.
13. Carl
Carl is taken from the English name Charles, which means ‘free man’.
14. Chad
This English name brings to mind a young boy with a sparkling smile. It means ‘warrior’.
15. Charles
Charles is a majestic and regal name, meaning ‘manly’.
16. Christopher
This moniker is derived from Greek name Khristophorus and means ‘Christ-bearer’.
17. Cody
We love Cody for its friendly and boyish charm. Cody means ‘helpful’.
18. Corey
This teen-idol name of the 80s means ‘from the hollow’.
19. Craig
If you want a charming name for your son, Craig, meaning ‘rock’, could be the ideal one for you.
20. Daniel
This classic name comes with the cool nickname option Dan and means ‘God is my judge’.
21. Darren
Meaning ‘little great one’, Darren would suit your little one really well.
22. David
Hailing from Hebrew language, David means ‘beloved’.
23. Dean
This brilliant name is taken from the Old English word denu, which means ‘valley’.
24. Derek
Derek is the short form of Theodoric and means ‘ruler’.
25. Drew
While Drew is mainly used for girls now, it was restricted to boys in the 1980s. It means ‘strong and manly’.
26. Dustin
This name is tied with Dustin Hoffman, the Oscar-winning actor. It means ‘valiant fighter’.
27. Edward
Eight English kings bore the name Edward, which makes it an excellent regal name. Edward means ‘prosperous protector’.
28. Edwin
We love the regal feel of Edwin. And it sounds a lot rarer than Edward. Edwin means ‘rich friend’.
29. Elliot
If it were good enough for “E.T.”, it would be good enough for your son as well. Elliot means ‘Jehovah is God’.
30. Emilio
Nothing says 80s more than this name. Emilio has the perfect mix of playfulness and tradition.
31. Eric
This princely name for a dashing man means ‘ruler’.
32. Ferris
Name you son Ferris and be sure to have a smart and clever fellow.
33. Gareth
If you want a baby boy name that wasn’t too popular in the 80s, you can pick the Middle English name Gareth, which means ‘enclosure’.
34. Gary
While Gary was on a decline in the 1950s, it did pretty well in the 80s. Gary means ‘spear’.
35. Gregory
This elegant name evokes the decency of Gregory Peck, the actor. It means ‘vigilant watchman’.
36. Harrison
Harrison, meaning ‘son of Harry’ was the ultimate tough guy name of the 80s.
37. Huey
This moniker of the most loved nephew of Donald, was a favorite in 80s. Huey means ‘intelligent’.
38. Ian
If you have Scottish roots, pick Ian, the Scottish version of John for your son. It means ‘God is gracious’.
39. Jacob
The winner of the 80s and still going strong, Jacob means supplanter’.
40. Jake
You can use Jake as a short form of Jacob or as a standalone name.
41. James
If you’re fond of Biblical names, James, meaning ‘supplanter’ would be a good choice.
42. Jared
In the 80s, Jared, meaning ‘descending’, was considered a hyper-masculine name.
43. Jareth
Jareth is associated with the 1986 hit movie “Labyrinth”. It means ‘bled of jar’.
44. Jason
In the Greek mythology, Jason is mentioned for his search for the Golden Fleece. Jason means ‘to heal’.
45. Jeffrey
A formerly aristocratic name, Jeffrey means ‘divinely peaceful’.
46. Jeremy
Jeremy sounds sleeker and more modern than Jeremiah. It means ‘God will uplift’.
47. Jesse
A name that’s synonymous with Jesse James, this name means ‘wealthy’.
48. John
A classic name that never totally fades from the list, no matter what era it is. John means ‘God is gracious’.
49. Jonathan
Jonathan is a serious and artistic name, meaning ‘Gift of God’.
50. Jordan
This charismatic and confident name means ‘descending’.
51. Jose
This lively Spanish version of Joseph means ‘God will increase’.
52. Joseph
In the Bible, Joseph is mentioned as Jesus’ father. So it would make a lovely Christmas name for you. Joseph means ‘God will add’.
53. Joshua
Joshua is an Earthy Biblical name, meaning ‘God is my salvation’.
54. Juan
This Spanish version of John is not limited only to the Spanish-speaking world. It means ‘Lord is gracious’.
55. Justin
This dutiful and serious name got swag via Justin Timberlake. It means ‘just’.
56. Keith
Keith is a slender and rebellious Welsh name, meaning ‘battle place’.
57. Kenneth
Kenneth was the favorite, pop culture name of 80s. It means ‘handsome or oath’.
58. Kevin
This name was popularized via the 7th century Saint Kevin, the founder of the monastery in Dublin. Kevin means ‘handsome’.
59. Knox
Much before Brangelina, Knox was a household name of the 80s. It means ‘round hill’.
60. Kyle
A handsome Irish name, meaning ‘land where cattle graze’.
61. Lee
If you don’t want your son’s name to be shortened at school, pick the name Lee, which means ‘meadow’.
62. Lloyd
The name Lloyd holds the romantic image of the 80s. It means ‘grey’.
63. Luke
A short and sweet name for your bundle of joy, Luke means ‘light giving’.
64. Marcus
Marcus, meaning ‘warlike’, is a lovely alternative to Mark.
65. Mark
This firm favorite of the 80s is expected to make a comeback on the baby name charts soon. Mark means ‘man’.
66. Martin
Martin is a classic 80s name with links to the planets. It means ‘mars or man’.
67. Matthew
Another strong Biblical pick! Matthew means ‘gift of God’.
68. Maverick
Maverick, is another baby name inspired by awesome 80s movie “Top Gun”, means ‘independent’.
69. Michael
Meaning ‘Who is like God’ in Hebrew, Michael is the name of the saint who led the army against evil.
70. Nathan
A boisterous and peppy name, it means ‘God has given’.
71. Neil
The credit for bringing fame to this name goes to Neil Armstrong, the first person to land on the moon. Neil means ‘cloud’.
72. Nicholas
Its namesake is St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, whom we popularly know as Santa Clause. Nicholas means ‘people’.
73. Oliver
Oliver is as much in use now as it was in the 1980s. It means ‘olive tree’.
74. Patrick
Patrick is the name of the patron of Ireland and means ‘nobleman’.
75. Paul
Paul is a lovely traditional name, meaning ‘small or humble’.
76. Peter
Peter, as in Peter Parker, would make a classic superhero name for your son. Peter means ‘rock’.
77. Philip
Philip is the anglicized version of Philippos and means ‘horse or friend’.
78. Richard
This name has been loved since ages. William Shakespeare adored it so much that he used in several of his plays. Richard means ‘brave or hard’.
79. River
River Phoenix and his movie “Stand by Me” attracted parents to this name. River means ‘a river’.
80. Robert
If you want to give Robert a modern touch, shorten it to Robbie for the nickname. Robert means ‘bright’.
81. Russell
Apart from having a soft sound, Russell also has a likable pet name like Russy and Rusty. Russell means ‘red hair color’.
82. Ryan
This name has stayed in the top baby boys name charts for most years. Ryan is an Irish name, meaning ‘king’.
83. Samuel
Names with religious links were hugely popular in the 80s. One such name was Samuel, which means ‘God has heard’.
84. Scott
If you are a literary-minded momma, how about naming your son Scott after Scott Fitzgerald, the author of “The Great Gatsby”?
85. Sean
This cute Irish name means ‘God is gracious’.
86. Shawn
This spelling variation of Sean rose to prominence in the 80s. It means ‘God is gracious’.
87. Simon
A name like Simon is bound to be popular again. This Hebrew name means ‘listening’.
Victorian Era Baby Names
88. Spencer
A literary name with a unique sound. Spencer, meaning ‘keeper of provisions’, was used as both first and last names in the 1980s.
89. Stephen
Stephan is taken from the Greek word ‘stephanos’, which mean ‘crown or garland’. Shorten it to Steve for the nickname.
90. Steven
Steven is an all-American name, meaning ‘crowned’. Shorten it to Steve for the nickname.
91. Stuart
Stuart is basically a twist on the old English surname Steward, which means ‘guard’.
92. Teddy
Teddy, the short form of Theodore, was a stylish name of the 80s. It means ‘god gift’.
93. Thomas
Thomas is a popular boy name of 1980s and is as famous today. Thomas means ‘twin’.
94. Timothy
If you find Timothy too stuffy, shorten it to Timmy. It means ‘honoring God’.
95. Travis
Travis is a manly and handsome name, meaning ‘from Travers’.
96. Wayne
This English name was originally used for a cart driver. It’s now associated with Bruce Wayne, the Batman. Wayne means ‘wagon’.
97. Westley
Westley, from the “Princess Boy”, has a cowboy feel to it. It means ‘western meadow’.
98. William
This name, sitting within the top 50 list, can never go out of fashion. It means ‘will or desire’.
99. Wyatt
The name Wyatt, meaning ‘brave in war’ has a cowboy coolness to it, thanks to Wyatt Arp.
100. Zachary
In the 1980s, parents realized that ‘z’ is as cool as ‘x’. Zachary means ‘God remembered’.
Popular 80s Names For Girls With Meanings
101. Alexandra
This moniker, meaning ‘to protect’, is the feminine version of Alexander.
102. Alicia
This 80s favorite has become a favorite with today’s parents, thanks to Diego’s elder sister in “Go, Diego, Go!” Alicia means ‘noble’.
103. Alisha
This name peaked in 1897, when it was the 118th most popular name for girls. Alisha means ‘protected by God’.
104. Allison
We love this name for its association with Nicholas Sparks “The Notebook”. Allison means ‘noble’.
105. Alyssa
This Hebrew name means ‘extreme joy or happiness’, which your little princess would be to you.
106. Amanda
This feminine and romantic name can never go out of style. Amanda means ‘much loved’ in Latin.
107. Amber
Amber is one of the most popular gem names. It means ‘amber stone.
108. Amy
This sweet and peaceful moniker, meaning ‘beloved’ reminds us of Amy from “Little Women”.
109. Anabelle
Anabelle is an Old French name and means ‘lovable’.
110. Andrea
A favorite with the Americans, Andrea means ‘strong’.
111. Angela
Angela does sound a bit retro now in front of Angelina and Angelica, but it has a charm of its own. Angela means ‘angel’.
112. Anna
This simple and beautiful Latin name means ‘grace’.
113. Annie
Anne was cool, but Annie was cooler in the 80s. Annie means ‘grace’.
114. Anya
The name Anya was beyond edgy and cool 80s baby names. It means ‘grace’.
115. April
This moniker sounds as fresh as springtime. It means ‘to open’.
116. Atari
If you want something truly unique for your daughter, go out of the box and pick Atari for her. Atari means ‘success’.
117. Bridget
The charming Irish name, meaning ‘strength’, exudes carefree and positive vibes.
118. Brittany
Brittany is an attractive and crisp name, meaning ‘from Britain’.
119. Caitlyn
A refreshing spin on names like Catherine and Kathleen. It means ‘pure’.
120. Caroline
Caroline comes from Scandinavian name Karl and means ‘free man’.
121. Catherine
This moniker with royal roots would be perfect for your little girl. It means ‘pure’.
122. Charlotte
This timeless classic is basically the feminine version of Charles and means ‘free man’.
123. Christina
When Christine becomes a glamorous star, she becomes Christina. Christina means ‘follower of Christ’.
124. Christine
Christine sounds classic and modern at the same time. It means ‘Christian’.
125. Claire
This luminous name, meaning ‘bright’, sounds feminine, but not frilly.
126. Courtney
Courtney was the pretty name of the 80s. It means ‘from the court’.
127. Crystal
This name, meaning ‘brilliant glass’, is tied strongly with the 80s.
128. Cyndi
A girl named after Cyndi Lauper is bound to find fun in everything she does. Cyndi means ‘of Cynthus’.
129. Danielle
Danielle is the female form of Daniel and means ‘God is my judge’.
130. Debbie
Is there any 80s figure more iconic than Debby Harry? Her name means ‘bee’.
131. Donna
Donna is taken from the Italian word, which means ‘lady’.
132. Elizabeth
This Biblical name, also linked to the royal family, means ‘god is gracious’.
133. Emily
This Roman name has been a popular pick for more than 20 years now. It means ‘rival’.
134. Emma
The top name of today was loved in the 80s as well. Emma means ‘universe’.
135. Erin
This affable name sounds trendier than Emily and Emma. Erin means ‘from Ireland’.
136. Gemma
Gemma would make a pretty name for any girl. Hailing from England, Gemma means ‘precious gemstone’.
137. Gertie
Gertie is possibly shortened version of Gertrude, but it has its own charm.
138. Hannah
Hannah, with its soft and gentle sound, has a laid back, yet aristocratic image. It means ‘grace’.
139. Hayley
You can never go wrong with a nature-inspired name. Hayley means ‘wood meadow’.
140. Hazel
Celebrities love the name Hazel. Emily Blunt chose this name for her daughter. Hazel means ‘hazel tree’.
141. Heather
This name reminds us of feathered hairdos of the 80s. It means ‘flowering shrub’.
142. Helen
In the Greek mythology, Helen was Leda’s and Zeus’ daughter, whose kidnapping lead to the Trojan war. Helen means ‘shining light’
143. Holly
After being out of favor in the 70s, Holly made her way back to the 80s as a nature name. Holly means ‘to prick’.
144. Jaclyn
This variation of Jacqueline peaked in 1988. Jaclyn means ‘supplanter’.
145. Jamie
A casual and cool unisex that was used only for girls in the 80s, Jamie means ‘supplanter’.
146. Jenna
This soft sounding name is taken from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar and means ‘light’.
147. Jennifer
If there’s any Welsh link in your family, honor her by naming your daughter Jennifer, which means ‘white or fair’.
148. Jessica
William Shakespeare used this name for the first time in his play “The Merchant of Venice”. It means ‘God beholds’.
149. Jill
Jill was consistently on the top 100-baby name list from years 1957 to 1983. It means ‘youthful’.
150. Joanna
This name of Greek and English origin soared to its highest spot in 1984. Joanna means ‘god is gracious’.
151. Joanne
Joanne is a female variation of John and means ‘God is gracious’.
152. Jodie
Jodie is a gender-neutral name, but was used mainly for girls in 80s. It means ‘praised’.
153. Julie
Julie, meaning ‘youthful’, was the most popular baby name in 1980s.
154. Karen
Another diminutive of Katherine, this name means ‘pure’.
155. Kate
A delicate and sweet name, meaning ‘pure’.
156. Katherine
Katherine is taken from Greek word katharos, which means ‘pure’.
157. Kathleen
This name is tied with Kathleen Hanna, the lead singer of 80s band, Bikini Kill. Kathleen means ‘pure’.
158. Katie
Katie, meaning ‘pure’, has been a regular on the top baby name list for girls.
159. Kayla
The soap opera, “Days of our Lives” made this name a superstar. It means ‘crown’.
160. Kelly
This 80s bouncy teenager name means means ‘war’.
161. Kerry
This Irish name means ‘Ciar’s descendent’.
162. Kimberly
A classic English name that can be shortened to Kim, Kimberly means ‘meadow’.
163. Kirsty
Kirsty is the Scottish form of Kirsten and means ‘a follower of Christ’.
164. Kristen
The only issue with this name is its similarity with Kirsten, Kristin, and Kirstie. It means ‘a Christian’.
165. Lacey
This ultra-feminine name would make a unique pick for a girl of today’s generation. It means ‘from Lassy’.
166. Laura
A name that’ll forever be trendy, Laura means ‘laurel tree’.
167. Lauren
This name is a feminine derivate of Lawrence, which means ‘from Laurentius’.
168. Leanne
Leanne is well established, yet not very common. It means ‘sun’.
169. Lindsey
This perky and sporty name means ‘linden trees by the water’.
170. Lisa
In the 80s, Lisa was one of the most used nicknames for Elizabeth. It means ‘God is my oath’.
171. Louise
Louise is the feminine form of Louis and means ‘famous warrior’.
172. Lucy
An elegant short form of Lucinda, Lucy means ‘light’.
173. Lydia
Thanks to Lydia Lunch for bringing this name to the forefront in the 80s. Lydia means ‘woman from Lydia’.
174. Maria
Maria, meaning ‘bitter’, was one of the top 1980 baby names, and it is still quite popular.
175. Marissa
Having been moderately popular name in 80s, Marissa has dropped down dramatically on the list. It means ‘little Mary’.
176. Mary
The most simple and classic of all names, Mary means ‘bitter’.
177. Megan
This name ranked 14 in the 80s and then dropped down to 308. Mega means ‘pearl’.
178. Melissa
Sweet and gentle name, Melissa means ‘honey bee’.
179. Michelle
Michelle, the superstar name of the 80s, means ‘who is like God’.
180. Molly
The name Molly, meaning ‘bitter’, has a girl-next-door image, which attracts parents even today.
181. Monica
This saintly name reminds us of the series, “FRIENDS”. It means ‘advisor’.
182. Natalie
Natalie, meaning ‘the lord’s birthday’, would be a perfect pick if your due date is during Christmas.
183. Natasha
Another name that would be perfect for a Christmas baby, Natasha is a Russian name, meaning ‘Lord’s birthday’.
184. Nicola
Nicola is the feminine version of Nicholas and means ‘people’.
185. Nicole
This lissome and lovely Latin name means ‘victorious people’.
186. Rachel
This Biblical name was popular right from the 80s to the 00s. Rachel means ‘ewe’.
187. Rebecca
This ultra-feminine name, originating in Hebrew, means ‘captivating’.
188. Samantha
Samantha is the feminine form of Samuel and means ‘God has heard’.
189. Sarah
Despite being classed as a quintessential 80s name, Sarah, meaning ‘princess’ is still one of the most popular names today.
190. Shannon
Shannon is a wholesome and athletic sounding name, meaning ‘little wise owl’.
191. Sloane
This name, meaning ‘fighter’, has a sophisticated simplicity and a strong sound.
192. Sophie
This form of Sophia has remained popular through the decades. It means ‘wisdom’.
193. Stacey
Stacey is a beautiful Greek name, meaning ‘bountiful grapes’.
194. Stephanie
Stephanie was one of the coolest names of the 80s. It means ‘crowned in victory’.
195. Tara
Tara Reid, the America actress, brought attention to this name. It means ‘rocky hill’.
196. Tiffany
Tiffany, meaning ‘manifestation of divinity’, was originally used for girls born on the Feast of the Epiphany.
197. Vanessa
This Greek moniker, meaning ‘butterfly’, oozes sensuous charm.
198. Veronica
Veronica was the ultimate badass name of the 80s.
199. Victoria
This elegant name would suit your little princess really well. It means ‘to conquer’.
200. Zoe
This typical 80s Greek name means ‘life’.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Naming your baby is a matter of personal choice. While some parents love to give a chic name to their babies, others prefer timeless, classic names. Hence, we have prepared an extensive list of 80’s baby names suitable for parents who would love to reminisce about the past through their babies’ names. This list includes some lovely classic names such as Andrew, David, April, and Christina. Make a list of the ones that inspire you the most, and then choose a name that sounds unique and reflects your baby’s personality.
Key Pointers
- In the 1980s, classical Biblical names such as Aaron, James, and Rachel were favored by most parents.
- Laura, Oliver, and Hazel are nature-inspired names, ideal for those seeking a connection to trees and plants.
- Leanne, Tara, and Lee are also linked to nature, denoting elements such as the sun, hills, and meadows.
- Bridget, Charles, and Derek symbolize strength, power, and honor and are among the timeless choices.
Discover 75 rare vintage baby names for girls from the 1890s to the 1970s! Uncover unique and timeless names that will make your little one stand out.
