Most Popular Baby Names - Names and their Meanings

 by: Tony Luck

Although its popularity is declining, Jack is the most popular boys name again in England and Wales - that's 11 years at the top! However, 14% fewer boys were christened Jack last year, so we could see a change at the top in 2006. In Northern Ireland, Jack was again top and Lewis retained top spot in Scotland, with Jack the runner-up.

Jessica was the most popular girls' name in England and Wales having moved up from third in 2004. Emily, last year's top name, is in the number two spot. Olivia has climbed three places to number four, while Ellie, last year's runner-up has fallen to to sixth place.

In England & Wales climbers in the girls' table were Grace (up 4 to 7), Ruby (up 16 to 15), Evie (up 10 to 29), Phoebe (up 9 to 35), Keira (up 13 to 38) and Scarlett (up 25 to 47). New entries include Sienna at 69, Eva at 78, Demi at 80, Amelie at 82 and Ava at 84. Names to drop out of the top 100 include Jade which has tumbled from position 24 in 2001, Jennifer and Chelsea.   (continued...)

Popular Baby Names in the UK in 2005
  Page 2