Parents choose their children's names from many sources: family traditions, geographic locations, favorite foods, and even well-known brands. Some are inspired by literature, music, and pop culture. But another group of parents is following a more bizarre trend: gun-inspired names.
According to Sophie Kihm, naming expert and editor-in-chief of Nameberry, a number of parents are choosing names associated with guns and, more broadly, aggression, primarily for boys. Names like Wesson, Caliber, Shooter, and Trigger have been appearing on name lists since the 2000s, while others like Blade, Cannon, Remington, Colt, Ruger, and Winchester are becoming increasingly popular.
Such names have seen a significant increase. For example, Wesson was used 306 times in 2021, Caliber had 24 uses in 2018, while Dagger was used 13 times in 2022. It is not yet known whether this trend will peak or continue to spread even further.
Why are parents choosing aggressive names?
Experts say several factors are driving this strange trend. Kihm explains that many parents associate a gun name with a rebellious and independent spirit. For example, Maverick is more popular than ever, and names with a “cowboy” style like Dutton, Stetson, and Boone are becoming more common. In this way, gun names can be seen as part of the same category.
Expert Abby Sandel adds that while gun-inspired names may have peaked, the trend isn't over. She believes current names are more refined and understated, including Archer (which once meant a warrior with a bow but now sounds elegant) and Barrett (a sophisticated surname but also associated with a gun manufacturer).
What is clear is that some parents want their children to have names that convey strength, courage, and sometimes even a sense of rebellion – even if that means choosing a name that sounds like it comes out of an action movie.
Sources: HuffPost
