6 categories · 148 names

Names by language origin

Where does your baby's name come from — Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Old English, Sanskrit, Arabic? We've grouped names by their linguistic source, based on Wikipedia etymology. Each category has its own intro plus a list of names sorted by Australian BDM registration popularity.

English names

53

Names that crystallised in early-modern English usage — from word names (Hope, Faith, Pearl) to surname-as-given-name patterns.

Matthew James Jack

Greek names

33

Names from ancient and modern Greece — often carrying philosophical or virtue-based meanings. Reached Australia through Christian saint traditions and post-WWII Greek migration.

Peter Christopher Andrew

Hebrew names

27

Names from biblical Hebrew — mostly Old Testament patriarchs and prophets. Many carry the theophoric "El" (God) or "Yah" (Yahweh) root.

David Daniel John

Latin names

19

Names from ancient Rome — often associated with emperors, saints, and historical figures. Spread through the Catholic Church and classical European education.

Michael Mark Paul

Germanic names

8

Names from broad Germanic tradition — often two-element compounds (battle, fame, will, peace). Came to Australia via English, Dutch and German migration.

William Robert Emma

Irish names

8

Names from Irish Gaelic tradition — many reached Australia with the 19th-century Irish diaspora, the second-largest founding community.

Craig Shane Darren