The latest data from the U.S. Social Security Administration reveals that Eliana has entered the top 10 most popular baby names for the first time, climbing from 18th place in 2024 to 10th in 2025. The name, which means 'my God has answered' in Hebrew, has been embraced by parents across various communities, including Jewish and Latino families.
The Rise of Eliana
Colleen Slagen, a baby name consultant known as @namingbebe, notes that names beginning with 'El' are trending. 'Eliana offers a feminine yet professional sound with nicknames like Ella, Ellie, and Elle,' she explains. Other 'El' names like Eleanor, Eloise, and Elowyn are also gaining popularity.
Jenn Ficarra, a Los Angeles-based consultant, suggests that Eliana appeals to parents seeking an ultra-feminine name, rejecting gender-neutral options. 'Names ending in “Ana” like Juliana or Liana are popular for their femininity,' she says. The name's melodic rhythm and cross-cultural appeal—with roots in Hebrew, French, and Greek—further boost its attractiveness.
Cultural and Personal Significance
In Jewish tradition, Eliana is often given to children born after fertility struggles, symbolizing gratitude. One parent shared on the blog Kveller, 'This is the name of my rainbow baby. She really is a gift and the answer to our prayers.' The name has also been adopted in Latino communities, which account for about 25% of U.S. population growth.
Top 10 Shifts
Olivia remains the top girls' name for the seventh consecutive year, followed by Charlotte, Emma, Amelia, Sophia, Mia, Isabel, Evelyn, Sofia, and Eliana. Ava, a top 10 staple for over two decades, dropped to 11th. On the boys' side, Liam leads, with Mateo entering the top 10 due to its international appeal.
Future of Eliana
Slagen doubts Eliana's longevity, noting that names like Luna and Harper had brief top 10 stints before declining. 'Sometimes parents shy away from names that become too popular,' she says. Ficarra is more optimistic, predicting Eliana will remain in the top 10, but she is curious about what will eventually replace it.
Overall, parents are increasingly choosing diverse names from a wider pool, moving away from the homogeneity of past decades. In 1990, Jessica was the top name, but now even top names like Olivia account for less than 1% of births.
