These whimsical Disney baby names are climbing in popularity

A dream is a wish your heart makes, and when your little one finally arrives, that sweet sentiment becomes clearer than ever. Whether you’re a casual Disney fan or you consider yourself to be a “Disney adult” (hi, you’re in good company!), taking inspiration from the beloved catalog of films and TV ensures that your baby name choice will be both unique and whimsical, as one new analysis points out.

The baby name pros at BeenVerified.com recently looked at data from the Social Security Administration, finding that Disney’s influence on U.S. baby names remains strong. So strong, in fact, that the organization sees a spike of nearly 6% within five years of a Disney film topping the box office, proving the power of Disney magic on so many facets of pop culture.

The top 10 list includes plenty of Disney classics, from Ariel to Elsa, as well as newer favorites, including Mirabel and Moana. Keep reading to see the magical rankings.

Top 10 Disney baby names

1. Merida – from “Brave” (2012)

Merida’s not your average Disney princess, which is why she continues to capture the hearts of audiences young and old. Of Latin origin, this unique moniker means “one who has achieved a high place of honor,” which is fitting for the animated character and your baby girl, too. Merida saw a whopping 1,150% spike in popularity, according to the data.

2. Koda – from “Brother Bear” (2003)

The sweet, spirited bear cub from the underrated animated film saw a 937% increase in popularity, making it the perfect name for your own little baby bear.

3. Moana – from “Moana” (2016)

Fearless, adventurous, and loyal, this beautiful name is of Maori, Polynesian origin, meaning “deep ocean, sea.” With a 488% increase after the film’s release, it makes for an ideal baby name, especially if your family loves the water.

4. Finnick – from “Zootopia” (2016)

This name has English, Anglo-Saxon roots, and has seen an ever-present boost in popularity—to the tune of 408%—after being featured both in “The Hunger Games” as well as Disney’s animated feature. 

5. Mirabel – from “Encanto” (2021)

Few names are as magical as this one, which saw a 271% increase after the release of “Encanto” just a few short years ago. Embodying optimism, empathy and charm, it’s a dreamy girl’s name to suit any new addition.

6. Ariel – from “The Little Mermaid” (1989)

The beloved Disney princess has influenced baby naming trends for decades, securing a 253% increase in the year after the film’s release alone and remaining an enduring favorite for parents inspired by Ariel’s determination, heart and sense of wonder.

7. Flynn – from “Tangled” (2010)

With a cool 166% increase after the film’s release, Flynn represents the wide-eyed spirit of this charming animated hero, who grows as a character after falling for Rapunzel. It makes for an adorable baby name for your very own tiny prince.

8. Raya – from “Raya and the Last Dragon” (2021)

For a name that represents courage, strength and tenacity, there’s no better choice than Raya, who has won the hearts of audiences thanks to her powerful story in one of the more recent additions to the classic Disney canon. This one saw a 161% bump in popularity and continues to remain a fan favorite name choice.

9. Camilo – from “Encanto” (2021)

This charming moniker is perfect for any baby boy, with Spanish roots meaning “young ceremonial attendant.” But for the beloved shape-shifting animated character, it embodies energy, charisma and effervescence, with a 142% rise in the rankings since 2021.

10. Elsa – from “Frozen” (2013)

There’s no denying the pop culture stronghold held by this Snow Queen-inspired character and her gorgeous name. If you simply can’t stop singing “Let It Go” or wishing you could visit the fictional land of Arendelle, why not give your baby girl a name inspired by this adored animated princess? At a 126% increase, you’d certainly be in good company in your choice.