20 May baby names that reflect strength and perseverance

May is a wonderful month to have a baby for many, many reasons. The fresh air and full bloom of spring put almost *everyone* in a good mood daily, making the world a much brighter place to bring a newborn into. But it’s not only the obvious. In fact, babies born in May are more optimistic than kids who celebrate their birthdays in other months. If you need some proof, just look at some of the strong celebs born in May, including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Henry Cavill—yes, Superman himself!

What’s more is that luck is on your side! A 2005 study of 30,000 participants showed that people born in May consider themselves luckier than their peers. Check out these 20 May baby names that scream luck and strength.

Gender-neutral May baby names

1. Carey

Promising Young Woman star Carey Mulligan has risen to stardom over the past few years, and the actress celebrates her birthday on May 28, giving fans the perfect reason to name their newborn after her.

2. Enu

This name means “fifth born child” which makes it a great name for the fifth month of the year.

3. Danica (Dan for short)

The name Danica means “morning star.”

Related: 100+ unique baby names

May boy names

4. Hawthorn

One of the flowers of May makes for a cool male moniker.

5. Henry

“Superman” fans rejoice! May is the birth month of actor Henry Cavill, which means the name could be a great fit for your tiny superhero. And he’s not the only beloved actor born in May.

6. George

One of the most beloved actors, George Clooney’s birthday is May 6.

7. Dwayne

Dwayne Johnson has won the hearts of millions over the years with both his strength and sweetness. Dwayne’s birthday is May 2.

8. Rami

If you’re looking for an uncommon moniker, Malek’s name makes for a great choice. His birthday is May 12.

9. Archie

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s baby boy, Archie, celebrates his birthday in May. The name has become more popular since the pair welcomed their firstborn, but the moniker is still slightly unique.

10. Quentin

This name means “fifth” in French, for the fifth month of the year.

Related: Popular boy names & their meanings

May girl names

11. Mae

Actress Hilary Duff chose this spelling and name for her little girl born in April. The beauty of the spelling makes it a not-so-obvious choice, despite sounding exactly like your newborn’s birth month (not to mention it’s an homage to Mae West, one of the greatest comediennes of all time!).

12. Emerald

Emerald, or Emme for short, is an adorable ode to the birthstone of May.

13. Lily

May’s birth month flower is the Lily of the Valley, which gives any parent the perfect reason to choose this classic name.

14. Audrey

Actress Audrey Hepburn was born on May 4, 1929.

15. Serena

Since May is the month of strength, a tribute to superwoman Serena Williams sounds like a great idea.

16. Aly

Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman celebrates her birthday on May 25 and over the past decade has shown strength both in and out of athletics.

17. Tina

Comedian Tina Fey was born on May 18.

18. Adele

Songstress Adele is also a May baby.

19. Flora

As the saying goes, April showers bring May flowers.

20. Gale

The nightingale is May’s birth month bird. It’s great baby name inspo!

A version of this story was originally published May 2021. It has been updated.