What names are going out of style?

These Baby Names Are on Their Way Out, Predicts BabyCenter

Every year, naming trends shift like the seasons, and some once-popular baby names slowly fade into the background. According to BabyCenter’s 2026 prediction, a handful of names are on the verge of going “extinct”—not gone entirely, but slipping so far out of favor they’re barely registering on the popularity charts.

For girls, names like Charleigh, Mckinley, and Prisha are losing ground. While they enjoyed a moment in the spotlight over the past decade, they’re now dropping fast. Charleigh, a stylish twist on Charlie, landed at No. 838 in 2026, while Mckinley and Prisha hover just below, signaling a clear decline in new parents’ preferences.

On the boys’ side, names like Kylian (No. 1001), Atharv (No. 1048), and the vintage Enoch (No. 943) are also losing steam. Even Ezra, which enjoyed a steady rise thanks to its biblical roots and celebrity appeal, is slipping—now at No. 978. Kylian, likely influenced by star soccer player Kylian Mbappé, seems to have peaked. Meanwhile, names like Crue, which barely made the list at No. 965, suggest some experimental spellings and invented names may not stand the test of time.

Experts say these shifts reflect broader cultural movements—parents are now leaning toward timeless classics or fresh, globally inspired names with deeper meaning. The names dropping off the radar often fall into a gray zone: trendy enough to rise quickly, but not strong enough to endure.

While "extinct" might sound dramatic, it simply means fewer babies are carrying these names each year. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them—some parents love a unique name that stands apart. But if you’re looking for longevity and widespread appeal, it might be worth considering what’s on the rise instead.