A growing number of parents are choosing baby names inspired by weapons and aggression, a trend that experts are calling “alarming” due to its potential glamorization of violence. While unconventional baby names have always existed, the recent surge in monikers like Wesson, Caliber, and Shooter represents a distinct shift in naming preferences.
The Trend: From Subtle to Explicit
The trend began in the early 2000s with names like Wesson and Caliber gaining traction. More recently, parents have embraced names such as Blade, Cannon, Remington, Colt, and even more overtly violent options like Arson, Cutter, and Dagger. According to data from the Social Security Administration, these names saw peaks in usage in the past few years, with Wesson being used 306 times in 2021 and Dagger appearing 13 times in 2022.
This trend isn’t limited to direct weapon references. Subtle alternatives are also rising in popularity. Archer, once a straightforward occupational name, is now perceived as “preppy and polished,” while Barrett, a surname also linked to firearms, is gaining traction. The appeal lies partly in the names’ connection to traditionally masculine imagery and their resonance with current naming trends favoring unconventional choices.
Why the Rise in Aggressive Names?
Experts identify several factors driving this trend. Some parents are drawn to the “renegade spirit” associated with these names, aligning with the broader popularity of edgy and unconventional choices like Maverick. The trend also benefits from the growing preference for surnames as first names, with names like Shooter, Trigger, and Dagger fitting neatly into this pattern.
However, deeper cultural currents may be at play. Baby name founder Jennifer Moss suggests that some parents are reacting to shifting gender norms, assigning aggressive names to their sons in an attempt to reinforce traditional masculinity. This aligns with research showing that parents in conservative states are more likely to choose gun-themed names, such as Gunner, which ranks among the “reddest” names for boys in the US.
Expert Concerns and Recommendations
Nameberry editor-in-chief Sophie Kihm outright rejects the trend, arguing that weapon-inspired names “glamorize violence” and are particularly inappropriate in a society grappling with high rates of gun violence. Other experts caution against the potential for ridicule or negative association, warning that such names can burden a child with unwanted baggage.
Despite the controversy, the trend reflects a broader shift in baby naming, with parents becoming more adventurous in their choices for boys after decades of favoring traditional names. As Sandel notes, the inclusion of Remingtons alongside names like Bodhi and Ellis is simply part of a changing landscape.
The consensus among experts is clear: while unconventional names can be meaningful, parents should carefully consider the implications of choosing a moniker tied to violence or aggression. As Moss advises, prioritize names that will grow with the child, fostering positivity rather than reinforcing predetermined expectations.
