Willow

Derived from the ancient word welig, Willow is a gorgeous feminine name (and occasionally a rare but distinctive choice for boys) of Old English origin that directly refers to the willow tree. These graceful trees are celebrated for their elegant, sweeping branches and their unique ability to bend without breaking, growing and prospering even in unfavorable conditions. Because of this, Willow is a name deeply symbolic of resilience—a trait that will beautifully encourage your child throughout their life.

The Bump forum users describe Willow as "hippy chic," "earthy" and "nature-inspired," making it a dreamy choice for parents wanting a classic flower-child vibe with a slightly sophisticated twist.

Fun Facts About the Name Willow

• A botanical chart-topper: Willow has completely blossomed on the charts over the last decade. Once considered a rare, bohemian choice, it has officially transitioned into a mainstream favorite, comfortably sitting as a top 25 baby name for girls in the United States, according to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• The Will Smith family legacy: In one of the most clever naming traditions in Hollywood, superstar Willow Smith was named as a creative nod to her famous father, Will Smith. (Her brother, Jaden, was similarly named after their mother, Jada Pinkett Smith!)
• A pop-culture trailblazer: Long before it hit the top of the charts, the name gained iconic cool-girl status in the late 1990s thanks to the hit TV show Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The character Willow Rosenberg (played by Alyson Hannigan) evolved from a sweet, nerdy high schooler into one of television's most powerful and beloved witches.
• Taylor Swift approved: The name received a massive, poetic boost in 2020 when pop superstar Taylor Swift released "Willow" as the lead single for her chart-topping indie-folk album, Evermore. The song perfectly leans into the name's dreamy, magical, and nature-inspired aesthetic.