Disney Movies Have Skyrocketed These 10 Baby Names to Popularity

Pop culture often inspires baby names, and Disney movies are no exception. As more bold, independent, and exciting Disney princesses (and princes) burst onto the scene, the prevalence of familiar character names in classrooms across the nation has exploded. Names like Merida, Elsa, and Camilo, which lived in relative obscurity before, have skyrocketed in popularity due to the release of movies beloved by thousands.

A recent analysis of the Social Security Administration’s Most Popular Names List, done by BeenVerified, looked at names that had grown in popularity shortly after the release of Disney movies to see which names benefitted most from their big-screen debut.

The Top 10 Baby Names That Grew in Popularity After Disney Movie Releases Include:

1. Merida (2012, Brave) Popularized by the movie Brave, Merida’s story of courage and self-discovery saw the biggest increase in popularity, taking the name from relative obscurity and increasing its popularity by 1150% in the year after the movie was released.
2. Koda (2003, Brother Bear) Koda’s adventurous spirit in Brother Bear resonated with many, leading to a significant rise in the name’s use by 857%.
3. Moana (2016, Moana) The strong and fearless Polynesian heroine of Moana has inspired many parents, making this name increasingly popular with a 642% increase.
4. Finnick (2016, Zootopia) Although a minor character in Zootopia, Finnick’s unique and charming name caught on with parents, resulting in a 482% increase.
5. Mirabel (2021, Encanto) Encanto’s Mirabel brought a touch of magic and family love, causing a surge in this name’s popularity by 379%.
6. Ariel (1989 and 2023, The Little Mermaid) Ariel remains a timeless favorite, continuing to charm new generations with her underwater adventures and independent spirit, seeing a 353% increase.
7. Flynn (2010, Tangled) The dashing and witty Flynn Rider from Tangled has made this name a favorite for parents seeking a charming and adventurous name, leading to a 342% increase.
8. Raya (2021, Raya and the Last Dragon) The warrior princess Raya has inspired many with her bravery and determination, making this name a popular choice with a 291% increase.
9. Camilo (2021, Encanto) Camilo’s charismatic and shape-shifting character in Encanto has captured the hearts of many, leading to a rise in the name’s use by 287%.
10. Elsa (2013, Frozen) Elsa’s powerful story of self-acceptance and her iconic song “Let It Go” have made her name one of the most popular Disney-inspired names in recent years, with a 275% increase.

While these names have seen significant spikes in popularity, it’s also worth noting that classic Disney names continue to be beloved across the United States. Names like Ariel, Esmeralda, Tiana, and Elsa remain popular choices, reflecting the enduring influence of Disney’s storytelling magic.

Looking for more baby name inspiration? Check out this exhaustive list of Disney-inspired baby names from the uber-popular to the more subtle sleepers.