Jaxon is a name that has been rising in popularity in recent years, but whether it is a male, female, or unisex name remains a topic of debate. In this article, we will explore the history of the name Jaxon, its origins and meanings, its popularity as a baby name, as well as the trend of gender-neutral naming in general. We will also examine the pros and cons of using unisex names and provide tips on how to choose a gender-neutral name for your baby, and the current factors influencing parents to choose such names. So, let’s dive in!
The History of Jaxon as a Name
The name Jaxon may sound modern, but its history actually dates back centuries. It has been derived from different sources, including the Old English surname Jackson, meaning “son of Jack,” and the Greek name Jason, which means “healer” or “to heal.” The name began to gain more popularity in the early 2000s when it became more common as both a given name and a surname. Jaxon is now considered a modern form of the name Jackson and has various spellings including Jaxson, Jaxen, and Jaxon.
Interestingly, the name Jaxon has different meanings in different cultures. In Hebrew, Jaxon means “God has been gracious,” while in American Indian culture, it means “the sun.” In recent years, the name has become increasingly popular among celebrities, with many choosing it for their children. For example, actors Kristin Cavallari and Olivia Wilde both have sons named Jaxon.
Despite its popularity, the name Jaxon has also faced criticism for its unconventional spelling and departure from traditional names. Some argue that the name is too trendy and may not age well, while others appreciate its unique and modern sound. Regardless of opinions, the name Jaxon continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a modern and distinctive name for their child.
The Origins of Jaxon and Its Meanings
The name Jaxon has different meanings depending on its origin. As mentioned, it can either come from the surname Jackson or the Greek name Jason. Jackson has its roots in Old English and comes from the words “Jack” which means ‘a man’ or ‘boy’ and “Son” which means ‘male offspring.’ Meanwhile, the Greek name Jason means “healer,” and is derived from the Greek word “ἰάομαι” (iatomai), meaning “to heal.”
Interestingly, the name Jaxon has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the United States and Australia. In fact, it was one of the top 100 baby names for boys in the United States in 2020. This rise in popularity could be attributed to the trend of using unique and modern spellings of traditional names.
Popularity of Jaxon as a Baby Name
The name Jaxon has become increasingly popular over the last few years. According to the Social Security Administration, Jaxon was the 46th most popular name for boys in 2020, rising from the 80th spot in 2010. This surge in popularity could be due to its trendy sound, simplicity, and unique spelling. Jaxon has also been used for girls, but it’s not as common. In 2020, Jaxon ranked 7,583th for girls.
Interestingly, the name Jaxon has different variations in spelling, such as Jackson, Jaxson, and Jaxen. However, Jaxon remains the most popular spelling among parents. The name has also been used in popular culture, with celebrities like Josh Duhamel and Kristin Cavallari naming their sons Jaxon. Despite its rising popularity, some people criticize the name for its unconventional spelling and lack of historical significance. Nevertheless, Jaxon continues to be a popular choice for modern parents.
Jaxon vs. Jackson: What’s the Difference?
Jaxon and Jackson are similar in sound, but there are some key differences between the two, especially grammatically. “Jackson” is a surname that is traditionally masculine, and “Jaxon” is a usually a given name that can be used for either gender. Jackson has only one traditional spelling, while Jaxon has multiple spellings like Jaxson and Jaxen. The use of Jaxon has also gained attention as parents look for creative and fresh alternatives to traditional names like Jackson.
Another difference between Jaxon and Jackson is their origin. Jackson is a surname of English origin, meaning “son of Jack,” while Jaxon is a modern variation of the name Jackson, created by combining the letters “Jax” with the suffix “-on.” Jaxon has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the United States, where it has been in the top 1000 baby names since 2000.
Despite their differences, both Jaxon and Jackson remain popular choices for parents naming their children. Some parents may choose Jackson for its traditional and classic feel, while others may opt for Jaxon for its modern and unique sound. Ultimately, the decision between Jaxon and Jackson comes down to personal preference and what feels right for the child and family.
Famous People Named Jaxon
While Jaxon is a relatively modern name, there have already been several famous people given the name. Some of the most notable ones are Jaxon Bieber, the half-brother of pop star Justin Bieber, and Jaxon Deryck, the son of “Criminal Minds” actor Shemar Moore. There are also some famous people with the name Jackson, like Michael Jackson, but it’s a different spelling.
Another famous person named Jaxon is Jaxon Buell, who was born with a rare brain malformation called Microhydranencephaly. Despite doctors’ predictions that he would not survive more than a few days, Jaxon has defied the odds and is now a thriving young boy. His story has inspired many and he has become a symbol of hope for families facing similar challenges.
The Gender-Neutral Trend in Baby Naming
The trend of using gender-neutral names has been gaining momentum in recent years, as it reflects the growing acceptance of people who identify as non-binary, genderqueer, or gender-nonconforming. Many parents now prefer to select names that are not tied to a specific gender, like Avery, Hayden, or Cameron, which can be used for both boys and girls. This trend is not limited to English-speaking countries as countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Germany have laws that allow parents to give their children unisex names.
However, the use of gender-neutral names is not a new concept. In some cultures, such as Native American and African, gender-neutral names have been used for centuries. These names often have meanings related to nature, animals, or virtues, and are chosen based on the child’s personality or characteristics. The recent trend of using gender-neutral names in Western cultures is a reflection of a broader shift towards inclusivity and acceptance of diversity.
Unisex Names: Pros and Cons
The use of gender-neutral names offers several benefits for parents and their children. Firstly, it can help avoid gender bias and discrimination, giving children a neutral ground to develop their gender identity. Unisex names are also more versatile in the sense that they can fit a child no matter what their gender identity or expression is. However, there are some potential downsides to using unisex names. Firstly, it may be difficult for some individuals to use a name that is traditionally associated with the opposite gender. There may also be some confusion and miscommunication when it comes to filling out forms or addressing one another.
Another advantage of using unisex names is that they can be a great way to express individuality and creativity. Parents can choose a name that is unique and not tied to any specific gender, allowing their child to stand out and have a name that truly reflects their personality. Additionally, unisex names can be a great way to honor family members or cultural traditions without being limited by gender-specific names.
On the other hand, some people may argue that using unisex names can lead to a loss of cultural and historical significance. Many traditional names have deep roots in history and culture, and by using a gender-neutral name, some argue that this history and culture may be lost or forgotten. Additionally, some people may feel that unisex names are a trend that will eventually fade away, leaving their child with a name that may no longer be popular or relevant.
How to Choose a Gender-Neutral Name for Your Baby
If you’re considering using a gender-neutral name for your baby, there are a few things to keep in mind when making your choice. Firstly, consider how it sounds and whether it’s easy to pronounce and spell. Secondly, think about the meaning and origin of the name. Thirdly, do some research and find out how popular the name is and whether it has any cultural significance. Lastly, try imagining how the name may affect your child in the long term, both socially and professionally.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a gender-neutral name for your baby is the potential for misgendering. Unfortunately, in a society that often assumes binary gender identities, your child may be misgendered based on their name alone. Consider choosing a name that is truly gender-neutral, rather than one that is traditionally associated with one gender or the other.
It’s also worth noting that gender-neutral names can be a great way to challenge gender norms and expectations. By giving your child a name that doesn’t conform to traditional gender roles, you’re sending a message that you support their right to express themselves in whatever way feels most authentic to them. However, it’s important to remember that your child’s gender identity may not necessarily align with the name you choose for them, and that’s okay too.
Factors Influencing Parents to Choose Unisex Names
Many factors can influence parents to choose unisex names for their children. Some are related to social change, while others are related to media or celebrity trends. These include factors like breaking down gender stereotypes, an increased awareness of gender diversity, the influence of non-binary and genderqueer celebrities, and successful TV and movie characters with gender-neutral names.
Another factor that can influence parents to choose unisex names is the desire for their child to have a unique name. Unisex names can often be less common and therefore stand out more, giving the child a sense of individuality. Additionally, some parents may choose a unisex name to avoid any potential gender bias or discrimination in the future, as studies have shown that names can impact job opportunities and other areas of life.
Furthermore, some parents may choose a unisex name simply because they like the sound or meaning of the name, regardless of any social or cultural factors. Unisex names can offer a wider range of options and allow parents to choose a name that they feel best suits their child, regardless of gender.
Celebrity Influence on Baby Naming Trends
Celebrities are known to have a significant impact on baby naming trends, and this trend is no different. Many celebrity parents have opted to use unisex names for their children, including Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, who named their daughter North, and Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, who named their daughter James. The acceptance of non-binary celebrities like Sam Smith and Amandla Stenberg has also contributed to the overall movement.
Another trend that has emerged in recent years is the use of nature-inspired names. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin named their daughter Apple, while actress Zooey Deschanel named her daughter Elsie Otter. This trend has also extended to using names of flowers, such as Poppy and Daisy, and names of trees, such as Willow and Cedar.
Furthermore, some celebrities have chosen to honor their cultural heritage by giving their children names that reflect their roots. For example, actress Mindy Kaling named her daughter Katherine Kaling, which is a nod to her Indian heritage. Similarly, singer Beyoncé named her daughter Blue Ivy, with Blue representing her husband Jay-Z’s favorite color and Ivy representing the Roman numeral for the number 4, which is significant to the couple.
Impact of Social Media on Baby Naming Trends
Social media has also played a role in popularizing gender-neutral names, as parents use the platforms to exchange ideas and inspiration. Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram have also provided a stage for creative and unusual naming choices, allowing for the emergence of names like Bowie, Oakley, and Stormi.
Tips for Naming Your Baby in 2021
To sum up, if you’re searching for a gender-neutral name for your baby, take inspiration from pop culture, art, literature, and your own family history. Some of the trendiest unisex names for 2021 include Avery, Cameron, Finley, Jordan, Quinn, and Rowan. The key is to select a name that fits your child and your family values and that you will love to call out for years to come. It’s really up to you!