Choosing the perfect baby name is one of the most important decisions new parents make. If you’re drawn to names that begin with the letter “T,” you’re in good company. Names starting with T can be timeless, trendy, traditional, or totally unique. In American culture, they span from classic choices to modern inventions, each carrying its own charm and meaning.
Whether you’re looking for a strong name for a boy, a sweet name for a girl, or a gender-neutral option, this list of 20 American baby names starting with T offers inspiration, meaning, and style.
Boy Names Starting With T
1. Thomas
Origin: Aramaic
Meaning: “Twin”
A timeless classic, Thomas has been a favorite in America for generations. It carries biblical roots and has been borne by U.S. Founding Fathers, saints, and scholars alike. The nickname “Tom” or “Tommy” keeps it casual and friendly.
2. Tyler
Origin: English
Meaning: “Maker of tiles”
Originally an occupational surname, Tyler became a popular first name in the U.S. during the 1980s and 1990s. It strikes a balance between traditional and trendy, making it a favorite for boys across the country.
3. Tobias
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “God is good”
Tobias is a strong, biblical name that has risen in popularity due to its melodic sound and positive meaning. The nickname “Toby” offers a warm, familiar alternative.
4. Tristan
Origin: Celtic
Meaning: “Noise” or “sorrowful”
Made famous by medieval romance tales and revived by pop culture, Tristan carries a romantic, noble air. It’s a favorite among parents looking for a name that’s both strong and poetic.
5. Tanner
Origin: English
Meaning: “Leather maker”
This rustic, occupational name became popular in the American West and remains a sturdy, outdoorsy pick for boys. It’s modern yet grounded.
Girl Names Starting With T
6. Taylor
Origin: English
Meaning: “Tailor”
Originally a surname, Taylor has become a strong, stylish first name for girls. It gained massive popularity in the 1990s and continues to be a sleek and fashionable option, especially thanks to public figures like Taylor Swift.
7. Tessa
Origin: Diminutive of Theresa
Meaning: “To reap, to gather”
Tessa is a sweet, feminine name with old roots and a modern feel. It’s playful but sophisticated, and its soft sound makes it a favorite among American parents.
8. Talia
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Dew of God”
Talia is lyrical and elegant, with spiritual undertones. It offers a unique yet familiar option for parents seeking a name that’s beautiful and meaningful.
9. Tatum
Origin: Old English
Meaning: “Tate’s homestead”
Tatum is sleek and gender-neutral, but it’s often used for girls in America. It gained attention through actress Tatum O’Neal and has remained a cool, modern name ever since.
10. Trinity
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Triad”
Trinity is a powerful spiritual name that rose in popularity in the early 2000s. While rooted in Christian theology, it also evokes strength and unity—making it a modern faith-inspired favorite.
Gender-Neutral Names Starting With T
11. Terry
Origin: Diminutive of Terence or Teresa
Meaning: “Tender, gracious”
Terry is a true unisex name with a friendly, vintage charm. It’s short, snappy, and easy to spell, making it a comfortable pick for either gender.
12. Teagan
Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Little poet” or “attractive”
Teagan is a rising star in gender-neutral baby naming. It has a melodic ring and a Celtic origin, offering a stylish and meaningful choice for modern families.
13. Tory
Origin: Diminutive of Victoria or Torrance
Meaning: “Victory” or “hill”
Whether as a nickname or a standalone name, Tory is versatile and chic. It works well for boys or girls and can be spelled in various ways (e.g., Tori, Torie).
14. Tommie
Origin: Variant of Thomas or Thomasina
Meaning: “Twin”
Tommie is an adorable, throwback name that’s making a comeback in unisex baby name circles. It’s casual, nostalgic, and endearingly cool.
Unique and Trendy Baby Names Starting With T
15. Thatcher
Origin: English
Meaning: “Roof thatcher”
Thatcher is a bold, surname-style name that’s become trendy in recent years. With strong, presidential vibes and a touch of vintage appeal, it fits perfectly into the modern American name landscape.
16. Taliah
Origin: Variation of Talia or a blend name
Meaning: “Heaven’s dew” or “gentle”
This variant adds a creative twist to a classic Hebrew name. The “h” at the end makes it feel more contemporary and stylish.
17. Talon
Origin: French
Meaning: “Claw”
Talon is edgy, powerful, and nature-inspired. It’s favored by parents seeking a sharp, distinctive name that still feels grounded and strong.
18. Tempest
Origin: English
Meaning: “Storm”
Dramatic and evocative, Tempest is a unique name that symbolizes strength and emotion. It’s perfect for a child with a spirited personality or a love of the arts.
19. Tahani
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: “Congratulations” or “best wishes”
Thanks to pop culture exposure like The Good Place, Tahani is gaining recognition. It’s elegant, rare in the U.S., and adds global flavor to American naming styles.
20. Truett
Origin: English
Meaning: “River bend” or “honest”
Truett is modern, strong, and rising in popularity among Christian families due to its clean sound and virtue-based vibe (often associated with the word “true”). It fits perfectly with today’s trend toward soft but masculine boy names.
Final Thoughts
The letter T offers a treasure trove of terrific baby names—ranging from timeless classics like Thomas and Taylor to trendy newcomers like Talon and Truett. Whether you’re looking for elegance, strength, spirituality, or something playful and modern, there’s a perfect T-name waiting to match your little one’s unique personality.
As you consider your options, remember that the best name is the one that feels right to you. Trust your instincts, take your time, and enjoy the beautiful journey of naming your child.
