Experts Raise Concerns Over Rise in Weapon-Inspired Baby Names

A growing trend of parents choosing names associated with weapons and aggression has sparked debate among naming consultants and cultural analysts.

Weapon-inspired names like Wesson, Caliber, Shooter, and Trigger have seen an increase in popularity in recent years, according to baby name experts and Social Security Administration data.
Many of these names are tied to gun manufacturers or violent imagery and are being chosen for their perceived masculinity and modern appeal.
Experts suggest that these names may reflect broader cultural trends, including conservative values around gender and a desire to instill traits like strength and independence in children.
The trend aligns with the popularity of cowboy-style names and the broader use of surnames as first names, such as Hunter, Carter, and Parker.
Naming consultants have expressed concern, warning that such names glamorize violence and could carry negative connotations or burdens for children as they grow.