According to the Social Security Administration, seven baby boys received the name Eclipse in 2025, following high-profile births timed with historic astronomical events.
Celestial-Inspired Baby Names Gain Traction During Eclipses
Freedom and Michael Eubanks welcomed their daughter during the Aug. 21, 2017, solar eclipse, according to NBC affiliate WCNC in Charlotte. Because Greenville, South Carolina, fell within the path of totality, the parents named her Eclipse Alizebeth Eubanks.
A similar event occurred on April 8, 2024, when Alicia Alvarez delivered her daughter moments before an eclipse shadowed Texas. Alvarez told the Dallas Morning News she hadn’t realized the timing would align so closely. They named her Sol Celeste Alvarez. “Sol” translates to sun in Spanish, and “Celeste” means heavenly or of the sky. The newborn joined an older sister named Luna, which means moon.
Finding Wearable Nicknames for Celestial Names
Baby name expert Colleen Slagen told TODAY.com that she looks for choices where parents can have their cake and eat it too. She recommends choosing mainstream, wearable nickname options for children given heavy celestial titles.
Pro Tip: If you love a bold celestial first name like Eclipse, consider using it as a middle name, or choose a distinctive moniker that allows for easy everyday nicknames like Meri, Elle, Sol, or Stella, according to baby name expert Colleen Slagen.
Reality TV couple Zack Goytowski and Bliss Poureetezadi Goytowski, who met on “Love Is Blind,” utilized this approach for their children. According to TODAY.com, they named their 2-year-old daughter Galileo Terri Rayne, with the nickname Lars, alongside alternative options like Gal or Layla.
Future Trends in Astronomical Monikers
Slagen notes that while she might personally relegate a bold choice like Eclipse to the middle spot, she supports parents using names inspired by moments that move them. Other trending celestial possibilities highlighted by experts include Meridian with the nickname Meri, Ciel with Elle, Soleil with Sol, and Estelle with Stella.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Sol mean?
How many babies were named Eclipse recently?
According to the Social Security Administration, seven baby boys were given the name Eclipse in 2025.
What are some wearable nicknames for celestial baby names?
Baby name expert Colleen Slagen suggests nicknames such as Lars or Gal for Galileo, Meri for Meridian, Elle for Ciel, and Stella for Estelle.
What are your thoughts on celestial baby names? Would you use an astronomical moniker like Eclipse or Sol for your child, or do you prefer more traditional options? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below!