Baby Names: The 9 Most Disliked Names by Grandparents According to a Survey

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Baby Names: The 9 Most Disliked Names by Grandparents According to a Survey

Created on 04/29/2026 at 14:01, by Joséphine de Rubercy

When it comes to the names of their grandchildren, grandparents tend to voice their opinions (sometimes to the point of creating family tensions). An unprecedented survey reveals the names most disliked by grandparents. And surprisingly, some of the most popular names today top the list. What are they? Why do they bother them so much? The results might just surprise you…

Choosing a baby name has never been a smooth journey. Between trends for 2026, favorites, and family traditions, expectant parents often navigate through uncertainty. But an unexpected player sometimes complicates the situation: grandparents. A survey conducted among 2,000 parents and grandparents by Gransnet and Mumsnet sheds light on a topic that is both sensitive and universal: the names that grandparents dislike the most. Contrary to expectations, these are not solely rare or original names. On the contrary, some very popular names today are among the most criticized.

Behind these preferences lie strong emotional stakes. Personal tastes, memories, family rivalries… The choice of a name can crystallize many tensions. However, the majority of grandparents are aware of this. As the study reveals, "69% believe it is acceptable to give their opinion, but not to make unsolicited suggestions." An essential nuance (let's remember this).

So, what are these names that divide families? And why do they provoke such reactions? The answer speaks volumes about our relationship with names… and with family.

Baby Names: When Grandparents Disapprove, Family Tensions Arise

The first takeaway from this survey is that disagreement over baby names is far from marginal. Indeed, 15% of parents acknowledge that a relative dislikes the name chosen for their child. And in some cases, tensions escalate. The proof: "2% of grandparents say they have argued with parents over the name," and "6% have even temporarily cut off contact," it reads. A small number, but indicative of the importance of the subject.

In most cases, the reactions remain more subtle. Some prefer to avoid conflict. According to the study, "8% claimed to like the name when they did not," while "9% simply responded: 'What?'" A passive-aggressive reaction that says a lot. Finally, others (4%) choose silence.

But why do certain names bother them so much? The reasons vary. For 28%, the name is deemed "ugly." For 17%, it is "too strange." Others mention a name that is "too old" (11%) or associated with someone they dislike (11%). Finally, some regret that their own suggestion was not chosen (6%). Even disappointment arises when it is not a family name.

Underlying this is a simple reality: the name remains a matter of taste. And above all, a matter of generation.

A survey has revealed: the 9 most disliked names by grandparents are not what we expect

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The 9 Names Grandparents Dislike (And They Are Far from Rare or Original)

So, what are these infamous names that make teeth grind? The survey reveals a surprising list. It includes very common names today, such as Charlotte, Noah, or Jack/Jacques. Also appearing in the top of the least liked names by grandparents are Aurore, Élie, Finn, Lindsay, Sally, and Tabitha. Names that are far from (so) extravagant, yet criticized.

This rejection is often explained by a generational gap. Grandparents associate certain names with trends they do not understand. Or with references that do not resonate with them. Conversely, young parents seek originality, modernity, or an international sound. The result: expectations diverge.

Despite everything, the conflict is often temporary. The study shows that "only 4% of grandparents have never accepted the name". And over time, many change their minds. "39% say they have eventually gotten used to it."

As Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, summarizes: "Choosing a name is already complicated enough. If we add the opinions of grandparents, it becomes almost impossible." A statement that resonates with many parents (and could make some grandparents reflect).

In the end, a name does not define everything. And love almost always prevails.