For the second consecutive year, Muhammad has claimed the top spot for baby boy names in England. According to the Office for National Statistics, 5,721 newborns were given the name in 2024 - a 23% increase from the previous year.

The name''s dominance becomes even more striking when you account for spelling variations. Adding Mohammed (1,760) and Mohammad (986) brings the total to 8,467 boys - roughly one in every 33 male births in England and Wales.

A Century-Long Rise

Muhammad first appeared in the top 100 baby names back in 1954 - a single entry that would prove to be the start of a remarkable trajectory. By 2004, it had climbed to 51st place. The name reached the number one spot for the first time in 2023, and has held that position ever since.

The name''s popularity varies significantly by region. It ranks first in five of England''s nine regions, but only 57th in Wales - highlighting the demographic differences across the country.

What''s Behind the Trend?

For Muslim families, naming a child Muhammad carries deep religious significance. The name means "praised" or "praiseworthy" in Arabic, and choosing it is considered an honor to the Prophet Muhammad. This tradition spans centuries and crosses cultural boundaries - from Arab families to South Asian, African, Turkish, and Indonesian communities.

The name''s rise also reflects broader demographic changes. In major English cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, no single ethnic group forms a majority, and birth certificates increasingly reflect this diversity.

The Competition

Muhammad has now surpassed traditional English favorites. Noah came in second with 4,139 registrations, followed by Oliver with just over 3,000. Oliver had previously held the top spot for eight consecutive years before being dethroned.

On the girls'' side, Olivia and Amelia continue to dominate, with Olivia leading for the third consecutive year at 2,761 registrations.

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