10 Baby Names You Wouldn’t Think Are Inspired By Foods (At Least at First)

When a celebrity welcomes a baby, one of the first things the world eagerly awaits is the name reveal. These names often make headlines, sparking debates and even jokes about how unconventional or quirky they are. From Apple to Blue Ivy, these monikers are often seen as eccentric choices that only the rich and famous would dare to give their children. But here's the kicker: many of the "normal" names we pick for our babies are also inspired by everyday objects, including food. Yes, you read that right—food. It turns out that some of the most common names have edible origins, even if we don’t realize it at first glance. Don’t believe us? Let’s take a closer look at ten baby names that are secretly inspired by food.

1. Olive

Olive is a timeless name that exudes an old-fashioned charm. Popularized by the character Olive Oyl from the classic Popeye cartoons, the name has made a comeback in recent years, embraced by modern parents for its simplicity and elegance. But while Olive may seem like just a cute, vintage name, it’s also a direct reference to the olive fruit, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. With over 3,000 babies named Olive in the U.S. each year, it’s clear that this name is a favorite, whether people realize its foodie connection or not.

2. Basil

Basil is a name that sounds both regal and sophisticated, often associated with classic literature or British aristocracy. But Basil is also the name of a fragrant herb that’s indispensable in Italian and Thai cooking. While the name has its roots in the Greek word "basileus," meaning "king," it’s hard to separate it from the culinary world once you make the connection. Despite its dual identity, Basil remains relatively rare, with only a few hundred babies named Basil each year in the U.S., making it a unique choice for parents seeking something both traditional and fresh.

3. Ginger

Ginger is often associated with fiery redheads, thanks to its vibrant and lively connotations. But beyond its use as a nickname for those with auburn locks, Ginger is also the name of a popular spice used in cooking and baking worldwide. Derived from the Old English word "gingifer," the name was originally used as a term of endearment. Today, Ginger is more common as a girl’s name, though it’s still relatively uncommon, with just a few hundred babies given the name each year.

4. Clementine

Clementine is a charming, vintage name that has seen a resurgence in recent years, perhaps because of its association with the sweet, tangy citrus fruit of the same name. The name itself is derived from the Latin "clemens," meaning "merciful" or "gentle," but it’s hard not to think of the delicious clementine oranges when you hear it. With its bright and cheerful vibe, Clementine is becoming more popular, with several hundred babies named Clementine in the U.S. annually.

5. Rosemary

Rosemary is a name that feels both classic and fresh, often associated with the aromatic herb used in cooking. The name is a combination of "rose" and "Mary," but it also directly refers to the herb rosemary, known for its strong, pine-like fragrance and use in a variety of dishes. Rosemary has long been a favorite name, especially among those who appreciate its natural, earthy appeal. It’s moderately popular, with thousands of babies named Rosemary each year in the U.S.

6. Kale

Kale has become a trendy name in recent years, possibly due to the superfood’s rise in popularity. Known for its health benefits, kale the vegetable has made its way from farmers’ markets to baby name lists. While Kale is often seen as a modern, edgy name, it’s also rooted in tradition, derived from the Gaelic "caol," meaning "slender" or "narrow." Kale is more popular as a boy’s name, with several hundred babies named Kale each year in the U.S.

7. Honey

Honey is a name that oozes sweetness, literally and figuratively. While it’s often used as a term of endearment, Honey has also become a popular baby name, especially in the U.K. The name directly references the golden, sticky substance produced by bees, known for its sweet taste and numerous health benefits. Though still relatively rare, Honey is gaining traction as a baby name, with a few hundred new Honeys born each year in the U.S.

8. Peach

Peach is a name that’s as sweet and juicy as the fruit itself. Often associated with the Southern U.S., where peaches are a beloved summer staple, the name Peach is whimsical and fresh, perfect for parents looking for something a little out of the ordinary. While it’s still an uncommon choice, Peach has the potential to grow in popularity as more parents embrace unique, nature-inspired names.

9. Cherry

Cherry is a vibrant, lively name that evokes images of the bright red fruit. Often associated with the 1950s, when names like Cherry were in vogue, it has a retro charm that appeals to parents looking for a fun, playful name. Although it’s more commonly used as a nickname, Cherry is slowly making a comeback as a full name. While not widely popular, it’s a name that’s hard to forget once you hear it.

10. Berry

Berry is a name that feels both familiar and fresh, thanks to its connection to the small, juicy fruits that are a staple in summer desserts. While Berry is often a surname or a nickname for names like Barry or Bernadette, it’s also a charming first name in its own right. Though still rare, Berry is a name that’s ripe for the picking for parents who want something sweet and simple.