In Poland, a name is more than just a label; it is a declaration of heritage, hope, and identity. Each year, the Ministry of Digital Affairs releases the official registry data, offering a fascinating snapshot of the nation’s soul. As we look at the rankings for 2025, we see a captivating blend of timeless tradition and bold modernity shaping what Polish parents are calling their children.
The Reigning Champions: Top Names of 2025
For Boys:
The top of the boys’ list continues to be a stronghold of classic, biblically-rooted names, reflecting a deep-seated cultural preference for stability and strength.
- Antoni – Holding firm at the top, Antoni represents elegance, historical gravitas (thanks to beloved figures like Saint Anthony), and a melodic sound that works perfectly in Polish.
- Jan – The timeless Polish form of John. Its simplicity, royal history, and connection to Pope John Paul II ensure its perennial appeal.
- Aleksander – A name of power and international flair, suggesting leadership and classic sophistication.
- Franciszek – Undoubtedly boosted by the global affection for Pope Francis, this name carries connotations of humility, kindness, and nature.
- Jakub – The ever-popular Jacob, a pillar of biblical tradition that feels both friendly and strong.
For Girls:
The girls’ list reveals a more dynamic shift, where traditional names are being reimagined and shorter, sweeter forms are gaining ground.
- Zuzanna – The Polish form of Susanna retains its crown. It’s lyrical, classic, and possesses a graceful, timeless beauty.
- Julia – A name of Roman heritage that is both internationally recognizable and perfectly at home in Poland. It suggests creativity and warmth.
- Zofia – The sophisticated Polish version of Sophia (“wisdom”). It balances intellectual grace with a touch of old-world charm.
- Hanna – The preferred Polish spelling of Hannah. Its soft sound and biblical roots make it a perennially gentle and popular choice.
- Maja – Rising steadily, Maja (often associated with the spring month of May) evokes images of freshness, nature, and bright simplicity. It represents the modern trend towards concise, vibrant names.
Analysis: The Changing Landscape of Polish Naming in 2025
Beyond the rankings, the real story lies in the emerging trends that are quietly revolutionizing how Poles choose names for their children.
1. The “Short & Sweet” Revolution: There is a marked movement towards concise, two-syllable names that are easy to pronounce and globally friendly. For girls, names like Maja, Lena, Ola (short for Aleksandra), and Nela are soaring. For boys, Leo, Tymon, Fryderyk, and Igor are following suit. This reflects a more streamlined, pragmatic, and internationally-minded parenting generation.
2. Nostalgia & Retro Revival: Grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ names are being rediscovered with fresh eyes. Old-fashioned names once considered staromodne (old-fashioned) are now seen as vintage-chic. We see a strong comeback for names like Stanisław, Ignacy, or Tadeusz for boys, and Jadwiga, Józefa, or Kazimiera for girls. These choices represent a deep, conscious reconnection with family lineage and pre-war Polish identity.
3. Nature’s Embrace: Inspired by global trends and a growing ecological consciousness, names drawn from the natural world are blooming. Kalina (guelder rose), Iga (from the river Iga, but evoking nature), Róża (rose), Liwa (a river name), and Jarogniew (ardent snow, for boys) are prime examples. These names signify a desire for purity, beauty, and a grounded connection to the earth.
4. The Decline of Highly Ornamental Forms: While diminutives like Wojtuś (from Wojciech) or Krzysiu (from Krzysztof) remain beloved at home, parents are increasingly opting for the full, formal version as the legal first name. The trend is moving away from the once-popular practice of legally registering the diminutive. Parents want to give their children professional flexibility and a sense of gravitas from the start.
5. Individuality Over the Crowd: While the top 10 names remain popular, their overall share of the naming “pie” is slowly shrinking. Parents are mining deeper into lists, historical sources, and even literature to find unique names that will help their child stand out. The fear of a classroom with five kids sharing the same name is driving more distinctive choices.
Conclusion
The naming landscape of Poland in 2025 is a study in beautiful tension. Antoni and Zuzanna reign with the quiet confidence of centuries, yet they are surrounded by a generation of Majis, Leos, Kalinas, and Stanisławs. This reflects a nation confidently balancing its profound respect for history and faith with a forward-looking, global, and individualistic mindset. To choose a polish name in modern Poland is to navigate between the heart of tradition and the spirit of the new age a task Polish parents are undertaking with thoughtful and creative passion.