No babies named ‘Keir’
No Babies Named ‘Keir’ in 2024: A Political Statement or a Naming Trend?
In a curious twist of political and cultural fate, new government data released this week reveals that not a single baby born in the UK in 2024 was named “Keir.” This marks the first time in years the name has vanished entirely from the official registry of newborn names—a rare occurrence for any public figure’s moniker, let alone that of the sitting Prime Minister.
The news has sparked speculation over whether the name’s disappearance is a subtle reflection of public sentimenttoward Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who led the Labour Party to a historic landslide victory just last year. While Starmer remains broadly popular among voters for his steady leadership and moderate policies, his public image is often described as cautious, competent, but uncharismatic—traits that may not inspire name adoption among new parents.
Experts in onomastics—the study of names—say the result isn’t entirely surprising. “People tend to name their children after figures who are either culturally iconic or emotionally resonant,” says Dr. Helen Carrington, a sociolinguist at the University of Leeds. “Keir Starmer is seen as a steady hand, but he hasn’t captured the public imagination in the way that would make ‘Keir’ a fashionable name.”
The name “Keir,” of Scottish origin and famously shared with Labour Party founder Keir Hardie, has always been relatively rare. But the complete absence of the name in 2024 suggests more than just lack of trendiness—it may indicate a political cooling-off, even among Starmer’s own supporters.
On social media, the findings prompted a mix of amusement and analysis. “I like Starmer, but I wouldn’t name my baby after him,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Too much pressure for the kid to be sensible.”
While some see the data as an indictment of Starmer’s low-wattage appeal, others argue it’s simply the reality of modern naming culture, where names like Noah, Olivia, and Leo dominate, and politicians rarely leave a mark on baby name lists unless they spark global admiration or controversy.
Whether Starmer’s name will make a comeback remains to be seen. But for now, at least in maternity wards across Britain, “Keir” is out of favour—even as the man himself sits in Number 10.