The most popular name given to newborn baby boys in London in 2014 was Muhammad, according to the Office of National Statistics, after first taking the position in 2012.

The name featured twice in London’s top ten baby names, with spelling variation Mohammed coming in a number ten. The name is in 14thposition across the whole of the UK.

Aisha, the name of the prophet Muhammad’s final wife and daughter of Abu Bakr, the first caliph to succeed Muhammad, rose 18 places to become the 76th most popular name for British baby girls.

Nationally, George rose three places into seventh position, following the birth of Prince George (pictured above). Oliver and Amelia where the most popular names for boys and girls respectively across the UK.

Top 10 boys’ names in London 2014:

Muhammad Oliver Alexander Daniel Joshua James Adam George Jack Mohammed

Top 10 girls’ names in London 2014:

Amelia Olivia Sophia Isabella Emily Maya Sofia Mia Sophie Chloe

The popularity of the name Muhammad is not limited to London and growth of the name’s use has been rapid (see graph on right, generated here).

In the North West region Muhammad came fifth. In Yorkshire and the Humber the name Muhammad was fourth and Mohammed was sixth. In the West Midlands region Muhammad placed second and Mohammed was third.

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