The third annual list not based on any official data. It’s just what I think you should have named your baby this year.
It’s still a little early for the Social Security Administration to release its list of the top baby names of 2016, but you can read this instead.
11. Fisher
Hipsters and non-hipsters alike pay homage to Carrie Fisher’s legacy while acknowledging that “Carrie” is a real so-so name for a kid. Unless it’s a boy-kid. Then go nuts with that “Carrie” business. “Leia” is an excellent substitute if you don’t want your child to be known as “Fishy” or “Care-Bear” all through high school.
10. Lillet
It’s an aperitif I tried for the first time tonight. It’s pretty good. Like a fancy Muscatel. “Egg Nog” is an acceptable alternative, as is “Kirkland Signature.”
9. Vladimir
A bold choice that’s sure to pay off in coming years.
8. Dandelion
Beating “Kale” for the first time, enjoy this fresh take on classic hipster greens!
7. Rocket
Named for the kind of arugula, not for the engine. More kick-ass than “Dandelion” without being as on-the-nose as “Kale.” Just do me a favor and don’t name your kid “Chard,” okay? It’s a combination of “Chad” and “Shart,” neither of which are appropriate names for a human.
6. Old-Timey Typewriter
Pretty self-explanatory.
5. Zoloft
It’s been a rough year, but you’re still here.
4. Football
You want to love it, you really do. But can’t quite get the bat off your shoulder. You’d use an appropriate football metaphor instead of “get the bat off your shoulder,” but you don’t know any.
3. Pillow
Probably named after one of the Palin kids, but who can even remember the 2008 election cycle at this point? It’s a name that harkens back to a more innocent time, one way or the other.
2. Raytheon
Because “Monsanto” is played out. But you’re still kind of winking at it, you know?
1. Patriarchy
It goes great with any last name and ensures that your child can be the front-person for an indy band: Patriarchy Jones. Patriarchy Muñoz. Patriarchy Pence. Patriarchy Langsdorf. Say them aloud. Listen to their power. This is the name of a winner.