So what's in a name?

Well, a whole lot if you consider the origins and meanings of where first names come from. What's also interesting are the trends, as different names come in and out of fashion, with some names topping first and second place year after year.

Here are the top 5 boys and girls baby names of 2012. They are taken from a range of different sources with their origins, meaning and some basic information. So if you need help deciding which most popular name you want to call your baby, or indeed which names you want to avoid we hope this handy list will help.

If you want to check a specific name that you have in mind we found this great resource offering in depth information on most first names. Check out this link to babycenter

The Top 5 girls names

1. Sophia

Origin:Greek

Meaning: Wisdom (form of Sophie) – This name is related to sophiology which is a philosophical idea related to wisdom. The name is also regarded by certain neopagans to represent a Goddess or the idea of Godliness.

2. Emma:

Origin: German

Meaning: Universal – Emma has been a very popular girls name for many years. It comes from the german word "erman" meaning whole or universal. The name was very popular, mainly in europe in the mid 1990's whilst in the UK it was ranked 4th in 1974 having become very popular during the 1960's. Interestingly it only gained popularity in the US later becoming the most used name for girls in 2008.

3. Olivia:

Origin: Greek/Latin

Meaning: Olive tree – The name Olivia is the female version of Oliver and signifies beauty, dignity and according to some linguistic sources fruitfulness as is suggested due to the fruitful nature of the olive tree itself.

4. Isabella:

Origin: Hebrew

Meaning: Pledged to God – Isabella is a popular name lately not only stateside but also in spain, south america and certain countries in Europe. It is related to the Hebrew name Elisheva and also to Elizabeth. The name was imported into France during the middle ages and then to England where it was adopted by some royal figures.

5. Ava:

Origin: German.

Meaning: A bird or like a bird- The root of this name is actually Latin and means "delicate" or "pretty". Some sources say its origin is in fact from the Hebrew name "Chava" - Eve meaning life. Interestingly the name Ava actually has over 30 different forms. It's no wonder its one of the top 5 most popular names.

The top 5 Boys names

1. Aiden:

Origin: Gaelic

Meaning: Fiery or little fire - This name interestingly is actually the anglicized form of the original irish name Aodan. The name became popular in honor of St Aiden of Iona who founded a renowned monastery in the north of England in the 7th Century. Either way, this was the most popular boys name in the US in 2012.

2. Jackson:

Origin: Old English

Meaning: Son of Jack – Although this name isn't rich with meaning like many biblical names it is number 2 for a reason and has gained popularity in recent years. Traditionally Jackson was a family name but found it's way to being a popular first name. Other spellings may include forms like Jaxon and Jaxson.

3. Ethan:

Origin: Hebrew.

Meaning: Strong or firm – In fact Ethan has many different meaning in English depending on who you ask. As well as meaning strong it is also interpreted to mean solid, enduring and permanent and according to some it means optimistic and impetuous. The name appears 8 times in the old testament and the Ethan of the bible was said to be a musician who played in the court of King David.

4. Liam:

Origin: Irish

Meaning; Unwavering protector – Liam is a fascinating name rife with meaning and significance. It also has different meanings in different languages and it's not 100% clear where the name originated from. The Germanic meaning is Helmeted. The Gaelic and Irish forms derive from the name William or Will-Helmet. Whereas the American meaning is along the lines of "Resolute defender".

5. Mason:

Origin: French

Meaning: Stone maker – Mason is derived from a french family name 'Maason" meaning a stone worker or brick layer. It is also related to the old english form "Macian" meaning "to make". Of course the name also has strong connections with the famous freemason organization.