Brits are most likely to change their name if it’s James or Elizabeth

A new study of name changes through Deed Poll has found that thousands of Brits are rebranding themselves and you might be surprised at the names being cut.

According to the analysis of over 14,000 name changes through Deed Poll, men named James are most likely to seek a rebrand, with more Brits ditching this name than any other in the past five years.

Elizabeth is the UK’s second most commonly changed given name, with Michael, Susan, and Andrew also getting the chop as Brits search for new identities.

The analysis, which is the largest study of Deed Poll data of all time, was conducted by name label manufacturer mynametags.com. It shows that Britain’s most changed names are all traditional, with Rebecca, Thomas, Muhammad, and David also featuring in the top 10 most changed names.

When it comes to adopting new names, Brits are increasingly opting for abbreviated versions of classic names. Alex is soaring in popularity to become the most adopted name since 2020, while Charlie, Ellie, and Jay also feature in the top 10.

“We’ve been analysing baby name trends for over 20 years, tracking how they emerge and evolve,” says Lars B. Andersen, Managing Director at mynametags.com. “Our analysis of Deed Poll data shows the other side of the coin, the names that people are actively changing.

“What’s particularly striking is the shift towards abbreviated names, such as Alex, Charlie, and Ellie. This mirrors a broader societal trend we’re seeing in baby naming. Whilst traditional names still have their place, parents are increasingly opting for shorter, more contemporary versions of classic names for their newborns, prioritising ease and perhaps a touch of individuality. It seems that whether Brits are welcoming a new life or embracing a new chapter, the appeal of a concise and current name is a powerful force across generations.”

Britain’s most changed names:

1. James
2. Elizabeth
3. Michael
4. Susan
5. Andrew
6. Rebecca
7. Thomas
8. Muhammad
9. David
10. Sarah

Britain’s most adopted names:

1. Alex
2. Olivia
3. Charlie
4. Elizabeth
5. Alexander
6. Ellie
7. Robin
8. James
9. Jay
10. Rose

Discover the full list of names Brits are changing.