Jacob, Sophia top the list for baby names; King and Messiah are gaining in popularity for boys

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FILE - In this May, 2008 file photo, luggage tags with children\'s names are displayed in East Montpelier, Vt. Jacob and Sophia top the list of most popular baby names again. It\'s Jacob\'s 14th straight year at the top and the second year in a row for Sophia. (AP Photo/Toby Talbot)

WASHINGTON – Jacob and Sophia top the list of most popular American baby names — again. It’s Jacob’s 14th straight year at the top and the second year for Sophia.

For boys, Jacob was followed by Mason, Ethan, Noah and William. For girls, Sophia was followed by Emma, Isabella, Olivia and Ava.

The Social Security Administration lists the top 1,000 baby names each year, dating back to 1880, when John and Mary were No. 1 for boys and girls. The list released Thursday was for babies born in 2012.

The agency also publicizes which names are gaining and losing popularity. For boys, it’s seems to be all about high expectations. Among the fastest rising names: King and Messiah.

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