The more I think about this name, the more it draws me in. It's appealing on every level, including its literary vibe, trendy sound, surname style, and nature name qualities.
Showing posts with label Unexpected Names. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Unexpected Names. Show all posts
September 23, 2015
Walden
Walden ~ Welsh Valley ~ Old English
The more I think about this name, the more it draws me in. It's appealing on every level, including its literary vibe, trendy sound, surname style, and nature name qualities.
The more I think about this name, the more it draws me in. It's appealing on every level, including its literary vibe, trendy sound, surname style, and nature name qualities.
July 1, 2015
Gloria
Gloria ~ Glory ~ Latin
I secretly (or...apparently...not-so-secretly) love this name. Are you surprised? I am. What I love about it has everything to do with its sound, even more than its connection to Americana and the holidays, and definitely more than its history of success in the middle of the 20th century. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Only a few years ago I'd say this name was at least one generation away from being cool again, but now I'm not so sure. In my eyes, Gloria is ready.
If you doubt that, I don't blame you at all. You are in the majority. But go with me down a little rabbit trail of sounds for a sec.
Do you like:
Amelia...Aria...Aurelia...Aurora...Julia...Laurel...Rory...Victoria?
That group of names, each in their own way, feels like a jumping off point to loving Gloria. The middle of the name has a sound we're really familiar with, and the -ia ending is pure contemporary perfection. So, I admit it, it's the Gl- beginning that may be throwing us off right now, as other names like Glenda and Gladys have gone by the wayside in favor of less consonant-heavy sounds.
But hang in there with me. And keep repeating Aria, Aurora, Julia, Laurel, Gloria, Rory, and Victoria. See what I did there?
History
It may sound like a name that has been around forever, but Gloria was written into existence by a playwright in the late 1800s. George Bernard Shaw created the name for You Never Can Tell, a comedy of errors that delighted audiences, and Gloria has been with us ever since.
The word gloria is Latin, and it's been around for much longer than the use of the word as a name. In the Christmas tradition, the angels shout, "Glory to God in the highest," and the famed Latin translation is, Gloria in excelsis Deo. This heavenly phrase has lived on in classical music, Christmas carols, prayers, and psalms over centuries.
Gloria has a lovely sound and a not-so-secret meaning—glory. It brings to mind Old Glory, a 19th century flag that became a symbol of patriotism during the civil war, and eventually, a nickname for all American flags. That's just one reason why the name Gloria soared after WWI. (We can also thank starlet Gloria Swanson for keeping this name ultra glamorous through the years.) It became a classic, staying in the top 100s for nearly four more decades.
Two Holidays in One
In my eyes, Gloria feels like it could be seasonal, but unlike almost every other seasonal name, it works in opposite times of the year—July, for its sense of patriotism, and December, for the famous angelic declaration. (Another name with the same July/December seasonal trick? Star.) Even though Gloria could be used for a baby born any time of the year, I think it has a bit of an extra edge for a darling choice in either July or December.
Popularity
Gloria isn't doing so well right now. It's ranked in the mid-500s and is falling in popularity with each year. Statistically, Gloria is likely to continue the downward trend, only returning to fashion over the course of a few more decades. But that doesn't mean it's off-limits, of course.
Today, Gloria feels like a vintage throwback name that is half elegant, half cute as a button, but it isn’t quite ready for a return to its former (ahem) glory. That being said, I give you permission to be ahead of the curve and choose Gloria now for its surprisingly contemporary style and charming associations.
Spinoffs and Creative Nicknames
Some parents are getting creative with this name, inventing a few modern spin-offs:
Less-than-expected nicknames for Gloria:
This list kind of makes a point, generationally. It's hard to find a young Gloria these days!
Actors Peter Sarsgaard and Maggie Gyllenhaal named their daughter Gloria Ray in 2012. Hooray!
If you doubt that, I don't blame you at all. You are in the majority. But go with me down a little rabbit trail of sounds for a sec.
Do you like:
Amelia...Aria...Aurelia...Aurora...Julia...Laurel...Rory...Victoria?
That group of names, each in their own way, feels like a jumping off point to loving Gloria. The middle of the name has a sound we're really familiar with, and the -ia ending is pure contemporary perfection. So, I admit it, it's the Gl- beginning that may be throwing us off right now, as other names like Glenda and Gladys have gone by the wayside in favor of less consonant-heavy sounds.
But hang in there with me. And keep repeating Aria, Aurora, Julia, Laurel, Gloria, Rory, and Victoria. See what I did there?
History
It may sound like a name that has been around forever, but Gloria was written into existence by a playwright in the late 1800s. George Bernard Shaw created the name for You Never Can Tell, a comedy of errors that delighted audiences, and Gloria has been with us ever since.
The word gloria is Latin, and it's been around for much longer than the use of the word as a name. In the Christmas tradition, the angels shout, "Glory to God in the highest," and the famed Latin translation is, Gloria in excelsis Deo. This heavenly phrase has lived on in classical music, Christmas carols, prayers, and psalms over centuries.
Gloria has a lovely sound and a not-so-secret meaning—glory. It brings to mind Old Glory, a 19th century flag that became a symbol of patriotism during the civil war, and eventually, a nickname for all American flags. That's just one reason why the name Gloria soared after WWI. (We can also thank starlet Gloria Swanson for keeping this name ultra glamorous through the years.) It became a classic, staying in the top 100s for nearly four more decades.
Two Holidays in One
In my eyes, Gloria feels like it could be seasonal, but unlike almost every other seasonal name, it works in opposite times of the year—July, for its sense of patriotism, and December, for the famous angelic declaration. (Another name with the same July/December seasonal trick? Star.) Even though Gloria could be used for a baby born any time of the year, I think it has a bit of an extra edge for a darling choice in either July or December.
Popularity
Gloria isn't doing so well right now. It's ranked in the mid-500s and is falling in popularity with each year. Statistically, Gloria is likely to continue the downward trend, only returning to fashion over the course of a few more decades. But that doesn't mean it's off-limits, of course.
Today, Gloria feels like a vintage throwback name that is half elegant, half cute as a button, but it isn’t quite ready for a return to its former (ahem) glory. That being said, I give you permission to be ahead of the curve and choose Gloria now for its surprisingly contemporary style and charming associations.
Spinoffs and Creative Nicknames
Some parents are getting creative with this name, inventing a few modern spin-offs:
- Glory
- Gloriana (also a country music band) or Glorianna
- Glorianne
- Glorious
Less-than-expected nicknames for Gloria:
- Glory
- Lori
- Loria
- Ria
This list kind of makes a point, generationally. It's hard to find a young Gloria these days!
- Gloria Estefan, singer
- Gloria Gaynor, singer
- Gloria Steinem, feminist and activist
- Gloria Swanson, actress
Actors Peter Sarsgaard and Maggie Gyllenhaal named their daughter Gloria Ray in 2012. Hooray!
February 3, 2015
Sanderson
Sanderson ~ Alexander's Son ~ Scottish
First, a little explanation. This name and the story around it has created a huge stir after The Bachelor aired on Monday. #SandersonPoe became a Twitter phenomenon after Kelsey Poe, a contestant on the show, shared the story of her husband's tragic death. The way in which she shared this story is what has everyone abuzz, a topic that I'd like to avoid, but an interesting little side note are the ripples made by her late husband's name: Sanderson Poe.
Eonline had this to say:
History
Sanderson translates to "Alexander's Son". Alexander is firmly in the Greek column, but this derivative is a Scottish clan name (with English use as well). It stems from the name Sander or Sanders, a Dutch form of Alexander. The feminine name Sandra comes from this name as well.
Sanderson is just another drop in the overflowing bucket of Alexander derivatives. Like many other Scottish clan names, there are several different spellings of this surname out there, like Saunderson, for example.
If you were wondering whether this name has a connection to Anderson, the answer is...not really. Remove the first S, and you get Anderson, which means "Andrew's son" and is the eighth most common surname in Scotland. But even though it sounds similar, Sanderson comes from a different name altogether.
Popularity
It doesn't take a name expert to come to the conclusion that using Sanderson as a given name is exceptionally rare.
Could this name catch on because of the attention it received on The Bachelor? I doubt it, but I do expect a few parents to be truly inspired by the sound of this interesting name. If you're looking for nickname options, I'd avoid Sandy and look to Sander to fit today's trends, in the vein of Xander (or Zander) and Sawyer.
I'm sure most people landing on this article were simply curious about the name, but for those of you considering adding Sanderson to your list of potential baby names, choosing this name would definitely bring this episode of The Bachelor to mind for any fans. That doesn't mean that you couldn't make it your own. A family claim to the name or another connection would help. Pair it with a one-syllable surname and you have a catchy name for sure...albeit a little bit derivative.
There are loads of examples of parents getting name inspiration from reality TV, even from people who don't have the best reputation or are surrounded by controversy. Americans love unique, catchy surnames and Sanderson is no exception. If the name truly speaks to you, I say go for it.
First, a little explanation. This name and the story around it has created a huge stir after The Bachelor aired on Monday. #SandersonPoe became a Twitter phenomenon after Kelsey Poe, a contestant on the show, shared the story of her husband's tragic death. The way in which she shared this story is what has everyone abuzz, a topic that I'd like to avoid, but an interesting little side note are the ripples made by her late husband's name: Sanderson Poe.
Eonline had this to say:
"...our new favorite name that is apparently actually real..."There were tons of tweets along those lines. The name is just so mysterious, ultra-cool, literary, and dignified that it feels like a soap-opera style name created to drum up more drama. The fact that it is very much real gives it even more punch. It's so catchy that most of America had no trouble remembering it. And while it's definitely the combo of his specific first and last name that makes this one a superstar on its own, I wanted to talk a little about the name Sanderson. I know some people out there are curious or truly inspired by this name.
History
Sanderson translates to "Alexander's Son". Alexander is firmly in the Greek column, but this derivative is a Scottish clan name (with English use as well). It stems from the name Sander or Sanders, a Dutch form of Alexander. The feminine name Sandra comes from this name as well.
Sanderson is just another drop in the overflowing bucket of Alexander derivatives. Like many other Scottish clan names, there are several different spellings of this surname out there, like Saunderson, for example.
If you were wondering whether this name has a connection to Anderson, the answer is...not really. Remove the first S, and you get Anderson, which means "Andrew's son" and is the eighth most common surname in Scotland. But even though it sounds similar, Sanderson comes from a different name altogether.
Popularity
It doesn't take a name expert to come to the conclusion that using Sanderson as a given name is exceptionally rare.
Could this name catch on because of the attention it received on The Bachelor? I doubt it, but I do expect a few parents to be truly inspired by the sound of this interesting name. If you're looking for nickname options, I'd avoid Sandy and look to Sander to fit today's trends, in the vein of Xander (or Zander) and Sawyer.
I'm sure most people landing on this article were simply curious about the name, but for those of you considering adding Sanderson to your list of potential baby names, choosing this name would definitely bring this episode of The Bachelor to mind for any fans. That doesn't mean that you couldn't make it your own. A family claim to the name or another connection would help. Pair it with a one-syllable surname and you have a catchy name for sure...albeit a little bit derivative.
There are loads of examples of parents getting name inspiration from reality TV, even from people who don't have the best reputation or are surrounded by controversy. Americans love unique, catchy surnames and Sanderson is no exception. If the name truly speaks to you, I say go for it.
June 23, 2009
Allete and Alette
Allete, Alette ~ Winged, To Lift Off ~ French
Butterflies, birds, feathers and wings are what led me to this baby name. I stumbled upon it while looking for a name related to flight for a character in a story, and I fell in love with its simple but feminine sound. It is obviously French but not overly exotic to English-speaking ears, as it's not too far from other familiar names like Annette or Adele.
The only problem is I can't find many references to the name, let alone history or use stats. I did learn that the French word for winged is ailé, and the word alette means "to lift off." It would make for a creatifve, unique, and beautiful French-inspired name.
So yes, I hesitated to write a post about this name since I usually have much more information to offer. I loved the sound and meaning so much I felt it was worth posting.
If you have any information on the name's history or use, or if you know someone with this name or who wants to use Allete for their child, please leave a comment! I'd love to collaborate and have more information added to this post.
Butterflies, birds, feathers and wings are what led me to this baby name. I stumbled upon it while looking for a name related to flight for a character in a story, and I fell in love with its simple but feminine sound. It is obviously French but not overly exotic to English-speaking ears, as it's not too far from other familiar names like Annette or Adele.
The only problem is I can't find many references to the name, let alone history or use stats. I did learn that the French word for winged is ailé, and the word alette means "to lift off." It would make for a creatifve, unique, and beautiful French-inspired name.
So yes, I hesitated to write a post about this name since I usually have much more information to offer. I loved the sound and meaning so much I felt it was worth posting.
If you have any information on the name's history or use, or if you know someone with this name or who wants to use Allete for their child, please leave a comment! I'd love to collaborate and have more information added to this post.
- Allete is not nationally ranked and is a unique name.
- Aleta may be a Spanish variation, meaning "little winged one."
May 15, 2009
Cannon
updated Sept 2015
Cannon ~ Clergyman ~ English
Similar Names & First Impressions
Surprised at this week's feature? Read on. Cannon fits right in with other trendy names but still sounds unique. It's similar to the name Cameron, which is a top choice for boys but is becoming more unisex with every year. Cannon, however, packs a definite masculine punch.
Considering the popularity of names like Camden, Caden, Conan, Cullen and Keenan, Cannon shouldn't be too surprising as parents look for a stylish name that's unique. That being said, it may sound odd to:
a) older generations, and
b) people who can't get the image of a war-torn weapon out of their head
when they hear the name!
Hopefully, what will remain after first impressions subside is a cute sounding boy's name with a tough, distinctive edge that ages well.
Background & Popularity
Cannon has a much more distinctive history than many people may give it credit for. The name comes from Canon, an English word that means clergyman. It's a common English surname originally used to indicate occupation. The name may also be inspired by the medieval war weapon, in which case it's cited as having American roots.
We have only seen Cannon in the top 1,000 names starting in 2003. Cannon seems to be finding its place near the middle of the top 1,000 and it has trendy-but-unique written all over it.
The more I think about this name, the more I like it. Thanks to Veronica for submitting this name suggestion. Her boys are named Cannon and Garrison. How cute!
Background & Popularity
Cannon has a much more distinctive history than many people may give it credit for. The name comes from Canon, an English word that means clergyman. It's a common English surname originally used to indicate occupation. The name may also be inspired by the medieval war weapon, in which case it's cited as having American roots.
We have only seen Cannon in the top 1,000 names starting in 2003. Cannon seems to be finding its place near the middle of the top 1,000 and it has trendy-but-unique written all over it.
The more I think about this name, the more I like it. Thanks to Veronica for submitting this name suggestion. Her boys are named Cannon and Garrison. How cute!
- Cannon is ranked at 543 (in the year 2014)
- Variations: Cannan, Canning, Canon
- Celeb babies: son of Larry King (born in 2001)
April 23, 2009
India
updated Sept 2015
India ~ the country ~ English
There's a lot to love about the name India, including its sweet sound, "place name" status, and the country it refers to. India is a vibrant nation with food, music, celebrations, spirituality, and styles of clothing and decor that we love to borrow. The word, which comes from Sanskrit and means "body of water," reflects the unique culture that many of us appreciate.
History
It's a little unexpected that such a modern-sounding name has a long history of use. In the US, girls were named India as early as the 1800s. Why? The British were using the name because they viewed India as intriguing and beautiful. During the English rule ("Raj") in India, the name of the country was on the minds of many, influencing the US and Wales. This is even confirmed by the character India Wilkes from Gone with the Wind, which is set in the 1860s. The choice of the name India is a prime example of author Margaret Mitchell's attention to historic detail.
Popularity and Use
Eventually India's popularity faded and it dropped out of the top 1,000 names in 1912. The 1936 novel Gone with the Wind became a phenomenon, won the Pulitzer Prize, and was made into a film which won an Academy Award; but the name India wasn't ranked in the top 1,000 again until the 1970s. Since India is a nation primarily of Hindus and Muslims, the 70s were a prime time for the name to return. Many were influenced by Eastern mysticism and Mahatma Ghandi, and India was used as a tribute to both. From there, the name steadily grew in popularity among all kinds of parents, regardless of background or religion.
India is a name likely to go through phases of waxing and waning in popularity. When India Arie's first album was released in 2001, the name rose in popularity by 100 spots. But the name has since fallen out of the top 1,000 names in the US. India remains exotic but familiar and grounded in history. I think it's is a wonderful baby name with a pretty sound, and I hope it continues to be used for years to come.
Celebrity Status
There are a lot of celebrity connections to this name. Celebrities named India include:
- India Arie, recording artist
- India Eisley, child actress in The Secret Life of the American Teenager
- India Hicks, British actress and model with royal lineage
- Sarah McLachlan, singer and songwriter
- Philip Michael Thomas, actor known for his role in Miami Vice
- Dan Cortese, actor who played roles in Seinfeld and What I Like About You
- Cahterine Oxenberg, actress known for her role in Dynasty
- Corey Hart, Canadian musician
February 12, 2009
Coriander
Coriander ~ Romance, Spice ~ Greek
I know what you're thinking: Coriander? Really? But despite it's near-eccentric uniqueness, Coriander is a name with a lot of good qualities. First of all, I was surprised to find that few baby names have meanings related to romance. It's definitely a fitting choice if you're looking for a rare name (or a nature name) with a special connection to romantic love. And that's exactly what I was doing when I was searching for a name appropriate for the week of Valentine's Day.
The name Coriander comes from an herb that has been used since ancient times for its seasoning and medicinal properties, and even as an aphrodisiac. It's native to the Mediterranean and is used frequently in Indian, Asian, and Latin dishes. The Bible mentions it when comparing its color to the "manna" that fell from heaven, proving its existence as one of the oldest herbs known. You can find its leaves, called cilantro, in your grocery store. The more fragrant seeds are sometimes ground and used in salad dressings, pastries, or sausage; and they play an important role in curry seasoning.
It's perhaps the aphrodisiac effect of the herb that associates the word with its meaning, "romance". But let's face it—most people will think of a spice when they hear the name. It might take a little time for people to adjust to, but honestly, if names like Sage and Ginger are acceptable, why not Coriander? It sounds similar to Corey and Alexander, making it that much less surprising of a choice. In fact, I don't know why it's not used more frequently than it is. I think Coriander is an unusual but nice name with a lot of potential.
The name Coriander comes from an herb that has been used since ancient times for its seasoning and medicinal properties, and even as an aphrodisiac. It's native to the Mediterranean and is used frequently in Indian, Asian, and Latin dishes. The Bible mentions it when comparing its color to the "manna" that fell from heaven, proving its existence as one of the oldest herbs known. You can find its leaves, called cilantro, in your grocery store. The more fragrant seeds are sometimes ground and used in salad dressings, pastries, or sausage; and they play an important role in curry seasoning.
It's perhaps the aphrodisiac effect of the herb that associates the word with its meaning, "romance". But let's face it—most people will think of a spice when they hear the name. It might take a little time for people to adjust to, but honestly, if names like Sage and Ginger are acceptable, why not Coriander? It sounds similar to Corey and Alexander, making it that much less surprising of a choice. In fact, I don't know why it's not used more frequently than it is. I think Coriander is an unusual but nice name with a lot of potential.
- Coriander is a unisex name, though it's typically listed for boys
- Coriander is very unique and not rated in the SSA's top 1,000 names
- Coriander is listed at babynames.com and is rated with almost 4 out of 5 stars.
- Coriander could be shortened to Cori or Cory as a nickname.
April 13, 2008
Chayton
Chayton ~ Falcon ~ Sioux tribe
Chayton is a Native American name that stands out as one with a lot of great qualities. It's a unique name—so unique you won't even find it in the top 1,000.
A name similar in sound is Clayton, which sits at 226. Though the names are distinctively different, I think the rankings give us a clue about how Chayton will hit people. It's a name that fits well with English phonetics but is still different, and I think most Americans will like the sound.
And then there's the meaning. Ask almost any guy and they will tell you falcons are cool. The bird-of-prey is the fastest moving creature on earth and has twice a human's power of vision.
This name has one more thing going for it: the nickname Chay, which sounds both adorable for a little boy and appropriate for a grown man. It's a nice alternative to the more popular names Clay or Chet.
Chayton is a Native American name that stands out as one with a lot of great qualities. It's a unique name—so unique you won't even find it in the top 1,000.
A name similar in sound is Clayton, which sits at 226. Though the names are distinctively different, I think the rankings give us a clue about how Chayton will hit people. It's a name that fits well with English phonetics but is still different, and I think most Americans will like the sound.
And then there's the meaning. Ask almost any guy and they will tell you falcons are cool. The bird-of-prey is the fastest moving creature on earth and has twice a human's power of vision.
This name has one more thing going for it: the nickname Chay, which sounds both adorable for a little boy and appropriate for a grown man. It's a nice alternative to the more popular names Clay or Chet.
April 10, 2008
Yasmine and Yasmin
updated March 2012
Yasmine ~ Flower ~ Arabic
You might be able to guess that Yasmine (also spelled Yasmin) is a cousin to a very popular name: Jasmine. It is the lesser-known Persian word for the jasmine flower. And it's beautiful!
Yasmine is the kind of name that sparkles with personality. It sounds like a name that could belong to a free-spirited poet, a glamorous movie star, or a school cheerleader. But it doesn't sound like the name of a wallflower.
Interestingly enough, the birth control pill Yasmin (Yaz) may have contributed to this name's growing popularity. Instead of parents feeling turned-off by a name that also happened to be the name of a medication that prevents pregnancy, the drug must have spurred inspiration when it was approved by the FDA in 2001. (What's with drug companies stealing perfectly nice names from us?) However, in recent years the drug has prompted many lawsuits due to serious side-effects, and I think that negative association has spilled over to the naming world.
Popularity
Whatever the reason, the name Yasmine is in a downward spiral. I expect it to fall out of the top 1,000 names very soon. However, the name still has a certain appeal and may one day rise above the controversy.
Update: The spelling Yasmin is slightly more popular but is also making its way down the charts, poised to drop out of the top 1,000 soon. Yasmine is not in the top 1,000 anymore as of 2014.
Celebrities with this name
- Baywatch star Yasmine Bleeth
- Yasmin Levy
- journalist Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
- Rita Hayworth named her daughter Yasmin
- Chrissie Hynde (lead singer of The Pretenders) also named her daughter Yasmin
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