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Baby Names
StrawberryAlarmClock
member
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What Is A Real Name?
StrawberryAlarmClock
member
in Baby Names
I realize that this is an opinion question, but what standard (conscious or subconscious) must a name and its spelling meet for you to consider it "real" - IOW, not made up? Does it have to appear on the SSA list? Is there a minimum number of others who must share the name? Does it have to have existed X number of years? Does it have to be a name you, personally, have heard before? Does it have to be spelled traditionally? Have an etymology? Thoughts?
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Re: What Is A Real Name?
Just wanted to say that I think this is a great question. Some people have very strong opinions on what is a real name, what is the proper spelling, if it is appropriate for boys only or girls only.
Personally I find this to be like any other topic life-- with a big grey area. But it seems others view names as more black and white/rigid rules and boundaries. (Meaning: "only a good name for boys" or "only spelled this way.")
This is such a great answer!
I like this name too (spelled differently) I can see how it sounds made up, but I heard it on a TV show and I really like it.
Married 8-02-08
After 3 years TTC with PCOS and two losses Olivia Nikelle was born 4-08-13
TTC #2 Since August 2014
Love this and totally agree. Some names are made up but feel as if they should have always been (Shakespeare's Miranda, Gwendolen as a creation of the Victorian era, Wendy penned by J.M. Barrie) whereas other inventions don't hold that instant classic potential. Also, some words seem to be able to move seamlessly into the name category (Sierra, Sienna, Summer, Autumn, April, May) in comparison to others that fall flat (Apple).
Looking back on my examples, I feel like there's more flexibility for girl's names than boy's (or it's that I've been researching more girl's names). Still, if a name has roots in literature, religion, positive fame influences, or has a certain je ne sais quoi, it's a "real name" to me. There has to be more to it than that, but I don't know how to articulate it.