An Overview of First Name Meanings
So you've found out you're pregnant and a baby is on the way. Congratulations! Along with the celebrating and planning to come, it's time to begin your quest to find the perfect name for your child. Many couples begin by looking at the meaning of different baby names.
First name meanings can be different for everyone -- what one name means to the husband may carry a completely different meaning for his wife. Some couples choose to look at the meaning of a first name literally (by looking at the translation and origin of the name); others prefer to think of what a name means to them sentimentally. No matter what approach you take, with some time and research, you'll be able to find the perfect name for your new baby.
The Literal Meaning of a First Name
Many first names have a literal meaning associated with them. The study of words and their meanings is known as etymology. Etymology involves studying:
- When a word entered a language
- What source the word came from
- How the word's form and meaning have changed over time.
These factors can affect how a first name is spelled, how it sounds, and what it means.
Literal name meanings can be based on the origin of the name (i.e., what country it originated in) and what that word or combination of words meant in the original language. Take, for example, the meaning of the name Alexander. Etymologically, the name is derived from alex- (the compound form of alexis) meaning "refuge, protection, defense." This is combined with -andros, the compound form of aner, the Greek word for "man." Thus, the first name Alexander can be roughly translated as "helper or protector of mankind."
Some people choose to give their children first names based on this literal meaning. For example, a couple that has a premature baby who fought hard to survive may want to name him something that means "strong, miracle, tough, or resilient." So, they may choose the name Andrew (meaning "strong, manly") or Arnold (meaning "strong as an eagle").
The Sentimental Meaning of Names
While some parents choose to look at the literal aspect of first name meanings, others prefer to select a name based on the sentimental meaning it carries. These names may be related to important people or events in a couple's life, such as:
- The name of a special loved one
- A place or event that is important to the couple
- A name passed through the generations.
A Special Loved One
Some couples name their children after relatives or other important people in their lives. By doing so, that name holds a special sentimental meaning for them. For example, a couple may name their daughter Elizabeth. The literal first name meaning for Elizabeth is "oath of God," but when the couple thinks of what Elizabeth means to them personally, they think of the extraordinary person she was named after.
A Special Place or Event
Another way that a first name meaning may be more sentimental than literal is if the parents choose to name their infant after a treasured place, word, picture, or event. For instance, a couple may have conceived their baby at a certain place, so the name of that place becomes their child's name. As an example, a couple who conceives their baby on Holly Street may choose to name their little girl "Holly."
A Name Passed Through the Generations
To represent family heritage, some people give their first-born male the name of his father, grandfather, or other important ancestor. For that specific family, the name becomes a symbol of family heritage and pride.
Final Thoughts on First Name Meanings
Every name has a meaning, yet first name meanings can be different for each person. While some people prefer literal meanings, others prefer sentimental meanings or names that are family traditions. Whether you are considering boys' names or
baby girl names, it's important to decide what type of name meaning you want for you and your child. Naming your child is purely a matter of personal preference.
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