When I was younger, J was one of my favorite naming letters. It is the reason I love the name Benjamin. Now, a bit older, and I actually find J to be a challenge for naming, and it appears that I am not alone - JK Rowling only used six "J" names in her books, and some of these are a stretch - one is a surname, and one is a middle name.
Justin - Justin is an old Latin name, related to the name Justus, and the word Justice. It means "just, upright, and righteous". Most popular in the late 80s/early 90s, the name is still in the top 100, but on the decline. (Justin Finch-Fletchley)
Jack - American is no stranger to Jack. This exact variant has been in the top 100 since 1996, and other versions (Jackson, Jax, Jaxon, etc) also all have had recent popularity. Jack is originally a nickname for John, but broke off on its own a long time ago. (Jack Sloper)
Jane (Deloris Jane Umbridge) - Jane is very popular as a middle name currently. (So popular I have feared when making my own name decisions that it is this generation's version of Lynn. You would be astounded by how many women my age have the middle name Lynn). Despite its middle name popularity, it is ranked rather low (mid 300s) as a first name. The saying tied to the name is "Plain Jane", and I have seen several women worry that they "like the name, but is it too boring?". I don't think its boring at all. I think its classy, and sometimes, simple is exactly what we need.
Jordan (Lee Jordan) - So, Jordan is actually used as a surname in Harry Potter, but fans now that this character rarely goes by his first name Lee. The voice of Professor McGonnagal shouting Jordan still echoes in my ears. Jordan is one of my favorite gender-neutral names. (OK... it actually might be one of the only gender-neutral names I like!). It has been in the top 1000 for awhile, but really took off as a boy's name in the 80s (right around the time Michael Jordan entered the scene... coincidence? I think not...).
James (James Potter) - Regal, Biblical, and overall, classic. James reached its all time low of popularity in 2010... when it hit 19th. That's right, since 1880, James has never fallen out of the top 100. Talk about a perennial.
Janus (Janus Thickey) - This boys name Janus is an old Latin name, also the Roman god of doors. It means "gateway". Similar sound female names, like Janet, Janice, and Janelle are a bit out of fashion. Does that mean Janus is outdated, or due for a comeback? (Janus Thickey)
So what do you think? Is there a James or Jane in your future? What about the more unique Janus? Did Rowling do "J" justice?
Showing posts with label Harry Potter Alphabet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Harry Potter Alphabet. Show all posts
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet - I is for Ignatius
Earlier this week my sister and I were discussing how "I" names can be hard to come by. There are some very popular ones (Isabella and variants), and some traditional ones (Isaac and variants), but once you get beyond those you tend to find either rare names (Iona, Isis, Iliad) or foreign names (Inigo, Igor, Ilsa). It's no surprise then that I is our smallest letter yet in the Harry Potter alphabet. In fact, I only could find three names, and one of them I had to go out looking for (It was not on the master list I was using because the person is mentioned, not an active part of the book). So here they are!
Ignatius and Ignotus - I have discussed the first of these related name before as a possible source for "ace" (a different version, Ignace, is a more likely candidate). There are many versions of this name, besides the two above, there is Ignace, Ignacius, Ignacio, Ignatz, Ignaz, Inacio, and several more. It has a questionable meaning of "ardent" in Latin. I like this school of names, rarely used, and the great nickname Iggy. (Percy Ignatius Weasley) (Ignotus Peverell)
Igor (Igor Karkaroff) - Igor is a Russian character, and its very popularly known as a Russian name. Most infamously, Frankenstein's hunchbacked assistant in popular media. Also famous composer Igor Stravinsky (with vary particular sound). Igor means Soldier. A similar name is Scandinavian "Ingvar".
What do you think? Would you consider either of these? What "I" names should JK Rowling have used that she neglected?
Ignatius and Ignotus - I have discussed the first of these related name before as a possible source for "ace" (a different version, Ignace, is a more likely candidate). There are many versions of this name, besides the two above, there is Ignace, Ignacius, Ignacio, Ignatz, Ignaz, Inacio, and several more. It has a questionable meaning of "ardent" in Latin. I like this school of names, rarely used, and the great nickname Iggy. (Percy Ignatius Weasley) (Ignotus Peverell)
Igor (Igor Karkaroff) - Igor is a Russian character, and its very popularly known as a Russian name. Most infamously, Frankenstein's hunchbacked assistant in popular media. Also famous composer Igor Stravinsky (with vary particular sound). Igor means Soldier. A similar name is Scandinavian "Ingvar".
What do you think? Would you consider either of these? What "I" names should JK Rowling have used that she neglected?
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Harry Potter Baby Names - H is for Hestia
Hannah - This is a Hebrew name meaning "God has favored me", a variant of Anna. (Hannah Abbot). It has experienced much recent popularity, ranking as high as #2 from 2000-2002, and is currently (We have 2012 data people!) 22nd.
Hermione - The "interesting" name of the series, due to its use on such a main character and its former status of completely unknown. It is pronounced her-my-oh-nee. It is of Greek origin and means "messenger", related to the other name on this list Hermes. (Hermione Granger)
Helga - An old German name meaning "holy" or "sacred". This has never been in the top 1000. With other old names rising (think Ilsa and Adelaide for example), maybe it is due (Helga Hufflepuff).
Hestia - The Greek goddess of the hearth, this name has a lovely meaning and a nice sound. (Hestia Jones)
Hedwig - Another Old German name meaning "strife". Perhaps less than ideal if meaning is important to you.
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Hassan - Pronounced hah-sahn, this is of Arabic origin and means handsome. It lingers in the second half of the top thousand due to its ethnic use. (Hassan Mostafa)
Hippocrates - Most people have heard of the Hippocratic oath, but I doubt many people have considered this as a given name. The meaning is technically "horse", but the main association would clearly be medicine, ethics and healing (Hippocrates Smethwick)
Hermes - The Greek messenger God, famous for his awesome sandals.
Hagrid - Okay, so this is a character's last name, but the books give it life as a first name since the character goes exclusively by this. The name references a giant in Greek mythology. (Rubeus Hargrid)
Harold - I have to admit, this name reminds me of a horror story from when I was little, but that shouldn't stop others from liking it. It is a Scandinavian name meaning army-ruler. (Harold Dingle)
Harry - The flagship name of the series. Despite the strong association with the book, it hasn't been "ruined" because there are lots of famous Harry's, most notably Prince Harry. Harry is old German for "home ruler". The bigger issue with Harry in America is pronunciation. To most American dialects, it is pronounced just like hairy. We often fail to get the strong "A" sound in names like this.
Hengist - An Anglo-Saxon name used in the Arthurian legends as a minor character. It likely is related to an old word for Stallion (Hengist of Woodcroft)
Hermione - The "interesting" name of the series, due to its use on such a main character and its former status of completely unknown. It is pronounced her-my-oh-nee. It is of Greek origin and means "messenger", related to the other name on this list Hermes. (Hermione Granger)
Helga - An old German name meaning "holy" or "sacred". This has never been in the top 1000. With other old names rising (think Ilsa and Adelaide for example), maybe it is due (Helga Hufflepuff).
Hestia - The Greek goddess of the hearth, this name has a lovely meaning and a nice sound. (Hestia Jones)
Hedwig - Another Old German name meaning "strife". Perhaps less than ideal if meaning is important to you.
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Hassan - Pronounced hah-sahn, this is of Arabic origin and means handsome. It lingers in the second half of the top thousand due to its ethnic use. (Hassan Mostafa)
Hippocrates - Most people have heard of the Hippocratic oath, but I doubt many people have considered this as a given name. The meaning is technically "horse", but the main association would clearly be medicine, ethics and healing (Hippocrates Smethwick)
Hermes - The Greek messenger God, famous for his awesome sandals.
Hagrid - Okay, so this is a character's last name, but the books give it life as a first name since the character goes exclusively by this. The name references a giant in Greek mythology. (Rubeus Hargrid)
Harold - I have to admit, this name reminds me of a horror story from when I was little, but that shouldn't stop others from liking it. It is a Scandinavian name meaning army-ruler. (Harold Dingle)
Harry - The flagship name of the series. Despite the strong association with the book, it hasn't been "ruined" because there are lots of famous Harry's, most notably Prince Harry. Harry is old German for "home ruler". The bigger issue with Harry in America is pronunciation. To most American dialects, it is pronounced just like hairy. We often fail to get the strong "A" sound in names like this.
Hengist - An Anglo-Saxon name used in the Arthurian legends as a minor character. It likely is related to an old word for Stallion (Hengist of Woodcroft)
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet: G is for Gilderoy
Gabrielle - Gabrielle is not exactly uncommon, but its not over used either. It is, of course, a French female version of Gabriel, which is Hebrew in origin and means "hero of god" (Gabrielle Delacour)
Ginny/Ginevra - I already discussed this name somewhat in my How To Get your Nickname: Ginny. It is an Italian version of Jennifer, meaning fair or smooth. It is actually really growing on me... funny how names do that! (Ginny Weasley)
Gladys - An old name that has largely fallen out of use, perhaps due for revival? Gladys makes me think of the flower Gladiolus, but it is actually a name of many origins - perhaps a feminine version of Claude, meaning "lame", perhaps French meaning "sword" (Gladys Gudgeon)
Griselda - Reminiscent of a fairy tale somehow, this is an old German name meaning "dark battle". Shortens to the more popular "Zelda" (Madam Griselda)
Gilderoy - Another name that seems reminiscent of stories, Gilderoy is a variant of Gilroy, which is Gaelic and means "son of a red head" (Gilderoy Lockhart)
Godric - This Old English name means what it sounds like - god or ruler. It feels like an old knights name to me. Quite romantic. I can see myself using it! (Godric Gryffindor)
Gideon - This name meaning powerful warrior is biblican in origin, and rising in popularity. It has gone from non-ranked to 412 in the last 15 years. (Gideon Prewitt)
Gilbert - Has this name yet overcome the movie What's Eating Gilbert Grape? Not statistically, it has been dropping in popularity since 1930, but has yet to fall out of the top 1000. I like the nickname options of Gil or Gilly (couldn't Gil also be for Gilderoy though... hmm perhaps this deserves its own post). Gilbert is old French in origin and means bright promise (Gilbert Wimple)
More common names that I chose not to discuss:
Gregory (Gregory Goyle)
Geoffrey (Geoffrey Hooper)
George (George Weasley)
Graham (Graham Pritchard)
Gordon
Ginny/Ginevra - I already discussed this name somewhat in my How To Get your Nickname: Ginny. It is an Italian version of Jennifer, meaning fair or smooth. It is actually really growing on me... funny how names do that! (Ginny Weasley)
Gladys - An old name that has largely fallen out of use, perhaps due for revival? Gladys makes me think of the flower Gladiolus, but it is actually a name of many origins - perhaps a feminine version of Claude, meaning "lame", perhaps French meaning "sword" (Gladys Gudgeon)
Griselda - Reminiscent of a fairy tale somehow, this is an old German name meaning "dark battle". Shortens to the more popular "Zelda" (Madam Griselda)
Gilderoy - Another name that seems reminiscent of stories, Gilderoy is a variant of Gilroy, which is Gaelic and means "son of a red head" (Gilderoy Lockhart)
Godric - This Old English name means what it sounds like - god or ruler. It feels like an old knights name to me. Quite romantic. I can see myself using it! (Godric Gryffindor)
Gideon - This name meaning powerful warrior is biblican in origin, and rising in popularity. It has gone from non-ranked to 412 in the last 15 years. (Gideon Prewitt)
Gilbert - Has this name yet overcome the movie What's Eating Gilbert Grape? Not statistically, it has been dropping in popularity since 1930, but has yet to fall out of the top 1000. I like the nickname options of Gil or Gilly (couldn't Gil also be for Gilderoy though... hmm perhaps this deserves its own post). Gilbert is old French in origin and means bright promise (Gilbert Wimple)
More common names that I chose not to discuss:
Gregory (Gregory Goyle)
Geoffrey (Geoffrey Hooper)
George (George Weasley)
Graham (Graham Pritchard)
Gordon
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet: F is for Filius
Sorry for my absenteeism. I have no excuse. I have lots of post ideas boiling, hopefully I will be able to get more out to you soon. Now onto the F names in Harry Potter!
Fleur - French for "flower", a nice option for a nature name. (Fleur Delacour)
Frederick - With the adorable nickname Fred or Freddie, this old German name meaning peaceful ruler might be due for a resurgence. It is right on trend with other names coming back now like Charles (Charlie) and Henry (Hank). (Fred Weasley)
Firenze - This is the Italian and German word for the city of Florence. It is pronounced Fur-en-zee. Florence means flowering or in bloom, but I would view Firenze as a place name. In the movie this is a male character, but I think it could work quite well for a girl.
Filius - I cannot find a history of this being a name, it appears to be the Latin word for son. If you like the sound of Philip but want something more unique, this might fit the bill. (Filius Flitwick)
Frank - A shortening of Francis meaning french man or Franklin meaning free land owner, this has been used as a stand alone name for centuries. Frankie is an adorable nickname and matches things like (Frank Bryce)
Florean- The more traditional spelling is Florian, and its Latin and Slavic for flower, a masculine version of Flora. (Florean Flortescue)
Fabian - An old Roman name referring to a tribe. Pronounced Fay-bee-en, with other Roman names coming back (like Magnus and Octavian), this could be a good option. (Fabian Prewett)
Fawkes - To me, Fawkes sounds like a last name first sort of deal. It could also be seen as a variant of the "real" baby name Fawke, which is a variant on Fulke, which is Old English for people (think Folk).
Fleur - French for "flower", a nice option for a nature name. (Fleur Delacour)
Frederick - With the adorable nickname Fred or Freddie, this old German name meaning peaceful ruler might be due for a resurgence. It is right on trend with other names coming back now like Charles (Charlie) and Henry (Hank). (Fred Weasley)
Firenze - This is the Italian and German word for the city of Florence. It is pronounced Fur-en-zee. Florence means flowering or in bloom, but I would view Firenze as a place name. In the movie this is a male character, but I think it could work quite well for a girl.
Filius - I cannot find a history of this being a name, it appears to be the Latin word for son. If you like the sound of Philip but want something more unique, this might fit the bill. (Filius Flitwick)
Frank - A shortening of Francis meaning french man or Franklin meaning free land owner, this has been used as a stand alone name for centuries. Frankie is an adorable nickname and matches things like (Frank Bryce)
Florean- The more traditional spelling is Florian, and its Latin and Slavic for flower, a masculine version of Flora. (Florean Flortescue)
Fabian - An old Roman name referring to a tribe. Pronounced Fay-bee-en, with other Roman names coming back (like Magnus and Octavian), this could be a good option. (Fabian Prewett)
Fawkes - To me, Fawkes sounds like a last name first sort of deal. It could also be seen as a variant of the "real" baby name Fawke, which is a variant on Fulke, which is Old English for people (think Folk).
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet - E is for Everard
OK. I think I found a more comprehensive Harry Potter character list, so back to the alphabet! Credit to John Denker for compiling it. I may have to go back and update the earlier posts at some point, but for now lets keep moving forward!! Also, from now on I have decided to make the lists as comprehensive as possible, but only discussing the a interesting names! So, here are the "E"s!
Elphias and Elfric I cannot find a source or meaning of these specific name. They are rather whimsical with the "elf" sound. I searched for similar names and could not find a boys name that starts with Elph. There is Elfred which means elf and Elford which is old English and means "old place. While Elfric sounds like it came out of a fantasy novel, I think Elphias is quite usable. (Elphias Doge) (Elfric the Evil).
Emeric - I went to High School with an Emeric and always thought it was a very unique name. Emeric is old German and means home ruler. It turns out I was quite right, as Emeric has not been in the top 1000 names in the past 100 years (or likely ever). With "Emma" number one for girls for quite sometime, why not "Em" names for boys? (Emeric Switch)
Everard - I really like this name. I have been seeing Everett around a lot lately (seems to pop up on Swistle's blog a lot!) , and I think Everard is the rarer brother. Everard is old English and means "brave, strong boar". There is also a German version, Eberhard. (Headmaster Everard)
Ernie - In the U.S. Ernie is strongly associated with Sesame Street characters Ernie and Bert. Ernie is short of Ernest, which means "serious, battle to the death". For me, Ernest is associated with stupid comedic movies featuring a character Ernest P Worrell. Because of these associations, iw ould not consider the name, but there are also more classic references like Ernest Hemingway and Archduke Ernest of Austria (Ernie McMillan) (Ernie Prang)
Errol - This is a version or Earl and means "nobleman" (as in the title Earl - Earl of Sandwich etc). Since Earl has take on a "white trash" connotation in the U.S. (solidified by sitcom My Name is Earl), Errol offers a nice alternative (Errol the Owl)
Euan - This is a classic Scottish name meaning "born of the yew tree". Alternate spelling Ewan, like actor Ewan McGregor might be more pronounceable for the American public. (Euan Abercrombie)
Edgar (Edgar Bones)
Elfrida - Remember the discussion above about "elf" names? Well unlike Elphias and Elfric, Elfrida is a "real" name of OLD English origin, which means elf, or "magical being". (Elfrida Cragg)
Emmaline - Emma too popular for you but you like the sound? Or perhaps you like Emma as a nickname but want something longer or more formal. If so, here is your girl. Emmaline has not been in the top 1000 names since 1915, and back then it was at 994! There are many possible meanings depending on how you derive the name. Alternate spelling Emeline is German for "peaceful home". (Emmaline Vance)
Enid - For me, Enid is a Barenaked Ladies song of the same title. However, to other ears it might be an old name that is ripe for a comeback. It is Welsh and means soul or life (Great Aunt Enid)
The more mainstream names: Eleanor (Eleanor Branstone), Emma (Emma Dobbs), Eloise (Eloise Midgeon), Eric (Eric Munch)
Elphias and Elfric I cannot find a source or meaning of these specific name. They are rather whimsical with the "elf" sound. I searched for similar names and could not find a boys name that starts with Elph. There is Elfred which means elf and Elford which is old English and means "old place. While Elfric sounds like it came out of a fantasy novel, I think Elphias is quite usable. (Elphias Doge) (Elfric the Evil).
Emeric - I went to High School with an Emeric and always thought it was a very unique name. Emeric is old German and means home ruler. It turns out I was quite right, as Emeric has not been in the top 1000 names in the past 100 years (or likely ever). With "Emma" number one for girls for quite sometime, why not "Em" names for boys? (Emeric Switch)
Everard - I really like this name. I have been seeing Everett around a lot lately (seems to pop up on Swistle's blog a lot!) , and I think Everard is the rarer brother. Everard is old English and means "brave, strong boar". There is also a German version, Eberhard. (Headmaster Everard)
Ernie - In the U.S. Ernie is strongly associated with Sesame Street characters Ernie and Bert. Ernie is short of Ernest, which means "serious, battle to the death". For me, Ernest is associated with stupid comedic movies featuring a character Ernest P Worrell. Because of these associations, iw ould not consider the name, but there are also more classic references like Ernest Hemingway and Archduke Ernest of Austria (Ernie McMillan) (Ernie Prang)
Errol - This is a version or Earl and means "nobleman" (as in the title Earl - Earl of Sandwich etc). Since Earl has take on a "white trash" connotation in the U.S. (solidified by sitcom My Name is Earl), Errol offers a nice alternative (Errol the Owl)
Euan - This is a classic Scottish name meaning "born of the yew tree". Alternate spelling Ewan, like actor Ewan McGregor might be more pronounceable for the American public. (Euan Abercrombie)
Edgar (Edgar Bones)
Elfrida - Remember the discussion above about "elf" names? Well unlike Elphias and Elfric, Elfrida is a "real" name of OLD English origin, which means elf, or "magical being". (Elfrida Cragg)
Emmaline - Emma too popular for you but you like the sound? Or perhaps you like Emma as a nickname but want something longer or more formal. If so, here is your girl. Emmaline has not been in the top 1000 names since 1915, and back then it was at 994! There are many possible meanings depending on how you derive the name. Alternate spelling Emeline is German for "peaceful home". (Emmaline Vance)
Enid - For me, Enid is a Barenaked Ladies song of the same title. However, to other ears it might be an old name that is ripe for a comeback. It is Welsh and means soul or life (Great Aunt Enid)
The more mainstream names: Eleanor (Eleanor Branstone), Emma (Emma Dobbs), Eloise (Eloise Midgeon), Eric (Eric Munch)
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet: D is for Draco
Boys
Dennis - Dennis is of Greek origin and means follower of Dionysus. It peeked in popularity in America in 1949 at #16 and has slowly fallen since then, currently sitting at 413. I think it could be due for a comeback, with a great nickname like Denny, and the "s" ending that seems to be on its way up (Dennis Creevey)
Dobby - So Dobby is not a "real" name. But I like it. Especially as a nickname - a slight twist on Toby or Robby. "Real" names that could lead to it are limited. Dobbs is pretty much the only option I have found - not many names begin with Dob it turns out! (Dobby the Houseelf)
Dirk - This is a Danish variant of Derek, which means "the peoples ruler" in Old German. It fits with a trend that I had heard called "surfer" names, or those my sister refers to as "Cowboy" names - Grant, Keith, Troy, etc. In fact, Dirk is ON that list of surfer names! (Dirk Cresswell)
Dudley - Old English, meaning people's field, this name makes me think of my brother's stuffed dog from when we were little. (Dudley Dursley)
Draco - I actually like the name Draco quite a bit! For that reason I am almost sad it is used in Harry Potter because this is a bad guy. It is a version of Drake and means Dragon in middle English. It features that popular "o" ending! (Draco Malfoy)
Dean (Dean Thomas)
Girls
Dolores - This name has appeared on the blog once before as an example of a name you might not want to honor directly. The meaning "sorrows", does not add charm either. But it has a lot of nice nicknames, like Lori and Dori (Dolores Umbridge)
Dilys - This is a Welsh name meaning "perfect" or "truth". It is the most unique name on this list, and with that lovely meaning perhaps deserves more attention. (Dilys Derwent)
Dennis - Dennis is of Greek origin and means follower of Dionysus. It peeked in popularity in America in 1949 at #16 and has slowly fallen since then, currently sitting at 413. I think it could be due for a comeback, with a great nickname like Denny, and the "s" ending that seems to be on its way up (Dennis Creevey)
Dobby - So Dobby is not a "real" name. But I like it. Especially as a nickname - a slight twist on Toby or Robby. "Real" names that could lead to it are limited. Dobbs is pretty much the only option I have found - not many names begin with Dob it turns out! (Dobby the Houseelf)
Dirk - This is a Danish variant of Derek, which means "the peoples ruler" in Old German. It fits with a trend that I had heard called "surfer" names, or those my sister refers to as "Cowboy" names - Grant, Keith, Troy, etc. In fact, Dirk is ON that list of surfer names! (Dirk Cresswell)
Dudley - Old English, meaning people's field, this name makes me think of my brother's stuffed dog from when we were little. (Dudley Dursley)
Draco - I actually like the name Draco quite a bit! For that reason I am almost sad it is used in Harry Potter because this is a bad guy. It is a version of Drake and means Dragon in middle English. It features that popular "o" ending! (Draco Malfoy)
Dean (Dean Thomas)
Girls
Dolores - This name has appeared on the blog once before as an example of a name you might not want to honor directly. The meaning "sorrows", does not add charm either. But it has a lot of nice nicknames, like Lori and Dori (Dolores Umbridge)
Dilys - This is a Welsh name meaning "perfect" or "truth". It is the most unique name on this list, and with that lovely meaning perhaps deserves more attention. (Dilys Derwent)
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Harry Potter Alphabet: C is for Cedric
BOYS
Cuthbert - This is an Old English name and means bright, brilliant. It sounds old, but I am not sure if it is old in a cool way or in a Grandpa sort of way. The nickame Bert has been entirely co-opted by Sesame Street unfortunately and I cannot imagine using it! (Cuthbert Binns)
Colin - A classic British name, Colin is Irish/Gaelic in origins and means young creature. (Colin Creevey)
Cedric - Pronounced Sed-rik, I love this Old English name and its meaning, which is "kindly and loved". Unfortunately my husband has vetoed this one quite soundly BECAUSE of the Harry Potter reference and the fact this character dies young (Cedric Diggory)
Cadogan - A welsh name meaning "battle glory". It is a royal name used by the royal Welsh family. Variations include Caddock and Cadog. I would love the nickname Cad or Caddy if it were not for the negative association (a "cad" is a man who behaves badly towards woman, a caddy is a worker who carries golf clubs) (Sir Cadogan)
GIRLS
Charity - An English virtue name, a pool of names I am a big fan of. Nicknames could be Char, Shar, Cher, or Cherry (Charity Burbage)
Cho - Cho is one of those names that is blatantly tied to an ethnicity. While it is becoming more and more common to use ethnic names regardless of your ethnicity, we have not quite made it there with Asian names yet. I am having a difficult time coming up with a meaning for this - possible Butterfly, possibly Japanese. If you love the sound/feel of this, but don't like the short length, you might try Chorine (pronounced cho-ree-ne, greek version of Corinne, meaning maiden), or Cholena (pronounced cho-len-a, Delaware native American name meaning bird) (Cho Chang).
Cuthbert - This is an Old English name and means bright, brilliant. It sounds old, but I am not sure if it is old in a cool way or in a Grandpa sort of way. The nickame Bert has been entirely co-opted by Sesame Street unfortunately and I cannot imagine using it! (Cuthbert Binns)
Colin - A classic British name, Colin is Irish/Gaelic in origins and means young creature. (Colin Creevey)
Cedric - Pronounced Sed-rik, I love this Old English name and its meaning, which is "kindly and loved". Unfortunately my husband has vetoed this one quite soundly BECAUSE of the Harry Potter reference and the fact this character dies young (Cedric Diggory)
Cadogan - A welsh name meaning "battle glory". It is a royal name used by the royal Welsh family. Variations include Caddock and Cadog. I would love the nickname Cad or Caddy if it were not for the negative association (a "cad" is a man who behaves badly towards woman, a caddy is a worker who carries golf clubs) (Sir Cadogan)
GIRLS
Charity - An English virtue name, a pool of names I am a big fan of. Nicknames could be Char, Shar, Cher, or Cherry (Charity Burbage)
Cho - Cho is one of those names that is blatantly tied to an ethnicity. While it is becoming more and more common to use ethnic names regardless of your ethnicity, we have not quite made it there with Asian names yet. I am having a difficult time coming up with a meaning for this - possible Butterfly, possibly Japanese. If you love the sound/feel of this, but don't like the short length, you might try Chorine (pronounced cho-ree-ne, greek version of Corinne, meaning maiden), or Cholena (pronounced cho-len-a, Delaware native American name meaning bird) (Cho Chang).
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Harry Potter Alphabet: B is for Bathilda
Girls:
Bathsheda - I actually have not been able to find this exact name and almost wonder if it is not a mistake and it should be Bathsheba. It is a very minor character. Bathsheba is a Hebrew name meaning "daughter of oath". It can be shortened to the more common Sheba (Bathsheda Babbling)
Bathilda - I am quite fond of this name. So close to the popular Mathilda, Bathilda means woman warrior. It is old German in origin. It could use nicknames such as Tilly or Hilda - I would aoive Battie! (Bathilda Bagshot)
Bellatrix - This is a Latin word (not name) meaning "female warrior", transformed to name status by use in multiple pieces of fiction. It is also the name of a constellation. Since baby names are subjective, it could also be viewed as a mixture of the popular names Beatrix and Bella, producing a meaning such as "beautiful voyageur". I know this is not a friendly character in the book, but it it a beautiful name and yields nicknames Bella, Bell, and Trixie (Bellatrix Lestrange)
Boys:
Bartemius - A biblical name meaning "son of temius", nicknames Barty, Bart, Temi (Bartemius Crouch)
Blaise - Blaise is increasingly popular for girls though it is traditionally a boys name. It means "stutter". The alternate spelling Blaze is a "word as a name". (Blaise Zabini)
Bathsheda - I actually have not been able to find this exact name and almost wonder if it is not a mistake and it should be Bathsheba. It is a very minor character. Bathsheba is a Hebrew name meaning "daughter of oath". It can be shortened to the more common Sheba (Bathsheda Babbling)
Bathilda - I am quite fond of this name. So close to the popular Mathilda, Bathilda means woman warrior. It is old German in origin. It could use nicknames such as Tilly or Hilda - I would aoive Battie! (Bathilda Bagshot)
Bellatrix - This is a Latin word (not name) meaning "female warrior", transformed to name status by use in multiple pieces of fiction. It is also the name of a constellation. Since baby names are subjective, it could also be viewed as a mixture of the popular names Beatrix and Bella, producing a meaning such as "beautiful voyageur". I know this is not a friendly character in the book, but it it a beautiful name and yields nicknames Bella, Bell, and Trixie (Bellatrix Lestrange)
Boys:
Bartemius - A biblical name meaning "son of temius", nicknames Barty, Bart, Temi (Bartemius Crouch)
Blaise - Blaise is increasingly popular for girls though it is traditionally a boys name. It means "stutter". The alternate spelling Blaze is a "word as a name". (Blaise Zabini)
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Harry Potter Alphabet: A is for Alastor
Harry Potter is a great place to find unique "everything old is new
again" baby names, even if you have no love of the book. It is a
treasure trove of unique names for two reasons. First, just because it
is British, and of course different names are popular and common.
Second, because J.K. Rowling used very old names for many of her
wizards. So I am setting out to create a Harry Potter alphabet, starting
with A. (This list is by no means all inclusive. I did not feel the need to use HP to explore names like Alice or the like).
Boys
Alastor - Meaning "man's defender", Scottish and Greek origins. Possible nicknames Al, Allie, Lassy, Torry. (Character Alastor Mad Eye Moody)
Albus - Meaning "white". Possible nickname Albie (very close to Alvie which seems to be gaining popularity). (Character Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore)
Amycus - A minor character in Greek Mythology, son of Poseidon, known for a boxing match. Possible nickname Micky (Character Amycus Carrow)
Amos - Biblical name, meaning "to carry". Possible nickname Moss, but nice and short so maybe no nickname? (Character Amos Diggory)
Antonin - Russian version of Anthony, Roman in origin, last name as a first name. Nicknames Tony, Andy (Character Antonin Dolohov)
Aberforth - It is hard to find information on this name outside of Harry Potter! Is it possible Rowling created this name? The only information I found anywhere suggested it derived from old Irish "aber" meaning "at the mouth (of a river", and Forth being a river. Possible nickname Abe. (Character Aberforth Dumbledore)
Argus - Greek name meaning vigilant guardian. Nickname Argy or Gus. Also the name of a creature with 100 eyes that alter was turned into the peacock. (Character Argus Filch)
Augustus - Latin/ Roman name meaning magnificent, great. Growing in popularity currently (as are shortened versions such as August). Possible nickname Augy, Gus (Character Augustus Rookwood)
Arthur - Celtic in origin, many possible meanings/origins such as Bear, Stone. Nickname Arth. (Character Arthur Weasley)
Girls
Alecto - Minor character from Greek Mythology, one of the furies, the name means unceasing anger. Might want to avoid it just for that. Possible nicknames Alec, Allie, Al (Character Alecto Carrow)
Arabella - Latin meaning Prayerful. Possible nicknames Ari, Belle, Bella, Abi (Character Arabella Finch)
Arianna - Welsh meaning Silver. Possible nicknames Ari, Ana, Ria (Character Ariana Dumbledore)
Augusta - Female version of Augustus (Character Augusta Longbottom)
Andromeda - Minor character in Greek mythology, saved by Persues who became her husband. Popular figure in art . The name means "ruler of men". The name has been somewhat "corrupted" by the pop culture reference to a Sci-Fi TV series. Possible nicknames Andy, Medi (Character Andromeda Tonks)
Boys
Alastor - Meaning "man's defender", Scottish and Greek origins. Possible nicknames Al, Allie, Lassy, Torry. (Character Alastor Mad Eye Moody)
Albus - Meaning "white". Possible nickname Albie (very close to Alvie which seems to be gaining popularity). (Character Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore)
Amycus - A minor character in Greek Mythology, son of Poseidon, known for a boxing match. Possible nickname Micky (Character Amycus Carrow)
Amos - Biblical name, meaning "to carry". Possible nickname Moss, but nice and short so maybe no nickname? (Character Amos Diggory)
Antonin - Russian version of Anthony, Roman in origin, last name as a first name. Nicknames Tony, Andy (Character Antonin Dolohov)
 |
| Marc Antony, Roman General |
Argus - Greek name meaning vigilant guardian. Nickname Argy or Gus. Also the name of a creature with 100 eyes that alter was turned into the peacock. (Character Argus Filch)
Augustus - Latin/ Roman name meaning magnificent, great. Growing in popularity currently (as are shortened versions such as August). Possible nickname Augy, Gus (Character Augustus Rookwood)
Arthur - Celtic in origin, many possible meanings/origins such as Bear, Stone. Nickname Arth. (Character Arthur Weasley)
Girls
Alecto - Minor character from Greek Mythology, one of the furies, the name means unceasing anger. Might want to avoid it just for that. Possible nicknames Alec, Allie, Al (Character Alecto Carrow)
Arabella - Latin meaning Prayerful. Possible nicknames Ari, Belle, Bella, Abi (Character Arabella Finch)
Arianna - Welsh meaning Silver. Possible nicknames Ari, Ana, Ria (Character Ariana Dumbledore)
Augusta - Female version of Augustus (Character Augusta Longbottom)
Andromeda - Minor character in Greek mythology, saved by Persues who became her husband. Popular figure in art . The name means "ruler of men". The name has been somewhat "corrupted" by the pop culture reference to a Sci-Fi TV series. Possible nicknames Andy, Medi (Character Andromeda Tonks)
 |
| Andromeda being rescued from the Sea Monster |
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