17 January 2024 , 10:54
797
0
There are many reasons why parents pick specific names for their babies, whether that be sentimental or because they simply like the sound of it - but each moniker also has a surprising meaning that many people might not be aware of.
Whether you like your name or not, your parents no doubt put a lot of thought into it. Some parents choose a name that's special to the family, or they may go for something completely unique. But did you know that some of the most commonly-used names in the UK have surprising meanings to them?
Before you choose a name for your baby, you might want to take a look at the meaning behind it - as while some of them have sweet descriptions like 'loved', others mean 'bitter' or 'flat-nosed'. Baby name consultant SJ Strum said: "Names can often have surprising meanings which date back from their origin – and can include physical traits used to identify people, ancient myths, biblical personality traits and translations from their historic birth place."
Speaking to Metro, she continued: "It can often turn a name you like into one you love if the meaning is something special." The baby name expert urges parents to look at the meaning behind a name before deciding, as it can help sway their opinion.
For example, if your baby was born during Christmas, you might want a name that evokes feelings of happiness. And if you're having a second baby, you might want to pick a moniker that matches their brother or sister through the meaning.
Mum's touching gesture to young son who died leaves Morrisons shopper in tears
Below you'll see 25 common baby names in the UK, as well as their surprising meanings. Does your moniker feature on the list?
- Abigail – Source of father's joy
- Noah – To rest
- Maeve – Intoxicating
- Freddie – Peaceful ruler
- Finn – Little blonde soldier
- Kit – Baby Fox
- Iris – Goddess of rainbows
- Callum – Dove
- Esme – Loved
- Theodore – Gift from god
- Reuben – Behold a son
- Arthur – Bear
- Lila – Divine play
- Thomas – Twin
- Felix – Happy
- Amelia – Hard-working
- Ezra – Helper
- Courtney – Snubbed nose
- James – Supplanter/replacer
- Cecilia – Blind
- Emily – Rival
- Molly – Bitter
- Leah – Weary
- Simon – Flat-nosed
- Paul – Least or smallest
If you're still looking for inspiration, we previously revealed the most popular baby names of 2023. There was a huge shake-up at the top of the list, as a previously popular girls' name took the top spot once more. Over on the most popular boys' names list, there have been no changes to the five most chosen monikers since 2022.
Is your name on the list of meanings? Let us know what you think in the comment section below.