A name holds a lot of value for any individual. There is no wonder why the process of choosing a name for your child requires so much thought and consideration. In the end, though, you want to ensure that the name is meaningful not just to you but also to your child. Note that meaningful names are not always created. Sometimes they are given new meaning after being in existence for years, decades, or even centuries. As a mom-to-be, there is no better time to explore the possible meaning of old names than choosing one for your child.
Here are six reasons why you should consider the meaning of old names when expecting a child:
1. A Name With History Has More Value Than Just Its Literal Definition
A name with history holds more value than just its literal definition. Names have evolved throughout the years, meaning that they have meaning beyond their original meaning. The Irish names, for instance, have evolved through the years. The name Aoife, for instance, is now more commonly used as Eve or Eva. For this reason, folks at Celtic Titles recommend that when giving your child an Irish name, you should work out the pronunciation from their unusual spellings. With this new knowledge ahead of time, you can be confident that your child will not feel like their name means anything at all because there are some names whose meanings were changed through centuries.
2. The Meaning of Your Child’s Name Affects How They are Perceived
The choice of your child’s name is a vital part of their identity. Their peers will judge them based on the meaning of their names. Try to recall the not-so-pleasant memories you had with your childhood friends. Chances are, even if they no longer bring stressful feelings, naming your child in an unpleasing way can trigger those unpleasant memories that your child may have but will be unable to pinpoint why it reminds them so much of their past. This could affect how they interact with others down the road, especially when trying to make new friends or connections at school or work.
3. Names With Emotive Meanings Can Influence Your Child
Choosing what you believe to be an appropriate name can go a long way, especially if your child was born with a name that has emotive or emotional meaning. A name with emotive meaning evokes certain feelings. For example, Andrea comes from the Greek name Andreas, which means “man.” This could work for both boys and girls since it is gender-neutral, but how would you feel about your daughter being named after an adjective? Would you want her growing up feeling like she’s just a man without any of the strength masculinity brings? The same idea applies even in more extreme cases.
4. Your Child’s Name Is Part of the Family Legacy
Traditionally, names were chosen based on historical trends and family traditions. This is why it is prevalent for people to incorporate their professions or hobbies into their own children’s names. Athletes would often pass down their sport-related last names, while married couples would take an element from each of their surnames and create a new one altogether. Nowadays, however, parents are more concerned with choosing unique baby boy names that are unlike any other in both sound and appearance.
5. A Meaning Can Give With It With a Sense of Purpose
Some people have trouble thinking of a name for their child because they do not know the meaning behind the name they choose. Many would say that it doesn’t even matter at all. However, after reading this article, you should have realized how important it is to explore the possible meaning behind your child’s name. A name with a profound or rich meaning can give you a sense of purpose as well as a self-fulfilment to realize why you chose such an offbeat or unique baby girl name.
6. Names Have the Ability to Capture the Attention of Your Child’s Peers
Some parents can be very tempted into choosing what they believe are “cute” or “popular” names for their children. They only select these types of terms, so their kids will not have any trouble making friends or getting used to where they live. However, this is a huge mistake. Names with emotive meanings evoke specific thoughts or emotions in people – especially those who do not know your child yet. So even if you think you are minimizing bullying, chances are your child could be bullied because their peers may judge them based on their first impression, which was formed by their name alone.
While many factors must be considered when choosing a name for your children, exploring the meaning behind old names can yield positive results if done correctly. This activity can help you determine which characteristics matter most in picking out a name for your child, while also helping you discover their identity before they even enter the world and determine potential personalities and traits based on how much is used by others.
