Gem Babies’ Names and First-Time Parent
Lucy Atkins and Julia Cresswell

Contents

Cover

Title Page

Babies’ Names

First-Time Parent

Copyright

About the Publisher

Julia Cresswell is an authority on first names, and has written a number of books on the subject

Contents

Cover

Using This Book

Registering Your Baby’s Birth

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

Top 50 boys’ and girls’ names in England and Wales, 2003

Top 50 boys’ and girls’ names in Scotland, 2003

USING THIS BOOK

Today’s parents have an enormous pool of names to choose from, probably more than at any other time in history. Alongside the traditional stock of names from the Bible, the classical world and the old Germanic names brought over by the Anglo-Saxons and the Normans, we now have names from all over the world, both Continental versions of traditional names and names from cultures with which our grandparents had little or no contact. This has led to a change in the attitude to what a ‘real’ name is, and as a result people now feel free to create a wonderful range of new names, many unique to their child. The danger here, of course, is that the child will have a lifetime of explaining what their name is, and how it is spelt, but many of these names pass into general circulation, particularly those that are blends; that is, combinations of sounds from other names. In addition, a much wider range of spellings of any given name is used by parents, perhaps to distinguish their child from others of the same name. I have tried to include as many of these different spellings as is reasonably possible, under the standard or traditional form of the name. I have also included a wide range of short forms. This is not only to show the range available, but also so that parents can check that all possible forms of a chosen name go harmoniously with the surname. For however determined a parent might be to use one particular form of a name, someone will at some time use a pet form of the name. I have also given a lot of information about naming habits in America. In part, this is because so many new names come from America, particularly from the African-American communities, which are particularly rich coiners of new names. But it is also because of America’s dominance of the entertainment world. I hope that those curious about the unusual names they find used by actors and musicians will find the answer here.

Most of the variant names in this book have been cross-referenced to the name you can find it under. But in order to squeeze as many names as possible into this small book, if the cross reference would come near the headword, then it has been left out. Please look for the name you want under alternative spellings, and check under overlapping sounds such as ‘C’ and ‘K’, or ‘sh’ and ‘ch’.

The first edition of this book was compiled in 1967. Since then I have revised it at regular intervals to bring it up to date. Leslie Dunkling has added names from Arabic and from the Indian Sub-continent.

I hope that this book will help you find just the right name for your child.

JULIA CRESSWELL, 2004

REGISTERING YOUR BABIES’ BIRTH

If you have your baby in a hospital in England or Wales, there is a good chance that your local registrar’s office will have a branch there. It is worth taking advantage of this facility, rather than having to cope with a new baby and getting down to the registrar’s office later on. If nothing is said at the hospital, ask one of the nurses. Unfortunately, this facility is not available in Scotland where the regulations concerning the registration of births vary slightly from those in England and Wales.

By law, you have to register the birth of your child within 42 days of his or her birth, or within 21 days in Scotland. If you have not used a hospital office, you can go to any registrar’s office, although the procedure is slightly simpler if you use your local one, the address of which should be in the phone book. Registration centres round the mother. If the baby’s parents are married either parent can register the birth. If they are not married, they can register the birth together if they go to the registrar together, or else the father must get special forms from the registrar’s office in advance which, when filled in, will enable his details to go on the birth certificate. Otherwise, the father’s details will be left blank, although it may be possible to fill these in later – talk to the registrar about this. There is no need to take the baby with you to the registrar, but only a parent can register the birth; a friend or relative will not do.

At the registrar’s you will be asked to give the following information. The place and date of the baby’s birth (the time of birth will only be needed if you have twins or more, although in Scotland it is always required). You will also need to state his or her sex, and will be asked for the names you intend to give your child. If the father’s details are to go on the form you will need to give his full name, his date and place of birth and his occupation. The mother will be asked to give her full name, her maiden name if she has changed her surname and her place and date of birth. If she wishes, an occupation (current or previous) can be filled in. She has to give her usual address at the time of the birth and, if she is married to the father, the date of marriage will be asked for. She will also be asked for the number of other children she has had.

All this information will be entered into a register, which you should then check carefully – it will be difficult to correct mistakes later – and then sign. You will then be given a free short birth certificate which is all you need. You can also get full copies of the information on the register if you would like to have them, and spare copies of either type of certificate. There is a charge for birth certificates which varies depending on the type you get, but it is always more expensive to get extra copies later than at the time of registration. It is probably worth considering an extra copy so that each parent can have one, or so that one can be sent off with something like an application for a passport and you can still have one to hand.

If you still have not decided on a name for your baby by the time the limit for registration is up, you must still register the birth, but the name can be left blank. You then have up to one year from registration to make up your minds, although in Scotland any correction to the records after registration is likely to attract a fee. If your baby is baptised, the baptismal certificate can be produced at the registrar’s office as evidence of the child’s name. (Extra names given at baptism can also be added in this way.) Otherwise you need to ask the registrar’s office for a Certificate of Naming, and use this to have the names inserted. You can give your child any forenames or surname that you like. In Scotland the registrar has the power to refuse to record a name if he or she deems it to be potentially offensive, although in practice a name is rarely objected to. In England and Wales, the registrar has no right to refuse your choice, although if your choice is too outrageous you may find that you are asked to think of the effect on the child before confirming it is what you want. Modern registrars are trained to be friendly and helpful, and you can always phone your local office for any advice you need; alternatively, contact The General Register Office, Smedley Hydro, Trafalgar Road, Birkdale, Southport PR8 2HH (tel. 0870 2437788) or The Registrar General’s Office for Scotland, New Register House, Edinburgh (tel. 0131-334 0380).

A

Aakash see Akash

Aaliyah see Ali

Aamena, Aaminah see Amina

Aaron m.

In the Old Testament, Aaron was the brother of MOSES and the first High Priest of Israel. The traditional interpretation links this name to the Hebrew for ‘high mountain’, but like Moses, Aaron is probably an Egyptian name of unknown meaning. It is connected with the Arabic names Harun and Haroun, and has been in use since the Reformation. In the past it was pronounced with a first sound as in ‘air’, but now it is also found with a short ‘a’, a pronunciation reflected in the spelling Ar(r)on.

Abdullah m.

A Muslim name from the Arabic for ‘servant of Allah’. The short form Abdul also occurs.

Abe, Abie see Abel, Abraham

Abel m.

In the Old Testament, Abel was the second son of ADAM and EVE and murdered by his brother Cain. The name may come from a Hebrew word for ‘breath’, but like so many of the earliest names, its meaning is doubtful. The name has been used in England since before the Norman Conquest. The short forms include Abe and Abie.

Abigail f.

From the Hebrew, meaning ‘father rejoiced’. It was the name of one of King David’s wives and was much used in England during the 16th and 17th centuries when many Old Testament names were popular. It was so popular for working-class women that it degenerated into a term for a lady’s maid and so became unfashionable; but it has now come back into favour. It is sometimes spelt Abagail or Abigal. The short forms include Abbie, Abb(e)y and GAIL.

Abner m.

From the Hebrew words for ‘father of light’. In the Bible it is the name of King Saul’s cousin, who was commander of the army. In England it came into common use, together with other biblical names, after the Reformation in the early 16th century. It is still found occasionally in North America.

Abraham m.

This is the name of the Old Testament patriarch who, for the first 90 years of his life, was called Abram, ‘high father’, but then was told by God that he should be called Abraham, ‘father of many nations’. It was used in England regularly after the Reformation and became popular in North America where the abbreviation Abe, as in President Abe Lincoln (1809–65), was widely used. Other short forms are Abie, Ham and Bram. (See IBRAHIM.)

Ada f.

A name which started life as a pet form for ADELA, ADELAIDE and ADELINE, and so means ‘noble’. It was fashionable in Britain in the late 18th and 19th centuries, but is now rare. Adah is often confused with Ada, but is in fact derived from the Hebrew word for ‘ornament’ or ‘brightness’.

Adam m.

From the Hebrew, meaning ‘red’, possibly referring either to skin colour, or to the clay from which God formed the first man. The name was adopted by the Irish as early as the 7th century, when St Adamnan, ‘Little Adam’, was Abbot of Iona. It was very common in the 13th century and has been in use ever since, particularly in Scotland. It is currently one of the most popular boys’names. Adamina is a rare feminine form.

Adeel see Adil

Adela f.

From the Old German, meaning ‘noble’. It was common among the Normans, who brought it to England. One of William the Conqueror’s daughters had this name. It died out but was later revived and became fashionable in the French form Adèle. Addie or Addy is used as a pet form for the names derived from this root (see also ADELAIDE and ADELINE). Adela can also be spelt Adella, which gives us the name DELLA, now more popular than its source.

Adelaide f.

Derived from the Old German words meaning ‘noble and kind’. The name was common for centuries on the Continent but only came to Britain in 1830 when Adelaide of Saxe-Coburg became queen. Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, was named after this popular queen. It can be shortened to ADA, and ALIDA is a Hungarian pet form (see also HEIDI).

Adeline f.

Like ADELAIDE, this name is derived from the Old German for ‘noble’. It was first cited in England in the Domesday Book and was common during the Middle Ages. After that it disappeared until the Victorian Gothic revival. It is best known from the song Sweet Adeline. ADA is sometimes used as a pet form, and Alina and Aline, now used as separate names were also once short forms.

Adil m.

An Arabic name meaning ‘just, honest’. It is also spelt Adeel.

Adnan m.

An Arabic name of uncertain meaning. According to tradition, Adnan was the ancestor of the North Arabians.

Adrian m., Adrienne f.

From the Latin meaning ‘man from Adria’, and a form of the name of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who built the wall across northern England. It has been used since Roman times; a St Adrian was the first British martyr in the 4th century. Adrian and Adrien are now sometimes used as girls’ names. Adriana is a rare female form, the French Adrienne being more popular. Adria and Adrianne are also found.

Aeneus, Aengus see Angus

Afra see Aphra

Agatha f.

From the Greek for ‘good woman’, this was the name of a 3rd-century martyr and saint. The short form is Aggie.

Agnes f.

From the Greek meaning ‘pure’. There was an early Christian martyr called Agnes, whose symbol is a lamb, since the name also sounds very like the Latin agnus, ‘lamb’. Old forms still occasionally used include Annis, Annice and Annes. Agneta is the Swedish form and Inez is the anglicised form of the Spanish Inés. Agnes was popular in Scotland where it also became Nessie and Nessa. In Wales it became Nest and Nesta. Aggie is a short form shared with AGATHA (see also INA).

Ahmad m.

This Arabic name is often spelt Ahmed. It is one of the names applied to the Prophet Muhammad and means ‘more praiseworthy’.

Aidan m.

An ancient Irish name which means ‘little fire’. It was the name of a 7th-century Irish missionary who founded the monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria. The name was revived during the 19th century and is popular at the moment in Ireland. It is sometimes anglicised as Edan.

Ailbhe see Elvis

Aileen see Eileen

Ailis, Ailish see Alice, Eilis

Ailsa f.

From the Scottish island, Ailsa Craig. First used in Scotland where it can also be a pet form of ALICE, it has now spread through Britain.

Aimée see Amy, Esmé

Ainsley m. and f.

A place and surname used as a first name, this comes from the Old English and probably means ‘lonely clearing’. It is also spelt Ainslie.

Aisha f.

From the Arabic meaning ‘alive and well’ or ‘prospering’. A favourite name in the Arab world, originally borne by the third (and favourite) wife of the Prophet Muhammad. In Britain and the USA the name is found in many forms, including Aiesha, Aishah, Ayisha, Asia, Aysh(i)a, Ieasha, Ieesha, Iesha and Isha. H. Rider Haggard used the form Ayesha in his novel She, where the meaning was given as ‘she who must be obeyed’.

Aisling f.

The commonest form of a name also found as Aislinn, Isleen and the phonetic Ashling. It is an old Irish name meaning ‘a dream, vision’ and has been popular in Ireland since the 1960s.

Ajay, Ajit m.

Popular Indian names from the Sanskrit for ‘invincible’.

Akash m.

This Indian name is sometimes found as Aakash. It is from the Sanskrit and means ‘the sky’.

Akhil m.

An Indian name from the Sanskrit meaning ‘whole, complete’.

Akshar m.

An Indian name from the Sanskrit meaning ‘imperishable’.

Alan m.

An old Celtic name of unknown meaning. It has appeared in various forms from early times. In England it first became popular after the Norman Conquest as Alain or Alein, the French forms. These developed into Alleyne which is preserved as a surname. Alan, Allan, Allen and Alun (strictly speaking, a Welsh river name used as a first name) are in use today. Alana, the feminine form, is also spelt Allana, Alanah and Alanna, and in the USA has developed the form Alaina or Alayna. The actress Lana Turner made the short form well known.

Alastair m.

Also spelt Alasdair, Alistair and Alister, this is the Gaelic form of ALEXANDER, ‘defender of men’. It is shortened to Al, Ali, Alli or Ally, Alec and Alick.

Alban m., Albina f.

From the Latin Albanus, meaning ‘man from Alba’ (a Roman town whose name means ‘white’), and the name of the earliest British saint. The town of St Albans, where he was martyred, is called after him. Albin and Albinus are variants which appear occasionally, and Albina and Albinia, ‘white’, are used as feminine forms.

Alberic see Aubrey

Albert m.

An Old German name meaning ‘noble and bright’. The Old English form was Ethelbert, the name of the Kentish king who welcomed Augustine to Canterbury when he came to convert the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. This was replaced after the Norman Conquest by the French form, Aubert. Albert became so popular after the marriage of Queen Victoria to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg that it became over-used and so went out of fashion. BERT and BERTIE are short forms. Alberta, Albertina and Albertine are forms of the name used for girls.

Alby see Elvis

Aldous m.

From the Old German Aldo, meaning ‘old’. It has been used in the eastern counties of England since the 13th century and has given rise to various surnames like Aldhouse and Aldiss. Aldo is still used in North America. The writer Aldous Huxley (1894–1963) is the best-known British example.

Aldwyn m.

This Anglo-Saxon personal name, meaning ‘old friend’, has been revived in modern times. Some parents prefer the spelling Aldwin.

Alec see Alastair, Alexander

Aled m.

The name of a Welsh river used as a first name. There is a female form Aledwen, ‘fair Aled’.

Alessandra see Sandra

Alethea, Aletia see Althea

Alexander m.

Currently one of the most popular boys’ names, this comes from the Greek meaning ‘defender of men’. It was made famous in the 4th century BC by Alexander the Great, and was very popular in England in the Middle Ages. Sandy is a pet form, particularly in Scotland. Alex is the most common of the many short forms, others being Al, Alec, Ali, Lex, Xan and Xander or Zander. SACHA is another form of the name.

Alexandra f.

The feminine form of ALEXANDER, and like it, currently popular. SANDRA was originally an Italian form, but has become established as a name in its own right. It shares pet and short forms with ALEXANDER, along with Alix or Alyx (also from ALICE) and Alexa (see also ALEXIS). Alexandria and Alexandrina are also found.

Alexis f. and m.

From the Greek word meaning ‘helper’ or ‘defender’, Alexis is the name of one of the great saints of the Orthodox church. Originally a man’s name, it is now more frequently used for women. Alternative forms are Alexie, Alexus, and for girls Alexia, Alexa and short forms such as Lexi(e) and even Lexus.

Alfred m.

From two Old English words, meaning ‘elf’ (hence ‘good’) and ‘counsel’. It is also a possible development of the Anglo-Saxon name Ealdfrith, meaning ‘old peace’. It is sometimes written Alfrid. When Alfred was written down in old Latin, the name was spelt Alured and developed into Avery (now used for both sexes). Alf, Alfie and Fred are diminutives. There is a feminine form Alfreda, and Elfrida, although it technically comes from a slightly different name meaning ‘elf-strength’, is also used as a female version of Alfred.

Algernon m.

From a Norman French nickname meaning ‘with whiskers’. It was popular in the 19th century but is not much used today. The usual diminutive is Algie or Algy.

Ali f. and m., Aliyyah f.

When used as a boy’s name Ali is a popular Arabic name meaning ‘exaulted, noble’, and as one of the terms used of Allah, invokes God’s protection for the child. The feminine form is Aliyyah (also found as Aliyah, Aliah, Alia and Alya). This has been well used in the USA, particularly in the Swahili form Aaliyah, popularised by the singer Aaliyah Houston (1974–2001). As a western name Ali is a pet form of names such as ALICE, ALISON or ALASTAIR.

Alice f.

From the Old German word for ‘nobility’. It originally had the form Adelice or Adelise. A number of forms remained popular from the Middle Ages until the 17th century, when it went out of favour. It was revived again in the 19th century together with the variant Alicia. Nowadays these have developed additional forms such as Allice, Allyce and Alyssa, Alysia, Alis(s)a, Alisha or even Elis(s)a or Elys(s)a although these are also pet forms of ELIZABETH. ALISON is a variant. Alys is the Welsh form and Irish forms are Alis, Ailis or the phonetic Ailish. Ali, Allie and Alley are used as pet forms, while Alix and Alyx can be used either as forms of Alice or ALEXANDRA.

Alick see Alastair

Alida see Adelaide

Alina, Aline see Adeline

Alis, Alisa, Alisha see Alice

Alison f.

Originally a diminutive of ALICE that was adopted in the 13th century, this was soon treated as a separate name. It was at one time a particularly Scottish name. Pet forms include those used for ALICE and ELSIE. Allison and Al(l)yson are standard forms in the USA.

Alistair, Alister see Alastair

Alix see Alexandra, Alice

Allan, Allana, Allen see Alan

Allegra f.

An Italian word meaning ‘cheerful, lively’, given by the poet Lord Byron to his daughter and still used occasionally as a result.

Alli, Ally see Alastair

Allice, Allie, Allyce see Alice, Alison

Alma f.

There are many opinions about the origin of this name. It could be derived from the Hebrew word for ‘maiden’, the Latin for ‘kind’ or the Italian for ‘soul’. Most importantly, the name became very popular after the Battle of Alma during the Crimean War, and is still found occasionally.

Alondra f.

Alondra is the Spanish for ‘lark’. It is a common American place name, but more importantly in the 1990s it was the name of a successful Mexican-made television series, named after its heroine. Its broadcast led to increased use among Spanish-speaking Americans.

Aloysius m.

This is the Latin form of Aloys, an old Provençal form of Louis (see LEWIS). There was a popular Spanish saint of this name in the 16th century and Roman Catholics continue to use the name in this country. Aloys or Aloyse was the female form of the old name, and is a possible source of ELOISE.

Althea f.

From the Greek for ‘wholesome’, this was the Greek name for the marsh mallow plant, still used as a healing herb. It seems to have been introduced to England with various other classical names during the Stuart period, and appeared in the charming lyric by Richard Lovelace To Althea from Prison. The similar-sounding Alethea (Alethia, Aletia) comes from the Greek for ‘truth’.

Alun see Alan

Alured see Alfred

Alvin m.

From two Old English names, Alwine, ‘friend of all’ and Athelwine, ‘noble friend’. Aylwin, Alvan, Alvyn and Alvy are alternative forms. There is a rare feminine, Alvina. The similar-sounding Alvar means ‘elf army’.

Alys, Alyssa see Alice

Alyson, Alysson see Alison

Alyx see Alexandra, Alice

Amabel f.

From the Latin meaning ‘lovable’. It has been in use in England in various forms since the 12th century. The short form, MABEL, became established as an independent name at an early date.

Amalia see Amelia

Amanda f.

From the Latin for ‘deserving love’. It appears first in Restoration plays, where many classical or pseudo-classical names were introduced or fabricated. It has remained in use since then and is still popular. Mandy is a pet form also used as a name in its own right. Amandine is a French form of the name which has been popular in France in recent years. It was brought to the attention of English speakers when the actor John Malkovich chose it for his daughter.

Amaryllis f.

Originally from Greek, probably meaning ‘sparkling’, and used by Greek poets as a name for a country girl. It served the same purpose for Latin poets, and was introduced to Britain via English poetry in the 17th century.

Amber f.

The name of the gemstone, used as a first name. It was not used before the 20th century.

Ambrin f.

From the Arabic for ‘ambergris’, a substance renowned for its sweet odour. It can also be spelt Ambreen.

Ambrose m.

From the Greek for ‘divine’. There was a 4th-century St Ambrose who was Bishop of Milan. The name is found in the Domesday Book and has been used occasionally ever since. The Welsh name Emrys is derived from the Latin form of the name. There is a rare feminine form, Ambrosine.

Amelia f.

From an Old German name possibly meaning ‘work’, its form is perhaps influenced by Emilia (see EMILY). Amalia, Amalie, Amaline and Amalita are forms of the name. It can be shortened to Milly.

Amin m., Amina f.

From the Arabic for ‘honest’, ‘trustworthy’ or ‘reliable’. Amina, the feminine form, has always been much used by Muslim families, in honour of Amina bint-Wahab, mother of the Prophet Muhammad. It is sometimes spelt Aamena, Aaminah or Amena. Iman, ‘faith, belief’ comes from the same root. The model who uses this name has made it widely known, and it sometimes appears as Imani or Imana.

Aminta see Araminta

Amit m.

An Indian name from the Sanskrit for ‘without limit’. It is also a simplified pet form of names like Amitbikram (‘limitless prowess’) and Amitjyoti (‘limitless brightness’).

Amitabh m.

A name of the Buddha, from the Sanskrit meaning ‘limitless splendour’. The spelling Amitav is also used.

Amos m.

A Hebrew name, possibly meaning ‘he who carries a burden’. It was the name of an Old Testament prophet and was adopted by English Puritans after the Reformation, when saints’names fell out of favour. Popular until the 19th century, it is at present uncommon.

Amrit f. and m.

In the Vedic epics of the Hindus, this Sanskrit name refers to immortality or that which confers it, such as the ‘water of life, soma juice, nectar, [or] ambrosia’. Amrit can be used for both sexes, although the form Amrita can also be used for a girl.

Amy f.

From the French, meaning ‘beloved’. Sir Walter Scott’s novel Kenilworth, about Amy Robsart, the tragic wife of the Earl of Leicester, made the name fashionable in the 19th century, and it has been popular again in recent years. Aimée is the French original of this name, which can also be found in forms such as Aime(e), Ami(e) and Amye.

Amynta see Araminta

Anaïs f.

A French name which comes from the Greek word for ‘fruitful’. There has been a small increase in its use since it became the name of a perfume.

Anand m., Ananda f.

From the Sanskrit for ‘happiness’, ‘joy’ or ‘bliss’. It is the name of a god in the Veda, sacred book of the Hindus. Variants of the girl’s form include Anandamayi (‘full of joy’), Anandi and Anandini (‘joyful’).

Anastasia f.

From the Greek meaning ‘resurrection’. The name of a 4th-century saint and martyr, it became fashionable in England in the 13th century, though it was usually abbreviated to Anstey or Anstice, which mainly survive today as surnames. It has always been very popular in Russia, and a daughter of the last Tsar of Russia, called Anastasia, is said to have escaped from the massacre in which the rest of her family died in 1918. STACEY and Tansy started as pet forms of this name. Nastasia is a Russian pet form and the emerging name Tassia (Taja, Tasia) is probably a shortening of this.

Andrew m., Andrea f.

From the Greek for ‘manly’. Andrew is the name of the Apostle who is patron saint of Scotland, Russia and Greece, and first appears in England in the Domesday Book. It has been used in Britain continuously and has enjoyed particular favour in Scotland. The pet forms include Andy, Dandy (Scots) and DREW, which is also used as an independent name. The Italian form, Andrea, is actually a boy’s name in Italy, but is used as a girl’s name in this country. The French boy’s form, André, is likewise sometimes used for girls, although the more correct form Andrée is also used. Other female forms include Andrene, Andrena and Andreana, while Andra is both a traditional Scots form of the boy’s name and used for girls.

Aneka, Aneke, An(n)ika see Anne

Aneurin m.

This name is traditionally interpreted as the Welsh form of Latin Honorius, meaning ‘honourable’, and is one of the oldest names still in use in Britain. It also appears in the form Aneirin. Short forms are Nye and Neirin.

Angela f.

From the Latin angelus originally derived from the Greek word meaning ‘messenger’, hence our word ‘angel’. It is shortened to Angel and Angie. Other forms of the name include the French Angelique, and elaborations such as Angelica, Angelia, Angeline and Angelina, as well as spellings with a ‘j’ instead of a ‘g’. Masculine forms of the name died out at the Reformation, but the Italian boy’s name Angelo and the Spanish Angel are now found in the USA.

Angharad f.

A Welsh name meaning ‘much loved’. It is an important name in early Welsh literature, and has been in use since at least the 9th century. The stress is on the second syllable.

Angus m.

From the Gaelic Aonghas, meaning ‘one choice’. It appears in Irish legend in the form Aengus or Oengus, but is more common in Scotland. The name became associated with the classical myth of Aeneas (which is close to the Irish pronunciation) in the 15th century, and this form was also used.

Anil m., Anila f.

The name of the wind-god in the Hindu Vedic epics. It is derived from the Sanskrit meaning ‘air’ or ‘wind’. Anil is the driver of Indra’s golden chariot, which is pulled by a thousand horses. Anila, the feminine form, is used mainly by Hindu families.

Anish m., Anisha f.

A Sanskrit name, one of the thousand borne by the Hindu god Vishnu. Its meaning is possibly ‘without a master’.

Anita, Ann, Anna see Anne

Annabel f.

Together with Annabelle or Annabella, this is probably from the Latin amabilis meaning ‘lovable’, a variant of AMABEL. It is found in Scotland earlier than ANNE, so it is unlikely to be a form of that name, though it is now sometimes thought of as a compound of Anna and the Latin bella meaning ‘beautiful’. Diminutives include Bel, Belle and Bella.

Anne f.

From the Hebrew HANNAH, meaning ‘God has favoured me’. The French form Anne or Ann, traditionally the name of the mother of the Virgin Mary, was introduced into Britain in the 13th century and the name has enjoyed great popularity since. Anne is currently slightly more popular than Ann, but the form Anna is now much more popular than either. Pet forms include Nan, Nanette, Nana, NANCY and Annie, as well as the variants Anita, Annette and Anona (although this, with its pet form Nona, can be Welsh in origin). Ann(e) has often formed part of compounds such as Mary Ann(e) or Annalise. Anneke is the Dutch pet form, more often spelt Anneka in this country to reflect the Dutch pronunciation; Aneke, Aneka and An(n)ika are also found. Anya is from the Spanish pronunciation of the name and Anouk is a Russian form.

Annes, Annice, Annis see Agnes

Annette, Annie see Anne

An(n)ora see Honoria

Anona, Anouk see Anne

Anoop see Anup

Anstice see Anastasia

Anthea f.

From the Greek antheos, meaning ‘flowery’. This name seems to have been introduced by the pastoral poets of the 17th century and it has been in use ever since, although it was not until the 20th century that it became very widely known.

Ant(h)ony m., Antonia f.

A Roman family name. Its most famous member was Marcus Antonius, the Mark Antony of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar and Antony and Cleopatra. The name was very popular in the Middle Ages as a result of the influence of St Antony the Great and St Antony of Padua. The alternative and commoner spelling Anthony was introduced after the Renaissance, when it was incorrectly thought that the name was derived from the Greek anthos meaning ‘flower’, as in ANTHEA. The usual short form is Tony, which is also used for the female forms Antonia and the French Antoinette. Feminine short forms Toni and Tonya are also found, and Toinette, Net and Nettie are pet forms of Antoinette. Anton, a Continental form of the name, is now also used for boys. In the USA Antonio (shortened to Tonio) and Antoine (often in phonetic spellings such as Antwan or Antuan) are often used.

Anup m.

An Indian name, from the Sanskrit meaning ‘without comparison’. The spelling Anoop is also used.

Anusha f.

The name of a star in Hindu astrology.

Anya see Anne

Aoife see Eve

Aonghas see Angus

Aphra f.

From the Hebrew word for ‘dust’. It is best known from the novelist, playwright and spy Mrs Aphra Behn (1644–89), said to have been the first woman in England to earn her living as a writer. It is also spelt Afra.

Apple f.

This name recently came to public attention when it was chosen by Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin for their baby girl. The name is by no means unique – they named her after Martin’s agent’s daughter, and the publicity the choice generated turned up quite a number of other bearers – but is certainly unusual. Almost any fruit can be found used occasionally as a first name, even raspberry, but the most likely ones are Peaches (as in the case of Bob Geldof’s daughter) and Berry (see also BERTRAM). There is a distinguished, female, Japanese novelist called Banana Yoshimoto.

April see Avril

Arabella f.

A possible variant of AMABEL, though it could be derived from the Latin for ‘obliging’. It used to be a predominantly Scottish name, particularly in the forms Arabel and Arabelle. It can be shortened to Bel, Belle and Bella.

Araminta f.

This name appears to have been invented by Sir John Vanbrugh (1644–1726) to use in one of his plays. It may have been influenced by Aminta or Amynta, an ancient Greek name meaning ‘protector’. They all share the short forms Minta and Minty.

Archibald m.

From Old German words meaning ‘truly bold’. The Old English form was used in East Anglia before the Norman Conquest. Thereafter, it was primarily Scottish and was associated particularly with the Douglas and Campbell families. The most usual diminutive is Archie, now sometimes given to a child rather than the full name.

Ardal m.

This is an Irish name of disputed meaning, either ‘high valour’ or coming from the word for ‘bear’.

Arianna f.

This is an ancient Greek name meaning ‘the very holy one’ which probably originally belonged to a goddess. In Greek mythology Ariadne was the daughter of King Minos of Crete and helped Theseus to escape from the labyrinth. Arian(n)a is an Italian form of the name. Ariane, the French form, is also used.

Ariel f. and m.

The name Ariel has two different origins. The masculine form is a Hebrew name, traditionally said to mean ‘lion of God’, which is popular in Israel and sometimes used in the USA. As a girl’s name it has been popular in the USA ever since it was used as the heroine’s name in Disney’s Little Mermaid film and TV series. This name, which is also found in forms such as Arial and Arielle, presumably owes at least something to Ariel, the airy spirit in Shakespeare’s play, The Tempest.

Arjun m.

A Hindu name from the Sanskrit for ‘white’ or ‘bright’. It was the name of a famous Pandava prince, son of the god Indra.

Arlene f.

Arlene, Arleen or Arline is a modern name which probably comes from the final sounds of such names as CHARLENE or MARLENE.

Armand, Armin, Arminel, Arminelle see Herman

Arnold m.

From the Old German Arnwalt, meaning ‘eagle’s power’. It appeared in various forms, both Germanic and French, in the Middle Ages, but dropped out of use from the 17th century until the late 19th when it had a revival.

Aroon see Arun

Artemisia see Diana

Arthur m.

The origin of this name is disputed. Possible sources are the Celtic word for ‘bear’ and the Roman name Artorius. Whatever its source, its use comes entirely from the fame of its first known bearer, King Arthur. Victorian interest in things medieval made it popular in the 19th century when Queen Victoria gave the name to one of her sons. Over-use in the late 19th and first quarter of the 20th centuries led to a decline, but there are now distinct signs of a revival in popularity. Art or Arty is used as a short form, particularly in America.

Arun m., Aruna f.

An Indian name from the Sanskrit for ‘reddish brown’, a colour associated with the dawn. It became the name of the mythical personification of the dawn, charioteer of the sun. Aroon is an alternative spelling for boys, while for girls Arumina is also used.

Asa m.

From the Hebrew word meaning ‘physician’. In the Bible it is the name of a king of Judah, noted for his piety.

Asha f.

An Indian name from the Sanskrit for ‘hope, desire, aspiration’.

Ashanti f.

The name of this Ghanaian people has had a certain popularity among people of African origin wanting to honour their roots. It is often shortened to Shanti (Shante, Shaunti).

Asher m.

The name of one of the tribes of Israel. It means ‘happy’. Although it is an unusual name, there are signs that its use is on the increase, along with other names from the Bible. It is, of course, also a common surname meaning ‘ash tree’, and some uses may be from this.

Ashish m.

A relatively modern Indian name, probably derived from the Sanskrit for ‘prayer’ or ‘benediction’.

Ashley f. and m.

A place and surname meaning ‘ash field’ which has become very popular throughout the English-speaking world. The spelling Ashleigh is rather more common for girls, and the variant Ashlyn(n) is used as a girl’s name in the USA. The related surname Ashton, meaning ‘ash farm’, is also found as a first name for both sexes in the USA.

Ashling see Aisling

Ashraf m.

A popular Muslim name, from the Arabic for ‘more noble’ or ‘more honourable’.

Asia see Aisha

Aslam m.

A Muslim name, from the Arabic meaning ‘safer’ or ‘sounder’.

Asma f.

A popular Muslim name, from the Arabic for ‘more eminent’ or ‘more prestigious’. Asma was the daughter of the caliph Abu-Bakr. She courageously helped the Prophet and her father escape from Mecca when their lives were threatened.

Assisi f.

Assisi (sometimes Asisi), is, like Florence and Sienna, an Italian town famous for its Renaissance art. It was given publicity when chosen by Jade Jagger for her daughter.

Astrid f.

From the Old German words meaning ‘god’ and ‘beauty’. The name of the wife of St Olaf of Norway, it has long been popular in Scandinavia, and has been used in Britain in the 20th century.

Athene f.

This is the name of the Greek goddess of war, crafts and wisdom. In Britain, it has been used occasionally as a girl’s name, as has the Latin form of the name, Athena. The Roman equivalent, Minerva, is also found.

Athol f. and m.

Athol or Atholl is the Scottish place name, used as a first name. The place name means ‘New Ireland’.

Aubrey m. and f.

From the Old German meaning ‘elf ruler’. In medieval romance the diminutive Auberon was used and Shakespeare adopted it as Oberon in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The German form, Alberic, developed first into Albery and later into Aubrey. Aubrey is now to be found as a girl’s name in the USA.

Audrey f.

A shortened form of Etheldreda, Old English for ‘noble strength’ and one of the sources of ETHEL. St Etheldreda was a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon princess who founded at Ely a religious house which later developed into the cathedral that now stands on the site. She was a popular saint and many churches are still dedicated to her.

Augusta f., Augustus m.

From the Latin for ‘venerable’. Augustus was a title given to the first Roman Emperor and Augusta is its feminine form. Augustine, the name of two important saints, one of whom converted the English to Christianity, is another form of the name. It was so popular in the Middle Ages it developed the shorter forms Austin, Austyn and Austen, a name which has been popular in the USA for some years. Augustina is a feminine form of Augustine. Gus and Gussie are pet forms.

Aurelia f.

From the Latin aurelius meaning ‘golden’. It has been used since the 17th century, and recently a short form, Auriol, Auriel, Oriel or Oriole, has shown some popularity. The boy’s form is Aurelius.

Aurora see Dawn

Austen, Austin, Austyn see Augusta

Autumn f.

This season is fashionable in the USA, although Summer is preferred in the UK. Spring is also found.

Ava f.

This name is of obscure origin, but probably started life as a pet form of names beginning Av-. It was made famous by the film star Ava Gardner, and is more commonly found in the USA than Britain, and has recently been the choice of a number of American celebrities for their daughters.

Aveline see Evelyn

Averil f. and m.

Probably from the Old English eofor (‘boar’) and hild (‘battle’), which appears as Everild and Everilda in the 7th century. It was regularly in use until the 17th century, since when it has been less common. Averil is often confused with AVRIL which originally was an entirely different name.

Avery see Alfred

Avril f.

The French for April. The name has been popular in the 20th century, mainly for girls born in that month (see also AVERIL).

Ayesha, Ayisha see Aisha

Aylmer see Elmer

Aylwin see Alvin

Aysha, Ayshia see Aisha

Azim m., Azima(h) f.

This Arabic name means ‘determined’.

Aziz m.

This Arabic name means ‘friend’. Azeez is a common alternative spelling, and Aziza or Azeeza are feminine forms.

B

Bab, Babs see Barbara

Babette see Barbara, Elizabeth

Bailey f. and m.

This surname, which comes from the job of steward or bailiff of an estate, has recently been fashionable as a girl’s name in the USA.

Bairre see Barry

Bala f. and m.

An Indian name, from the Sanskrit for ‘young child’. The boy’s form can also appear as Balu and Balan.

Barbara f.

From the Greek barbaros, meaning ‘strange’ or ‘foreign’, and associated with St Barbara, a 3rd-century martyr. The name was little used after the Reformation, but in the 20th century it became popular again. Abbreviations include Bab, Babs, Barbie and sometimes Bobbi. The variant form Barbra was publicised by the singer Barbra Streisand. Babette is a French form of the name.

Barnabas m.

From the Hebrew meaning ‘son of exhortation or consolation’, it is best known as the name of the New Testament companion of St Paul. The diminutive, Barnaby, is rather fashionable at the moment, more so than the full form. Barney is a short form which is also shared with BERNARD.

Barney see Barnabas, Bernard

Barry m.

The English form of a variety of Celtic names, most prominently Bairre, a pet form of the Irish Finbarr (Finnbar, Fionnbharr) meaning ‘fair-haired’. Barry can also be spelt Barrie, the usual spelling in the name’s infrequent use for girls.

Bartholomew m.

From the Hebrew, meaning ‘son of Talmai’, Talmai meaning ‘full of furrows’. It was the surname of the Apostle NATHANIEL and was very popular in the Middle Ages when the cult of St Bartholomew was at its height. St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London was founded in the 12th century, and a riotous annual Bartholomew Fair held in the city to provide funds for it, was suppressed only in the 19th century. The name is still in use, and has short forms Bart, made famous by the cartoon character Bart Simpson, and Barty.

Basil m.

From the Greek basileios, meaning ‘kingly’. It was probably brought to England by the Crusaders, and it has remained in use ever since. Diminutives include Bas or Baz, Basie and Bazza, and there are two feminine forms, Basilia and Basilie. These were common in the Middle Ages, but are hardly ever found today.

Bastian, Bastien see Sebastian

Bathsheba f.

This name derives from Hebrew words which mean ‘daughter of opulence’. In the Old Testament Bathsheba was the beautiful wife of Uriah and was seduced by King David who arranged to have Uriah die during a battle. Bathsheba married David and became the mother of Solomon. The name was formerly used in Cornwall in the form Bersaba, and appears also in its pet form Sheba. Bathsheba Everdene is a central character in Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Madding Crowd.

Baz, Bazza see Basil

Beatrice f.

From the Latin Beatrix, meaning ‘bringer of happiness’. It has strong literary associations. Dante’s Beatrice is probably best known, but Shakespeare also used the name in Much Ado About Nothing. Recently, both forms of the name have shown signs of returning to popularity, no doubt helped by the publicity given to it as the name of one of the Duke and Duchess of York’s daughters. Short forms include Bea or Bee, Beata, Beatty, Triss and Trixie. There is also a Welsh variant, Bettrys, and a Spanish form Beatriz.

Becky see Rebecca

Bel see Annabel, Arabella, Belinda, Isabel

Belinda f.

From an Old German name, the latter part of which means ‘a snake’ (see LINDA). The first part of the name is obscure, but is commonly thought of as representing the French ‘fair’. Its popular use began in the 18th century when it was used in plays by Congreve and Vanbrugh, and in Pope’s poem The Rape of the Lock. Short forms include Bel and all forms of LINDA.

Bella, Belle see Annabel, Arabella, Isabel

Ben see Benjamin

Benedict m.

From the Latin benedictus, meaning ‘blessed’, and most familiar as the name of St Benedict, founder of the Benedictine Order. It was common in medieval England in the forms Bennet and Benedick. The latter is the name of a character in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. There are feminine forms Benedicta and Benedetta, and a Spanish-American form Benita.

Benjamin m.

From the Hebrew, meaning ‘son of the south’ or ‘right hand’, which might imply strength and good fortune. The Old Testament story of Benjamin, son of Jacob, gave the name the added implications of a favoured youngest son. The commonest pet forms are Ben, Bennie, Benny, Benjie and Benjy. It is currently a very popular name.

Bennet see Benedict

Berenice f.

From the Greek Pherenice, meaning ‘bringer of victory’. It was spread by the imperial conquests of Alexander the Great over Europe and Asia. It was especially popular in Egypt, during the period of Macedonian rule, and its use spread also to the family of Herod of Judea. Bernice is a modern form of the name, and Bunny is sometimes used as a pet form (see also VERONICA).

Bernadette f.

The commonest female form of BERNARD. Its use has spread due to the fame of St Bernadette of Lourdes, who lived in the mid 19th century and whose visions started the pilgrimages of healing to that town. The Italian Bernardetta has been shortened to Detta, which can be used as an independent name. Bernadine is another form of the name, and Bernie the short form.

Bernard m.

A Germanic name meaning ‘brave as a bear’. It was very popular in the Middle Ages. Two important saints bearing the name were St Bernard of Menthon after whom St Bernard dogs are named, and St Bernard of Clairvaux who inspired the Second Crusade. It has remained in use ever since. The most usual short forms are Bernie and Barney, which is shared with BARNABAS.

Berry see Apple, Bertram

Bert, Bertie m.

A pet form of a large number of names including ALBERT, BERTRAM, BERTRAND, GILBERT, HERBERT, HUBERT, ROBERT. In all these cases, the ‘-bert’ part of the name is a Germanic element meaning ‘bright’. The name is sometimes used as a given name, when it may take the form Burt.

Bertha f.

From the Old German word beraht, meaning ‘bright’. The first famous English Bertha was the wife of King Ethelbert of Kent who welcomed St Augustine to England on his mission of conversion. In the Middle Ages both Bertha and Berta were popular, and the name has been regularly used ever since, although it is rather uncommon at present.

Bertram m.

From the Old German meaning ‘bright raven’, the bird associated with the god Odin. The name has been used in England since the early Middle Ages, and has the short forms BERT and Bertie, and the less common Berry. Bertrand, meaning ‘bright shield’, is often treated as the French form of Bertram and shares with it the short forms BERT and Bertie.

Beryl f.

From the gemstone, whose name is related to the Arabic for ‘crystal’. It appeared in the 19th century, and was popular in the early part of the 20th century.

Bess, Bessie, Beth see Elizabeth

Betha see Bethia

Bethany f.

A popular name taken from a New Testament place name, the village where Lazarus lived. The short form Bethan is used independently, and is also a short form of ELIZABETH which has spread from Wales.

Bethia f.

Bethia or Bethea can be interpreted in three different ways. It can be thought of as a pet form of ELIZABETH, as a use of the Old Testament place name Bethia, or as an English version of a Gaelic name also found as Betha, meaning ‘life’.

Betsy, Bettina, Betty see Elizabeth

Bettrys see Beatrice

Beverl(e)y f. and m.

From an Old English surname meaning ‘of the beaver-meadow’. It is shortened to Bev, and is now only rarely used for boys.

Bevis m.

This is a French name, possibly meaning ‘bow’, introduced into England at the Norman Conquest. It was popular in the Middle Ages and revived again after Richard Jeffries’ Bevis, The Story of a Boy was published in 1882.

Bharat m.

This was the name of several famous heroes in the Hindu epics, and derives from the Sanskrit for ‘being maintained’. India officially became Bharat when it achieved independence.

Bharati f.

A Hindu name identified with the goddess of speech and learning.

Bhaskar m.

A Hindu name from the Sanskrit for ‘the sun’. Bhaskara, the famous 12th-century Indian astronomer and teacher, shows an earlier form of the name.

Bhavana see Bhavna

Bhavini f.

A Hindu name meaning ‘illustrious, beautiful’, a term for the goddess Parvati, wife of the god Siva.

Bhavna f.

An Indian name, from the Sanskrit meaning ‘wish’, ‘desire’ or ‘thought’. The form Bhavana is also used.

Bianca see Blanche

Bidelia, Biddy see Bridget

Bill see William

Billie, Billy f. and m.

This pet form of the boy’s name WILLIAM is being used increasingly as a girl’s name particularly in America, often in combinations to produce names such as Billie Jean or Billy Joe.

Birgitta see Bridget

Björn m.

A Scandinavian name which means ‘bear’. The name has become widely known in modern times through the Swedish tennis champion Björn Borg.

Blaise m.

From the French, meaning either someone from the Blois region, or derived from the Latin for ‘stammerer’. It is also spelt Blase or Blaze.

Blake f. and m.

A surname, from the Old English meaning ‘black, dark-complexioned’, used as a first name.

Blanche f.

This is a French name which was brought to England in the 13th century. It means ‘white’ or ‘fair-skinned’. The Spanish and Italian form Bianca was used by Shakespeare, and is now rather more popular than the older form.

Blodwen f.

From the Welsh for ‘white flower’. It is rarely found outside Wales. Blodeuwedd, ‘flower form’, is the name of a beautiful but unfaithful woman in Welsh medieval romance, while Blodyn or Blodeyn is the more simple ‘flower’.

Blossom see Fleur

Blue see Indigo

Bob see Robert

Bobbi(e), Bobby f. and m.

These pet forms of ROBERT, ROBERTA and BARBARA are used as names in their own right, and in combinations such as Bobby Joe.

Bonnie, Bonny f.

A Scots word for ‘pretty’ used as a name. Like many modern names, it probably owes its spread to its appearance in Gone with the Wind.

Boris m.

From the Russian word for ‘fight’. It was used in Britain and North America in the 20th century, possibly due to cultural influences such as Moussorgsky’s opera Boris Godunov, the film actor, Boris Karloff, and the author of Dr Zhivago, Boris Pasternak, as well the large number of Slavic immigrants who have come to the West.

Boyd m.

From a Gaelic word meaning ‘yellow’, referring to the colour of the hair. It is the name of a Scottish clan, though the surname can also derive from ‘isle of Bute’. Boyd became more widespread outside Scotland after its use in Margaret Mitchell’s Gone With the Wind.

Bradley m.

A surname from the Old English, meaning ‘wide meadow’, now popular as a first name. Brad(d) is a short form.

Brady m.

An Irish surname, possibly meaning ‘broad-chested’ now found as a first name.

Bram see Abraham

Bran see Brenna

Brand see Brenda

Brandan, Brandon see Brendan

Brandi f.

This name, which seems to come from the vocabulary word ‘brandy’, has been a popular girl’s name in the USA for some years. It is also found spelt Brandy, Brandee and Brandie, and probably serves as a feminine form of Brandon.

Brannan see Brenna

Breanna f.

This new name, which has developed in the USA, can either be seen as a blend of the names Bree (a pet form of BRIDGET) and Anna, or as a development of BRIANNA, a feminine form of BRIAN. It is also used in the form Breanne, and found in spellings such as Breeanna and Brieanne.

Bree see Bridget

Bren see Brenna

Brenda f.

Probably a feminine form of the Norse name Brand, meaning ‘a sword’, found in the Shetlands. It was used by Walter Scott in his novel The Pirate. However, in practice, it has been used more frequently as a feminine form of BRENDAN.

Brendan, Brandon m.

An Irish name meaning either ‘with stinking hair’, or, according to one authority, from the Welsh word meaning ‘prince’. It is most famously found in the 6th-century Irish St Brendan the Navigator, credited in legend with the discovery of America. It is today particularly popular in Ireland, Australia and the USA. The form Brandan or Brandon has a long history as an alternative form of Brendan, but can also come from an Old English place and surname meaning ‘a hill where broom grows’. The name is also spelt Brandin, Brandyn, Brenden and Brendon.

Brenna f., Brennan m.

Brennan is a pet form of the Irish name Bren, which probably means ‘tear, sorrow’, with Brenna a modern feminine form. Since the earliest records this name and Bran, ‘raven’, and its pet form Brannan have regularly been confused, and it is not always possible to tell which form of the name has come from which source.

Bret(t) m.

From an Old French word meaning ‘a Briton’ or ‘a Breton’. It is currently well used in the USA.

Brian m., Brianna f.

A Celtic name, the origin of which is obscure, though it may be derived from words meaning ‘hill’ or ‘strength’. It was known mainly in Celtic areas until the Norman Conquest, when it was introduced to England. Brian Boru was a famous Irish King of the 11th century, who defeated the invading Vikings.

The name continued to be popular in England until Tudor times, but after that it disappeared until it was reintroduced from Ireland in the 18th century. Today the spellings Bryan, Brien and Brion are found, and Bryant or Briant, originally a surname developed from the name Brian, is also found. Brianna, Bryan(n)a and Brianne (Bryanne) are used as feminine forms, as is BRYONY.

Brice m.

Brice, possibly meaning ‘speckled’, is an old Gaulish name, the name of a 5th-century French saint and bishop of Tours, which is now well used in the USA, often in the form Bryce. The surname which developed from the first name, Bryson, is also found used as a first name.

Bridget f.

Brigit was the ancient Irish goddess of poetry whose name meant ‘strength’. Her name was borne by 5th-century St Brigit of Kildare, the most revered of the Irish female saints. The Irish name also appears in the forms Bri(d)gid and Bride (which reflects the Irish pronunciation of the name, with a long ‘ee’ sound and no ‘g’), with the diminutives Bridie, Biddy, Bree (now sometimes Brea) and the older elaboration Bidelia. Brigidine is a variant chosen by Sinead O’Connor for her child. There is also a Swedish saint Birgitta or Brigitta whose feast day falls on the same day as St Brigit’s, and her name has influenced the most common English form of the name, Bridget. Britt is a pet form of the Swedish name.

Brien see Brian

Brigid, Brigit, Brigitta see Bridget

Brin see Bryn

Brion see Brian

Briony see Bryony

Britt see Bridget

Brittany f.

This French place name began to be used as a name for American girls in the 1960s, for reasons which are unclear. The sound of the name rather than its meaning seems to be important, as it also occurs as Britanee, Britani, Britney (made famous by Britney Spears) and Brittney. In the 1980s a sudden surge in popularity took it to the top of the American name charts and use is growing in the UK.

Bronwen f.

From the Welsh words meaning ‘white breast’. This name has long been popular in Wales where it has strong associations with ancient legend.

Brooke f. and m.

The surname meaning ‘a brook’, used as a first name, made famous by the actress Brooke Shields. The American place name Brooklyn, most famously used in the UK for a boy, Brooklyn Beckham, is more often used for girls in the USA, and is treated as if a blend of Brooke and LYN in forms such as Brooklynne.

Bruce m.

A French surname which came to Britain at the time of the Norman Conquest. Members of the family moved to Scotland where a descendant of one, Robert Bruce, became King of Scots, and was the ancestor of the Stewart or Stuart Kings. Bruce has only been used as a first name since the 19th century, but it proved so popular in Australia in the mid 20th century that it is almost a nickname for an Australian man. Brucie is a pet form.

Bruno m.

This is a German name meaning ‘brown’, probably imported to the UK via the USA where it has been established for longer.

Bryan see Brian

Bryce see Brice

Bryn m.

A Welsh name, originally describing where someone lived, meaning ‘hill’. It can be found as Brin, and Brynmor (‘large hill’) is also used.

Bryony f.

Bryony, or Briony, is the name of the climbing hedgerow plant used as a girl’s name. It is a rather insignificant plant, although it has pretty berries, and the name probably owes its popularity to the fact that it can be used as a female equivalent to BRIAN.

Buddy m.

This word for a friend is occasionally used as a first name, but is usually a nickname. The singer Buddy Holly, for example, was christened Charles.

Buffy see Elizabeth

Bunny see Berenice

Bunty f.

This was a traditional name for a pet lamb, which came into use for girls after 1911, when it was featured in a very successful play called Bunty Pulls the Strings. However, it is used more commonly as a nickname.

Burhan m.

An Arabic name meaning ‘evidence’ or ‘proof’. Burhanuddin means ‘proof of faith’.

Burt see Bert

Byron m.

A name more frequently used in America than Britain, though it honours the English poet Lord Byron (1784–1824). Byron comes from the word ‘byre’, which means a cow-shed or barn. The name may have originally indicated someone who lived near a barn.

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