First up: my calendar is updated for calls through the middle of August. Whether you’re looking for help brainstorming new names, evaluating your current favorites, or just need a neutral ear, I’d love to talk over your options. Schedule here.
Now on to the names in the news for the week of 7.21.24!
STELLA
I’m loving the chance up update old Names of the Day and feature them on Patreon. Join AM Baby Names for free here to read my thoughts on ever-stylish Sella … and catch up on all of them … there are 77 and counting!
ABNER
I was just thinking about grandpa names and all the good reasons to choose something a little dusty and fusty for our boys. Need more proof that everything eventually comes back? Namerology did a deep dive on Abner. I’ve been waiting for the moment that we start swapping liquid names for consonant-heavy ones. Is Laura right that Abner signals that moment?
LANDO
I don’t know much about the Channel Islands, but Nancy recently posted their 2023 name stats. What leapt out at me? In Guernsey, Lando ranks in their Top Ten. It’s sandwiched in between Hugo, Leo, and Luca, so it sounds right at home. Is it a Star Wars reference?
Probably not. Instead, Nancy notes that it’s probably due to British race car drive Lando Norris. The name is rising sharply in England and Wales, so that tracks. Norris wasn’t named for Calrissian, either. Lando is a cousin to Lanzo and Lance, and Norris’ Belgian-born mom just plain liked the name.
KAREN
It’s popular to talk about how no one is naming their children Karen anymore. (True.) But I really appreciated this story Frances sent my way. It’s from New Zealand, where a 1960s Karen boom has also reversed into a 2020s Karen bust. But the reporter frames it as part of a bigger trend – names are always falling out of favor. Yes, Karen’s fall is harder than many. But I appreciate the balanced view.
ROMILLY
This post on Romilly has seen a flurry of activity lately. It’s one of my favorite overlooked names. Now I’m looking to see – did an influencer name her daughter Romilly? Is there a new television character/pop star/other that I’m missing? Or is it just a fluke? Whatever the reason, I am here for it – Romilly is a great name, just waiting to be discovered.
That’s all for this week. As always, thank you for reading and have a great week!
I love the thought of Romilly being used more! One of my long time favourites, and Romola.