Appellation Mountain

Name of the Day: Clarence

July 3, 2008 By appellationmountain 16 Comments

This is one of those suggestions that we almost dismissed. Too fusty, we thought. Hopelessly out of style. But after a moment’s reflection, we found much to love in today’s Name of the Day: Clarence. Thanks to Lola for opening our eyes.

Baby Name Felicity: Antique and Upbeat

July 2, 2008 By appellationmountain 46 Comments

The baby name Felicity combines a gentle, antique appeal with an upbeat meaning. Thanks to Katharine for suggesting our Baby Name of the Day, and to Saranel for suggesting an update. FELICITAS At heart, the baby name Felicity belongs with the virtue names. It’s not quite as familiar as Grace, Hope, and Faith. But neither […]

Name of the Day: Lucretia

June 30, 2008 By appellationmountain 10 Comments

We must admit, Lola’s suggestion is one of the most exciting we’ve unpacked in a while. It’s a little bit Ancient Rome with a smattering of Renaissance Italy, and a whole lot Goth girl. And yet, it just might work on a modern child. Ready or not, here comes June 30’s Name of the Day: […]

Don’t Go There: At Least Not in New Mexico

June 28, 2008 By appellationmountain 1 Comment

Apparently, a Santa Fe man recently filed a request to change his name to F___ Censorship. Read all about it here.

Name of the Day: Holland

June 26, 2008 By appellationmountain 16 Comments

Yesterday we turned our attention to Emmett, an earnest name with a link to the blockbuster flick Legally Blonde. Today’s Name of the Day also has ties to the movie. Thanks to Jess for suggesting Holland.

Baby Name of the Day: Romilly

June 22, 2008 By appellationmountain 46 Comments

Note: This post was originally published on June 22, 2008, and substantially revised and re-posted on December 13, 2011. Back in 1984, no one was named Madison. Allison, Isabella, Jayden – they were all once obscure. Could this name join those appellations at the height of popularity someday? Thanks to Jess for suggesting Romilly as […]

Name of the Day: Cyrus

June 21, 2008 By appellationmountain 11 Comments

Most names that have been worn by kings and saints are familiar, oft-used monikers: James and Alexander, Henry and David. But if you’re hoping for something less common, but just as regal and historic, here’s one to consider. Thanks to Jess for suggesting today’s Name of the Day: Cyrus.

Name of the Day: Valencia

June 20, 2008 By appellationmountain 6 Comments

Like the appealing Clementine, it’s easy to dismiss today’s Name of the Day as merely edible, and therefore as flimsy an appellation for a daughter as Peach or Cherry. But Valencia has much history and appeal, the least of which has to do with citrus fruit.

Name of the Day: Marius

June 17, 2008 By appellationmountain 5 Comments

It is definitely an emerging trend – ends-in-us names for boys. While none have cracked the Top 100 in the US, they’re definitely hot – think about Atticus, Ignatius, Phinneaus, Tiberius, Julius, Augustus. The names have a softer sound than Jason and Aiden, but their classical origins give them an undeniable strength and durability. Emmy […]

Name of the Day: Alethea

June 16, 2008 By appellationmountain 7 Comments

Plenty of parents search for girls’ names that are feminine with sacrificing substance. Doubtless that’s why Sophia – from the Greek for wisdom – has cemented her place in the Top Ten. But if parents are also hoping for something underused, Sophia no longer fits the bill. Thanks to Emmy Jo for suggesting one that […]