I’m forever fascinated by unusual names, especially when they come complete with compelling stories. Pom Klementieff, who plays Mantis in Guardians of the Galaxy, caught my eye back when we saw the movie in May. But I just thought to look for the meaning behind it. Turns out that Pom was born in Quebec to a Korean mother and French-Russian father. They chose her name because it’s close to the Korean words for tiger and spring. I would have guessed that it was related to Pomeline, which comes from the word for apple, but her story is even better.
Elsewhere online:
- More #namespotting: Everson, as in Everson Griffen of the Minnesota Vikings. It makes an interesting alternative to the rising Everett. It’s gone up dramatically from 2015 to 2016, so I’m guessing he’s inspired a few parents.
- Are you into Star Trek? The new Star Trek: Discovery stars Sonequa Martin-Green as the first officer. They named her character … Michael. This makes me think two things: one, what’s the backstory on the character – and will it make her name seem reasonable? And of course, will Michael go the way of James, occasionally used for girls?
- While I’m watching television … That’s So Raven sequel Raven’s Home introduces us to the next generation, including son Booker. I this is one name that could catch on.
- Love seeing Morven in British Baby Names’ birth announcement round-ups. It’s a name from Scottish legend. But would it work in the US?
- The Name Dame talks cultural heritage and baby names, which is all kinds of fascinating. There’s a great shout-out to Kate from Sancta Nomina in the video, too!
- Word names, from Rook to Thunder to Arrow.
- Do you keep lists of your favorite names? This series at The Art of Naming is genius. She’s been tracking her favorites for every letter of the alphabet since 2010.
- The New Kids on the Block all have babies of their own. (Who would’ve thunk it?!) Meagan delves into the names they chose for their children.
- A year ago, I wrote about Loxley, which has become wildly popular as a post, despite being really rare as a name. In 2014, Sailor was in the spotlight. And in 2013, we looked at Ace.
- Every word that Swistle says here is exactly right. If your partner isn’t helping you choose names, this is a must-read.
That’s all for this week. As always, thank you for reading – and have a great week!
Michael already has a history of being used for girls. My father grew up in the 40s-50s in a very Catholic area in Seattle, and knew two female Michaels. The parents wanted to use the name no matter the sex of the child. I also work with a young mom from Australia named Michael.
Good point, FJE. Now that you mention it, I have run across a few …
From the British Baby Names: Griffin James Sirius and brother Niko Stone… Harry Potter fans much? These parents have a subtle style!
I thought Morven was a boy name before I read the announcement. I agree with Megan M. It reminds me of Marvin (which is a great name!).
Side note: with the Marvin the Martian association fading, this name seems due for a comeback! It reminds me of Ira or Floyd. Fabulous names to put in diapers!
Morven Christie is an actress currently starring in Grantchester, so I notice it every time Grantchester airs. I just don’t think it would work here. It’s too close to Marvin, which seems very outdated right now.
Ha! Exactly why it’s on my mind. 🙂