Notable Names of July
By Megan at TulipByAnyName
We’re just about to enter the month of July, and that means hot summer days, backyard barbecues, vacations, and the celebration of Independence Day. There is plenty of inspiration for July baby names, from a beautiful red birthstone, to some great historic namesakes.
Ruby – The vibrant red birthstone for July, Ruby is a Latin name, derived from the word rubeus, meaning red. Ruby is climbing the charts, currently at #Number 90– it hasn’t been this popular since 1944. Ruby may remind you of Ruby Bridges, the first African-American girl to attend an all white school, or the song Ruby Tuesday, by the Rolling Stones. Many celebrities, including Rod Stewart and Tobey Maguire, have used this charming vintage name for their daughters.
George – George M. Cohan was an American composer and entertainer. His birth certificate states that he was born July 3, 1878, though his family insists he was “born on the Fourth of July”. This discrepancy may have inspired George to write over 300 songs, including “The Yankee Doodle Boy” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag”. George is a solid Greek name meaning farmer that has been used by many great American leaders and is, of course, the name of Britain’s young prince.
Liberty – I can’t think of a more fitting name for a little girl born on or around the Fourth of July. Liberty is a word name that lends itself to the familiar nickname, Libby. Liberty means freedom, free choice, and independence. Liberty has had a revival in recent years, reentering the charts in 2001. Actor Joey Lawrence used the name for one of his daughters.
Elias – Elias Howe, an American inventor born July 9, 1819, built and patented the first sewing machine in 1846. Elias is a Greek variation of Elijah, meaning Jehovah is God. At Number 103 in popularity, Elias is more popular than ever in the U.S. Like Elijah, Elias lends itself to the attractive nickname Eli. Elias also follows the growing trend of rising male names that end in the letter “s.”
Hawthorne – American novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne, best known for The Scarlet Letter, was born on America’s birthday, July 4, 1804. A Hebrew name meaning given, Nathaniel has been in the U.S. Top 100 since the late 1970’s. There are many great nicknames that can come from Nathaniel, including Nathan, Nate, Nat, and Natty. Today the name Nathan is more popular at Number 38, than Nathaniel at 94.
Jacqueline – Another American icon born in July is Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Jacqueline, also known as Jackie and “Jackie O” was born July 28, 1929. She was the wife of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States. Known for her style and elegance, Jacqueline Kennedy‘s name peaked in 1961, the year her huband came into office. Jacqueline is a French name that comes from Jacques, the French equivalent of James, meaning supplanter.
Neil – On July 20, 1969 astronaut Neil Armstrong was the first human to set foot on the moon. Neil is an Irish name meaning cloud, a pretty cool meaning for an astronaut. Currently Number 655 for boys in the U.S., Neil peaked in the 1950’s. Other notable Neils include Neil Diamond, Neil Young, and Neil Patrick Harris.
Marshall – Thurgood Marshall, born July 2, 1908, was a Civil Rights activist and the first African-American Justice of the Supreme Court. Marshall is a French surname and occupational name, meaning someone who cares for horses. Marshall was most popular in 1908. Today Marshall is Number 319, and could work as an alternative to the more popular Michael.
Frances – First Lady Frances Cleveland was born July 21, 1864. Married to U.S. President Grover Cleveland, she became the youngest First Lady in history at age 21. Frances is a Latin name meaning freeman that is just beginning to be noticed again. Celebrities like Jimmy Fallon and Noah Wyle have recently used this name for their daughters. Frances also lends itself to cute old timey nicknames like Franny, Francie, and Frankie.
Walter – On July 17, 1955 the Disneyland theme park opened in Anaheim, California and many associate the name Walter with its founder, Walter “Walt” Elias Disney. Walter is a German name meaning army ruler. Walter has slightly moved up in the charts, perhaps because of the character Walter White from the popular show Breaking Bad. Actor Rainn Wilson used it for his son.