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Humiliating names

FractalShadow
By FractalShadow
Updated Thu May 25 2023
This is a list of names that are simply not good [at least in the English speaking world]. They may work for characters or pets, but for human children these are names that might be a bit much, though some have potential. These tend to be names that are: misspelled words, contain double-entendre or inescapable connotations, have an insulting or degrading meaning, impossible pronunciation, or hideous sound symbolism.
  1. Adolph

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "noble wolf"

    • Description:

      World War II stamped a permanent verboten on Adolph.
  2. Affrikah

    • Description:

      Affrikah represents a creative spelling variation referencing the continent of Africa. The doubled 'f' and the ending 'h' create a distinctive spelling while maintaining the phonetic pronunciation of 'Africa.' This type of geographical name adaptation emerged primarily in the late 20th century as part of a broader pattern of names celebrating cultural heritage and geographic connections. The spelling may specifically reflect an Afrocentric or Pan-African perspective, with the modified spelling potentially emphasizing cultural reclamation and identity. Usage data shows this name remaining quite rare. Similar place-name adaptations (like Asia/Asia, India/India) have been used as given names across various communities, though Affrikah specifically represents a more distinctive and deliberate adaptation with its unique spelling.
  3. Ag

    • Description:

      Ag is an exceptionally rare feminine name with multiple possible origins. In Irish, it functions as a diminutive of Agnes, derived from the Greek 'hagnos' meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Alternatively, it represents the chemical symbol for silver, giving it modern appeal as an element-inspired name. In some Southeast Asian cultures, particularly Vietnamese, it appears as a shortened form of longer traditional names. The brevity of Ag makes it one of the shortest possible given names, consisting of just two letters. This extreme simplicity has limited its widespread adoption, making it an exceptionally uncommon choice across all cultures. For parents seeking a truly minimalist name with versatile cultural connections, Ag offers an unconventional option that combines ancient Irish heritage with contemporary element symbolism.
  4. Ah

    • Description:

      Ah is an extremely rare masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Chinese, it functions as a prefix expressing familiarity or affection when added to names or kinship terms. In Arabic contexts, it may be related to names like Ahmed or Abdullah. As a standalone name, Ah has appeared sporadically in various cultures but remains exceptionally uncommon. The brevity of this two-letter name gives it a minimalist quality that contrasts with longer naming traditions. In some East Asian cultures, particularly Chinese, Ah might be used as an informal or nickname rather than a formal given name. The simplicity of Ah presents both challenges (potential confusion with an exclamation) and advantages (universally easy to pronounce and remember) as a given name.

  5. Alegend

    • Origin:

      American invented name

    • Meaning:

      "a legend"

    • Description:

      The popularity of legendary names, such as Legend, Legendary, and Legacy, has led to the creation of new names in this genre — meet Alegend (and ALegend and A'Legend). Phrases as names are slowly filtering into the mainstream, with choices like AKing, MyLove, and AMillion garnering more and more use each year.
  6. Alias

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "pseudonym"

    • Description:

      We think, probably, most parents who name their sons Alias are using it as a variation of Elias.
  7. Alleeceea

    • Description:

      Alleeceea appears to be a highly uncommon variant spelling of Alicia, which derives from the Germanic name Adelaide, meaning 'noble' or 'nobility.' This elaborate spelling creates a very distinctive version of a classic name, adding multiple vowels that emphasize its melodic quality. The name Alicia itself has been popular in various forms across many cultures, though this particular spelling is exceedingly rare. The unconventional orthography might appeal to parents seeking a truly unique rendering of a familiar name. Despite its unusual spelling, the pronunciation likely remains similar to traditional variants like Alicia, Alyssa, or Alisha, maintaining the name's inherent elegance while standing out visually on paper.
  8. Amerika

    • Description:

      Amerika is an uncommon masculine name with patriotic associations to the United States of America. The name represents a creative spelling variant of 'America,' likely chosen by parents desiring a distinctive name with nationalistic sentiment. While Amerika has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000 baby names, it occasionally appears as a given name, particularly in communities with strong American pride or among immigrant families wishing to express appreciation for their new homeland. The name carries connotations of freedom, opportunity, and cultural diversity. Phonetically striking with its hard 'k' sound, Amerika offers an unusual alternative to more common patriotic names like Liberty or America.
  9. Amillion

    • Origin:

      Invented name

    • Meaning:

      "a million"

    • Description:

      A meeting of two trends — compound names a la Myking and Alegend and money-related -illion names such as Million and Billion.
  10. Anis

    • Description:

      Anis is a delicate feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic, it means "friendly" or "companion," while in Hebrew it can mean "gathering" or "harmony." The name also refers to the star anise plant, known for its distinctive flavor and fragrance, adding a nature-inspired element to its meaning. Anis has been used across various cultures including Arabic, Persian, French, and South Asian communities. Despite its multicultural presence, the name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Its brevity and gentle sound make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that's simple yet distinctive, with rich cultural connections and a subtle botanical reference.

  11. Antwohnette

    • Description:

      Antwohnette is a distinctive feminine name that appears to be a creative variation of Antoinette, the French feminine form of Anthony (meaning 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy'). The unique spelling with 'woh' substituted for 'oi' gives the name a contemporary twist while maintaining the elegant sound of its traditional counterpart. Extremely rare in usage, Antwohnette exemplifies modern naming trends that modify classic names with distinctive spellings. The name preserves the sophisticated, feminine quality of Antoinette while offering uniqueness. Parents might choose this variation seeking individuality for their daughter while still connecting to the historical charm and recognized pronunciation of the traditional form.
  12. Arson

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Meaning:

      "deliberately setting fire to property"

    • Description:

      Sure, Arson is a crime, but anecdotally, many of the parents who choose this name do so because Arson = "our son."
  13. Asser

    • Description:

      Asser is a masculine name with ancient roots. It originates from Hebrew, where it was spelled 'Asher' and meant 'happy' or 'blessed'. The name appears in the Bible as one of Jacob's sons and one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark, Asser has historical significance, being the name of several notable medieval figures including Asser Rig, a Danish nobleman, and Asser of Canterbury, an early medieval monk. The name has remained relatively uncommon in modern times, giving it a distinctive quality. Its biblical connections may appeal to those seeking a name with religious significance, while its strong consonant sounds give it a masculine character.

  14. Baby

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Usually reserved as a term of endearment, Baby is likely used as a name when parents have yet to choose an official one but need to register their baby. For a girl, it can be considered a nickname for Barbara too.
  15. Bachellor

    • Description:

      Bachellor is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of "Bachelor," which historically referred to a young knight, a university degree holder, or an unmarried man. This distinctive spelling may have emerged as a family surname before transitioning to occasional use as a given name. With its unusual spelling and academic or chivalric associations, Bachellor carries a formal, distinguished quality that sets it apart from more common names. The name remains exceptionally rare in official records, making it a truly distinctive choice. Its aristocratic feel and connection to medieval terminology give Bachellor a refined, sophisticated character. For parents seeking an extremely uncommon name with historical resonance and a dignified presence, Bachellor offers uniqueness while maintaining connections to recognizable terminology in English-speaking cultures.

  16. Bae

    • Description:

      Bae is a succinct, modern feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Korean, it means 'inspiration' or can relate to the surname meaning 'pear.' However, its recent popularity stems largely from its use as an acronym for 'before anyone else' in English-language social media and youth culture, where it became a term of endearment for a romantic partner. This contemporary usage has influenced its adoption as a given name in Western contexts. In Danish and Norwegian, Bae relates to the word for 'dwelling' or 'home.' The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal, while its cross-cultural connections offer depth of meaning. Despite its trendy associations, Bae remains relatively uncommon as a formal given name, appealing to parents seeking distinctive, contemporary options with international flair.
  17. Bald

    • Description:

      Bald is an uncommon masculine name with ancient Germanic origins. Rather than relating to hair loss, the name derives from the Old English element 'beald' meaning 'bold' or 'brave.' It was found in Anglo-Saxon England, often as part of compound names like Baldwin (bold friend) or Archibald (genuinely bold). As a standalone name, Bald has become exceedingly rare in modern times. Historically, it was associated with courage and fearlessness in battle. The name experienced a decline after the Norman Conquest when French-influenced names gained popularity. Today, Bald might be encountered more as a surname or nickname than as a given name, though it preserves its heritage of connoting courage and daring.
  18. Balzac

    • Origin:

      French surname

    • Description:

      Dashing middle name choice for admirers of the French author.
  19. Bart

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Bartholomew, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "son of the earth"

    • Description:

      Permanent property of that devilish little Simpson kid.
  20. Beauty

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "attractiveness"

    • Description:

      Better yet, find a name with the same meaning: Belle, Cosima, Indira, Uilani, Zeynep.