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Embarrassing Names

  1. Calm

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      A modern virtue name, particularly desirable in this pressure-cooker world.
  2. Bourbon

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Not even for Brandy's twin brother.
  3. Add

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Adam or Adolph

    • Description:

      Abstract painter Ad Reinhardt, né Adolph, gave his short name a lot of artistic cred, but it remained securely a nickname. The extra "d" in this version helps it stand on its own, for better or worse.
  4. Hooker

    • Origin:

      English occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "shepherd's hook"

    • Description:

      fuhgeddaboutit.
  5. Boss

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Description:

      If you like the idea of King and Prince but find them too regal, too royalist, this might be the name for you. Eight boys were called Boss in a recent year, and while it may feel like a totally modern choice, it has been appearing in the US stats since the late 19th century.
  6. Deal

    • Description:

      Deal as a feminine given name is exceptionally rare. It originates primarily as an English surname derived from the Old English 'del' or 'dale,' referring to a valley or hollow. As a first name, Deal has occasionally appeared in historical records but never gained significant popularity. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist quality despite its ancient origins. Deal shares qualities with other short, direct names that have crossed from surnames to first names. The simplicity of Deal makes it distinctive as a feminine name, appealing potentially to parents looking for something unconventional, straightforward, and gender-neutral with historical roots.

  7. Unite

    • Description:

      Unite is an uncommon feminine name derived from the English word meaning 'to join together' or 'come into harmony.' This virtue name carries powerful connotations of bringing people together, healing divisions, and creating wholeness. Unite emerged as part of the broader trend of word names and conceptual names that gained some traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The name has a distinctive, modern feel while embodying a universally positive concept. Though rare in usage, Unite appeals to parents seeking names with inspirational meanings and contemporary sensibilities. Its simplicity in spelling and pronunciation contrasts with its profound philosophical implications, making it a subtly powerful choice for a daughter.
  8. Gaylyn

    • Description:

      Gaylyn is a feminine name that emerged in the mid-20th century in the United States as a variation of Galen or a combination of Gay and the popular suffix -lyn. The name has English roots and suggests happiness and cheerfulness through its connection to 'gay' in its original meaning of 'joyful' or 'bright.' Popular primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, Gaylyn has since become uncommon. It represents a naming era when creative combinations and variations were fashionable. The name has a melodic, feminine quality while maintaining a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common names. Gaylyn often evokes a sense of vintage Americana and mid-century optimism.