​
​
Advanced Search

Most Embarrassing Names on Nameberry

clairels
By clairels
Updated Thu May 25 2023
Nameberry has a lot of clunky names like Bertha and Norma that will get your kid made fun of, but that at least have a prayer of someday being cool again. And then there's these.
  1. 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.

  2. Arce

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "swift"

    • Description:

      Arce was the twin sister of the Greek rainbow goddess Iris. Arce is often associated with the seldom-seen, faded second rainbow. She had iridescent wings, which Zeus eventually took off her after she betrayed the Gods of Olympus. The character is lovely, but Arce is likely to be mispronounced in English in a very unhelpful way. If you fancy this name we suggest you go with the alternate spelling Arke.
  3. Arsen

    • Description:

      Arsen is a strong masculine name with ancient roots, predominantly used in Armenian, Russian, and Eastern European cultures. Derived from the Greek name Arsenios, meaning 'virile' or 'strong,' it has connections to the Latin element 'arsenicum.' The name carries connotations of strength and masculinity across cultures. While never reaching mainstream popularity in Western countries, Arsen maintains consistent usage in Armenia, Russia, and parts of Eastern Europe. In some regions, it's associated with Saint Arsenius the Great, a respected Roman theological instructor. The name has a powerful, distinctive sound that combines traditional heritage with modern appeal.
  4. 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.

  5. 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.
  6. Beat

    • Description:

      Beat as a feminine name is extremely rare and unconventional. It may function as a short form of Beatrice or Beatrix, names derived from Latin 'beatrix' meaning 'voyager' or 'blessed.' Alternatively, it might be pronounced 'bay-AHT' in some cultures. As an independent name, Beat has a stark, minimalist quality that's highly unusual in most naming traditions. The name's brevity gives it a modern, almost avant-garde feel. While uncommon for any gender, it occasionally appears as a masculine name in Switzerland, derived from the Latin name Beatus. As a feminine choice, Beat would likely challenge conventions and prompt questions. Its simplicity could appeal to parents seeking an extremely distinctive, conversation-starting name.

  7. Belcher

    • Origin:

      English from French

    • Meaning:

      "pretty face"

    • Description:

      Try telling the kids it really means "pretty face" and not "burper".
  8. Boote

    • Description:

      Boote is a rare masculine name with possible Germanic origins. It may derive from the Old German 'boto' meaning 'messenger' or 'herald.' Alternatively, it could be related to the surname Boote, which has connections to occupational roles or locations in medieval Europe. The name might also have astronomical connections, potentially relating to the constellation Boötes (the Herdsman). As a first name, Boote remains extremely uncommon in contemporary usage, giving it a distinctive quality for parents seeking something truly unique. The name carries a strong, succinct sound with its single-syllable pronunciation, while its unusual nature offers individuality without being overly complex.

  9. Brain

    • Origin:

      Misspelling of Brian

    • Description:

      Brain is not a name, it's a misspelling of the long-popular Brian. What's really astonishing is not that it made the Top 1000 at all but that it hung on there for 25 years, from 1965 through 1989, Brian's heyday. All we can say is: sad.
  10. Buttler

    • Description:

      Buttler is primarily a surname of English and Norman-French origin that has occasionally been used as a male given name. Derived from the occupational title 'butler,' it historically referred to a wine steward or head servant in a wealthy household. The spelling with double 't' is a less common variant of the more traditional 'Butler.' As a first name, Buttler has remained extremely rare throughout recorded naming history, never appearing on major popularity charts. When used as a given name, it often honors a family surname or creates a connection to aristocratic or service traditions. The name carries connotations of dignity, service, and formality.

  11. Charmin

    • Description:

      Charmin emerged as a distinctive feminine name in mid-20th century America, inspired by the word 'charming.' While sharing spelling with a well-known paper product brand introduced in the 1920s, the name itself derives from the French 'charmant,' meaning pleasing or delightful. Charmin peaked in usage during the 1960s and 70s, embracing the era's trend toward creative and unconventional naming patterns. Though never extremely common, it appealed to parents seeking a name that literally embodied an attractive quality. The name has since declined in popularity but maintains a unique charm for those seeking something melodic and uncommon with a built-in positive connotation.
  12. Corny

    • Origin:

      Short form of Cornelia, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "horn"

    • Description:

      Cornelia is the feminine form of the Ancient Roman Cornelius. Both names were popular in the US in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but have dropped off the Top 1000. In the most recent year counted, there were about 40 baby girls named Cornelia and 80 boys named Cornelius. But we doubt many of those would be nicknamed Corny.
  13. Diarra

    • Origin:

      West African

    • Meaning:

      "gift"

    • Description:

      Diarra has a nice meaning, but we could see it leading to possible teasing re association with a certain digestive problem.
  14. Dick

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Richard

    • Meaning:

      "dominant ruler"

    • Description:

      Dick was a once-common short form of Richard; replaced by Rick or Richie, and finally by the full name itself. Rude meaning -- make that two rude meanings -- pretty much knocks this one out of consideration.
  15. Ding

    • Description:

      Ding is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Chinese culture, it's a surname and given name meaning 'strong' or 'steady' (丁), representing the fourth Heavenly Stem in Chinese cosmology. As a given name in Western contexts, Ding is extremely rare and might be used as a nickname or diminutive form. In some European contexts, particularly Germanic languages, it might have evolved as a shortened form of names containing '-ding' elements. The name's brevity gives it a distinct, memorable quality despite its simplicity. While uncommon as a first name in most Western countries, Ding maintains cultural significance in Chinese communities worldwide, where it represents stability and strength.
  16. Dink

    • Description:

      Dink is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may have originated as a nickname for names like Dominic or as a short form of Dinkins. In some contexts, it has been used as a term of endearment for the youngest or smallest child in a family, derived from the notion of something small or 'dinky.' The name has occasional usage in Southern United States communities and has historical presence as a nickname or informal name rather than a formal given name. Dink has a short, punchy quality that gives it a casual, friendly character. While not widely used, its simplicity and distinctive sound offer a unique option for parents seeking an unconventional, brief name with a somewhat playful quality.
  17. Dodo

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Dorothy

    • Description:

      Dodo is one of the few names of the cute repeating-sounds genre that is not alas so cute, being a slang word for someone brainless as well as the name of the infamous extinct bird. Dot, Dottie, Dory, or Thea are all preferable.
  18. Doogie

    • Description:

      Doogie is a diminutive masculine name that gained recognition primarily through the 1989-1993 television series 'Doogie Howser, M.D.' featuring a teenage medical prodigy. Originally a Scottish nickname for Douglas (derived from the Gaelic 'dubhglas' meaning 'dark water'), Doogie has a distinctly informal, boyish quality. The name evokes a sense of youthfulness, intelligence, and precocious ability due to its TV association. While rarely used as a formal given name, it sometimes appears as a nickname or pet name. The name has a friendly, approachable sound that contrasts with its relative rarity in official use. For those familiar with the television reference, Doogie suggests exceptional intelligence and accomplishment at a young age.

  19. Dorcas

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "doe, gazelle"

    • Description:

      Classic name used by the Romans, the Puritans, and the Bard, but pretty much taboo today due to the objectionable connotations of both its front and back ends.
  20. Duscha

    • Origin:

      Russian

    • Meaning:

      "happy"

    • Description:

      Seems like a possible alternative to the more popular Sascha, but middle school life would be difficult for any girl bearing this name in an English-speaking world.