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There are hundreds of possible names for babies, each of these names have their own distinct origin and significance. For the past couple of years, however, there seems to be a trend towards certain baby names of particular origins and meanings. While popular baby name origins are similar for both boys and girls, the origins are in fact different. The most popular baby name origins for boys seem to be Hebrew, Greek, and English, whereas the common origins for girls' names are Latin, Hebrew, and Greek. Some baby name meanings don't necessarily connote any promises to be fulfilled, but instead are throwbacks to some legendary or historical figure. In those instances, the baby names are almost like challenges to the child, to see if they can live up to their name. This is a more common trait among baby boy name meanings than girls. On the other hand, some meanings are almost like "charms," or talismans, hopefully bringing their helpful meaning into a new baby's life. First, we'll take a look at some baby boy name meanings. Joshua is a Hebrew name and means Jehovah saves. Andrew, a Greek name, means manly or courageous; Anthony is also a Greek name and means worthy of praise. Ethan is a Hebrew name and means strong or courageous. As you can see from these meanings, there is obviously a common trend towards the positive. One thing that these baby name origins signify is a trend towards more traditional (or biblical) names. Whether the baby name origins are Hebrew, Latin, Greek, English, or of any other lineage, their meanings are representative of entirely positive attributes. For some parents, the baby name meanings are viewed as hopeful qualities they hope their child will fulfill. Some other baby boy name meanings aren't necessarily positive, but, they aren't negative either. The meaning of these names more simply state facts. For example, Tyler, an English name, means tile maker; Dylan, a Welsh name, means born from the ocean, or son of the sea; Brandon, a Celtic/Gaelic name means little raven. Baby girl name meanings, like those of the baby boys, have plenty of variation in definition and tone. Some examples of variety among baby girl name meanings are Amelia, a Latin name which means industrious and admiring; the Hebrew name, Molly, which means bitter; Megan (Celtic/Gaelic) which means soft and gentle, and the Greek name Chloe which means verdant and blooming. All of these baby girl name meanings are very nice compliments to the beautiful names that they define. While baby girl name meanings exist, as well as baby boy name meanings, a question is raised… how many parents actually know the origins and meanings of these names when they go to name their new daughter, or son for that matter? In the scheme of things, knowing baby name meanings may not be the deciding factor in choosing a name, but it may help. |