Las Vegas Names

Hello, readers!

I just got back from a fabulous weekend in Las Vegas, where my friends and I attempted to strike it rich (didn't work). This sojourn into Sin City got me thinking - what sort of glamorous, glitzy names can one find among the roulette tables?

Today I'll be looking at names associated with the glimmering parts of the city. As always, tell me what you think in the comments! What sorts of monikers do you associate with Las Vegas?

Vegas

Spanish for "meadows," Vegas has been in use as a name since 1979. It's been used for both boys and girls, but somehow doesn't really work anywhere but the city. Vega is found in multiple languages, from Arabic to Spanish to Greek, and it would be an excellent possibility for a girl!

Mirage

A major hotel on the Strip, the Mirage was one of the most expensive hotel-casinos in history. The name Mirage probably has less to do with the glitz than the dreamy connotation of the noun - and the character in The Incredibles. 

Sinatra

One of Las Vegas' most beloved performers, Frank Sinatra influenced name popularity in many ways - from his song "Linda" to naming his daughter Nancy. The last name Sinatra was recorded three times in the late 1950's and mid 1960's.

Paris

Sure, this place-name does well enough on its own; but Paris Las Vegas has brought a whole separate dimension to the city. Why travel all the way to Europe when a scaled replica of the Eiffel Tower can be found in the Nevada desert? Paris' sparkle can also be attributed to heiress Hilton. 

Wynn

Named for businessman Steve Wynn, this Las Vegas hotel is often ranked as one of the best in the world. Its name isn't so bad, either - it comes from the Welsh for "fair," and has been used for both boys and girls in the United States. 

Elvis

While this name has long been associated with the one and only King, extremely quirky choices are now in the realm of possibility. In Las Vegas, between 125 and 500 Elvis Presley impersonators are in the building at any given time. 

Soleil

The entertainment company Cirque du Soleil arrived in Las Vegas in the early 1990's, and still impresses millions of visitors a year. Over 100 girls were given the pretty French name Soleil last year, with Soleil Moon Frye still being it's most distinctive wearer. 

Caesar

One of the biggest landmarks on the Strip, Caesar's Palace is known for its plethora of entertainment and gambling offerings - and it was featured prominently in The Hangover. While Cesar has long been a popular name, Roman variation Caesar could take off.

Hughes

While Hugh has begun to find favor in the states, variant Hughes could honor literary Langston. It's also included in this list as a reference to Howard Hughes, the notorious billionaire who lived in Las Vegas for years and owned many of its establishments. 

Cortez

A classic hotel in downtown Vegas, El Cortez is also on the National Register of Historic Places. While it's more popular as a surname, Cortez could work well as a first - it means "courteous" and has a few namesakes on the football field. 

Rio

Like Paris, Rio has a bit more going for it besides the Vegas connection - there's a Duran Duran song, a recent animated comedy, and of course, Rio de Janeiro. This name is popular for girls in Japan, too! The hotel was built in 1990, and it's the current residence of magicians Penn and Teller. 

Sahara

One of the original "Rat Pack" hotels, the Sahara officially closed in 2011. This desert name has gained recent interest due to the popularity of Sierra and Savannah, and could be a unique way to honor an aunt or grandma Sarah. 

A Material World of Names!

Hello, readers!

Often when parents are picking names for their children, they want something that will evoke a feeling, a name that's strong or soft or cozy. With the increasing individuality of today's names, why not get inspired at the fabric store?

If you're skeptical, consider this - Paisley has been in the top 100 for the last four years. Though it also links to Brad Paisley and the ever-popular "ley" ending, the fact that Paisley inspires images of beautiful patterns is certainly a plus. 

Paisley
Fun and feminine, this addition to the "Lee" trend stands well on its own. It brings quite a few different ideas to mind - from its 70's style to its Scottish origins, Paisley is a pretty follow-up to Lindsey or Ashley.

Denim
Another fabric named for a town, denim is now a core component of American fashion. The name Denim fits in with Dylan or Liam in sound, and could also be an honorific for a familial Dennis. English names Denham or Denholm are other similar possibilities.

Lace
Though Laci and its variants are tied to the 1980's, short and sharp Lace is still a contender. While the fabric is associated with feminine clothing, it's certainly not gender-specific - Lace would work well for a little boy too.

Satin
Smooth and sensuous, Satin might run into a few pronunciation errors. French form Satine would be more appealing; the name was featured in both Moulin Rouge and Star Wars. Satin has been used sporadically as a name since the 1970's.

Cotton
A surname choice dating as far back as Puritan times, Cotton could work well among the many Colton's and Cayden's of today. Thirty-one baby Cotton's were born in 2015 - it appears that this "soft" name may have some staying power.

Silk
Eight baby girls were given the name Silk in 1993. It's definitely luxurious, but lacks substance as a name. Dutch and German speakers have the option of Silke, a form of Cecilia, and the Hindi name Reshma means "silk."

Leather
If Tanner isn't edgy enough and Luther is too old-fashioned, why not give Leather a try? Though it's definitely outside the box, it's got a rock'n'roll sound that's hard to beat. The name was first recorded for five girls in 1900.

Velvet
Swanky and elegant, Velvet is a stylish choice that's been used fairly regularly in the United States. It could be an alternative to Violet or Vivian, and it's a bit more sophisticated than similar-sounding Velma. The classic Elizabeth Taylor film National Velvet is another great connection.

Suede
Though it's been used for boys since a character with the name debuted on One Life to Live, Suede is a lot like Sloane or Sawyer in its gender-neutrality. It's subdued and accessible, with a kind of quirkiness that's more endearing than eyebrow-raising.

Cashmere
A Hunger Games name with some history, Cashmere is another luxe choice with substance. An equal amount of boys and girls have been given the name in recent years - the Cash prefix especially lends this name to modern fashions.

Linen
In 2013, five baby girls were named Linen. Is this a link to musical Lennon, modern Lauren, or worldly London? Time will tell whether this material choice catches on, but its crisp, straightforward sound is definitely appealing.

Taffeta
This is another name that's only been recorded once - Taffeta appeared when Tammy, Tina, and Teresa were popular. While it's very cute, it may be a bit frilly for modern namers. The nickname Taffy is also syrupy sweet.

Other fabric choices that haven't been recorded include Calico, Gingham, Tweed, Vinyl, Velour, and Wool. Are there any I'm missing? Tell me in the comments!

Feeling Hopeless? Try Altruism!

Hello, readers!

Today's regularly scheduled name content will be interrupted with political activism. (Well, mostly. There's some name stuff, too). If the terrible events of the day have you feeling depressed or defeated, try making a difference in your community. Here are some links to well-deserving causes!

If monetary donation doesn't work for you, click around the sites for ways to get involved. Sign petitions, boost awareness, or volunteer in person for causes that matter to you.

Want to make sure people have access to adequate healthcare and family planning services?

Planned Parenthood - Care. No Matter What.

Healthcare.gov - Official site of the Affordable Care Act

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - Finding cures. Saving children.

Want to promote environmental education and climate change protections?

Sierra Club - Explore, enjoy, and protect the planet.

Greenpeace - The leading independent campaigning organization that uses peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and to promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future.

Earthjustice - Because the Earth needs a good lawyer.

Want to protect civil rights and promote social justice across the country (and the globe)?

ACLU - Because freedom can't protect itself.

NAACP - To ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination.

Amnesty International - Action for Human Rights. Hope for Humanity.

Want to protect the rights of women?

National Organization for Women (NOW) - Take action through intersectional grassroots activism to promote feminist ideals, lead societal change, eliminate discrimination, and achieve and protect the equal rights of all women and girls in all aspects of social, political, and economic life.

Feminist Majority Foundation - Equality around the world.

American Association of University Women (AAUW) - Empowering women since 1881.

Tell me your favorite charities and nonprofit groups in the comments below!

As for the name content... Keep getting excited about names. Keep reading blog posts and forums and baby name books. Ask people about where their names come from. Write down all the names you love. Promote diversity in naming. Stay passionate about what you love.

Barely There N-Z - Girls' Names

Hello, readers!

This is the last of my four-part series, Barely There Names! If you have ideas for future name posts that involve data, tell me in the comments!

Naiovy
Nation
Nebraska
Nieves
Nike
Nix

Oakland
Olwyn

Pagan
Paxley
Peony
Pfeiffer
Pink
Pippin
Portland

Reality
Rehab
Reminisce
Righteous

Salsabeel
Saxon
Serendipity
Shade
Shalimar
Sojourner
Sophonie
Sparkle
Starlight
Stellaluna

Theda
Tiernan

Ulla

Verbena

Warner
Westley
Worthy

Xiamara

Yuma

Zealand
Zosha

Barely There A-M - Girls' Names

Hello, readers!

Today continues the "barely there" theme - recognizing names that just made the cutoff, looking for signs of name trends to come! We're looking at girls' names today and Wednesday.

As always, tell me your favorites in the comments!

Abernathy
Acey
Adonai
Adorable
Agathe
Aia
Ako
Almadelia
Aloe
Amadea
Amit
Annetta
Araminta
Aspasia
Attica
Australia

Beckette
Bellatrix
Bly
Brighten

Calvary
Calyx
Cameo
Candida
Capella
Castiel
Ceres
Chrysanthemum
Constantina
Crew
Czarina

Dagmar
Delancey
Diary
Dollie

Eilonwy
Eliska
Erie
Evgenia
Exodus

Fairy
Federica
Forest
France

Garner
Gatsby
Gradie

Hagar
Happy
Harlequin
Haviland
Heartlyn

Idalis
Independence
Inge
Io

Jadis
Jericho

Kairo
Kimbra
Kindred
Kiowa
Ky

Leonarda
Leonella
Lise
Ludovica
Lynx

Madrid
Maleficent
Maranatha
Mehjabeen
Merav
Mercury
Mitchell

Barely There N-Z - Boys' Names

Hello, readers!

The list continues! Here are some novel names today that may become tomorrow's top picks!

Navarro
Neeson
Nix

Odie
Osbourne

Pacer
Petie
Petro
Pio
Placido
Portland
Priam

Rainn
Reason
Renegade
Rev
Roam
Romano
Romy
Roux
Ryota

Salinger
Saviour
Sherwood
Silviano
Sosa
Star
Statham
Stellar
Success
Suede

Tedd
Temple
Tenor
Tenzing
Tesla
Topher
Treasure
Triumph

Vali

Win

Yahweh

Zaccheus
Zan
Zavi
Zolton

Barely There A-M - Boys' Names

Hello, readers!

The Social Security Administration draws the line at the number five - that is, a name is only recorded officially if it was given to five or more babies of one gender in one year. Which of these names, barely making it onto birth certificates today, might skyrocket to the top ten someday?

While these are only *my* picks, based on current trends and personal taste, I encourage you to check out the data. What names have I missed?

Abba
Abidan
Admire
Agostino
Aleph
Algernon
Amedeo
Andros
Antonin
Aragon
Arles
Astraeus
Auburn
Aureliano
Axiom
Azar

Barnett
Beckley
Berel
Bertrand
Beto
Bond
Bourne
Brolin
Bronco
Bucky

Caldwell
Cathal
Cathan
Chaitanya
Cherokee
Chesney
Chinua
Christophe
Clash
Coe
Corleone
Curry
Cypher

Daly
Damascus
Dannon
Dartanyan
Day
Deni
Deo
Dermot
Desiderio
Dom
Dragan
Durham
Duvall

Efthimios
Eldridge
Eloi
England
Esley
Ezri

Farren
Fender
Fennec
Forever
Furious
Fyodor

Gadi
Galaxy
Galloway
Garvey
Given
God
Granite

Haji
Haran
Harvest
Hemingway
Holy
Honour
Hopper

Iago
Imre
Ireland
Ives

Jackman
Jaco
Jazeel

Kaiba
Kaire
Keigo
Kel
Kerrigan
Khaleil
Kino
Kinsey
Kipling
Knute
Kostas
Kronos

Lamond
Llewelyn
Logic
Luthor

Majestic
Mali
Manhattan
Mantra
Marios
Moe
Moon
Moritz
Mortimer
Moxley

Famous First-Wave Feminists

Hello, readers!

While brainstorming for today's post, I found that today, January 9th, is the birthday of two major feminists - Carrie Chapman Catt of the first wave, and Simone de Beauvoir of the second wave. (It's also Joan Baez's birthday, though she's had a more conflicted relationship with the movement). Though it would be impossible to list every woman who's contributed to the fight for women's rights all over the world, I'll be periodically posting lists on some of the "bigger" names.

Please send me suggestions in the comments! Which feminists, living and dead, inspire you?

Ida B. Wells

I'll be looking at first-wave feminists today; Simone de Beauvoir will be studied in a later post

American Women's Rights Activists

Carrie Chapman Catt

One of the crusaders whose work led to the Nineteenth Amendment, granting women suffrage in the United States, Carrie Chapman Catt also founded the League of Women Voters and the International Alliance of Women. Despite these progressive activities, Catt also appealed to white supremacist notions in her campaigns. The name Carrie, popular in the late nineteenth century and mid-twentieth century, is now relatively rare. 

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Though she didn't live long enough to see suffrage enacted in her lifetime, Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a tireless crusader for the movement. However, she didn't support the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments (granting rights to African-American men, including suffrage) on the grounds that women weren't included in the amendments. The name Elizabeth has long been an established classic, but the name Cady was given attention in 2003 as the main character's name in Mean Girls - a nod to this first-wave feminist, perhaps?

Susan B. Anthony

Like her partner in activism, Stanton, Susan B. Anthony worked long and hard for a movement she wasn't able to see to the end, and held her share of racially-insensitive views. Her legacy today is that of the "incomparable organizer," a true leader of a shifting and divided group of women. While Susan is another prominent women's name throughout English-speaking history, it's a bit dated today - Susanna and Lily are more contemporary options. 

Sojourner Truth (Isabella Baumfree)

Born a slave in New York, Sojourner Truth did not achieve freedom until her early 30's. She was the first black woman to win a case recovering her son from slavery in 1828. In addition to her activism in the abolitionist movement, Truth worked for the women's suffrage movement, becoming famous for her speech "Ain't I a Woman?" Though she herself chose the name Sojourner Truth in 1843, the name has since been used by many parents to honor such a remarkable woman. 

Ida B. Wells

One of the founders of the NAACP and a prominent author and activist, Ida B. Wells had a rich and multi-faceted career. She wrote about lynching as an investigative journalist, organized and marched in suffrage movement activities, and toured as a speaker in Europe. The name Ida, while currently off the top 1000, could move back onto the list with Ada and Isla getting popular. Another possibility - Wells wrote occasionally under the name Iola. 

International Women's Rights Activists

Táhirih (Fatima Baraghani)

An Iranian poet and religious leader, Táhirih ("the Pure One") was educated and outspoken in her beliefs. She is known as the "first woman suffrage martyr" in the Bahai faith, and attended the Conference of Badasht in 1848 (the same year as the Seneca Falls convention), shocking male attendees by unveiling herself and speaking on Islam. Tahirih has been recorded in the United States a handful of times since 1967, and Fatima has long been a popular choice in the Arabic community. 

Fredrika Bremer

A Swedish writer and feminist, Fredrika Bremer inspired countless other women in Sweden to join the fight for equality with the publication of her novel, Hertha. The book prompted legislation that led to legal rights for women, a women's university, and one of the first national women's magazines. While Fredrika may not mesh with modern trends, variants Frida or Frederica may work a bit better. 

Nicoline "Line" Luplau
A cofounder of the major women's suffrage group in Denmark, Line Luplau was also an activist for Socialism and class equality. A sweet, uncommon name in the US, Nicoline may unfortunately be mistaken for "nicotine." Nickname Line (or to use the same pronunciation, Lena) is pretty and timeless.

Haru "Raicho" Hiratsuka
Writer and activist Raicho Hiratsuka accomplished a great number of feats during her lifetime - she founded the first all-women Japanese literary magazine, led and won the fight to allow women in political participation, and championed pacifism during the Korean War. A unisex name in Japan, Haru has been used sporadically in the United States

Katherine "Kate" Sheppard
The most famous suffragette in New Zealand's history, Kate Sheppard's work helped many following suffrage movements across the globe. She was elected the National Council of Women's president in 1894, and continued to write on behalf of women's issues until the end of her life. After years of Caitlin's and Katherine's topping the charts, short and sharp Kate could rise up the ranks.

Wonderful W Names for Girls

Hello, readers!

Only 7 of the top 1000 names for girls start with the letter W - Wendy, Whitney, Willa, Willow, Winter, Wynter, and Wren. This uncommon initial deserves more love, especially since once-popular W names are beginning to sound fresh and usable again. Here are some wicked options from the annals of history!

Willie and Winnie
Adorable diminutives from many popular and uncommon picks, Willie and Winnie are more than able to stand on their own merits. Willie reached the height of #54 in 1909, and Winnie made it up to #162 in 1881. While longer forms are chosen more often, these nicknames have a vintage, feminine sound that work for all kinds of little girls.

Willoughby
Traditionally a surname or a male first name, Willoughby has been given to more than a few girls over the course of history. The name comes from Old English for "farm near the willows," and could work for parents who like Willow but are looking for something more substantial. Willoughby's melody and familiarity definitely lend it to modern trends!

Wonder
Given to seven girls last year, this pretty word name could fit in with Destiny or Hope as a contemporary virtue pick. It's been used as far back as 1952, but carries the same kind of sound as Harper and Amber. While it may raise some eyebrows, its concision and clarity make it a wondrous choice.

Wilhelmina
One feminine variant of William, Wilhelmina lives up to its associated meaning of "resolute protection." It's strong and steadfast, the kind of name for an exceptional little girl. Wilhelmina can be shortened into all kinds of friendly retro nicknames - Willie, Minnie, Elma - and it's a great, unexpected honorific for a William or Wilma.

Waverly
An historic, literary choice, Waverly has been used in novels from The Princess Bride to The Joy Luck Club. Television fans will recognize it from both Friday Night Lights and The Wizards of Waverly Place. But this English pick is more than just a cultural pick - Waverly is energetic and amicable, a worthy successor to Kimberly or Kennedy.

Willetta
Another turn-of-the-century pick, Willetta combines then-popular name prefixes and suffixes in a burst of vintage feeling. It's another name with a plethora of short forms - Etta and Lettie among them - but it's not so long it can't be used on its own.

Winona
This name is beginning to lose its celebrity associations and gain fans of its beautiful, elegant vibe. Winona means "firstborn daughter" in the Dakota language, and has never made it above #407 on the top 1000. Another name that can shorten to Winnie, Winona is a choice that will grow right alongside your little one.

Wallis
In 1936, then-king Edward VIII shocked the world when he abdicated his throne in order to marry American socialite Wallis Simpson. Herself named for her father, Wallis has since been portrayed in fiction and film (most recently in a production directed by Madonna). The name is boyish, but thanks to Simpson, it's assuredly accepted for girls today.

Winslow
This unisex choice hasn't yet ranked for boys or girls - time will tell which side will claim Winslow! It sounds a bit like Sloane or Winter, and it carries an artistic connotation (thanks to American artist Winslow Homer). Quite a few cities in the UK and the US are called Winslow, making this an unexpected place name pick as well.

Wisteria
A pretty purple vine, the flower that bears this name is also a symbol of devotion. Many will recognize Wisteria via the lane on Desperate Housewives, but this botanical choice has more to offer. It's similar in sound to Victoria or Esther, but Wisteria has only been used a handful of times in US name records.

Winifred
Once a frumpy, aged choice, Winifred has begun to blossom again. Its nickname Winnie is one reason, but Winifred has a tenacious, noble feeling thanks to a multitude of historical namesakes; from saints to actresses to activists, Winifred is a name borne by dozens of strong, notable women.

Wilder
Another choice that may hit the boys' list soon, Wilder is an attractive surname with a pleasant, adventurous sound. Beloved actor and comedian Gene Wilder passed away this past year, making the name more timely for devoted fans. Wilder also calls to mind author and educator, Laura Ingalls Wilder, of Little House on the Prairie fame.

Are there any particularly pretty W names that I missed? Tell me in the comments!

Names from Lord of the Rings

Hello, readers!

It's JRR Tolkein's 125th birthday today! This author of some of the most well-loved fantasy books has a legacy felt today, by readers, gamers, and filmgoers alike. In honor of this momentous literary occasion, I'll be looking at names found in Tolkein's popular series, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Note: though Tolkein made up hundreds of unique and ethereal names, I'll be looking specifically at those that have been written on real-life birth certificates.

Another note: Tolkein created a lot of names via the Welsh tradition, choosing prefixes and suffixes common in the language. However, that doesn't necessarily make the names "Welsh" - since most weren't recorded before the LOTR series was created. If you have any more information on Tolkein names or the Welsh tradition, tell me in the comments!

Gandalf
Yeah, I'm just as surprised as you are. In 1970, five baby boys were named Gandalf. Though the great wizard certainly has some positive qualities, being so highly regarded as a namesake is still fairly unexpected. Another possible influence may have been the album Gandalf, released in 1969 by an eponymous band.

Aragorn
Recorded first in 1970, then in 1982, then over a few years in the early 2000's, Aragorn has been given to at least thirty babies by now. It does fit with the ends-in-n trend for boys, and could be an uncommon route to the nickname Ari. Names with a similar sound but more accessible traits include Adrian, Ariel, or Orion.

Legolas
This elven hero was added to the annals of name history in 2003, but reappeared once more this past year. Its melody is like Nicholas (or even Enjolras, for another literary connection), but it comes with the kid-friendly nickname Lego. Legolas may be a name to watch, as parents draw from more and more unique ideas.

Samwise
With the popularity of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings films, Samwise may soon join Samuel and Samson as an accepted way to the classic nickname Sam. The character - a devoted and courageous friend - also lends himself to the status of namesake. I haven't found the suffix of -wise in any other names, though Wise has been used sporadically as a name for boys since 1916.

Peregrin
An alternate spelling for the avian (and feminine?) Peregrine, Peregrin has been used for baby boys steadily since 2011. The mischievous and lovable character has the nickname Pippin, but Perry or Penn could work just as well. There's also a Saint Peregrin(e), a patron saint of chronic illness, and the first child born on the Mayflower was named Peregrine.

Bilbo
The nickname Bo is everywhere in today's boyish baby names; if Bodhi, Beauregard, or Boaz isn't your style, why not Bilbo? This could also be a way to honor a familial Bill or William, though it may take a bit of explaining. Bilbo Baggins is one example of a literary pilgrim - others include Christian and Christiana from The Pilgrim's Progress, and Wilfred of Ivanhoe from Ivanhoe.

Arwen
Given to 115 girls last year, Arwen may be the most popular name on this list! It's also been used overseas - it's ranked in the top 500 in France a few times already. Arwen's character was expanded on for the film series, and the portrayal by Liv Tyler certainly helped this pretty and polished name reach new heights.

Galadriel
A wise and elegant elf princess, Galadriel was portrayed by Cate Blanchett in the film series. The name feels like a fantastic alternative to Gabrielle or Giselle, and its length allows for a multitude of nicknames - Ellie, Lady, and Ria among them. According to a few online sources, Galadriel is Sindarin for "maiden crowned with a radiant garland" or "lady of the light."

Eowyn
Another choice that's getting popular with parents is Eowyn, an E name unlike any other. The character is a noblewoman famous for the "I am no man" quote (often seen online). Like Arwen, this name may rise with the newfound appreciation for Welsh-sounding names.

Thorin
Actually a name from Old Norse languages, Thorin comes from a word meaning "brave". The character, a dwarf leader (and eventual king) was highlighted in the Hobbit films and portrayed by Richard Armitage. If Thor is a bit too strong for you, Thorin may be a nice, nerdy compromise.