Baby names and meanings - a practical approach

You might like a name - but do you like what it means?
Baby names and meanings go hand in hand. Even if you can't "translate" the name, it usually has an identifiable origin that is associated with it.

Many people find a name they like, then think about the meaning. I think it's worth approaching things the other way round. And here's how we'll do it.

Find a range of meanings that you could apply to your baby's name

Think about problematic meanings

Make it personal!

All you need is a pencil and paper to jot down ideas as you think. A little peace and quiet, and you're ready to delve into the depths of adding that special meaning to your baby's name!

Hint:If Mom and Dad are working together on this, why don't you both try these exercises?

1: What qualities would you like to see in your child?

Baby names and meanings can express so much. A loving nature? Or determination, perhaps. Strength, peace, greatness and generosity. There are names a-plenty, some telling of friendship, others of courage, more still of victory or simply goodness.

You might like to reflect on your own life, too. The mistakes, the hard times and the good. If you could pick up with your fingers a tiny piece of one quality that helped you, and hand it on in the form of a name to your son and daughter... what would it be?

To do: Note down qualities you admire. Why do you admire them?

2: The natural world - a natural baby name choice?

Do you take delight in your garden? Do you ever wish upon a star? Are you fascinated by the sea? Or an animal lover?

Baby names and meanings take on a life of their own when we start to contemplate the relationship of a precious child with the wonders of the planet that will be their home. Yes, it's a bit philosophical I suppose! But baby names abound in the areas of flower names, precious stones, weather phenomena and landscapes. Whether it's celestial inspiration or simply a color that you love, the natural world provides a veritable treasure trove of names.

To do: List aspects of nature that you love. Think carefully and you will find some wonderful ideas.

3: The spiritual element

The promise of new life, the gift of a child, is something many parents regard as nothing short of miraculous. Spiritual baby names and meanings may reflect that hope, or describe an aspect of God that parents would like to celebrate.

Many cultures traditionally use saints' names for their children. Some families are strong on biblical names. Others have very carefully thought-out guidelines on how to choose appropriate names. This is one of the most fascinating areas of baby names and meanings, drawing inspiration from history, culture, great literature and mankind's quest to honor the creator of life iteself.

To do: If you feel comfortable about choosing a spiritual name, jot down your current thoughts. This one could be blindingly obvious or need a lot of contemplation!

4: Your life, your interests

Whether you're into art, sport, movies or travel, you're sure to find some interesting baby names and meanings connected with your passion. Celebrities, artists, cities or continents - they all provide sources of inspiration for baby names.

It could be a character in a book. Or your honeymoon location. Maybe you are a collector or a member of a hobby club. Do you post on bulletin boards or contribute to your community in some way? Our everyday experiences can evoke some very original ideas for that special name!

To do: List your interests. Add detail on places or people or skills or incidents that have happened to you. Could the meaning of your baby's name emerge from a simple part of your life that is nonetheless close to your heart?

Baby name meanings to avoid

Will your child live up to the meaning of their name?
Some names are immediately descriptive, such as Grace, Joy, Stone or Rocky. But if your child is clumsy, serious, skinny or shy, these types of names just don't match. They become a burdensome label.

Some baby names and meanings are deceptive.
I have seen Portia described as meaning a gift or offering. Other sources tell us that this name comes from the Latin "porcius" meaning pig. Popular Emily reveals herself as a rival. Cameron has a crooked nose, Campbell a crooked mouth.

The advantage of starting with the meaning rather than the name......is that you will avoid most of these traps. Of course, if you like these names, and the sound and personal associations of these names please you - do not be afraid to consider them further!

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