HELLO, MY NAME IS

 Naming Patterns

You will often see the same names used over and over again in families. Many cultures believe in honoring their elders and do so by naming children after them. Following is a pattern that was popular in England in the 1700-1875 period:

• The first son was named after the father's father
• The second son was named after the mother's father
• The third son was named after the father
• The fourth son was named after the father's eldest brother
• The first daughter after the mother's mother
• The second daughter after the father's mother
• The third daughter after the mother
• The fourth daughter after the mother's eldest sister
  

But maybe more fascinating is our use of nicknames.

A nickname is a name different in origin and pronunciation from the original name. Example: Robert – Bobby, Rob, Bob, or Bert. Sometimes a nickname is simply used for convenience, or it is used to show affection. Nicknames can convey smallness, as when used with young children. It is a way to tell someone they are special and that you love them.

Classic example:

Elizabeth – Liz, Beth, Bess, Betty, Libby, Lisa, Elsa, Babette, Ellen, Zoe, etc.