Name of the Day: CHRISTINA

Today's name of the day is CHRISTINA (girl's name; Greek origin; meaning "anointed" or "Christian.")

CHRISTINA is a classic that easily suggests beauty, elegance, and grace. Currently, the popularity of the name seems to be decreasing, but have no fear because CHRISTINA is never out of style.

Famous Faces of CHRISTINA:

Christina Aguilera (singer)
Christina Applegate (actress)
Christina Milian (singer/actress)
Christina Ricci (actress)

International Variations to the standard CHRISTINA:

Kirsten (Danish)

Krystyna (Polish)

Christele (French)

Cristin (Irish)

Christobel (English)

Kjersti (Norwegian)

Kilikina (Hawaiian)

Christiane (German)

Crista (Spanish)

Kia (Swedish)

Cristiana (Italian)

Kirsteen (Scottish)

Name of the Day: OLIVER

Today's name of the day is OLIVER (boy's name; Latin origin; meaning "olive tree.")

OLIVER is stylish and remarkably British. It has charm and charisma written all over it! Years ago, OLIVER may have seemed a bit off-beat, but not anymore. Today, OLIVER is one of several names considered classically chic!

Famous Faces of OLIVER:

Oliver Stone (film director)
Oliver Hardy (actor)

Spelling Variations to the standard OLIVER:

Olliver

Ollyver

Olyver

Name of the Day: ESTELLA

Today's name of the day is ESTELLA (girl's name; French origin; meaning "star.")

Most may think that ESTELLA is merely a name associated with the "old granny" type, but that's not the case. While ESTELLA is indeed old-fashioned, it's filled to the rim with class, elegance, and romance!

Famous Faces of ESTELLA:

Estella Warren (actress)
Estella Gardinier (reality TV star)
Estella Havisham (character in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations)

Spelling Variations to the standard ESTELLA:

Estela

Estellah

Estelah

Name of the Day: KILLIAN

Today's name of the day is KILLIAN (boy's name; Irish origin; meaning "little Kelly.")

In the United States, KILLIAN is probably best known as "Killian's Irish Red Beer" which is a lager brewed by Coors Brewing Company. However, don't let that stop you from choosing this stellar name for your baby boy. KILLIAN is strong and definitive. Furthermore, KILLIAN is simply too beautiful a name to just limit to beer.

Famous Faces of KILLIAN:

Killian Brennan (Irish footballer)
Tara Killian (actress)

Spelling Variations to the standard KILLIAN:

Killean

Kilean

Kilian

Cillian

Cilean

Killiane

Killion

Kylian

Cyllian

Name of the Day: CHARLOTTE

Today's name of the day is CHARLOTTE (girl's name; French origin; meaning "little and womanly.")

CHARLOTTE is the feminine form of the male name Charles. While many are familiar with the children's book, Charlotte's Web, CHARLOTTE is also recognized as an elegant royal name as there are several princesses, duchesses, and countesses who claim the name.

Famous Faces of CHARLOTTE:

Charlotte Bronte (novelist)
Charlotte Church (singer)
Charlotte Lewis (actress)
Charlotte York (fictional TV character)

Name of the Day: ATTICUS

Today's name of the day is ATTICUS (boy's name; Latin origin; meaning "from Athens.")

Talk about a name that commands respect! ATTICUS is a classic name that instantly reminds you of To Kill a Mockingbird -- the book you had to read in your high school English class. But required reading aside, ATTICUS is bold, insightful, intelligent, and promising.

Famous Faces of ATTICUS:

Atticus Finch (fictional book character)
Atticus Baldwin (son of actor Daniel Baldwin)

Spelling Variations to the standard ATTICUS:

Aticus
Attikus
Attichus
Atikus

Name of the Day: JOHNNA

Today's name of the day is JOHNNA (girl's name; American origin; meaning "God is gracious.")

JOHNNA is the feminine version of John. While some may view this gem as unoriginal, JOHNNA has a subtle feminine flair. JOHNNA is easy, breezy, and simple and has all the makings to be considered a modern classic.

Famous Faces of JOHNNA:

Johnna Lee Cummings (singer)

Spelling Variations to the standard JOHNNA:

Jonna

Jhonna

Jhona

Jhana

Jhanna

Jahna

Johnnah

Jhannah

Jhonnah

Jawna

Jawnna

Jhawna

Name of the Day: CADE

Today's name of the day is CADE (boy's name; English origin; meaning "round.")

CADE is an old-time surname that makes for a marvelous first name. It's strong, masculine, and to the point. If you happen to be romance writer, CADE makes an excellent choice for a hero.

Famous Faces of CADE:

Cade McNown (former NFL quarterback)
Lance Cade (professional wrestler)
Michael Cade (actor)
Sam Cade (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard CADE:

Kade

Kaide

Caide

Cayde

Kayde

Cayd

Kayd

Caede

Kaede

Top 10 Names for 2008

On Friday, May 8, 2009, the Social Security Administration announced the top ten names for 2008. For the tenth year in a row, Jacob tops the list for boys. Emily was the number one girl's name for twelve years in a row until 2008. Emma is now the most popular name for girls, while Emily slid to number three. The complete list is as follows:

BOYS

1. Jacob
2. Michael
3. Ethan
4. Joshua
5. Daniel
6. Alexander
7. Anthony
8. William
9. Christopher
10. Matthew

GIRLS

1. Emma
2. Isabella
3. Emily
4. Madison
5. Ava
6. Olivia
7. Sophia
8. Abigail
9. Elizabeth
10. Chloe

Name of the Day: ARABELLA

Today's name of the day is ARABELLA (girl's name; Latin origin; meaning "beautiful altar.")

ARABELLA possesses the same amount of class and elegance as Isabella, but it's much less common. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration, ARABELLA ranks at #648. So chances are if you love the name ARABELLA, your daughter will most likely be the only ARABELLA in her entire class... and that's a good thing!

Famous Faces of ARABELLA:

Arabella Mansfield (first female lawyer in the US)
Arabella Steinbacher (violinist)
Arabella Edge (novelist)
Arabella Churchill (charity founder)
Arabella Kiesbauer (actress)
Arabella "Babe" Chandler (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling Variations to the standard ARABELLA:

Arabela
Arabellah
Arabelah
Airabella
Aerabella
Erabella
Erabela

Name of the Day: JASPER

Today's name of the day is JASPER (boy's name; English origin; meaning "spotted or speckled stone.")

JASPER is actually the English form of the Persian Casper. While JASPER isn't popular, it's no doubt stylish. JASPER is an old-time name that any hip parent would embrace with open arms.

Famous Faces of JASPER:

Jasper "Jabbo" Phillips (soul singer)
Jasper Johns (artist)
Jasper Harvey (NFL football player)
Jasper "Jax" Jacks (fictional daytime TV character)

Name of the Day: KATHERINE

Today's name of the day is KATHERINE (girl's name; Greek origin; meaning "pure.")

KATHERINE is timeless. No matter how many name trends come and go, KATHERINE will always be a winner. KATHERINE is one of the best all-around names because it's feminine, powerful, classic, royal, elegant, and popular -- all at the same time!

Famous Faces of KATHERINE:

Katherine Dunham (dancer)
Katherine Heigl (actress)
Katherine Kelly Lang (actress)
Katherine Hepburn (actress)
Katherine Legge (race car driver)
Katherine Chancellor (fictional daytime soap opera character)

International Variations for KATHERINE:

Ekaterina (Russian)

Katarzyna (Polish)

Catarina (Portuguese)

Caitrona (Scottish)

Kalena (Hawaiian)

Kathleen (Irish)

Katharina (German)

Catherine (French)

Karielle (Scandinavian)

Caitlin (Irish Gaelic)

Name of the Day: COLIN

Today's name of the day is COLIN (boy's name; Irish origin; meaning "pup" or "young cub.")

COLIN is rising in popularity in the United States, but it was never very popular in England or Wales. And while it's still semi-popular in Ireland, COLIN is no longer popular in Scotland. Interestingly enough, COLIN is also considered a diminutive of Nicholas.

Famous Faces of COLIN:

Colin Cowie (designer/party planner)
Colin Farrell (actor)
Colin Hay (singer)
Colin Greenwood (musician)
Colin Quinn (comedian)
Colin Montgomerie (golfer)

Spelling Variations to the standard COLIN:

Collin
Colen
Collen
Collyn
Colyn
Colan
Collan
Colinn
Kolin
Kolen
Kollin

Name of the Day: MONICA

Today's name of the day is MONICA (girl's name; Latin origin; meaning "advisor.")

MONICA saw it's popularity peak during the 1970s. Today, the name is considered a modern classic. In religion, Saint MONICA is the patron saint of married women.

Famous Faces of MONICA:

Monica Arnold (singer)
Monica Horan (actress)
Monica Cruz (actress)
Monica Seles (tennis player)
Monica Geller (fictional TV character)
Monica Quartermaine (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling Variations to the standard MONICA:

Monika

Monnica

Monicah

Monnicah

Monicka

Moneca

Moneka

Name of the Day: LUCAN

Today's name of the day is LUCAN (boy's name; Irish origin; meaning "light.")

LUCAN is a masculine name that is rarely used, but full of promise. In literary circles, Sir Lucan is the butler of King Arthur and one of the Knights of the Roundtable in the Arthurian legend.

Spelling Variations to the standard LUCAN:

Loucan

Lukan

Louccan

Loukan

Lukan

Lukkan

Luccan

Name of the Day: LAUREN

Today's name of the day is LAUREN (girl's name; English origin; meaning "crowned with laurel.")

LAUREN is a name that rose to popularity in the 1940s after screen legend actress Lauren Bacall became a household name. LAUREN was also originally a male given name, but now it's almost exclusive reserved for female use.

Famous Faces of LAUREN:

Lauren Holly (actress)
Lauren Hutton (model)
Lauren Graham (actress)
Lauren Collins (actress)
Lauren Tewes (actress)

Spelling Variations to the standard LAUREN:

Lauryn

Laurin

Laren

Laurene

Loren

Lorren

Loryn

Louren

Laurynn

Name of the Day: EVAN

Today's name of the day is EVAN (gender neutral; Welsh origin; meaning "God is gracious" or "young warrior.")

EVAN is derived from Iefan which is the Welsh variation of John. In addition, EVAN is also the shortened version of the Greek name Evangelos. And while EVAN has traditionally been a boy's name, parents are now finding it as an attractive option for their daughters as well.

Famous Faces of EVAN:

Evan S. Connell (American novelist)
Evan Cooper (NFL player)
Evan Rachel Wood (actress)
Evan Longoria (MLB player)
Evan Dando (musician)
Evan Lysacek (figure skater)

Spelling Variations to the standard EVAN:

Evann

Evyn

Evin

Evinne

Eaven

Evynne

Evane

Evanne

Name of the Day: OLIVIA

Today's name of the day is OLIVIA (girl's name; Latin origin; meaning "olive tree.")

The first appearance of OLIVIA can be traced back to a character in the Shakespearean play, "Twelfth Night." It still isn't clear if Shakespeare derived OLIVIA from it's male counterpart, Oliver, or if it was merely in reference to the olive plant.

Famous Faces of OLIVIA:

Olivia Newton-John (actress/singer)
Olivia Wilde (actress)
Olivia Williams (actress)
Olivia Goldsmith (author)
Olivia Kendall (fictional TV character)
Olivia Benson (fictional TV character)
Olivia Barber Winters (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling Variations to the standard OLIVIA:

Olivea

Olevia

Oliveia

Oliviah

Olivya

Oliveea

Olivija

Olyvia

Name of the Day: ADAIR

Today's name of the day is ADAIR (gender neutral; Irish origin; meaning "oak tree ford.")

ADAIR is a surname that would make for a great given name because of it's natural flair. It is thought that ADAIR is actually the derivative of the Irish family name Ó Dáire.

Famous Faces of ADAIR:

Deborah Adair (actress)
Bonnie Adair (swimmer/coach)
Jerry Adair (Major League Baseball player)
Virginia Hamilton Adair (poet)
Rachel Adair (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling Variations to the standard ADAIR:

Adaire
Adare
Adayre
Addair
Addaire
Addare

Name of the Day: ANASTASIA

Today's name of the day is ANASTASIA (girl's name; Greek origin; meaning "resurrection.")

ANASTASIA is both regal and commanding. During the early years of Christianity, Greek girls born around Easter time were often given the name ANASTASIA.

Famous Faces of ANASTASIA:

Anastasia "Nastia" Luikin (Olympic gold medalist)
Anastasia Myskina (tennis player)
Anastasia Zampounidis (MTV VJ)
Anastasia Dualla (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard ANASTASIA:

Anastacia

Anastascia

Anastaycia

Anastaysia

Anastassia

Anastasha

Annastasia

Annastasha

Annastaycia

Annastacia

Name of the Day: JACK

Today's name of the day is JACK (boy's name; English origin; meaning "the Lord is gracious.")

Originally, JACK was merely a diminutive of John. But that's not the case anymore. There's something very appealing about JACK. It's classic, yet contemporary. It's simple, yet strong. JACK is never boring, and it's a favorite among fathers. JACK is so attractive that it remains the top boys name in both England and Ireland, and that trend seems to be steadily catching on in the United States.

Famous Faces of JACK:

Jack Wagner (actor/singer)
Jack Black (actor)
Jack White (musician)
Jack Nicholson (actor)
Jack Scalia (actor)
Jack Abbott (fictional daytime soap opera character)
Jack Tripper (fictional TV character)
Jack McKay (fictional TV character)

Spelling and Name Variations to the standard JACK:

Jac/Jak/Jacc/Jakk/Jacke
Jacks/Jax
Jackie/Jacky
Jock

Name of the Day: BRONWYN

Today's name of the day is BRONWYN (girl's name; Welsh origin; meaning "white breasted.")

BRONWYN is quite popular in Wales, but not so much elsewhere. Sounding both strong and beautiful, BRONWYN is an excellent choice if you want a name with infinite flair.

Famous Faces of BRONWYN:


Bronwyn Drainie (journalist)
Bronwyn Lea (poet)
Bronwyn Eagles (Olympian)
Bronwyn Bishop MP (Australian politician)
Bronwyn Davies (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard BRONWYN:

Bronwynn

Bronwen

Bronwin

Bronwyne

Bhronwyn

Bhronwen

Bhronwin

Brohnwyn

Brohnwynn

Name of the Day: AUGUST

Today's name of the day is AUGUST (boy's name; Latin origin; meaning "majestic and venerable.")

Not only is AUGUST the eighth month of the year, but it's also a classically attractive name for a boy (or girl). AUGUST remains quite underused, so if you're looking for something that will turn heads (in a positive way, of course!), this is definitely a name worth considering.

Famous Faces of AUGUST:

August Wilson (American playwright)
August Hargitay-Hermann (son of actress Mariska Hargitay)
August Brooks (daughter of singer Garth Brooks)
John August (American screenwriter)

Name Variations to the standard AUGUST:

Auguste

Augustus

Agostino

Augustin/Augusten

Aguistin

Agosto

Augustine

Augustina

Name of the Day: NICOLETTE

Today's name of the day is NICOLETTE (girl's name; French origin; meaning "victory of the people.")

NICOLETTE is the feminine French variation of Nicholas, which is of Greek origin. NICOLETTE is full of style and grace, and isn't as common as it's more simplistic counterpart, Nicole.

Famous Faces of NICOLETTE:

Nicollette Sheridan (actress)
Nicolette Larson (singer)
Nicolette Grant (fictional TV character)
Mike Nicolette (professional golfer)

Spelling Variations to the standard NICOLETTE:

Nicollette

Nicholette

Nicholett

Nicolette

Nikolette

Nickolette

Nickolett

Nicolete

Nycolette

Nycolet

Name of the Day: ROWAN

Today's name of the day is ROWAN (gender neutral; Irish origin; meaning "little red-haired one.")

ROWAN is becoming increasingly popular as a gender neutral name, thanks in part to actress/model Brooke Shields. She named her first born daughter ROWAN in 2003. In addition to being both a surname and given name, ROWAN is also a tree noted for it's red berries.

Famous Faces of ROWAN:

Rowan Atkinson (comedian)
Rowan Shields-Henchy (daughter of Brooke Shields)
Rowan Pelling (journalist)
Kelly Rowan (actress)
Dan Rowan (comedian)

Spelling Variations to the standard ROWAN:

Rowen

Rhowan

Rhowen

Rowin

Rowyn

Rhowyn

Rhowin

Roan

Roanne

Rowanne

Roweign

Name of the Day: ALYSSA

Today's name of the day is ALYSSA (girl's name; Greek origin; meaning "rational.")

Because ALYSSA is certainly flowy and feminine, it's no surprise that the name ALYSSA sounds similar to the species of flowers known as Alyssums. ALYSSA is also seen as the more chic and stylish alternative to the traditional Alice.

Famous Faces of ALYSSA:

Alyssa Milano (actress)
Alyssa Ashley Nichols (actress)
Alyssa Diaz (actress)
Alyssa Beckerman (gymnast)
Alyssa Spellman (Miss New Hampshire 2004)
Alyssa Brugman (author)

Spelling Variations to the standard ALYSSA:

Alysa

Allyssa

Allysa

Alissa

Alyssah

Allisa

Allissa

Alisa

Alysah

Aalyssa

Ahlyssa

Name of the Day: EASTON

Today's name of the day is EASTON (gender neutral; English origin; meaning "eastern town.")

EASTON is a dapperly English name that conjures up images of the English countryside, the Changing of the Guard, and Big Ben. Traditionally a surname, EASTON is now a welcomed contender as boy's given name. It also lends itself rather nicely as a girl's name, too.

Famous Faces of EASTON:

Michael Easton (actor)
Sheena Easton (singer)
Elliot Easton (guitarist)
Clint Easton (English footballer)

Spelling Variations to the standard EASTON:

Easten

Eastyn

Eastin

Eastone

Eston

Esten

Eastton

Eastan

Easttyn

Eeston

Eestyn

Name of the Day: FALLON

Today's name of the day is FALLON (gender neutral; Irish origin; meaning "leader" or "grandchild of the ruler.")

FALLON was originally a surname that derived from the Irish clan name Ó Fallamháin. Many became aware of FALLON as a girl's given name in the 1980s when the TV series Dynasty featured a fictional character by the same name.

Famous Faces of FALLON:

Jimmy Fallon (actor)
Shannon Fallon (author)
Mary Alice Fallon-Yeskey (reality TV star)
Ed Fallon (politician)
Fallon Carrington Colby (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard FALLON:

Fallyn

Fallen

Fallenn

Falyn

Fallan

Falon

Fallonne

Falynn

Fallynn

Falan

Name of the Day: FROST

Today's name of the day is FROST (boy's name; American origin; word name)

FROST is commonly known as a surname. But with popular trends embracing surnames as given names, FROST is a welcomed newcomer. It's unique and sorely underused, so it's sure to stand out in the crowd of expected "surnames as first names" such as Tyler, Taylor, Conner, and Cooper. No doubt, you'll be a trendsetter by naming your son FROST.

Famous Faces of FROST:

Robert Frost (American poet)
Lindsay Frost (actress)
Mark Frost (TV executive producer)
Scott Frost (novelist)
Craig Frost (keyboardist)
Dave Frost (Major League Baseball pitcher)

Name of the Day: JILLIAN

Today's name of the day is JILLIAN (girl's name; Latin origin; meaning "youthful.")

JILLIAN is considered to the be fancier version of the more plain Jill. While Jill was extremely popular in the 1950s and 1960s, JILLIAN didn't really appear until the 1970s and 1980s. JILLIAN is an attractive name because it's perfect at any age. You can just as easily picture little girl JILLIAN at age three as you can picture the older, more mature JILLIAN at age 73.

Famous Faces of JILLIAN:

Jillian Barberie Reynolds (TV hostess)
Jillian Michaels (personal trainer)
Jillian Hunter (author)
Jillian Armenante (actress)
Jillian Medoff (author)
Jillian Hall (WWE wrestler)

Spelling Variations to the standard JILLIAN:

Gillian

Gilliann

Jillyann

Jilliann

Jillianne

Jillien

Gillien

Jillyen
Jilian

Jilliane

Jiliane

Jyllian

Jylian

Jillion

Jillienne

Name of the Day: AURELIUS

Today's name of the day is AURELIUS (boy's name; Latin origin; meaning "the golden one.")

AURELIUS is such a masculine, powerfully classic Roman name. In ancient Rome, The Aurellii were gens -- a group of families that shared a common name and a common ancestor. Males that were part of The Aurellii took the name AURELIUS and females were named Aurelia. But today, there's no need for your son to be an emperor in order to be given such a strong name. AURELIUS is easily handsome, exquisite, and accessible.

Famous Faces of AURELIUS:

Marcus Aurelius (philosopher and emperor of Rome)
Marcus Aurelias Commodus (emperor of Rome, son of Marcus Aurelius)
Saint Aurelius (Christian saint)
Aurelius Clemons Prudentius (Christian poet)
Aurelius Cy Andrea Busson (son of supermodel Elle Macpherson)

Spelling and Name Variations to the standard AURELIUS:

Aurelyus
Aurileo
Aurelien/Aurelian
Auryn/Auren
Aurel/Aurele/Auriel
Aureliano/Areliano

Name of the Day: SABRINA

Today's name of the day is SABRINA (girl's name; English origin; meaning "princess.")

SABRINA is a name that is tied to Celtic legend. In Celtic mythology, SABRINA was the goddess of the River Severn. The name was popularized when movie screen legend Audrey Hepburn portrayed SABRINA in the 1954 movie of the same title.

Famous Faces of SABRINA:

Sabrina Le Beauf (actress)
Sabrina Lloyd (actress)
Sabrina Bryan (actress/singer)
Sabrina Duncan (fictional TV character)
Sabrina Spellman (fictional TV character of "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch")

Spelling Variations to the standard SABRINA:

Sabrinah

Sebrina

Sebrinah

Sabreena

Sabrena

Sabreenah

Sabriena

Sabrienah

Sebriena

Sabrynah

Sabrinna

Sabrinnah

Sabrynna

Name of the Day: JASON

Today's name of the day is JASON (boy's name; Greek origin; meaning "healer.")

JASON was the quintessential boy's name in the 1970s and 1980s. Decades later, the name is still popular and is considered to be a modern classic. In Greek mythology, JASON was the hero who led the Argonauts in their quest for the Golden Fleece.

Famous Faces of JASON:

Jason Castro (singer/reality TV star)
Jason Mesnick (reality TV star)
Jason Kidd (NBA player)
Jason Aldean (singer)
Jason Alexander (actor)
Jason Weaver (singer)
Jason Morgan Quartermaine (fictional daytime soap opera character)
Jason Seaver (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard JASON:

Jaison

Jayson

Jaason

Jasin

Jaeson

Jaesen

Jasen

Name of the Day: AINSLEY

Today's name of the day is AINSLEY (gender neutral; Scottish origin; meaning "one's own meadow.")

AINSLEY is originally a Scottish surname. Over the years, AINSLEY has transitioned from strictly a surname, to traditionally a male given name, to now a gender neutral name. AINSLEY isn't wildly popular at the moment, but it's definitely on the rise and poised to complete with similar sounding names such as Ashley, Aubrey, and Audrey. Another bonus with AINSLEY is that it sounds quite worldly and posh.

Famous Faces of AINSLEY:

Ainsley Harriott (celebrity chef)
Ainsley Earhardt (Fox News Channel correspondent)
Ainsley Hall (cricketer)
Ainsley Hayes (fictional TV character)

Spelling Variations to the standard AINSLEY:

Ainsly

Ainslee

Ainsleigh

Ainslea

Ainslie

Aynsley

Aynslee

Ainsleah

Ainslei

Name of the Day: EVANGELINE

Today's name of the day is EVANGELINE (girl's name; Greek origin; meaning "bearer of good news.")

EVANGELINE is a name that conjures up images of all things serene and angelic. It's an old, classic name on the brink of rediscovery. American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned one of his most famous works, Evangeline, A Tale of Acadie, in 1847.

Famous Faces of EVANGELINE:

Evangeline Lilly (actress)
Evangeline Booth (fourth general of The Salvation Army)
Evangeline Williamson (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling and Name Variations to the standard EVANGELINE:

Evangelene/Evangeleen/Evangeleene/Evangelyne

Evangelique/Evangeliqua/Evangelica/Evangela

Evangeleena/Evangelina/Evangelinah

Evangellyn/Evangelyn/ Evangelynn/Evangelynne

Evangelista

Name of the Day: ETHAN

Today's name of the day is ETHAN (boy's name; Hebrew origin; meaning "strong, firm.")

ETHAN has increased in popularity in recent years, and it's currently the #1 boy's name in eight states. The first mention of the name can be traced back to biblical times.

Famous Faces of ETHAN:

Ethan Hawke (actor)
Ethan Coen (screenwriter/director)
Ethan Erickson (actor)
Ethan Phillips (actor)
Ethan Watts (volleyball player)
Ethan Moreau (ice hockey player)
Ethan Hunt (fictional movie character)
Ethan Cambias (fictional daytime soap opera character)

Spelling Variations to the standard ETHAN:

Ethen

Ethon

Ethyn

Ethin

Eathan

Eathyn

Eathen

Eeathen

Eethan

Name of the Day: BRIANA

Today's name of the day is BRIANA (girl's name; Irish origin; meaning "strong" or "virtuous, honorable.")

Most people think BRIANA is merely one of today's most trendy and popular names, stemming from nothing more than the male form of Brian. However, that's simply not the case. BRIANA is actually a literary name that dates all the way back to the 1500s. English poet Edmund Spenser used the name BRIANA in his epic poem, The Faerie Queene, published in 1590.

Famous Faces of BRIANA:

Briana Evigan (actress/dancer)
Briana Scurry (American soccer player)
Briana Vega (actress)

Spelling Variations to the standard BRIANA:

Brianna

Breana

Breanna

Briannah

Briahna

Brieana

Briauna

Briaunna

Breaunna

Name of the Day: DONOVAN

Today's name of the day is DONOVAN (boy's name; Irish origin; meaning "dark warrior.")

While DONOVAN is often seen as a first or last name, it's original beginnings do in fact stem from the Irish surname Ó Donnabhain. Ó Donnabhain means "descendant of Donndubhán." Over time, Donndubhán has become the modern day DONOVAN.

Famous Faces of DONOVAN:

Donovan McNabb (American football quarterback)
Donovan Frakenreiter (musician)
Donovan Leitch (actor)
Donovan Blake (cricketer)
Donovan Bailey (Olympic Gold Medalist)
Donovan Simmonds (English footballer)

Spelling Variations to the standard DONOVAN:

Donavan

Donivan

Donavon

Donavyn

Donoven

Donnovan

Donevon

Dohnovan

Donevin

Donovin

Name of the Day: ISABELLA

Today's name of the day is ISABELLA (girl's name; Italian origin; meaning "God loving.")

ISABELLA is a vintage name, dating back to the 11th century. If you look back at history, you'll find that there are several queens, governesses, empresses, and princesses who share the name ISABELLA.

Famous Faces of ISABELLA:

Isabella Rossellini (actress)
Isabella Bird (writer)
Isabella Leong (model/actress)
Isabella Swan (fictional novel character)
Isabella Oliver (designer maternity wear)
Isabella Fiore (designer handbags and footwear)

Spelling Variations to the standard ISABELLA:

Isabela

Issabella

Isebella

Izabella

Izibella

Isabellah

Isabelah

ISABELLA is a vintage name with a classic feel. If you're seeking something timeless, ISABELLA could be exactly what you're looking for!

Name of the Day: NICHOLAS

Today's name of the day is NICHOLAS (boy's name; Greek origin; meaning "winner" or "victorious people.")

NICHOLAS is a classic name that still remains very popular today. In 1997, 27,248 males in the United States were named NICHOLAS. That's an interesting fact because the name hadn't experienced that level of popularity since the year 1880 -- the year that the United States began keeping records of given names. In 2007, NICHOLAS was the 20th most popular name given to males in the USA.

NICHOLAS is also interesting because it's the name associated with "St. Nick" better known as "Santa Claus." So why is "St. Nick" referred to as "Santa Claus" and vice versa? Saint Nicholas had a reputation for secret gift-giving, and in religion, Saint Nicholas of Myra is known as the patron saint of children. Saint Nicholas became the model for Santa Claus.

Famous Faces of NICHOLAS:

Nicholas Braun (actor)
Nicholas Cannon (actor)
Nicholas Sparks (author)
Nicholas Tse (singer/actor)
Nicholas Clapton (singing teacher/author)
Justice Nicholas A. Clemente (former justice of the New York State Supreme Court)

Spelling Variations to the standard NICHOLAS:

Nicolas

Nikolas

Nicklaus

Nikolos

Nikolaus

Nickolis

Nicolaus

Nicholaus

Nickolas

Nicholos

Nickalaus

Nickalus

Though NICHOLAS remains quite trendy, don't let the trend stop you from adding it to your list of options!

Celebrity Babies: Megan Hope Sanov

Best known for famously portraying vindictive vixen Sami Brady on NBC's Days of our Lives, actress and TV host Alison Sweeny now relishes in her new role of mommy -- again! Megan Hope Sanov was welcomed by proud parents, Alison and David Sanov, along with 3-year-old big brother, Benjamin Edward, on Monday, January 12th.

I've yet to hear of any certain inspiration behind the name Megan Hope, but no one can complain of it being "off-the-wall." I believe Alison and David played it safe, picking something classic that will never go out of style or raise any questionable eyebrows. There's not much negative that can be said for her choice of name. It's elegant and simple. Some might call it plain, and I'd be inclined to agree. But at the same time, no one will ever ask Megan, "Now, how do you say your name?"

Celebrity Babies: Seraphina Rose Elizabeth Affleck

Actors Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck welcomed their baby girl into the world on January 6, 2009. Named Seraphina Rose Elizabeth, the newborn joins 3-year old sister, Violet Anne, into the Affleck fold.

Seraphina Rose Elizabeth seems to be a hit with most people on the web, and that's good news. Celebrities are becoming increasingly known for christening their offspring with "crazy" names. From singer Ashlee Simpson's son, "Bronx Mowgli" to actress Lisa Bonet's newborn son "Nakoa-Wolf Manakauapo Namakaeha," celebrities are not afraid to go to the extreme when it comes to naming their kids. So, I think many were surprised (and somewhat relieved!) when Jennifer and Ben chose the more modest Seraphina Rose Elizabeth.

From a baby name expert point of view, I think this was a good choice. I'm not crazy about the name Seraphina, but I think it might have been influenced by Ben's humanitarian work in The Congo, Africa. Where's the connection, you ask? Well, "Sarafina!" is a South African musical about students who strongly oppose apartheid, and in December 2008, Ben worked with the United Nations to document the plight of refugees in The Congo.

I'm a fan of the double middle names, "Rose Elizabeth," although professionally speaking, I believe "Elizabeth Rose" flows much better. In this instance, the one syllable name ("Rose") in the middle of two longer syllable names ("Seraphina" and "Elizabeth") breaks the flow, making the overall affect sound a bit choppy. So yes, my vote would've been for Seraphina Elizabeth Rose Affleck, or even more simply, Elizabeth Rose Affleck, Seraphina Elizabeth Affleck, or Seraphina Rose Affleck.

Name of the Day: KIERAN

Today's name of the day is KIERAN (gender neutral; Irish origin; meaning "dark-haired" or "dark prince.")

KIERAN is a very popular given name in both Irish and Scottish cultures. Traditionally, it's seen as a boy's name. But as KIERAN has become increasingly attractive in other cultures, it's now suitable for both boys and girls. KIERAN comes from the Irish word 'Ciar' which means 'black' or 'dark.'

Famous Faces of KIERAN:

Kieran Culkin (actor)
Kieran Kane (singer)
Kieran Lalor (politician)
Kieran Ridge (musician)
Kieran West (Olympic gold medalist)
Kieran Goss (musician)
Kieran Richardson (English footballer)
Kieran McAnespie (Scottish footballer)
Kieran Huggins (musician)
Kieran Suckling (environmental activist)
Kieran O'Brien (actor)

Spelling and Name Variations to the standard KIERAN:

Keiran/Kieren/Keeran/Kieryn/Keirin/Keerin/Cieran

Kyran/Kyren/Kyrin/Cyren/Khyren

Kieron/Keiron/Keeron/Kiran

Kierian/Keirian/Kiereyn/Kyrean

Kierana/Keirana/Kieranna/Kieranah

KIERAN is a beautiful name with rich Irish roots. It's a wonderful name to consider as you develop your potential list of possibilities!

Celebrity Babies: Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston

Alaska governor Sarah Palin is now a doting grandmother! On Saturday, December 27th, 2008, Palin's daughter, Bristol, gave birth to a bouncing baby boy named Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston. And of course, the unique choice of name has many wondering, "What in the world was she thinking?"

As a name consultant who spends much of my time researching baby names, I must say that I think Bristol and her fiance, Levi Johnston, made a smart choice by choosing to go the "creative" route. (Not that there's anything wrong with "regular" names because some of my favorite names are classic names.) However, names like "Bristol" and "Levi" aren't considered everyday type names, and I think it's great that they chose to continue the tradition as they build their own family.

Thanks to Governor Palin and her husband Todd's distinctive vision, Tripp will join the ranks with aunts, Willow and Piper, along with uncles, Track and Trig. Such wonderful, unique names! I love the fact that Bristol seems to have been influenced by her parents in choosing a first name for her son that follows the "TR" pattern that both of Bristol's brothers share.

As for the double middle names "Easton Mitchell," I'm not quite sure what inspired that choice, but I like it. In most instances when a child is given two middle names, it's usually in honor of someone close to the parents. And I always suggest two middle names if that's the way you want to go, even if it's not in honor of anyone in particular!

Celebrity Babies: Charlie Tamara Tulip and Dolly Rebecca Rose O'Connell

Welcome the newest celebrity twin babies to hit the scene: Charlie Tamara Tulip and Dolly Rebecca Rose O'Connell!

Over the past few days, I've received an abundance emails asking what I think of actors Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell's choice names. I've read that Charlie Tamara Tulip was named in honor of Jerry's younger brother, Charlie. I can only assume that "Rebecca" was given to Dolly Rebecca Rose in honor of Romijn. I don't think the names are horrible (like many seem to), and quite honestly, I've seen MUCH worse. I think the alliteration with the two middle names ("Tamara Tulip" & "Rebecca Rose") saves the overall package a great deal.

Of course, this might not have been the route that you or I would've taken when choosing names, but everyone has their reasons. It's important to understand that when parents choose a name (or in this case, names!), 9 times out of 10, the name usually has some kind of "attraction value" to the parent. The attraction value could one of several things:

1. The sound of the name
2. The meaning of the name
3. The image the name evokes
4. The name is in honor of someone
5. The name is unique

The list can go on and on. But the problem most "outsiders" have with the attraction value is when an outsider doesn't exactly find the name attractive. And that seems to be the case with most people I've heard from regarding these names in particular. However, outsiders need to remember that unless the baby is yours, you are by default an outsider. The best you can do is accept the parents' choice and make note that you won't make the same mistake when the time comes to name your own child.

Buffer Name of the Day: JAMES

Today's buffer name is JAMES (boy's name; Hebrew origin; meaning "supplanter; substitute.")

JAMES is special because it's commonly seen as a first, middle, and last name. Because of that unique characteristic, JAMES fits the bill as a perfect buffer name. As with any good buffer name, it's job is to flawlessly round out the first and last, easily allowing the entire name to roll off your tongue.

An interesting fact about JAMES is that it's derived from the name "Jacob." The name JAMES is quite popular in a variety of cultures, and appears in several forms:

Diego (Spanish)

Yago (Spanish)

Santiago (Spanish)

Seamus (Irish)
Yasha (Russian)

Kimo (Hawaiian)

Jacques (French)

Hamish (Scottish)

Famous Faces of JAMES:

James Van Der Beek (actor)
James Blount (singer)
James Van Praagh (spiritual medium)
James Brown (legendary soul singer)
James Dean (legendary actor)
James Bond (fictional movie character)

Sample Combinations (with first name and buffer middle name):

• Gavin James
• Carson James
• Geoffrey James
• Zachary James
• Kevin James
• Hogan James
• Rutger James
• Ian James

JAMES is an exquisite buffer name. If you find yourself searching for an ideal middle name, then JAMES could be just the name for you!

Name of the Day: RHIANNON

Today's name of the day is RHIANNON (girl's name; Welsh origin; meaning "goddess; intuitive.")

RHIANNON might ring a bell if you're a fan of the legendary rock group Fleetwood Mac. In 1976, lead singer Stevie Nicks famously sang about a woman named RHIANNON in a song bearing the same title. It's considered one of the band's most well known tunes, and Rolling Stone Magazine ranked "RHIANNON" as #488 in their listing of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

If you follow Welsh mythology, you might be familiar with RHIANNON as a mythical goddess. In 1972, author Evangeline Walton published a fantasy novel based on the mythical goddess entitled "The Song of RHIANNON."

Interestingly enough, Fleetwood Mac's "RHIANNON" wasn't inspired by the mythical goddess. Nicks has said that she heard the name RHIANNON and thought it was beautiful, so she decided to write a song about a woman bearing the name. She claimed the concept of the song came to her while waiting in an airport, and has stated it took only ten minutes to write.

Famous Faces of RHIANNON:

Rhiannon Leigh Wryn (actress)
Rhiannon Lassiter (writer)
Rhiannon Flammer (fictional TV character)


Spelling Variations to the standard RHIANNON:

Rhiannan

Rhianen

Rhianon

Riannon

Rheannon

Rhyannen

Riannen

Riannyn

Rheannyn

Rhiannyn

RHIANNON is a radiant name that has dazzled many people. Let it dazzle you as you go about with your quest to find the right name!