Have you ever thought about the meaning of your name? Its origin or history? Maybe you should, because you might be surprised with its meaning.

March 5 is a day designated for this activity called Learn What Your Name Means Day, but of course you can do this on any day! The day was created by American onomatologist Jerry Hill in 1997 with the purpose of encouraging people to celebrate and appreciate their names. It seems he developed an interest in names at an early age and continued his research on the subject.

There is also a day to recognize your middle name, called Middle Name Pride Day. This is important because we sometimes forget the middle name and tend to hide it.

A name is a word used to identify people, places and things. The first name is referred to as the given name, and the last name is referred to as the surname. This is also known as the family name, and indicated that the person belongs to a specific family. Once a woman gets married, she usually takes the last name of her husband, and her last name becomes her maiden name.

In many cultures, people are identified by a single name, while others choose to use a name coming from the father’s side, which is referred to as paternal. On the other hand, a name could be used from the mother’s side of the family, which is called maternal. 

Let’s check out the meaning of Margaret, the Mini Standard editor’s name. It is of Greek origin, and means pearl. It’s also referred to as a saint’s name, with historical backgrounds with nine queens being named Margaret.

Bonnie Bear has Scottish origins, and Bonnie means fine, attractive and pretty! From the Scottish word “bonnie” and also diminutive of the French word “bonne,” meaning good. It is sometimes used as a nickname. On the literary side, Scarlett O’Hara’s daughter in “Gone With the Wind” was named Bonnie Blue.

Talk to your parents or family members about your name. Ask them why they gave you your name and what it means. With a little bit of research you may be able to find out about the lives of your ancestors. Visit www.thinkbabynames.com

Did you know? The study of the history, origin and meaning of proper names is called onomatology?