What's the best way to choose a middle name for your baby? Some parents don't give this much thought and just use a simple or common name, and others choose names with a good deal of significance. Whatever you do, follow some common sense middle name guidelines:
- Choose a name that sounds nice with the first name and last name. Watch out for names that rhyme or sound strange together.
- Be careful with initials. Do not name your little girl Danielle Olivia Green. Middle names that begin with vowels can be trouble. If Danielle Olivia Johnson wants to marry someone with the last name of Green, that "O" suddenly becomes a problem.
- Be wary of middle names that begin with the last sound of the first name (like Jason Nicholas or Rachel Lynn). These name combinations can run together and sound odd.
- If your child has a very common first and last name, use an unusual middle name to avoid bureaucratic mix-ups. Emily Lynn Johnson is going to have a harder time than Emily Francesca Johnson.
So what are some ways to pick out a middle name? Here are some ideas:
- Choose a middle name in honor of a family member. This way, you can pick out a first name you like and still honor Grandma Helen or Uncle Herbert.
- Use one of the parents' names as a middle name. Many parents see this as a nice alternative to the "junior" tradition. You can also give your child the same middle name as one of the parents.
- Choose an ethnic middle name. People with strong ties to an ethnicity sometimes give their child a popular or trendy name, but honor their heritage with the middle name.
- Choose a middle name with religious significance. Parents sometimes give their child a name they like and use the middle name to honor a Biblical or other religious figure.
Another thing to consider: similar sounds. Choose a middle name that complements the sounds in the first name for a pretty combination. Some examples:
- Lauren Renee
- Karen Christine
- Amber Marie
- Sabrina Brooke
- Abigail Grace
- Nicholas Michael
- Braden Daniel
- Zachary Christian
One popular choice has always been the one syllable names. Traditional choices have included names like Ann, Lynn, Sue, John, or James. In recent years, parents of little girls have chosen Rose, Grace, Hope, Joy, and Faith. If you're looking for a one syllable name that is more unusual, try these:
- Claire
- Jade
- Jill
- Sky
- Gwen
- Eve
- Pearl
- Quinn
- Drake
- Dale
- Ross
- Brock
- Bryce
Another popular choice has been using names with a timeless, classical feel. This can help counterbalance a trendy first name. Some good classic name choices include:
- Elizabeth
- Marie/ Maria/ Mary
- Catherine/ Katherine/ Kathleen
- Alexandra/ Alexandria
- Victoria
- Laura
- Frances
- Thomas
- Joseph
- Paul
- Patrick
Best of luck! Here are some more helpful baby name articles:
Unusual baby name alternatives
Baby names: Unusual or popular?
