First Name Meanings
The Sentimental Meaning of NamesWhile some parents choose to look at the literal aspect of first name meanings, others prefer to select a name based on the sentimental meaning it carries. These names may be related to important people or events in a couple's life, such as:
- The name of a special loved one
- A place or event that is important to the couple
- A name passed through the generations.
A Special Loved One
Some couples name their children after relatives or other important people in their lives. By doing so, that name holds a special sentimental meaning for them. For example, a couple may name their daughter Elizabeth. The literal first name meaning for Elizabeth is "oath of God," but when the couple thinks of what Elizabeth means to them personally, they think of the extraordinary person she was named after.
A Special Place or Event
Another way that a name's meaning may be more sentimental than literal is if the parents choose to name their infant after a treasured place, word, picture, or event. For instance, a couple may have conceived their baby at a certain place, so the name of that place becomes their child's name. As an example, a couple who conceives their baby on Holly Street may choose to name their little girl "Holly."
A Name Passed Through the Generations
To represent family heritage, some people give their first-born male the name of his father, grandfather, or other important ancestor. For that specific family, the name becomes a symbol of family heritage and pride.