There are some baby names that are cyclic. They are popular and then fall by the wayside, only to resurface a few generations later. I think of these as grandparent names. You know, names that our grandparents were named that lost favor for whatever reason.
However, in addition to these names, there is another set of baby names. But these names were probably a mistake the first time around and won't be making a comeback for naming a baby anytime soon. (Though some exceptions apply like Herbert VI.) Here are my predictions for additions to that list of no-no baby names:
Girls Names
- Mildred
When my husband and I read names from a baby name book, sometimes we don't read names we'd pick, but names we'd never pick. I said this one out loud which led to some word association. He summed it up in one word: "Mildew?" - Eula
I remember reading a book where the character's mother-in-law was named Eula Lee. All I could think was that name really summed up the consummate bad mother-in-law image. I wasn't even sure it was a real name until I saw it listed in an obituary. - Deloris
Despite the puns with this name from Jerry Seinfeld, I can't see this name ever making a comeback. Or maybe it's because of the rhymes with selections from the TV show. - Gladys
With this name you have to weigh the amazing singer with the neurotic neighbor from Bewitched... I'm with you on this one. - Norma
Blech. Just plain and boring, no real associations. Just blah.
Boys Names
- Herman
Other than Herman Munster, I can't think of a positive role model for this name. And let's face it that Herman isn't a great monster to name a kid after. - Chester
I can say this because my grandfather was Chester. When we went to name a baby in his memory we had a really hard time. Thankfully we just used the first initial and called it good. - Elbert
This is a great name for an elf. Maybe a reindeer. Other than that, not for me thanks. - Norman
Much like the female version, Norma, there isn't a lot here to work with. It could be thought to be associated with normal, but as the book says, "Why be normal?" - Ralph
Why would you name a kid after a euphemism for a bodily function?
