Our names are a source of pride and identity. It’s not uncommon to have two middle names; it’s a form of expression that allows you to honor family members or even make creative combinations. In some cultures, having two middle names is seen as a tradition aimed at bringing luck and good fortune.
In the United States, many families have started following this tradition and passing it on to their children. It’s also common for parents to give more than one middle name if they can’t agree on a single choice between the two of them. So, having two middle names is not at all weird.
Stick around as I delve into the following topics:
- Why do parents pick two middle names,
- How to choose them,
- The benefits of having two middle names, and
- Possible downsides.
Ultimately, you’ll be able to decide for yourself whether two is the right number for your child’s name. Let’s get started!
Why Do Parents Pick Two Middle Names & Why It’s Not Weird
There are various reasons why parents pick two middle names for their children. Here are a few common ones:
1. To Honor family members
Many people use one of their child’s middle name to honor a grandparent, parent, aunt or uncle. It is a way of keeping the memory alive and often serves as a personal reminder of that person when they are no longer with us.
2. To Create An Individualized Name
Sometimes parents combine two names to create an individualized name that is unique and special for their child. Combining names can be used to create a beautiful new name or honor both sides of the family.
3. To Preserve A Family Legacy
Some families have generational middle names, such as Michael William Smith, which were passed down from father to son for generations.
4. To Connect Names That Work Well Together
It is common for parents to select two middle names that sound good together, like Mary Elizabeth or John Thomas. It can also give their child more options when it comes time to pick a nickname or shorten their name.
The Benefits Of Having Two Middle Names
Having two middle names can be beneficial in many ways. Here are a few:
1. More Options When Choosing A Nickname
Having two middle names gives your child more options when selecting a nickname. They can use a combination of the two, choose their favorite one or go with a shortened version. This allows them to have more control over how others address them.
2. A Way To Honor Multiple People At Once
Having two middle names can also be a way for parents to honor both sides of the family. It can be a thoughtful way to ensure everyone is included and honored in the child’s name.
3. A Way To Create A Unique Name
Parents may also choose two middle names because it allows them to create a unique name that stands out from the crowd. Combining multiple names can result in a beautiful and unique name that reflects the personalities of the parents.
How To Choose Two Middle Names
Choosing two middle names can be a tricky business, so here are some tips that may help:
1. Consider The Initials
Be sure to consider how your child’s initials will look when spelled out. Also, think about how they would look if their full name were written in cursive. This is important for avoiding any unfortunate acronyms.
For example, if your child’s name were Mary Elizabeth Smith, which could be sounded as “mess.”
2. Consider How It Will Sound
When selecting two middle names that sound good together, you should also consider how the full first and last name will sound with both middle names included. Take some time to say the whole thing out loud so that you know how it will sound.
3. Pick a Special Meaning
Think about the significance of each name and how it reflects on your family. Consider what the two middle names mean when combined with their first name and surname, as this will reflect on your child’s identity and sense of self.
Possible Downsides Of Having Two Middle Names
While having two middle names may seem like a great way to honor family members and create a distinguished name, there are some potential downsides. Here are a few:
- Adding Unnecessary Length To The Name
Having two middle names can add an extra level of complexity when introducing yourself or writing down your name. It can make it difficult to fit your full name into certain spaces or forms that require limited character counts.
- Creating Confusion For Others
When introducing yourself with two middle names, others may not know how to address you correctly. This is common when meeting new people and introducing yourself, so be prepared to explain your name if necessary.
FAQs
Q: Is it okay to give my child two middle names from two different cultures?
A: Absolutely! Combining two middle names from different cultures can greatly honor your family’s heritage and create a truly unique name.
Q: How should I decide which two middle names to choose?
A: When selecting two middle names, consider how the initials look, how the name sounds when combined with their first and last name, and what special meaning it may have for your family.
Q: Is it possible to change two middle names later in life?
A: Yes, it is possible to change your name at any time, including your middle name. However, this process varies from state to state and can be complicated, so you should consult a lawyer for more information about the specific requirements for your region.