We all have at least one and most of us have several. Some of them we use once others we use almost every day. For the most part, we create them ourselves but increasingly they are assigned to us. We are told we should keep them a secret but we often share them with thousands or even millions of people around the globe. What is all this fuss about? Usernames. In this MSN video, learn all about what your own username(s) may be telling the world about you.
About Names
Invented Baby Names: 84 awesome choices and 2 big winners!
Have you ever wanted to invent an entirely new name? In 2015, Nameberry.com offered name-connoisseurs a chance to send in their submissions for the best invented name. The contest rules for creating a new name were simple. People were asked to combine two or more existing names, convert a pre-existing word into a name, or come up with a completely unique onomastic creation all on their own. Some of the best contest entries were Hallory, Aliciana, Kahlia, Cardigan, Mazana, and Faraday. Learn which entries onomastic specialists Pamela Redmond Satran and Abby Sandel selected as their favorites.
About Names: Don’t expect a lot of babies named ‘Donald’ or ‘Hillary’
Dr. Cleveland Evans writes about names for the Omaha World-Herald. This recent column explores Donald and Hillary.… Read More
What’s in a Brand Name?
Why was Tribune Publishing’s re-brand as Tronc a failure? This week’s New Yorker addresses sound symbolism and its importance in choosing a brand name.
Zzyzx, California
Ever heard of Zzyzx, California? Learn the story behind the strange toponym.
Understanding the Names Greenland and Iceland
Wondering why icy Greenland isn’t called Iceland? Listen to Merriam Webster’s Editor Kory Stamper’s short explanation of these toponyms.
Oddly-Named Towns in Each U.S. State
Estately.com looks at some of the most outrageous toponyms in the United States. Enjoy!
Why Do We Have Middle Names?
In summary, middle names are “a way to keep family names going and thus preserve relationships,” but their history is more complex. Learn more about this onomastic component of identity.
Changing our Names
Why do we change our names? This article discusses some of the factors behind this monumental decision. ANS President Dr. Iman Nick is among the people interviewed and quoted in the article.
Behind the Chinese names of Western brands
International brands face naming challenges translating their brand names for different markets. Learn more about the creation of Chinese names for Western brands and one agency behind this.