How to Choose Baby Names for Siblings

Sibling names refer to names that are complementary but distinct.

Choosing names for your children is a daunting yet fascinating task. You have complete freedom in choosing names, and the world offers you a range of possibilities. The theory that sibling names should be complementary is a few decades old, according to the website Name Berry. The idea is that the names of your children should have a similar style and image, yet be distinct enough to show their individuality. Siblings names should unite your children as well as display their uniqueness.

Instructions

1. Select a sibling name that matches the name of your first child in style, tradition and sex. For example, if you have a son named William, a name that is classic and masculine, and your second child is a girl, select a name that is also classic, such as Elizabeth.

2. Choose a unisex name if your firstborn child was named in that way. A name like Hayden pairs better if the first born has a unisex name like Logan or Randy. This gives both unisex names a more normalized sense. Whereas, a name like Hayden stands out too much if the first child is named something very feminine like Mona or very masculine like Richard.

3. Come up with names that have the same number of syllables or that begin with the same letter. This is a very simple way to create harmony within your family. For example, Jack, Kate, Meg and John have just one syllable, while Edgar, Emerson and Edith begin with the same letter.

4. Create a list of your favorite sibling names and write down possible nicknames for each. A nickname is important to consider because you might like the name but not the nickname. For example, you might really like the name Rory but dislike the nickname Ro.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be too cutesy when it comes to selecting sibling names. Avoid names that rhyme or that are too similar, such as Lily and Billy or Jean and Jane.

References

• Nameberry: How to Choose Sibling Names
• Baby Hold: How to Name Siblings