What customs and traditions are associated with English baby names?

English naming customs typically involve three elements - a given name, a middle name (s), and a family name. The British follow a patrilineal naming system where the child inherits their fathers family name. However, following the patrilineal naming system is not mandatory. Instead, parents have the freedom to choose their childs last name. Some parents could also give their child the mothers last name. In contrast, others may provide both mother and father surnames in a hyphenated form, reflecting the flexibility in English naming traditions and customs.

How do English baby names reflect a person's heritage?

English naming conventions are diverse, encompassing people from different religions, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Many parents may opt for names that mirror their ethnic and cultural connections. For example, parents of Irish heritage may choose titles like Liam. On the other hand, those of Greek origin might opt for names like Sophia or Alexander. Parents may also pick names that reflect their regional heritage. For example, Devon and Kent are names inspired by specific regions or places within England. Furthermore, many families pass down names from one generation to another or choose monikers inspired by literary and historical figures.

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9 English Baby Names with Meanings Bright, Starting With M

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA

Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching

Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd

Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Marely	Girl	A sea of bitterness; Pleasant wood; Marten wood; Bright sea
Muriel	Girl	Bright sea; God's myrrh
Mareli	Unisex	My God is an oath; Beloved; Love; Bright sea; Pleasant wood
Merik	Boy	Bright sea; Ruler of the sea
Marisah	Girl	A bright sea of sadness
Merletta	Girl	Blackbird; Pleasant hill; Bright sea
Morgance	Girl	Sea; Edge; Circle; Completion; Bright; White sea dweller; Great and bright
Morggan	Boy	White sea dweller; Great and bright sea; One who dwells near the sea; A variant of Morgan
Merrill	Unisex	Pleasant hill; Bright sea; Sparkling sea; Famous

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Author Editor Fact Checker

Shikha ThakurMBA

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

Siddharth KesirajuMA, Certification in Relationship Coaching

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

Read full bio of Siddharth Kesiraju

Praggya JoshiMA, BEd

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

Read full bio of Praggya Joshi

9 English Baby Names with Meanings Bright, Starting With M

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