Which name is better

Our emails are made to shine in your inbox, with something fresh every morning, afternoon, and weekend. After all, I grew up with the name Sarah.

I was born in The practical effect of this was that I spent my childhood expecting to be one of many anytime I walked into a room. If the purpose of a name is to signify an object, a very common first name seems like a pretty ineffective signifier.

Recently, I got curious about whether other people with very popular names felt similarly unattached to their own monikers. But what are the psychological effects of growing up with a name that you have to share with everyone else? Wattenberg attributes the cultural shift to several factors, including the introduction of baby-name statistics and the cable TV explosion, which let people see a wider variety of names.

But the most important change was the dawn of the digital era. At a basic level, they may hint at our age, ethnicity, and religion.

Because they disclose so much information to the world, choosing a name is a high-stakes game. But there is an exception: Extremely common, classic names give very little away. Biblical names like these never really go out of style, which means their bearers can be almost any age. They can be Jewish names, or Christian ones, or religiously unaffiliated.

And so giving your child a classic, common name can be a way to steer clear of cultural stereotypes and unjust discrimination. Historically, Wattenberg says, research has shown that people find familiar, easy-to-pronounce names to be likable and trustworthy.

Last names do seem to take on added importance for my sample group. There are definitely benefits to growing up with a common name, particularly as a child—when fitting in is paramount. Pregnancy by week Prev. Baby by month Prev.

Toddler by month Prev. Baby names Looking for the most popular, unique or classic baby names? Choosing a name is so exciting, get started now! Top girls names Discover which girls names are the most popular choices. Top boys names Discover which boys names are the most popular choices. A-Z of baby names Still can't find a name? Show only top names. Exclude top names.

Meaning, origin, theme Name meaning. Starts with. Ends with. Baby names group Girl names group Boy names group. Featured video. Create a baby name poll. Old-fashioned baby names due for a revival. Alternatives to popular baby names. Cool, creative baby names. Adventurous, outdoorsy baby names you will love. How to Pick a Name. Baby name ideas and inspiration.