The study of names fascinates me. I occasionally read articles in the newspaper about the most popular children's names these days. Over time, of course, the popular names change. Mary is not as popular today as Megan, and Keith is no longer as popular as Jason. As we research our families, we may find naming patterns and conventions that can help with our quests.
Names are important.
They help define an individual's identity, both within the family unit and within the community. Sometimes a person's name has its origin in the family. Sometimes the name has religious significance. The name may also have an ethnic origin or connotation. And in still other cases, a child's name sometimes commemorates someone outside the family, even a public figure.