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Baby names

Find baby name inspiration and advice on the Mumsnet Baby Names forum.

Original poster

Why is Tess/Tessa not popular?

65 replies

kmini · 15/05/2017 05:52

Just that. DH and I have been set on Tess for many years if we have a daughter (8 wks to go till Dc2). We think it's classic, strong but still feminine.

Are we missing something? I know some will say it's a dog's name or others the Two Ton Tess nn. Anything that puts you off?

Any comments appreciated.

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KarineAimee · 15/05/2017 08:58

I like it, congratulations!

Thatextrainch · 15/05/2017 08:55

Tess always seems unfinished to me as a stand alone name. I like Tessa however I always picture a frumpy mid 40s woman when I hear the name. That said, I know a 2 year old Tess.

AuntieStella · 15/05/2017 07:07

Possibly because it's still seen by many as a nn. I'd not use it on a BC.

catsarenice · 15/05/2017 07:00

I really like it - there are 2 one baby group I go to and one at another

NigellasGuest · 15/05/2017 06:57

It's a very pretty name and I had no idea it wasn't that popular! I've know n a few Tess/Tessas - and there's nothing to really put you off I don't think. Anything can be a dog's name tbh.

PetalMettle · 15/05/2017 06:55

Tessa munt is standing for the lib Dems in wells. Tessa is sometimes used as a nn for Theresa so that may be why it's not more popular on its own?

robinia · 15/05/2017 06:51

I like it too.

HearTheThunderRoar · 15/05/2017 06:48

I live in New Zealand and weirdly Tessa is quite a popular name, especially amongst DD's peers (she's nearly 18)

I think Tessa is a lovely name!

ThomasHardyPerennial · 15/05/2017 06:38

I love Tess, it's such a great name!

redexpat · 15/05/2017 06:22

The first MP to have twins whilst serving as an MP was a Tess. Cant remember her last name though. Mp for gloucester if anyone wants to google it.

Zampa · 15/05/2017 06:06

Do people use Elizabeth and then the nn Tess, leading to a lower entry in baby name lists?

TheDowagerCuntess · 15/05/2017 06:03

It seems very insubstantial to me. But obviously everyone has different tastes and that's a good thing.

badhotfanny · 15/05/2017 06:01

I love it. Don't know why others don't seem to.

Nicky2468 · 15/05/2017 05:58

I like it. Not common but not too 'far out there'

Plunkette · 15/05/2017 05:55

I think it's a lovely name.

I suppose the Tess of the D'Urbervilles isn't a wholly positive association.

However if you love the name, don't let anyone put you off.

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