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Baby names

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

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Original poster

Baby name update - (Alpha)

136 replies

paulinesmithson · 28/01/2023 21:31

This is an update post to the baby name thread I started a few weeks ago deciding whether or not to use the name Alpha for my DD (due March).
If you haven't already read the post, to sum up:
My grandfather Alfie passed just before we found out we are expecting my DD and I wanted to use the name Alpha to honour his name.

There were many mixed opinions but we have settled (DH and I) on the name Alfa.

Its spelling isn't the same as the version with all the bad connotations and I think using the f instead of ph is closer to Alfie anyway so this seemed like the best name we could find. DH is fully on board with the name and we plan to use the nickname Alf too which I think is so cute!

OP posts:

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PontifiKaty · 28/01/2023 22:24

There is absolutely nothing wrong with Alfa/Alf/Alfie for your DD in this day and age OP! There are so many unusual names in the classroom, I think you’d kick yourself if you didn’t. I’m surprised everyone is quite so negative to be honest!

Redjumperoo · 28/01/2023 22:23

ThomasinaLivesHere · 28/01/2023 22:19

Sorry you’re getting a bit of a pile on but I do think there are some good suggestions for names here if you want to reconsider it.

I don’t see Alf as a cute name for a girl as I do remember that alien puppet. I think if Alfa didn’t have certain connotations it could work as a girl’s name as it does fit the popular trend of short vowel heavy names.

Most were suggested on the previous thread too.

ShockedAndAwake · 28/01/2023 22:22

I quite like it. I'd wonder if it was a foreign name, maybe Scandinavian? I don't think it would stand out as being a weird name. I'd maybe think of the car but that's not a bad link.

I don't get using names to honour people though. I think it's a bit heavy for a child to be named after someone they will have never even met, however, I do realise that it's a pretty normal thing to do.

GroggyLegs · 28/01/2023 22:21

Sound-wise its no worse than Alba.
And re: Alf, I know a little Percy, and weirdly it actually really suits her. I assumed it was short for something but apparently not.

Although I wouldn't because I don't like naming kids after other people and school is cruel enough without giving bullies another reason to pick on my child.
So mine have super boring classic names.

Twillow · 28/01/2023 22:19

Well aren't people rude!
I love it, congratulations

ThomasinaLivesHere · 28/01/2023 22:19

Sorry you’re getting a bit of a pile on but I do think there are some good suggestions for names here if you want to reconsider it.

Justalittlebitduckling · 28/01/2023 22:18

Jarnsaxa · 28/01/2023 22:00

If you're definitely set on Alfa can I suggest looking at this list of genuine ancient Anglo Saxon female names? There's a few of them that have a similar sound and they are genuine names even if they are a bit archaic.
My favourite is Aelfwyn. Think that's lovely and guarantee you won't come across another one.
Saxon female names

That’s such a good idea! Unfortunately there’ll be ten in a class now because everyone will see it here 😂

drspouse · 28/01/2023 22:17

Aphra is lovely IMO.

ANewDayDawned · 28/01/2023 22:17

And @ChildrenOfTheQuorn 😂😂

Lanicholla · 28/01/2023 22:17

Cute name with a special meaning behind it. We love unusual unique names / spellings and we currently choosing one for our son due in April. Got absolutely crucified here by posting a thread 😂
If it feels right to both of you - go for it !!
P.s I like the Alfa spelling and it's also a very first letter in Greek alphabet ☺️

DestinysGrandchild · 28/01/2023 22:16

Changing the spelling of a name doesn't make the name any better.

ANewDayDawned · 28/01/2023 22:16

@PotteringAlonggotkickedoutandhadtoreregister your post made me lol. Totally agree!

lunar1 · 28/01/2023 22:14

Get the paperwork then, change your name and get started finding something for your child that is chosen with her in mind.

Redjumperoo · 28/01/2023 22:14

paulinesmithson · 28/01/2023 22:10

I'd be perfectly happy to be referred to as Alf or Alfa

Show quote history

But is this because it has loving associations to your grandad? Would you be equally happy with another male name like Tom? John? Matt? Or whatever. She won't have the connection to the name!

DipperandMabel · 28/01/2023 22:14

Alfa Romeo is what I think of - gorgeous cars but not sure if that’s what you want people to think of when you introduce your daughter?

It’s your choice of course but I hope you reconsider! Give her the middle name Alfie and give her her own beautiful first name is my advice, if you care for it! Otherwise just please yourself! (don’t know why you would bother posting though if you don’t want people’s advice).

Jarnsaxa · 28/01/2023 22:13

Squamata · 28/01/2023 22:08

Aw, little baby Beorhtwen!

Show quote history

Maybe not that one! Not sure 'Bugge' is gonna make a comeback anytime soon either

Ditzyduck · 28/01/2023 22:12

Are you planning on having more children ? You might have a boy next and you could use the name perfectly to honour your Grandad then . Maybe consider it as a middle name just incase if you are planning on having more ?

WFHbore2023 · 28/01/2023 22:11

I'd be perfectly happy to be referred to as Alf or Alfa

Ok, cool. Fingers crossed your DD feels the same way.

Original poster

paulinesmithson · 28/01/2023 22:10

WFHbore2023 · 28/01/2023 22:08

Totally up you you OP - but I have seen a few people on other threads suggest introducing yourself as your chosen name for a few weeks, see if you still like it then.

I understand your reasoning - my own DD has a male (not even a nice name, tbh - but it flows beautifully with her first name) middle name - as I wanted my dead dads name in there.

How about names that have that 'fi' in it, so it's a nod to him. Ffion is a beautiful name

I'd be perfectly happy to be referred to as Alf or Alfa

OP posts:

Topee · 28/01/2023 22:09

The spelling doesn’t change the name!

Your child is highly unlikely to thank you for this. I can’t imagine many teenage girls being thrilled that they’re name Alf.

Squamata · 28/01/2023 22:08

Jarnsaxa · 28/01/2023 22:00

Aw, little baby Beorhtwen!

ParentPerson · 28/01/2023 22:08

Maybe I’m mad @paulinesmithson but I actually really like Alfie for a girl to be honest!
You could change the spellings like Alfee, Alfeigh, Alfy to make it more feminine.
I know I’ll get piled on, it’s Mumsnet but I always wanted to call DD2 Stevie and my DH wouldn’t let me! Love a boys name girls name crossover!

WFHbore2023 · 28/01/2023 22:08

Totally up you you OP - but I have seen a few people on other threads suggest introducing yourself as your chosen name for a few weeks, see if you still like it then.

I understand your reasoning - my own DD has a male (not even a nice name, tbh - but it flows beautifully with her first name) middle name - as I wanted my dead dads name in there.

How about names that have that 'fi' in it, so it's a nod to him. Ffion is a beautiful name

Allthingsbrightandbeautifulx · 28/01/2023 22:06

What about Althea?

The way some people pronounce th she would be could Alfea anyway.

Druim · 28/01/2023 22:05

I think it’s incredibly selfish when parents choose a name that means something to them, but will result in sniggers and eyerolls
behind the child’s back. Who would do that to their child? It is a Deeply narcissistic action.

and the fact you have started a second thread would suggest that you are desperate for attention.

anyway, name your daughter after a type of radiation if you think that’s wise.

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