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Baby names

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

Original poster

Ralph?

61 replies

WhoStoleTheTarts · 11/04/2025 15:09

I’m due in a couple of weeks with a baby boy, we’ve got a shortlist but we’ve not settled on a name yet. One name I was considering early on but that fell off the shortlist was Ralph (Rafe?), but I’m now considering it again. Would appreciate any opinions, is this cute and classic or are the pregnancy hormones getting to me?

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username462025 · 11/04/2025 16:35

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TheNinjaWife · 11/04/2025 15:57

What about Raffael? Ralph is slang for something, but maybe not common in the U.K? google it as I don’t want to post something negative, but just to make you aware. It was a common term where I grew up.
Rafe is lovely.

taxcalcconfusion · 11/04/2025 15:48

Arlanymor · 11/04/2025 15:24

I like Rafe - Raplh pronounced the traditional way reminds me of Judy Blume's Forever...

This was my first thought too!

Sesame2011 · 11/04/2025 15:42

Love it, was on our top 5 boys names but having a girl!

EddieVedderSingsToMe · 11/04/2025 15:39

I may be biased because I have a Ralph of my own, but I love it. My boy is 8 now, and there is another Ralph in his primary school. There is also another Ralph who goes to the same football training. All three of them pronounce it Ralf, not Rafe. I like that it’s rare, but not too rare, and people have heard of the name. I grew up with a very unusual name, and didn’t want that for my children. Go for it! However, I must add that when I announced his name my mum said it sounds like a dog’s name. She wasn’t wrong. I have met several canine Ralphs since my Ralph was born, but it doesn’t bother me.

user1492757084 · 11/04/2025 15:32

Ralph is smart, grown up and friendly.

NearlyThere91 · 11/04/2025 15:24

I love this name!

Arlanymor · 11/04/2025 15:24

I like Rafe - Raplh pronounced the traditional way reminds me of Judy Blume's Forever...

Moreteaandchocolate · 11/04/2025 15:21

I know a lovely boy called Ralph. He was Ralphy when little and Rafe now he’s older. It’s one of those names that I didn’t used to be keen on but it’s grown on me.

Odras · 11/04/2025 15:12

It reminds me of the lad off the simpsons.

hovebaby99 · 11/04/2025 15:11

I have a nephew who is a Rafe and it is the greatest name! Suits him as a little boy but will also be great when he grows into it