Using my cousin's name?

[Thamigumathacharaid]

Hi, we're expecting a baby boy in six weeks and we're struggling with names. I really like the name George as it's a family name, it's also the anglicised version of my partner's father's middle name. The only issue is that it's also the name of my cousin. We've always got on really well and I'm more like an older sister than a distant cousin. The baby's surname would be different but I just don't know if it would be weird. Any thoughts?

I think your cousin would be pleased!
My best friend used my middle name - Annabel, so not a particularly common name - as her daughter's; I don't honestly believe it was in my honour (or at least she never said it was) but it still made me feel happy inside.

She might like it. Why don't you ask her?

I think it’s fine to use as your baby and your cousin are different generations. For some reason I’d find it strange if it was your cousins child and yours with the same name. George is a classic name anyway and a family name for you so I say go for it.

@DotDotDotDotDot

I think it’s fine to use as your baby and your cousin are different generations. For some reason I’d find it strange if it was your cousins child and yours with the same name. George is a classic name anyway and a family name for you so I say go for it.

I thought the same

I'm tempted to use one of my cousins names myself if I have a DD (it's a classic name often in the top 50, just like your choice of George). I think as long as you mention it to your cousin (and maybe your Aunt/Uncle too, since they chose his name - just for the sake of family relations) then it's fine to re-use the name, especially since there's a different surname.

Many names, particularly classic ones are used across different generations with no-one blinking an eye (they just get called "young George" or have a nn to differentiate within the wider family) - it's not weird imo.

Thanks everyone. My cousin has just turned 30 so definitely a different generation to our baby. I'd speak to him first to see if he had any issues with it but I'm glad that no-one here finds it too weird.

Of course it isn't weird, use whatever name you want! George is a pretty common name anyway, it's unlikely he hasn't met another one. Unless he's an egoist who wants to be 'unique' then i can't see the problem.

I'd speak to him first to see if he had any issues with it

What do you think he'd say "don't use George , i want to be the only one'? I bet he'll be chuffed that you're naming the baby after him!

Thank you. I'm planning on messaging him privately and asking him but I want it to do it in a way so he doesn't feel obliged. I think the world of him and wouldn't want to do anything that made him feel uncomfortable.

Update. I've now spoken to him and he's more than happy with it. So unless we suddenly change our minds, our baby will be called George. :)

Great news ! And a great name !

That’s good. DH and i both have cousins with my favourite boys’ name, so he’s named after both.