Contents:

Page

I. Introduction………………....................................................................................................2
II. The main part........................................................................................................................4
2.1. The mystery of the origin of English personal names .......................................................4
2.2. Modern English names.......................................................................................................6
2.3. The origins of a modern English name...............................................................................6
2.4. Phonological and morphological features of English personal names...............................7
2.5. English personal names and their abbreviations ...............................................................7
2.6. The structure of English names .......................................................................................10
2.7. Factors governing the choice of name .............................................................................11
III. The practical part...............................................................................................................11
3.1. The ranking of the most popular English names..............................................................11
3.2 Sociological study "What English names do you know? »...............................................13
IV. Inference…........................................................................................................................15
V. Conclusions.........................................................................................................................15
VI. Literature...........................................................................................................................16
VII. Appendicex......................................................................................................................17

1
 I. Introduction

The relevance of the topic. The personal names had and have all people at all times and in all
civilizations. Of course, the names of the people are a part of the history of any country. They
reflect the life, beliefs, imagination and artistic creativity of the population, their historical
contacts. The appearing of some names in any nation requires certain cultural and historical
conditions1. So, many of the names bear a striking imprint of the era. Due to the fact that new
names are always appearing, this topic is still relevant. Also this topic is relevant in connection
with the growth of international relations, when the English language becomes necessary,
acquires practical significance. It is obvious that without knowledge of a specific set of personal
names and peculiarities of their functioning in speech we can’t communicate fully in English
language. There is no doubt that people who want to know English, must know at least a general
idea about English personal names, be able to spell and pronounce them properly.
As in many other languages, the origin of English names was a reflection of historical processes
that took place in England.

A theoretical problem of the research of proper names is reflected in the writings of Carroll D. B.
Rybakin, A. I., Stewart, D. R., Jones, D., Goldin V. E., S. I. Lvova.

Subject of research is the origin of English names and the depth of knowledge them by students
of our school.

The aims of research: to study the origin of English names at different stages of historic
development of Great Britain, to obtain information and evaluate the knowledge of students of
my school about English names and this topic.

Hypothesis: We assume that by studying the origin and meaning of English names, you can
learn a lot about culture and history of English language in general.

In this work we have tried to solve certain tasks of the research:

1. To study the scientific and popular literature on the topic.

2. To study the history of English personal names, the origin of these names.

3. To find out the most popular English male and female names.

4. To define ways of formation of names.

5. To know their meanings.

6. To conduct a sociological survey among students on the theme "What English name do you
know?" and interpret the result.

The object of research is English personal names.

Working on this topic, I learned that the science of the personal names is called onomastics (the
names). This term is associated with the Greek word "onomah"- the name.

The practical value of this work lies in the possibility of using the material and results of this
study at the English lessons when teaching and studying intercultural communication, as well as
1
Zaytseva K. B. English anthroponymy and its stylistic usage / K. B. Zaitseva. - AKD. - Odessa, 1979. - 327 p.
2
in the theory and practice of translation, history and literature, at the class hours and
extracurricular activities.

In our work we used the general scientific methods and methods of sociology, linguistics, and
lexicology:

1. The study, analysis and synthesis of literature on the research topic;

2. The analysis of the facts.

3. A synthesis of the material

4. Statistical studies (calculation, computation):

- Questionnaire;

- Comparison;

- Interview.

We think the most productive study of this type is the method of sociological surveys.

Thus, our research is both theoretical and practical in origin. Research and collect material on the
topic of the project was carried out according to the plan (Application 1).

II. The main part

3
 2.1. The mystery of the origin of English personal names

System of personal names is an important part of each national culture. We are surrounded by
different people with different names but we rarely try to find out the meaning of names. It’s
known that system of personal names is a unique and wonderful source of information not only
about every human being. Without doubt, it is a soul of every nation. Names are history: history
of people, countries and states. They show evolution of cultures, their mutual communication,
deep changes of mentalities and severe clashes of civilizations. The importance of name was
always huge. People believed that name of human being could determine his life, bring him
happiness or sorrow, and make him well – known or unknown. That’s why personal names are
not only reflection of nation’s mentality, history and culture. They are also a little magic,
connecting people with some things they do not see. The origin of English personal names has its
own history. They were formed during a long period of time, changing under the influence of
different cultures, and, in the end, became what we know them now2.

Thanks to the results of studies by various historians, it became known that the first English
names were only derived from nouns and adjectives of old English words. For example, Brun is
a name, a nickname and an adjective. Name did not carry special semantic loading, it’s a
nickname of a person that did it. Moreover, as a rule, one word and function was more important
than just naming the person. Structural and semantic characteristics of the old English female
names did not differ from male names. The most important part of the name was the second
component. The male names were represented by masculine nouns: gar — spear; hafoc- hawk;
helm — helmet, etc. Many female names as the second component had the adjective: leof —
dear, beloved, pleasant. Over time, the names were complicated, but their main purposes were
always the creation of positive attitude to the persons, because in those days the power of the
word was honoured. At present, according to Professor K. B. Zaitseva, in the English
anthroponomy only 8% are the names of the old English period. Gradually simple names have
been supplanted with two-part names.3

The Angles and Saxons were continental Germanic tribes who began settling in Britain in the V
century. They absorbed or displaced the native Celtic population, who had for several centuries
been under Roman rule. The Anglo-Saxons used Old English Germanic names. Components of
Anglo – Saxon names were taken from a special list of nominal words. People believed that
«good» names magically helped those who carried them and gave wealth, health etc. Such names
included word meaning «warrior», «good», «well known». Anglo-Saxon names differed very
little from nicknames given to people. Brun (brown), Wulf (wolf), Aelfe (elf), Berne (child),
Cyne (king), Fredi (world), Hilde (war), etc. Often was used typical for German names «-ing»
suffix, which showed that the name bearer was the offspring of person indicated in the other part
of a name. For example: Bruning - son of Brun.

In the late 8th century Vikings began raiding England. Eventually they started settling in the
north and east, bringing with them Old Norse names. Some of these Scandinavian names
permanently joined the pool of English names.

2
Rybakin, A. I. Dictionary of English personal names/ A. I. Rybakin. - M.: AST Publishing house,2000
3
Superansky A.V. Modern dictionary of personal names/ by A. V. Superansky.- M.: Airis - Press, 2005
4
 The Norman invasion into England had a very strong effect on the history of English people and
on their names, too. Old English names, which were used for centuries, almost completely
disappeared. When the Duke of Normandy William became the King of England, all important
civil and church positions were taken by people who spoke Norman- French language. As a
consequence the Anglo-Saxon names were replaced with the traditional names of conquerors
(for example, William, Robert, Richard and others). ). Only several Anglo- Saxon names such as
Edgar, Edward, Mildred survived of that period. In the list of 800 names of jurors in the County
of Kent in 1313-1314, there were only five native speakers of old English names4.

Noticeable influence on the naming began in the XII century the spread of Christianity. Church
schools and monasteries became the centers of Christian culture. Personal names from the Bible
became more popular though the majority of people did not understand their meanings. It
brought biblical names into England. At first only royal family and nobility gave Christian names
to their children. Peasantry gave their children Pagan names. Only in the 16th century, Christian
names occupied dominant position in the system of English personal names. It happened after
the country introduced obligatory registrations of infants. They received their Church names at
Christening. Church names were changed under the influence of people’s traditions. So, Maria
became Mary, old Jewish name Johanan became Jones and John. Woman's name Johanna has
bits origin in old French and gave birth to three other separate names – Jean, Johan and Jane. At
that time many common biblical names appeared: John, Peter, James, Michael, Philip, Simon,
Mark - for boys and Mary, Agnes, Catherine, Margaret, Ann (e) for girls. In official documents
everybody should be written only the name that was given at Christening.

During the Reformation in Western Europe in XVI century people started to use names of
different saints not written in Bible, such as Barbara, Christopher and other. The Protestant
Reformation began in 1517. In England king Henry VIII split with the Catholic Church and
created the Anglican Church with him as its head. Protestants generally placed more emphasis on
scripture and revered the saints less, so biblical names came into fashion. In XVI century, when
England established the Anglican Church the Hebrew names from the Old Testament began
widely spread, mostly among puritans: Abigail 'father rejoiced', Abraham 'father of many' Adam
'red', Bathsheba 'seductive', Benjamin 'son of my sorrow', Daniel 'God is judge', David 'friend',
Amos, Sarah, Joseph and others.

After the puritans separated from the Anglican Church (the XVII century), the new names began
appearing, most of them were invented by people. They refused to give their children the names
of saints and started to look for other sources. The sources were found quickly: in Vogue the
names of the Old and New Testaments: Samuel (Samuel), Abraham (Abraham), Sarah, Benjamin
(Benjamin), Deborah (Deborah), Enoch (Enoch).

Those, for whom biblical sources were not enough, began to invent names for them: Charity
(charity), Chastity (purity), Verity (truth), Merci (mercy). Particularly rich in imagination were
possessed by the puritans - followers of Calvinism, who believed that the Anglican Church was
not sufficiently freed from the remnants of Catholicism and needed in further reform. Like any
radicals, the puritans were often over the edge, it resulted in their names: children began to name
Everlasting-Mercy, Sorry-for-Sin and Faith-My’s-Joy.

4
Superansky A.V. Modern dictionary of personal names/ by A. V. Superansky. - M.: Airis - Press, 2005.
5
But there were people, strongly impressed by the biblical stories and the following names were
appeared:

Be Thankful Maynard, Fight-the-Good-Fight-of-Faith White, and Search-the-Scriptures

Moreton.

One of the famous English preachers of the age of Cromwell had a very godly Praise name: God
Barbon (Praise-God Barebone). He had three brothers, whose names were Fear-God Barbon
Fear-God Barebone, Jesus-Christ-Came-Into-the-World-To-Save-His Barbon (Jesus-Christ-
came-into-the-world-to-save Barebone) and If-Christ-Not-Died-For-Thee-Thou-had-Be-Cursed
Barbon (If-Christ-had-not-died-for-thee-thou-hadst-been-damned Barebone). The latter
sometimes signed simply "the doctor Cursed Barbon" (Dr. Damned Barebone).

Many of the unusual names created by the puritans, had disappeared by the nineteenth century
(Lament, Helpless, Obedience), leaving its mark in America. However, the contribution of the
puritans to modern English birthday cannot be completely disregarded. Left of them abbreviated
biblical personal names Samuel, Benjamin, Joseph, Jacob, Daniel, Sarah, Susan, Sharon, Hannah
and nick-names: Hope, Charity, Prudence. At the present time there are a large number of
English names created by the puritans are used (such as Sharon, Benjamin, Joseph, Sarah and
others).

During the 18th and 19th centuries many older names were revived. Also, names from literature
and mythology became more common.

English literature also had a very strong effect on English names. Famous writers and poets
created many brilliant characters whose names became very popular among Englishmen and
Americans. For example, Pamela – character of a novel «Arcadia» written by Sidney, Stella –
sonnet character of the same author. Historical novels of Walter Scott gave birth to a row of
forgotten names; Alice was popular for a long time thanks to Lewis Carroll.

In the later 19th century, during the Victorian Age, some vocabulary words began to be used,
such as those of flowers and gemstones.

2.2. Modern English names

The nomenclature of modern English personal names seems peculiar, very bizarre mosaic
made up of names: ancient and new, native English and borrowed, traditional and invented,
which differ from each other by structural and semantic characteristics. Today as in the old
days you can often meet multiple names, i.e. those that consist of multiple words. In practice,
however, the first name from the plural of the English names is usually used, often in the
diminutive form (for example, everyone knows the name of the former Prime Minister of
great Britain Tony Blair, although his full name Anthony Charles Lynton).

Many researchers believe that English personal names are the theme which gives constantly
surprises. Many modern English parents are original in choosing names for their children.
For example, in the family of famous English footballer David Beckham's kids are named
Brooklyn Joseph, Romeo James, Cruz David, and, finally, the daughter Harper Seven
(probably, Harper is in honor of the writer, and seven is a lucky number in the life of a
footballer). It’s known, middle names are popular in the UK. Middle name is placed
6
 between personal name and surname. As a rule, parents choose middle name simultaneously
with a personal name on their whim or to honor the memory of any family member. Second,
third, fourth, etc. names – a frequent occurrence in Royal families and in families from
higher social strata: the full name of the English Queen — Elizabeth Alexandra Mary (she is
not using her last name). Second names are frequently abbreviated, such as John D.
Rockefeller (John Davison Rockefeller) or George W. Bush (George Walker Bush).

Sometimes, in contrast, people may choose a second personal name: J. Edgar Hoover or F.
Scott Fitzgerald. Rarely in place of full middle name is given just the initial: Harry S.
Truman. Sometimes people do not accept personal or second name. For example, Harper
Lee, full name Nelle Harper Lee. If you know that the person to whom you will contact,
prefers to be called by his second name, you can safely lower it in an oral conversation
(whether formal or not). The second name is acceptable in very formal occasions, including
official correspondence, the mention in the invitations to prominent political, cultural and
other figures.

The English, Scots, Irish and Welsh, as well as many national minorities, the most numerous
of whom are Hindus, Jews, and Frenchmen live in the UK; the names of these peoples are
also prevalent in the UK. The child can be given almost any of them. Children are called with
anything - geographical names, names of flowers, rocks, trees, names of historical figures. In
addition, very often the newborn is given personal name, which is the diminutive form. And
therefore, there are cases, when on reaching maturity; people change their ridiculous English
names to the more familiar.

Moreover, in the list of names you can find ones which were borrowed relatively recently
from other languages (for example, Italian Angelina, Russian or French Sonya Michel), and
mentioned in the Old Testament. Written sources indicate that in the XVI-XVIII centuries
the English girls often had the names Mary and Elizabeth, men - Thomas, John, and William.

Today choosing the names has led to the trend of extreme eccentricity. According to
statistics, “The Times” in 2015 names for boys, quickly gaining popularity in the UK, are
King, Messiah and Major. Many people call their children by the names of their favourite
characters, for example, Cullen in honor of Edward Cullen from the books and movies
"Twilight".

It’s very popular to borrow foreign forms of names existing in the English language - Mary
instead of Marie, Katrina instead of Catherine, Julie instead of Julia (the latter, however, not
pronounced the French way - Julie, and into English - Julie).

Sometimes parents give the name of great originality, especially change the spelling: Alivia
instead of Olivia, Alysha is Alicia, Abigayle instead of Abigail.

The most important thing in the modern development of English names is that the child can
be called by any euphonious word. Even if it was not an anyone's name before.

2.3. The origins of a modern English name

The first source of the English names is borrowing from different languages. Among the English
names we can find the names of different countries and peoples.
7
11). Arabic came to England with the English sea traders, who had opened a new world outside
Europe and were brought from the Middle East not only exotic items but also a large number of
Arabic names, words and customs.(Amber, Ali, Mohammed...)

21) Celtic came to England from the Celtic tribes. They lived in the British Isles in the early first
Millennium BC (Brian, Dylan, Kermit, Tara...)

31) The French began to be used in England, as the contacts with France were particularly close.
To a large extent they were determined by wars and political conflicts. (Alison, Bruce, Olivia...)

41) Norman, as mentioned above, was the result of the conquest of England in 1066 by the
Normans. During the next 300 years Norman language was the official language of the Royal
court. (Brenda, Dustin, Eric...)

51) German appeared in English in the fifth century or later, after the Germanic tribes migrated to
the British Isles. (Charles, Leonard, Richard, William...)

61) Italian appeared after the events of the Second World War, when English soldiers arrived on
the Italian territory. (Bianca, Donna, Mia...)

71) Latin was based on the Anglo-Saxons from the Romans, which appeared in the British Isles.
As proof of it are the traces of the construction techniques of the ancient Romans in Britain.
(Cordelia, Diana, Patrick, Victoria...).

The second source of the origin of the English names is the spread of Christianity brought with
them biblical names. At first only nobility gave Christian names to their children, but then these
names became to use by all people (James, Daniel, and Jakob).

The third source of the origin of the English names is their transformation. For example,
Joanna turned into three English names: Jane, Joahn and Jian. Maria became Mary, Yochanan
became John and Jake.

Thus, the system of English names has been changed under the influence of different languages
in certain periods of English history. Moreover, English personal names are divided by
phonological and morphological features.

2.4. Phonological and morphological characteristics of English personal names

By phonological and morphological features English personal names can be divided into three
groups:

a) The full name or source: Alexander, Elizabeth, Luke, and others;

b) Their options: Alastair, Elspeth, Lukas and others;

b) The derivatives that are used when referring to know the people, Alec, Bet, Bettie, etc.

Derivatives include various types of derived names: abbreviated, hypocoristic, diminutive and
familiarly (Eng. short forms, pet names, diminutives, familiar forms), which are used in an
informal setting, in the circle of acquaintances, friends and relatives.

8
Derivatives are created morphological way of word formation, i.e. by altering the morphemic
composition of full or original name. The dominant models of word formation of English
derivatives is the reduction and affixal word formation

For example, the name Elizabeth deserves particular attention, because more than 40 derivatives
can be formed from it: Babette, Babbette, Bess, Bessie, Bessy, Bet, Beth, Betsey, Betsie, Betsy,
Betta, Bette, Bettie, Betty, Bettina, Bettine, Elsa, Elsie, Eliza, Libby, Lilibet, Lilla, Lilian, Liza,
Lizbet, Lizbeth, Lise, Liselatte, Lisetta, Liz, Lizette, Lissie, Letty, Lib, and Libbie.

2.5. English personal names and their abbreviations

Another point about English personal names, are their abbreviations which can confuse people
unfamiliar with the culture and traditions of English-speaking Nations.

Abbreviations of personal names can be divided into three categories:

1. Unrelatable

2. Formed by simple reduction

3. Formed by reducing and adding suffixes.

1. Unexplained are: Bill from William and Bob from Robert, Peg from Margaret, Polly from
Molly/Mary, Hank from Henry, and Ted from Edward. The reduction in Ned on behalf of
Edward may have occurred from the medieval pet name "mine Ed". Richard can still be reduced
as Rich and Hick. Roger is declining as Rodge, Hodge, Nodge or Dodge. Nan and Nancy are
cuts from Ann, Nell from Ellen and Noll from Oliver. Difficult to pronounce "r" in the Middle
ages were often down that created these reductions, as Babs from Barbara, Biddy from Bridget,
Fanny from Francis (not recommended for obvious reasons), Hal from Harry, Molly from Mary
and Sadie from Sally or Sarah. The same thing is with the sound of the “th” — Dot from
Dorothy and Bess or Betty from Elizabeth.

2. Simple examples of reductions can be the following names: Alex from Alexander, Barb is
from Barbara, Ben from Benjamin, Deb from Deborah, Jon from Jonathan, Ag from Agnes,
Larry from Laurence, Lou from Louis, and Mike from Michael. Sometimes after name
abbreviations is not a beginning, and middle, such as Beth from Elizabeth, Fred from Alfred,
from Greta Margareta, Ness from Agnes, from Tina Christina, Tony from Ant (h) ony, Lynn
from Carolyn, Trish, and Trisha from Patricia and Lisa from Elisabeth.

3. Simple and productive way of formation cuts is the addition of various suffixes. For example,
the suffix-y/-ie: Abby (Abigail), Debbie (Deborah), Charlie (Charles), Johnny (John), Danny
(Daniel), Jimmy (James), and Sammy (Samuel).

Getting acquainted with literature, I’ve learned that the name John has a rich history and dates
back to biblical times. However, in the middle ages, the name John was changed under the
influence of the Germanic languages and became Jankin or Jackin, hence Jack. Thus, the name
Jack is the abbreviation for the name John. John F. Kennedy, for example, friends and relatives
called Jack. So, the system of English names is interesting, challenging and unusual for the
Russian people.

9
 2.6. The structure of English names

Almost every modern English child at birth receives a middle name. In addition to the personal
name, the child may receive no more than four middle names, although the number of these
secondary names is not limited with any framework. In my opinion, it is very important, to know
what types of names do exist in England:

• Firstname / given name (also forename, Christianname) is the name given at birth and stands
first in the full name of the person, e.g. John, Peter, William, Anne, Elizabeth, Mary.

• Middlename (middle name) – middle name of the person. It stands between name and surname.
The second name is usually represented by the initial letter (middle initial) the full name, e.g.
Charles or Alan Jones Alan C. Jones; Laura Tracey Laura T. Edison or Edison.

Lastname / surname / for example, Smith is the surname used by members of the same family,
for example, Smith, Higgins, Green, Appleby, Williamson, Mackenzie.

• Nickname – a shortened or diminutive form of the name: Peter – Pete; William – Bill, Will;
Anne – Annie, Nancy; Elizabeth – Betty, Liz; Louise – Lou. Many diminutive names are used as
independent names: Jack as a diminutive name for John and Jack as the self-given name; Molly
as a diminutive name for Mary and Molly as an independent name.

• Legalname – legal name that is used for official purposes, such as signing contracts.

 Maidenname – maiden name before marriage. Sometimes also called birthname (name at
birth).

• Marriedname – surname marriage, i.e. the woman's name in marriage.

It should be noted that due to annually occurring fashion to new English names, a list of popular
English names is a subject to constant change.

Moreover, I was extremely interested to learn what modern English person was guiding when
choosing names for their children.

And that's what I find out while working on the project theme. It turns out that the first and
middle name may be chosen from among famous family names, for example, in honor of famous
personalities. This fashion had gone from the tradition of British nobility. It began to spread into
the other classes in the XIX century. So the English names can consist only of surnames. In
Russia it would look very strange, as if a woman called Ivanova Petrova Vasilyevna.

Each of us has become to understand to the fact that he is the bearer of the surname, name and
patronymic. But for the British this scheme is not appropriate, the naming system is absolutely
unusual and therefore interesting. The main difference between our systems is the lack of
patronymic in English. Instead, they have last name, first name and middle name. Englishman
can take the middle names of any stars or even of their ancestors. Any Englishman can give the
child a name from multiple names or surnames. For example, if you want to name him (her) after
a whole football team at once.

10
 2.7. Factors governing the choice of name

The researchers argue that parents should carefully choose the names of their children. After all,
the name is the first gift, except life itself, which the parents present to their child with a lifelong
gift. But it can be a curse.

Here are some factors that determine the choice of personal names among the Britons:

1. The influence of fashion. The choice of the name is determined by the desire to avoid
monotony (Jessica – not a particularly able fashion name, so wouldn't date her.).
2. Link name with a certain social group. So, the names Rupert, Benjamin, Alexandra have
traditionally been associated with representatives of the middle strata of society.
3. The desire to avoid difficult, discordant combinations (e.g., Tracey Thomas, Jason
Jackson, Mark Martin), craving for sonorous names: Don Juan.
4. The desire to become famous some parents give their children rare and unusual names:
Charisma, Damask, and Queen. This is especially common for parents of newborn
African Americans.
5. The influence of religion.
6. Influence on the choice of name positive or negative associations with famous historical
or cultural figures: Rafaelle Peale, Rubens Peale, and Titian Peale.
7. Connection with the place of birth. Thus, the name Jennifer was associated with
Cornwall, Yorick - West of England.
8. Often the name is given in honor of another person, often the next of kin. Many fathers
do as Mr Dombey in Charles Dickens's novel "Dombey and son".

III. The practical part

3.1. The ranking of the most popular English names.

We are interested to find out which English names are most popular in modern Britain. Why?

Firstly, it is quite an informative topic, and sometimes it’s very interesting to find out how
the fashion on English names depends on the socio-economic development of the United
Kingdom, the release of films, books, after any significant sporting events

Secondly, to avoid embarrassing situations when we communicate with foreigners.

Every year the Social Security Online website publishes statistics, which shows the most
popular male and female English names.

Here is a table of the Top 10 most popular English name for 2012 and 2015.

Table 1. Popular English male names.

TOP 10 MALE NAMES– 2012 TOP 10 MALE NAMES -2015

1. Jacob 1. Noah
2. Mason 2. Liam
3. Ethan 3. Mason
4. Noah 4. Jacob
5. William 5. William
11
6. Liam 6. Ethan
7. Jayden 7. Michael
8. Michael 8. Alexander
9. Alexander 9. James
10. Aiden 10. Daniel

Comparing lists of popular male names in the UK in 2012 and 2015, I have noticed that
Jacob, Mason, Ethan, Noah, William, Liam, Michael, Alexander were listed into the TOP -
10 in 2012, and in 2015, however, changing places. Except for the name William, which
occupied the 5th place in 2012 and in 2015. In 2012, the names Jayden (7), Aiden (10)
entered the TOP - 10, and in 2015 they changed the names Ethan (6) and Daniel (10). The
origins of male names in the TOP - 10 in 2015 were: three English names (Liam – 2nd place,
Mason – 3, William - 5), six Hebrew names (Noah – 1st place, Jacob 4th place, Ethan - 6,
Michael - 7th place, James - 9, Daniel – 10th place), one Greek name (Alexander - 8th
place). In 2012, the composition of the TOP – 10 consisted of 3 English names (Mason – 2,
William - 5th place, Liam - 6), one Irish (Aiden – 10th place), five Hebrew names (Jacob -
1st place Ethan – 2nd place, Noah– 3rd place, Jayden - 7, Michael - 8th place), one Greek
name (Alexander is 9). Name James is of Hebrew origin. Popularity of the name James in the
twentieth century many people explain the existence of the fictional character of James Bond
created by Ian Fleming. And still this name is popular in the UK. Name Michael is a Hebrew
origin. Distributed in the UK since medieval times and it is still popular. Liam is a British
name, derived from the Irish name abbreviations William. It is very popular in the UK due to
the Liam Gallagher, singer of the band Oasis. Liam Neeson, Irish and American actor, Liam
Ridgewell, English footballer and this name is popular in these days.

Table 2. Popular female English names.

TOP 10 FEMALE NAMES – 2012 TOP 10 FEMALE NAMES -2015

1. Sophia 1. Emma
2. Emma 2. Olivia
3. Isabella 3. Sophia
4. Olivia 4. Isabella
5. Ava 5. Ava
6. Emily 6. Mia
7. Abigail 7. Emily
8. Mia 8. Abigail
9. Madison 9. Madison
10. Elizabeth 10. Charlotte

Comparing a list of popular female names in the UK in 2012 and 2015, you can see nine
names Sophia, Emma, Isabella, Olivia, Ava, Emily, Abigail, Mia, Madison entered into the
TOP - 10 in 2012, and in 2015, however, changing places. Except, name Ava which
occupied the 5th place and name Madison which occupied the 9th place in 2012 and in 2015.

If we compare female names in origin with male names we can see that they are more
various. In 2012 the TOP – 10 included two Greek feminine names: Sophia (1), Mia (8), two
German names - Emma (2), Ava (5), one Latin name: Emily (6), three Hebrew names –
12
Isabella (3), Abigail (7), Elizabeth (10), one English name is Madison (9) and one Latin
name is Olivia (4).

In 2015 in the TOP – 10 we can see three German - Emma (1), Ava (5), Charlotte (10), one
Latin name is Olivia (2), two of the Greek name Sophia (3), Mia (6), one Hebrew name is
Isabella (4), and Abigail (8), one Latin name is Emily (7) one English name is Madison (9).
It should be noted that, although the name Mia we have attributed to the Greek origin, but in
reality, scientists are still arguing about what the origin is of this name: Arabic, Italian,
Spanish or Greek. We can assume that the name Charlotte entered the TOP – 10 in 2015 for
the birth of the new Princess of great Britain Charlotte- Elizabeth -Diana, it replaced from
TOP – 10 - 2012 name Elizabeth, owned by the Queen of great Britain Elizabeth II
(Elizabeth Alexandra Mary), great-grandmother Charlotte.

Thus, spiritual and biblical names are still on top and popular names in the UK. We can
suppose that many people are looking for spiritual meaning behind the name, a name that
reflects their beliefs. So, after the Norman invasion a female name Emma became popular. It
is at the top of English names in our day, too. Emily had never been a common name in
English countries until Hanovers (who were Germans) became the new ruling family in the
UK in the 18th century. It is popular in the UK and in our days. The name Ava, which in the
ranking of popular names for 2012 and for 2015, took the 5th place. It became popular in the
50s of the last century and is directly connected with the famous American actress Ava
Gardner. The name Abigail is of Hebrew origin. First name Abigail came into use in the UK
under the influence of the puritans. And now it appears in TOP 10 of 2012 and 2015. The
name Madison is the English male name. As woman’s one ("the daughter of Matthew")"
became popular in the late twentieth century. The rising popularity of this name contributed
to the movie "Splash" in 1984 where the main character's name was Madison. The name
Madison is in the TOP – 10 of 2012 and 2015. Thus, in the practical part we have made the
ratings of the most popular male and female names in the UK. The most popular male names
in 2012 were Jacob, Mason, Ethan, and in 2015 were Noah, Liam, and Mason. The popular
women’s names in 2012 were Sophia, Emma, Isabella, and in 2015 were Emma, Olivia, and
Sophia.

3.2 Sociological study "What English names do you know?"

We were also interested to learn what students in our school know about English names. For
this reason the questionnaire was written. It consisted of 4 questions. Students of 5-11 classes
were involved into the survey. 132 schoolchildren were interviewed (appendices 2-6). Here's
what the questionnaire was offered to the guys:

Title: What English names do you know? (Application 2)

Aim: Researching what English names are known by the Russian pupils.

Respondents’ group: Pupils of 5th - 11th forms (132 schoolchildren).

Questions:

1. What English male names do you know? Directions: You should write down 10 male
names. (Application 3)
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2. What English female names do you know? Directions: You should write down 10 female
names. (Application 4)

3. Read and choose male and female names. (Application 5)

4. Write Russian names correspond to the English (Application 6)

Results:

According to a sociological survey of students 5 – 11 classes of secondary school №17 of

Podolsk on the question "What English male names do you know?" the most popular English
male names (TOP 10):

Male names: John (105), Tom (64), Max (47), David (46), Mike (45), Sam (41), Bill (40),
Steve (40), Tim (31), Dan (28).

The most popular English female names (TOP 10):

Female names: Ann (102), Kate (84), Sara (63), Elizabeth (61), Jane (53), Julia (52), Mary
(51), Alice (47), Sue (35), Virginia (26)

Thus, the best-known names among the students of our school were the names of John and
Ann.

Then we have the next question: "Why these names are familiar for students? Where they
could meet them?" I decided to conduct a further survey among the students of 5-11 classes
in which you had to answer the following question: "Where do you meet the English
names?” The additional results of my survey we can conclude that a significant number of
English names familiar to students with the help of books, on which they are engaged.
Having considered the textbooks our students 5th - 11th grade, I can confidently say that the
books authors in which they are engaged, rich English names.

Next, we conducted a survey with the purpose of finding out the answer to the question:
"How do you know these names?"

Among them: 55% of respondents had heard of these English names in movies and cartoons;
50 % of pupils know the names of computer games and the Internet; 5% of students get
acquainted with such names, reading the textbooks, books, magazines.

It follows that in movies and cartoons, reading magazines, books, playing computer games or
browsing the web page guys, remember names and use them in speech.

Then we conducted a survey on the knowledge of the children male and female English
names and their conformity with Russian names. To do this, we asked the following
questions:

Read and choose male and female names.

Rio, Olivia, Daniel, Addison, Isabel, Evelyn, Zoe, Ryan, Dolores, Connor, Charlotte,
Andrew, Dolores, Matthew

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4. Write Russian names correspond to the English:

Jack - Stasy-

Julia - Nick-

Cyril - Mike-

Alex - Lizzy-

After analyzing the results of the survey, I concluded:

Most students have an idea about the English names and can distinguish male and female
names, but to compare English with Russian names are not everything, especially ученики5-
6 classes (Applications 2-6).

IV. Inference

Having studied the topic of my project, I’ve realized that this theme is still relevant in our
days, because it is not learnt completely and new names are appearing constantly.
I’ve understood how the history of names helps us in studying English history.

Сhoosing a baby name is influenced by a huge number of factors.

Our purpose and tasks are reached.

Our hypothesis of this work is proved.

In conclusion, it should be noted that we are planning to continue studying the theme of
project in order to enrich vocabulary, to broaden horizons, to get acquainted with the culture
of the country of the studied language.

V. Conclusions

Having studied theoretical material and analyzed practical side we came up to the
conclusions:
1. The most of English names have a long history and their roots are in the old English
language.
2. The formation of English names was influenced by many invasions.
3. Interesting point in the history of English names is the separation of the puritans from the
Anglican Church who created their own names, which were sometimes quite absurd.
4. In Great Britain full name consists of three components: the first name (first name,
christian name, given name), middle name (middle name) and surname (name, surname, last
name).
5. Modern English names are very diverse.

6. We must respect all the names which given to children by their parents, remembering that
respect for a name is respect for the individual, for the people who choose this name, for the
national traditions.

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 VI. Literature

1. Bernstein I. English names in Russian translation/ Bernstein I. // Foreign literature. - No. 4,

1998.

2. Bondaletov V. D. Russian]/ V. D. Bondaletov. - M. Education,1983. - 215 p.

3. Zaytseva K. B. English anthroponymy and its stylistic usage / K. B. Zaitseva. - AKD. -

Odessa, 1979. - 327 p.

4. O. A. Leonovich In world of English names / by O. A. Leonovich. – M.: Astrel-AST,

2002.

5. Rybakin, A. I. Dictionary of English personal names/ A. I. Rybakin. - M.: AST publishing

house, 2000.

6. 7.Superansky A.V. Modern dictionary of personal names/ by A. V. Superansky. - M.:

Airis - Press, 2005

7. Frankie D. Oliver and Olivia become Britain's most popular names for children in 2010/
Frankie D. // Mail Online [website].

8. URL: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/artiocle-1342819

9. Popular Baby Names/Social Security Online// the Official Website of the U.S. Social
Security Administration.

10. URL: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/babynames /

http://londonmania.ru/stories/names-in-uk

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 Appendix 1

The annual plan of project work in English on the topic “The origin of English names”

№ The content of the work The task for the next month, by
№ the author of the project
The timing of
p topics
/
p
1 The end of - discussion the topic; - definition of project goals
September – (whether the goal will solve
beginning of - clarifying the issues that will the problem);
October be addressed in the framework - evaluation of existing
The theme of of the project; resources that will be
"the Problem, required to work (what are
the purpose - definition of project the sources of information,
and theme of goals (whether the goal what are the knowledge and
the project" will solve the problem); skills on project);
- evaluation of the lack of
- expected results the resources (which may
anticipated project products, require sources of
the clarification of the themes information that have to
of the project learn, learn to work on the
project);
- pondering: how and where
will be found missing
resources);
- pondering the indicative
plan of work on the project;
- start gathering information
on the topic of the project
2 The end of -discussion of wording, - continuation of the work;
October clarification of the meaning of
Topic “History the terms;
of origin of -discussion of current work
English names carried out in October
”

17
3 November -clarified the type of project; - continuation of the collection
-continuation of work with the of information; comparing the
literature; collected material and
planning: combining it into groups;
tasks at separate stages; - justification of the project;
- solutions; - specifying the goals and
interim results of the individual challenges of the project;
steps; - presentation of detailed work
- the report on the collection of plan:
the material; -the problem; objectives; ways
- clarification required of working; - time (when I
additional assistance; complete certain stages of
work);
- as a solved problem related to
the purpose of my project;

4 December -statement of collection of the necessary amendments in

information; the project work;
-finding difficulties and the study collected information;
opportunities to overcome -continuation of work on
them; creation of design of the
-specification of additional product;
assistance;
5 January -the progress report -completion of work with
(working on -clarification of the compliance information;
the written part plan and schedule of work on -the completion of the project
of the project) the project; product;
-familiarization with -begin work on the written part
requirements of the written part of the project;
of the project;

18
6 February -conclusions information on -the completion of the written
"The written the project product; part of the project;
part of the -discussion of progress of work -preparation of project for
project" on the written part of the work; delivery to the city conference
-familiarization with the "Step to science for pupils of 5-
recommendations for the 11 classes";
protection of the project and -overcurrent in English
presentation of project product; language;
- pre-school conference of
-discussion of the results of the research works of pupils of 5-11
(до protection project at the school; grades;
26.02.2016) -discussion of pros and cons; Understanding the results of
-summing up the project cycle; work;
-provision of work -preparation of the project to be
completed in the local
competition;

-participation in the Conference

of urban research, design and
creative works of pupils of 5-11
classes "Step to science".

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 Appendix 2

A survey (classmates, students, friends)

Questionnaire

Form___________________ Name________________________
What English names do you know?
1. What English male names do you know?
1 6
2 7
3 8
4 9
5 10
2. What English female names do you know?
1 6
2 7
3 8
4 9
5 10
3. Read and choose male and female names. Rio, Olivia, Daniel, Addison, Isabel, Evelyn,
Zoe, Ryan, Dolores, Connor, Charlotte, Andrew, Dolores, Matthew
№ MALE № FEMALE
п/п п/п
1 1
2 2
3 3
4 4
5 5
6 6
7 7
The keys, task 3:Female - Olivia, Isabel, Evelyn, Zoe, Charlotte, Dolores, Linda
Male names - Matthew, Ryan, Andrew, Connor, Daniel, Rio, Addison.

4.Write Russian names correspond to the English:

Jack- Stasy-
Julia- Nick-
Cyril- Mike-
Alex- Lizzy-

The keys, task 4:

Jack- Евгений Stasy - Настя Julia- Юлия Nick- Николай / Никита Cyril- Кирилл
Mike- Михаил Alex- Алексей / Александр Lizzy- Лиза

20