Bored Panda works better on our iPhone app
Continue in app Continue in browser

Add post form topAdd Post
Tooltip close

The Bored Panda iOS app is live! Fight boredom with iPhones and iPads here.

Woman Thinks Kids Are Not Cruel Enough To Bully Her Kid For Her Name, Gets A Harsh Reality Check
141

Woman Thinks Kids Are Not Cruel Enough To Bully Her Kid For Her Name, Gets A Harsh Reality Check

ADVERTISEMENT

We’ve all heard the phrase, “What’s in a name?” But if you ask someone stuck with an awkward or bizarre name, their answer might be, “A lot, actually!” A name is one of the most lasting gifts parents give their child, shaping first impressions and even their self-confidence. So, when parents pick a name that raises eyebrows, it’s no wonder people might feel the need to speak up.

Speaking of unique names, one woman shared her dilemma after teasing her sister’s unusual choice of spelling for her baby’s name—and the backlash that followed. Keep reading to discover what happens when naming creativity crosses the line and family drama unfolds!

Pregnancy comes with its own set of exciting moments, like shopping for adorable baby clothes and picking out the perfect name

Image credis: Bree Evans (not the actual photo)

A woman shared how her honest critique of her sibling’s unique baby name choice led to her being uninvited from the baby shower and losing her role as godmother

ADVERTISEMENT

Image credits: Colin Maynard (not the actual photo)

Image credits: coolerbeans1981

The author shared how her mom reacted to the unique baby name choice

ADVERTISEMENT

With countless options available, choosing a name for a child can feel like an overwhelming task  

When it comes to naming a child, every parent approaches it differently. For some, it’s about honoring family traditions or choosing a name that holds sentimental value, like their grandmother’s name. It’s exciting but also, let’s face it, a little nerve-wracking.

In the past, parents often stuck to a small pool of traditional names that reflected cultural norms. Laura Wattenberg, the author of The Baby Name Wizard and creator of Namerology.com, highlights a significant shift: “Over the past two generations, there’s been a revolution in the way American parents name their children.”

ADVERTISEMENT

“It used to be about fitting in, so most parents would choose a name from a fairly limited set of typical baby names. That was what was realistic. That was what was expected. Today, the culture is more about standing out instead of fitting in, and the options are limitless.” However, with this creative freedom comes decision paralysis, as parents juggle the pressure to choose a name that is meaningful, unique, and reflective of their values.

That’s why it’s so important not to rush. Choosing a name isn’t just about aesthetics or trends—it’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of identity. Taking the time to weigh options, think about meanings, and say the name out loud a hundred times can help parents avoid any future regret.

Pamela Redmond, a globally recognized baby name expert, explains why this decision matters so much: “Your child’s name symbolizes the values and priorities most important in the world you create for your child. It sets the identity you present to the world and to yourself.”

Well, a name is more than just a label; it’s the first story you tell about your child and your family. So, while the process can feel overwhelming, it’s also a joyful opportunity to decide what matters most to you.

ADVERTISEMENT

It’s always helpful to keep an open mind and involve loved ones in the decision-making process for meaningful input

So, while choosing a name, parents can think about how it will sound in daily life. Will it roll off the tongue easily during a soccer game cheer or when calling your child to dinner? Practicality matters! 

It’s also worth considering nicknames. Some names naturally shorten into adorable nicknames, while others might invite the kind of teasing you’d rather avoid. You could try saying the name in your most tired, frustrated tone—because let’s face it, you’ll probably use it that way too!

Another tip is to think long-term. A name that’s cute for a baby might not feel as fitting for an adult in a professional setting. Sure, names like “Pixie” or “Bear” are trendy, but how will they look on a business card or a graduation diploma? Picking a name that grows with your child can save them from awkward moments in the future—or from rushing to legally change it when they turn 18.

And hey, if you want to get creative, why not involve the family in brainstorming? Just maybe not your toddler—unless you’re ready for suggestions like “Unicorn” or “Cupcake.”

ADVERTISEMENT

In this case, the author’s sister decided to creatively spell their mother’s maiden name, Rafferty, as Raefarty. While it’s understandable that parents want to add a unique flair to their child’s name, the alternative spelling might lead to pronunciation challenges or unintended associations—like the author humorously pointing out “Little Miss Farty Rae.” 

What do you think? Does the unique twist on a traditional name add charm, or does it risk being too unconventional? Do you know someone with a similarly unique name? It’s always fun to hear stories behind names and how they came to be!

Commenters sympathized with the author’s concerns, pointing out that they also immediately associated the name with “fart”

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Image credits: Kelly Sikkema (not the actual photo)

The author revealed that her family members, including the baby’s dad, understood her point only after seeing the name written down

 

ADVERTISEMENT

Image credits: Susana Coutinho (not the actual photo)

The woman’s sister had already ordered custom items featuring the name “Raefarty,” adding to the drama

The author mentioned that the family even staged an intervention where her sister’s best friend, a teacher, explained how names can make children targets for bullying

ADVERTISEMENT

Image credits: Andrej Lišakov (not the actual photo)

In the end, the author’s sister decided to choose a different name for her baby

ADVERTISEMENT

Image credits: coolerbeans1981

People online praised the new name, Theodora, as a beautiful and timeless choice

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Ic_polls

Poll Question

Thanks! Check out the results:

Share on Facebook
Nikita Manot

Nikita Manot

Writer, BoredPanda staff

Read more »

Nikita's knack for storytelling and creativity has led her into the world of writing. With a robust foundation in business studies, she crafts compelling narratives by seamlessly blending analytical insight with imaginative expression. At Bored Panda, she embarks on an exhilarating quest to explore diverse topics, fueled by curiosity and passion. During her leisure time, she savors life's simple pleasures, such as gardening, cooking homemade meals and hosting gatherings for loved ones.

Read less »
Nikita Manot

Nikita Manot

Writer, BoredPanda staff

Nikita's knack for storytelling and creativity has led her into the world of writing. With a robust foundation in business studies, she crafts compelling narratives by seamlessly blending analytical insight with imaginative expression. At Bored Panda, she embarks on an exhilarating quest to explore diverse topics, fueled by curiosity and passion. During her leisure time, she savors life's simple pleasures, such as gardening, cooking homemade meals and hosting gatherings for loved ones.

Shelly Fourer

Shelly Fourer

Author, BoredPanda staff

Read more »

Hey there! I'm Shelly, a Visual Editor at Bored Panda. When I'm not working, you'll often find me immersed in creativity, whether it's creating animations, 3D and traditional art, writing, or making music.I've been drawing since I was little, and my passion for visual storytelling really took off after I finished a 2-year Film Academy. It ignited my existing spark for bringing stories to life through visuals. Since then, I've been diving deeper into art and tech, always exploring new ways to tell compelling stories.

Read less »

Shelly Fourer

Shelly Fourer

Author, BoredPanda staff

Hey there! I'm Shelly, a Visual Editor at Bored Panda. When I'm not working, you'll often find me immersed in creativity, whether it's creating animations, 3D and traditional art, writing, or making music.I've been drawing since I was little, and my passion for visual storytelling really took off after I finished a 2-year Film Academy. It ignited my existing spark for bringing stories to life through visuals. Since then, I've been diving deeper into art and tech, always exploring new ways to tell compelling stories.

What do you think ?
Add photo comments
POST
Valerie Woods
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is one of the funniest things I've read on BP, yet. Literally coughing and crying about this. I'm howling! Her sister needs a brain transplant.

WindySwede
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This name probably wouldn't have gotten approved in Sweden in the first place.. 👍

Load More Replies...
MisterE
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why would anyone call her a jerk? She saved this child. And her sister, hormones aside, is an idiot that is CRAVING attention. She would not let her husband see a wall she painted in their house? And he didn't just go look? Insanity. The creative names has to stop. People need to change their names to their stupid ideas and thrn let their friends, strangers, and school children roast their a $$es to see why the names are ridiculous. All names are made up, but some are just stupid.

Marno C.
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OMG, YES! Let your child be special and unique on the merits of their character and achievements, not because they've been saddled with an attention-seeking 'I'm a star!' name.

Load More Replies...
Natalia Linnik
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice save, and Theo as short name sounds good. I also vote for keeping the “farty” gifts for 18 years party!

LakotaWolf (she/her)
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like "Theo" as well. I'm a Crystal who always wished people would call me Crys (I was, and still am, very "tomboyish" and not feminine/girly at all) but only my dad caught on that I really hated being called "Cryssie", which is what my mom and sister called me XD Even if OP's niece is more of a feminine girl, "Thea" is an option for a nickname and while it's not exactly a perfect contraction/shortening (whereas Theo is), it's still quite nice :)

Load More Replies...
Load More Comments
Valerie Woods
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is one of the funniest things I've read on BP, yet. Literally coughing and crying about this. I'm howling! Her sister needs a brain transplant.

WindySwede
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This name probably wouldn't have gotten approved in Sweden in the first place.. 👍

Load More Replies...
MisterE
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why would anyone call her a jerk? She saved this child. And her sister, hormones aside, is an idiot that is CRAVING attention. She would not let her husband see a wall she painted in their house? And he didn't just go look? Insanity. The creative names has to stop. People need to change their names to their stupid ideas and thrn let their friends, strangers, and school children roast their a $$es to see why the names are ridiculous. All names are made up, but some are just stupid.

Marno C.
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OMG, YES! Let your child be special and unique on the merits of their character and achievements, not because they've been saddled with an attention-seeking 'I'm a star!' name.

Load More Replies...
Natalia Linnik
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice save, and Theo as short name sounds good. I also vote for keeping the “farty” gifts for 18 years party!

LakotaWolf (she/her)
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like "Theo" as well. I'm a Crystal who always wished people would call me Crys (I was, and still am, very "tomboyish" and not feminine/girly at all) but only my dad caught on that I really hated being called "Cryssie", which is what my mom and sister called me XD Even if OP's niece is more of a feminine girl, "Thea" is an option for a nickname and while it's not exactly a perfect contraction/shortening (whereas Theo is), it's still quite nice :)

Load More Replies...
Load More Comments
You May Like
Related on Bored Panda
Related on Bored Panda
Trending on Bored Panda
Also on Bored Panda