Ready for another name interview? This one is with Fiona Isabella, a 38-year-old from Germany.
What’s the story behind her names?
I was born to British / Australian parents but both have Scottish ancestry, so they decided to go with Scottish names for all their children. Back in the days without internet, they relied on books and word of mouth for inspiration. In fact, my dad kept several letters from relatives that he and my mum wrote to when expecting me. The letters are full of lists of Scottish names, written in traditional cursive handwriting by some ancient relative – ‘Fiona’ is clearly circled. With regards to my middle name, I was the third generation to receive Isabella, (although my mum got Isobel, which she finds ugly). Therefore I have continued this tradition for my first daughter.
What does she like most about her name?
I have lived in many countries and with many languages yet my name is easy for people to say. I have been pleasantly surprised to meet people with the name, whose parents are not native English speakers (to be precise, French, German and Mandarin speakers). I also like that most people recognise it as Scottish, giving me a heritage link.
What does she like least about her name?
When I lived in Australia I didn’t like the way the Australian accent gave it a very nasal ‘o’ sound, and also people’s tendency to assume I preferred ‘Fi’.
Finally, would Fiona recommend that her name be given to babies today?
Yes, I feel like it is ageless: feminine and elegant, but fresh. For those looking for a less-used name, I think it is a good alternative to Anna. In terms of sibling sets, I think it blends well with male surname names.
Thank you, Fiona!
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