Wondering why icy Greenland isn’t called Iceland? Listen to Merriam Webster’s Editor Kory Stamper’s short explanation of these toponyms.

Estately.com looks at some of the most outrageous toponyms in the United States. Enjoy!

In summary, middle names are “a way to keep family names going and thus preserve relationships,” but their history is more complex. Learn more about this onomastic component of identity.

Why do we change our names? This article discusses some of the factors behind this monumental decision. ANS President Dr. Iman Nick is among the people interviewed and quoted in the article.

International brands face naming challenges translating their brand names for different markets. Learn more about the creation of Chinese names for Western brands and one agency behind this.

One of the best and safest recreational activities when you find yourself locked in traffic is decoding the names encrypted within the endless sea of technicolor vanity plates in front of you. In many US states across the nation, the creativity of some motorists to come up with eye-catching, unforgettable number-letter combinations seems limitless. But appearances can be deceiving. As Guardian reporter Mona Chalabi reports, many federal courts have tight restrictions on what may and may NOT appear on a license plate.

There was a time, not so very long ago, when the female first name “Isis” was borne with a sense of pride. Today, women and girls who carry the name of this noble ancient Egyptian goddess report that those days are gone. Public outrage towards the similarly named terrorist group has made carrying this name a painful public burden. In a series of interviews conducted for The Guardian, UK journalist, Chitra Ramaswamy, tells readers about victims of this modern onomastic plight.

Personal names are often all the rage one day and horrifically out the next. These maddeningly unpredictable yet routinely merciless changes in onomastic taste can leave name-bearers stranded with monikers that leave them cringing every time they hear the question: “What was your name again?” Melbourne-based comedian, social worker, and names enthusiast, Deirdre Fidge, (yes, D-E-I-R-D-R-E) offers fellow victims of parental onomastic whimsy some heartfelt advice.