Christian name

Christian name is a term historically used in predominantly Christian societies to refer to the first name given to a person at baptism, as opposed to their surname or family name. This term is less commonly used in contemporary society, with the term "first name" or "given name" often used instead.

History

The tradition of giving a child a Christian name at baptism dates back to the early days of the Christian Church. It was believed that the new name would protect the child from evil spirits and signify their new life as a Christian. The name chosen often had religious significance, such as the name of a saint or a figure from the Bible.

Usage

In many Western cultures, the Christian name is the name used in everyday life. It is the name by which a person is commonly known and referred to by others. In formal situations, both the Christian name and the surname may be used.

In some cultures, the Christian name is only used in religious contexts, while a secular name is used in other contexts. This practice is less common today, but can still be found in some communities.

Cultural variations

The use and significance of Christian names can vary greatly between different cultures and societies. In some cultures, Christian names are chosen for their religious significance, while in others they are chosen for their aesthetic appeal or to honor a family member.

In many cultures, it is common for a person to have more than one Christian name. This can be a way of honoring multiple family members or saints, or simply a way of giving the child a choice of names to use later in life.

See also

• Given name
• Surname
• Baptism
• Name day