Names by Nickname
- Ced
Description:
Ced is a masculine name that typically functions as a diminutive of Cedric or sometimes Cedar. Cedric itself has Anglo-Saxon origins created by Sir Walter Scott for a character in his novel 'Ivanhoe,' possibly based on the Saxon name Cerdic. As a standalone name, Ced is quite uncommon, offering simplicity and brevity that contrasts with many contemporary naming trends. Its single-syllable structure gives it a strong, straightforward quality. Some parents might choose it as a modern-feeling shortened form while maintaining connection to the more traditional Cedric. The name's rarity makes it distinctive, while its shortness makes it practical and difficult to shorten further into nicknames. Ced may also appeal to parents seeking names with nature connections if viewed as related to cedar trees.
- Ceola
Description:
Ceola is a rare feminine name with uncertain origins, possibly derived from Old English or Germanic elements. One theory suggests it may be related to the Old English word 'ceol,' meaning 'ship' or 'keel,' giving it nautical associations. Alternatively, it could be a variation of Celia or Cecilia. The name has occasional historical usage, particularly in the southern United States during the early 20th century. Ceola has a melodic quality with its soft 'c' and flowing vowels, creating a gentle yet distinctive sound. The name's rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking something uncommon with a vintage charm and musical resonance.
- Ceri
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"to love"Description:
In Welsh, Ceri is traditionally a male name but can also be used for girls. It's a short form of Ceridwen too, the name of the Welsh goddess of poetry.
- Chad
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"battle warrior"Description:
Despite all the "hanging," "dangling," and "pregnant" chad jokes of the 2000 election, this saint's name and remnant of the Brad-Tad era didn't get a boost in popularity. But Chad still holds some surfer-boy appeal for a number of modern parents.
- Chago
Description:
Chago is a masculine name primarily used in Spanish-speaking cultures. It originated as a diminutive or nickname for Santiago, which itself is the Spanish form of Saint James (Sant Iago). The name carries the heritage and meaning of its root name, connecting to Saint James the Apostle, an important figure in Christian tradition. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Chago has maintained modest popularity in Latin American countries and Hispanic communities. The name is valued for its brevity, distinctive sound, and cultural connections. Chago offers a friendly, approachable alternative to the more formal Santiago while maintaining its rich cultural and religious heritage.
- Champ
Origin:
English word nameMeaning:
"champion"Description:
Though it sounds like a modern invention, Champ actually has a long history as a first name. It hit the Top 1000 several times just before and after the turn of the 20th Century.
- Charlie
Origin:
English diminutive of Charles or Charlotte, French from GermanMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Charlie is a friendly, boyish nickname name now used slightly more frequently for girls than boys, with over 2200 baby girls named Charlie last year versus about 2100 boys. That makes Charlie one of the most evenly-balanced and most popular unisex names around today.
- Charlie
Origin:
English, diminutive of Charles, French from GermanMeaning:
"free man"Description:
Charlie derives, of course, from the classic name Charles which, in turn, comes from a German word meaning "free man." Charles became very popular in France during the Middle Ages due to the fame of Charles the Great, also known as Charlemagne. Charley is an alternate spelling.
- Charo
Origin:
Spanish nickname for Rosa or RosarioMeaning:
"rose or rosary"Description:
A nickname-name made famous by the uni-named Spanish singer Charo, whose full name was María del Rosario Pilar Martínez Molina Gutiérrez de los Perales Santa Ana Romanguera y de la Hinojosa Rasten.
- Chela
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of ConsueloMeaning:
"she who brings consolation"Description:
The beautiful Consuelo, with its compassionate meaning, is deserving of being used in full.
- Chelle
Description:
Chelle is typically a shortened form of names ending in '-chelle' such as Michelle, Rachelle, or Rochelle. This feminine diminutive has French origins, where 'Michelle' derives from the Hebrew name Michael, meaning 'who is like God?' As a standalone name, Chelle emerged in the late 20th century when parents began favoring nickname-style given names. It has a modern, concise appeal while maintaining a soft feminine sound. Though not among the most common names, Chelle offers a contemporary alternative to more traditional feminine names, striking a balance between familiar and distinctive. Its popularity peaked in the 1980s but remains a charming option for parents seeking a short, melodic name with established roots.
- Chelo
Description:
Chelo is a masculine name with Spanish origins, derived from the nickname for names like Marcelo or Consuelo. In Spanish culture, it's common to create affectionate shortened forms of longer names, and Chelo represents this tradition. The name carries a warm, friendly quality and has connections to Latin American communities. While not among the most common names internationally, Chelo maintains steady popularity in Spanish-speaking regions. Its brevity and melodic sound make it easily pronounceable across different languages. The name often conveys a sense of friendliness and approachability, characteristics valued in Hispanic cultures.
- Chelo
Description:
Chelo is a feminine name primarily used in Spanish-speaking cultures, particularly in Spain and Latin America. It originated as a diminutive of names containing 'cel' such as Consuelo (meaning 'consolation') or Marcela. Sweet and melodic, Chelo has an appealing brevity and rhythmic quality. While not among the most common Spanish names, it has maintained consistent usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name carries warm associations in Hispanic communities and has occasionally been used for males in some regions. Chelo's simplicity and cross-cultural adaptability have contributed to its enduring appeal.
- Cheo
Description:
Cheo is a masculine name with diverse cultural roots. In Vietnamese tradition, it means 'small' or 'little one,' while in Spanish-speaking communities, it often serves as a nickname for names like José or Sergio. The name also appears in Chinese usage with various meanings depending on the characters used. Cheo's brevity and distinctive 'ch' sound make it appealing to parents seeking short, memorable names that work across cultural boundaries. Though not among the most common names in the United States, Cheo has maintained consistent, if modest, usage in multicultural communities. The name's international presence and easy pronunciation contribute to its subtle charm and versatility.
- Chess
Description:
Chess is an uncommon masculine name derived from the classic strategy board game. As a given name, it evokes qualities of strategic thinking, patience, and intellectual prowess. The game of chess dates back to the 6th century, originating in India before spreading worldwide, which gives the name a sense of historical depth and cross-cultural significance. As a contemporary first name, Chess has a distinctive, concise quality with a modern edge, while still maintaining connections to tradition and thoughtful contemplation. The name remains quite rare in usage, appealing to parents seeking something truly unique with intellectual associations for their son.
- Chet
Origin:
Diminutive of ChesterMeaning:
"fortress, walled town"Description:
Chet is an old-fashioned short form that, ala Ned and Joe, is starting to sound cool again.
- Chicho
Description:
Chicho is a masculine name with Spanish and Latin American origins, typically used as an affectionate nickname rather than a formal given name. Derived from the Spanish word "chico" meaning "boy" or "small," Chicho carries a warmth and familiarity that reflects close relationships. In many Spanish-speaking communities, it serves as a diminutive for Francisco, though it can also function as an independent nickname for other names or become a formal name in its own right. The name conveys a cheerful, approachable quality with its repeating "ch" sound, giving it a playful, friendly character. While uncommon as a legal given name in most countries, Chicho remains popular within Hispanic families as a term of endearment. The name's informal nature gives it a perpetually youthful quality that persists throughout life.
- Chip
Origin:
Pet name for CharlesDescription:
Only if you're madly nostalgic for sixties TV.
- Chita
Description:
Chita is a feminine name with multicultural origins. In Spanish, it serves as a diminutive of names like Conchita (from Concepción). In Filipino culture, the name means 'small' or can be a nickname for Mercedes. In Russian, it derives from the word for 'shield.' The name gained some recognition through legendary Broadway performer Chita Rivera. Chita has a bright, cheerful quality with its short, crisp pronunciation. While never reaching mainstream popularity in the United States, it has maintained a presence in Hispanic and Filipino communities. The name carries a warm, friendly impression and often conveys a sense of vivaciousness and spirit despite its brevity.
- Chris
Origin:
Diminutive of ChristinaMeaning:
"a Christian"Description:
Chris is one of the longest-running and still most appealing unisex short forms, still used nearly equally for boys and girls. Though no longer fashionable, Chris still feels crisp and appropriate for both sexes.