Assignment 3: Behind the Name

Behind My Name: Courtney


Before I started this assignment, I thought my name was common among society, because I usually hear it everywhere.


The reason I was named Courtney is because when my mother saw me the name just came to her (or so she told me).


After searching Baby Names Stats I found out my name has many different meanings from many different origins.


A person who dwells by the dark stream (Angelo-Saxson), a person who is Courtly or Courteous (English: Girl), a Courtier or Court attendant (English: Boy), a person from the court or also known as "short nose" coming from an aristocratic Courtenay family meaning "short nose" (French: Boy/Girl), and "Born at Court." (Latin: Girl).


Personaly I find it quiet funny that Courtney means "Short Nose" and I, infact have a sort of small nose. I wonder why Courtney means "Born at Court" and "Dwells by the dark stream"? I have looked at many sites and still havent come across these two meanings other than at this site. I suggest you check it out, the link is right here. See if you find anything different like I have.


Something I found interesting was found in my very own room. Its was a plaque with the meaning of my name on it witch as I recall I had recieved from my uncle as a present a couple years ago. It go's like this...


"Courtney


From Courtney, an name of Old English Origin,
Meaning "from the court",
She brings great joy in the lives of others,
Greets the day with a smile,
Believes there is great beauty in one daisy,
Draws strenght from her family,
Believes in minding her own busniess,
She gets along with many different kinds of people,
She thrives in challenging situations."


-Names "R" Us
The Historical Research Center.


I dont know where he got it but there is a name on the back (Names "R" Us).
I dont really think my name suits me but strangly enough I wouldnt have it any other way. Maybe one day I will be able to make the name Courtney finally fit.


I think people are givin names for...


a) For communicational purposes. Could you imagin saying "Hey, you!" to everyone for the rest of your life?
b) For personal reasons as well as spritual. For example being named after a late loved one or in one of my friend’s cases, a favorite book series.


What ever reason you are givin your name for, you should be proud of it and love it because for some random reason that name becomes a part of you no legal document or big landslide in your life can change. You are your name.