Cassell's Dictionary of First Names (Cassell Dictionary of...)

What does David actually mean? Which famous people have shared your first name? Why might parents want to call their child Plaxy? From the most popular to the most outlandish, find out about more than 2000 names--their definitions, origin, history, and development. Of course, this dictionary is perfect if you're looking to name a new baby, but even if not, the details are captivating on their own. Lists reveal the top five first names given to children each year over the past 50 years, and how they've changed. There's information on people both real and fictional who have shared particular names, and whose fame has helped to popularize them. So whether you're checking out any Tom, Dick, or Harry; Elvis, Dylan, or Madonna; sweet Charity or Mary quite contrary, it's here!