I’ve noticed recently that I’ve yet to do a name profile on a name for boys, so I thought I’d give it a go. And what better name to kick off the boys’ name profiles than Ambrose? For a name that peaked in 1901, this ancient appellation makes up in sound what it lacks in style.
What’s so good about Ambrose?
More than you’d think. For one, he’s very rare. Last appearing in the top 1000 in 1954 at #932, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever meet an Ambrose under the age of 60. If you’re looking for a moniker that will stand out from a crowd of Liams and Emmas, Ambrose is one to consider.
Another big plus of Ambrose is his vintage status. Vintage names are always in vogue, and Ambrose isn’t any different to Theodore or Juniper in terms of style. However, unlike those two names, Ambrose isn’t gaining in popularity fast enough to observe on the charts, which is great for those who love the quirky vintage style of Theodore and Juniper, but not so much the popularity that accompanies them.
Ambrose also appeals to more than one style of name. Vintage though he is, Ambrose also fits in with a select group of saint names in between popular Aidan and obscure Ignatius. If religious ties matter to your family, Ambrose certainly delivers. One of the four Latin fathers of the Christian church, also the patron saint of learning, bore this name, lending this moniker spiritual meaning as well.
I’m sold! But why aren’t more people using it?
Well, the side effects of rarity are mainly what is keeping Ambrose from exploding into the next Milo. When a name is as rare as Ambrose is, there are very few associations. Therefore, when one character in a novel or movie bears the name, that is often the only association people have with the name, and if it’s an unpleasant association, then parents won’t choose the name for their child. In Ambrose’s case, the musical “The Phantom of the Opera” presents Lord Ambrose D’arcy as the antagonist, and the popular book series “The Kingkiller Chronicles” features Ambrose Jakis as the bad guy. Although negative connotation doesn’t always doom an up and coming name, it can definitely slow its roll, especially when both of the well known Ambroses are painted in a negative light.
Although I personally find Ambrose’s sound distinct, I can’t ignore the fact that Ambrose does sound very feminine to some people. Due to the girls' names Amber and Rose, Ambrose’s sound does lean towards team pink. Even though it is a double standard, many people would avoid Ambrose because of its traditionally feminine sounds.
Which brings me to my next point: nicknames. Because Ambrose does contain elements of the name Rose, Rosie or Ro would be a natural nickname. However, those nicknames have been reserved for the ladies for quite a while, and that doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon, due to the unfortunate stigma around boys having more feminine names.
Predictions for Ambrose:
With the 100 year rule, or the 100 year time period between the time a name peaks in popularity and the time that a name is revived, I would rule Ambrose out, as he peaked in 1901, and therefore missed his window of revival in 2001. But there are inconsistencies within that rule, and with the rise of other boys' names with softer sounds like Milo, Luca, and Jude, Ambrose could get swept up with the trend. And Ambrose’s similar sound to Amber or Rose could be a potential honor name for a special woman in your life, even if you're expecting a boy. I think Ambrose still has life in him yet and the potential to catch on with parents again.
Sincerely,
~Delphina Moon
How do you like the name Ambrose? Do you think he’s due for a revival, or a bit too late?
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