Because my husband and I had finally narrowed our names down to two choices, we started mentioning to our family and friends that we were closing in on a final decision. However, when we told everyone the two names-- [name]Anders[/name] and [name]Griffin[/name]-- 99% of them wrinkled their noses and said, “Ugh!! Those are terrible!” The most negative reactions were to [name]Griffin[/name], which almost everyone said instantly makes them think of “that flying monster”.
Now I really regret even mentioning the names to anyone because I was quite partial to [name]Griffin[/name]. I try to remind myself that it’s my child, and that most of the names suggested by our friends/family have been really heinous. At the same time, I don’t want to name my child something everyone hates (or has terrible associations with), and I’ve been looking through names for so long that I’m beginning to wonder if I’m just grasping at anything to be done with the whole naming business.
Is [name]Griffin[/name] terrible?
Does it make you instantly think of the mythical beast?
[name]Griffin[/name] definitely makes me think of the mythological beast, but it’s hardly “terrible.” I had a neighbor named [name]Griffin[/name] growing up, and the name suited him perfectly. I think it has a tough, rebellious vibe and it seems to me like the kind of name a little boy would love having.
“That flying monster”??? Heavens, it’s not as if you’re naming him Harpy or Flying Monkey! The gryphon is often depicted as a noble beast, possessing the qualities of both lion and eagle, which are fierce, powerful, majestic creatures associated with virtues such as loyalty, justice, leadership, protectiveness, strength of character, etc. Although griffin is the anglicized version of the Greek term for the mythological creature, the name [name]Griffin[/name], as far as I can tell is actually a variant of the Welsh name Gruffudd/Gruffydd, meaning “lord”
So on all counts, it’s a beautiful, strong, noble name with an established history. Let the haters hate! Besides, what little kid wouldn’t want to boast that he’s named after a gryphon?
Ok [name]Griffin[/name] actually makes me think of Party of Five and [name]Jeremy[/name] [name]London[/name]'s character [name]Griffin[/name]. I thought he was so cute, so I only have positive associations with that name!
[name]Griffin[/name] doesn’t make me think of the ‘flying monster’.
But [name]Anders[/name] makes me think of [name]Anders[/name] Behring Breivik, the man responsible for the 2011 Norway shootings.
I really like the name [name]Griffin[/name]! Also, you have the option of using the adorable nick name [name]Fin[/name]! I’ve found that through the process of deciding on a name for our baby boy, many people will not be shy to share their opinions when you tell them the names you are merely thinking about, but when you come right out and say we are naming our son… they tend to shut up and hold their opinions knowing the baby is already named
Either way the most important thing is that you love the name, everyone else will accept the name as they get to know the little person behind it
My brother got a very similar reaction when him and his wife chose the name [name]Phenix[/name] ([name]Phoenix[/name]) for their first son. Many people had a hurtful comment about the name when they announced it pre-birth. They stuck to their choice and named him [name]Phenix[/name]. Within a month of his birth people started talking about how the name suited him and how much they loved it once they got used to it.
I only wish they would have spelled it properly!
I adore the name [name]Griffin[/name] and it is becoming quite popular in my neighbourhood. It would seem that some people just have to get used to it, much like [name]Phoenix[/name].
[name]Griffin[/name] isn’t personally my style, but theirs absolutely nothing wrong with the name. In fact, I’d love to meet a little [name]Griffin[/name] or [name]Anders[/name]!
[name]Anders[/name] is a great name but I can’t get on board with the rest of this board and their like of [name]Griffin[/name]. I do think of the flying lion and a local sports club whose mascot is a [name]Griffin[/name].
I do immediately think of the mythical beast, but that doesn’t make it a terrible name for me Maybe if you were interested in names like Hydra, Medusa or Cerberus, but not [name]Griffin[/name]!
Re “looking through names so long”… Sometimes it’s good to take a break from naming and come back to it with “fresh eyes”.
I have to admit that when I read your first blog when you asked us to tell you which name of the two we would like better I didn´t respond to it because when I read [name]Griffin[/name] I immediately thought of that monster! And [name]Anders[/name] I just don´t like at all, so I didn´t say anything because I didn´t want to be rude. I´m sure you have given a lot of thoughts into picking those names. Now, I don´t know what kind of names your family suggested to you but if you think that [name]Griffin[/name] is the right name than thats what it´s gonna be! After all, it´s your baby and your name choice (and your husbands ). And honestly, just going by the sound of [name]Griffin[/name], I have to admit that I do like that It sounds very muscular and strong to me.
I love [name]Griffin[/name] and [name]Griffith[/name]. I love [name]Griff[/name] for a nick name. [name]Love[/name] love love. To the point that if DH would let me, i’d name a boy [name]Griffin[/name]… or maybe even just [name]Griff[/name]. I think it’s great.
I really love [name]Anders[/name] and [name]Griffin[/name]! I wouldn’t worry too much about reactions. I had them with both my kids. [name]Even[/name] our parents weren’t crazy about our choices, but love them now. I had never heard of mythological creatures called griffins.
I like them both. Whatever you decide to name your child, relatives will get used to it. It’s your choice and part of the pleasure of giving birth to a child. Your parents made their choice, now it is your turn to make your choice.
I really like [name]Anders[/name] and [name]Griffin[/name] isn’t quite my style, but there is NOTHING wrong with either name. I"m really surprised either is getting such a reaction since they are not common, but certainly not over the top.
It absolutely makes me think of a mythical beast - but I think that’s what makes it such an intriguing name!! Also makes me think of the [name]Gryphon[/name] from [name]Alice[/name] in Wonderland - another great association, imo
). And honestly, just going by the sound of [name]Griffin[/name], I have to admit that I do like that 
I think it’s great.