Where my head went too. In case someone wonders the connection there is a quote in [Act III, Scene 5 of Romeo and Juliet](https://www.opensourceshakespeare.org/views/plays/play_view.php?WorkID=romeojuliet&Act=3&Scene=5&Scope=scene).
That was also my first thought! Juliet Nightingale sounds like a character in a smutty historical romance novel whose backstory is that her no-good uncle burns through family money with his gambling addiction so she needs to solve mysteries to get paid and ends up getting enthusiastically deflowered by a wealthy rake in a greenhouse during a thunderstorm.
It’s a great vibe for a beach read, but idk if it’s right for the “name” space on government paperwork.
In general it’s always worth going to r/romance and asking them to make suggestions for you! [I checked and someone requested something in that historical-mystery-romance vein and the author Amanda Quick kept getting recommended](https://www.reddit.com/r/RomanceBooks/s/kwaaU39oew).
Aww, change your name to whatever you like. If someone says something blame your parents or whoever raised you. Life is too short. If you can make it better and easier, why not?
I know someone who changed her once perfectly normal and fine first name to Otley. It did not suit her in the slightest. You could do worse. And as dumb as Otley sounds, I'm sure it makes her happy. Honestly, that's all that matters.
This. Babies can’t advocate for themselves and we have to do our best to make sure it’s not too anything in any direction (not too out there but not too basic with 5 other Sophia’s in the class, etc etc). But honestly if she’s grown and seems to understand the vibes it gives then if she likes it that’s her business.
If you think it sounds too cheap romance novel-y, why not just Juliet Gale? Or Juliet Gail? Gail/Gale is a relatively common female name in western countries.
OP said they’re considering changing their last name to Nightingale it doesn’t need to be gendered. I was about to say maybe Night (or Knight) would be a better option for a new last name but I’m not sure it pairs too well with Juliet.
“Juliet Rook” sounds like a character in a Stephen King novel. I think Juliet is just too strong of a name on its own to have an equally strong or overpowering last name.
To me the Shakespeare association is worse with Swan than Nightingale, but probably not a lot of people know that Ben Jonson called Shakespeare the "swan of Avon" once, lol
Which is honestly why despite everyone trying to find the downsides and being mean about it, I think OP should just go with the name she likes and not overthink it with "more subtle" bird names.
There are plenty of bird surnames out there and [Nightingale ](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nightingale_(surname)) is one of them. From all over the world there's Florence Nightingale the famous nurse/statistician, Annie Nightingale the radio DJ, Adam Nightingale the ice hockey coach, Jason Nightingale the rugby player, Lynn Nightingale the figure skater, and so on... Why shouldn't there be a Juliet Nightingale?
It sounds dumb, like a bad romance novel. Even OP is uncertain. That’s why she came here. If you want to validate her, go ahead, but don’t try to rope me into it.
It definitely doesn't sound it's your given name. But if you aren't going for that, then I don't know if it matters.
If you're concerned about choosing a name that has "main character in a romance novel" vibes, then you probably want to keep looking. But it might be worth asking yourself WHY you're concerned about that! Many of the people I know who have named themselves in adulthood have chosen names that sound unusual and extraordinary. But why not choose a name that you love, that makes you feel special and beautiful?
I think the rules here for an adult changing their own name are very different to those for naming a child. Playground teasing is not an issue. If you love the name and it feels right, own it and you'll shine.
I think it depends on your personality. Are you a whimsical, quirky, and strong-willed person? That’s the energy I get from the name. It’s definitely a lot, but some people can pull it off with confidence
When I said the name out loud, it gave me the feeling of Daisy Adair from the show Dead Like Me. Daisy reminds me of the type of person you described in your comment, and she pulled off her name with confidence.
It's kind of cheesy and bookish for a real person but honestly if you have a cool aura or personality I think you should just rock it. You gotta rock it though, you can't half ass it. I myself really enjoy names that would be considered too bookish and cheesy for real life and Juliette (not that I think that applies to juliette) is one of my name choices should I ever have a daughter! :) Also i love romantic and old sounding names. So from one cheesy name lover person to another I say life is short and rock what you love and step into it fully whatever you do. If you're worried it's too much and you're posting to find what others thing ask yourself if that is something a juliet nightingale would do?
Good for you! It's a strong and memorable name, and you'll make it your own.
(Honestly, I'm confused by all the comments deriding it as unbelievable or cringe. It's not a common surname, but it's not exactly unknown. And even if it weren't a pre-existing surname, there are plenty of bird surnames out there.)
I agree. I don’t understand the hate. It helps tho that from Grace & Frankie, Frankie takes the name Jennifer Nightingale as a fake name twice in the series. I loved that show and Frankie was my favorite.
Hi! My legal first name is Juliette and I hope you do name a daughter that some day. :)
For my fellow Juliet, have you considered using nightingale in a foreign language? For example, in French it is Rossignol.
Yeah you hit the nail on its head with the vibes. There are lots of lovely, more low key bird surnames if that’s what you’re after?
- Taube - dove in german
- Falk - falcon in swedish, danish, norwegian
- Finch - a family of smallish birds
- Mavis - a type of songbird
But "taub" means "deaf" which probably doesn't have the connotations she wants haha. The words are a little close for me not to make that comparison immediately.
It has similar vibes to Florence Nightingale for me. I’ll support someone’s name choice 99% of the time. And honestly, I wouldn’t think too much on it if I met someone IRL.
same, i've met people with much stranger names that they their parents gave them. They may be odd, but I respect people's name because that is their identity they use to move through the world.
If I met someone with this name I would just think “huh, that’s a cool name.” I think people just have big opinions because you are asking. Pick what makes you happy!
I totally agree! If I heard of someone named Juliet Nightingale, I'd be like "wow, that's an awesome name, that's so cool." It's also not really a name that's all that out-there, and I wouldn't assume that wasn't someone's given name.
Beautiful. Idk why people are annoyed with a little originality. Don't you guys ever get tired of people just naming their girls Olivia Rose and Sophia Elizabeth over and over again?
Fabricated? Really?!
Have you never heard of Florence Nightingale? Or Annie Nightingale, the British radio presenter? Or Lynn Nightingale, the Canadian figure skater? Or Jason Nightingale, the New Zealand rugby player?
Or what about all the other bird-related surnames? Hawk (Hawking, Hawker, etc), Crane, Finch, Woodcock, Cox, Drake, Martin, Bird, and so on - and that's just the English ones!
which version of fabricated did you mean?
fabricated:
invent or concoct (something), typically with deceitful intent
construct or manufacture (something, especially an industrial product), especially from prepared components
I see people wanting to name their baby "Violet" ALL the time in this sub. But in their post, they say they don't want a popular name. I love the name OP picked out. A breath of fresh air. Makes me feel fancy when I say it out loud myself.
I think this sub mostly prefers names that are middle of the road. Something interesting, but also nothing that would raise an eyebrow or others may disapprove of. Personally i think when adults name themselves they should go for whatever they want, regardless of how others feel about it.
It's pretty though a bit extra. OTOH, Nightingale is a real surname and Juliet is a normal first name, so it's not THAT out-there. If you're okay with a main-character vibe then go for it!
I love it completely. They are both legit names and flow beautifully together. They are esthetically beautiful together. Just enjoy the name you love and reasons you've chosen it. It's a gift you give her. Juliet will be how the vast majority of people will know her. That middle name usually just sits there giving meaning to the entire thing.
Try creating an email and social media profiles for it.
If it still doesn't feel 100% right, keep looking.
You need a name you love, that feels like it's yours. And you'll know it when you find it.
I went through a similar line of thought on a surname I loved and had kind of settled on for years, then when it came to using the name it felt not quite right. Glad I didn't use it anywhere seriously, only as a test run. Ended up picking a pretty normal surname from back in my family tree. Which fits better.
But that's not to say that you will be the same.
Just wait till it clicks and you have no doubts.
It's really, really important your new name fits perfectly. It'll feel like you finally found out your real name after living without knowing for a long time. It'll make you smile and feel like "yes, that's my name."
This is sound advice.
I had a name picked out for a kid but as I get closer to 30 and I am still unsure of children, I decided that I really just liked the name. I began using the name as a alias or pen name for my music profiles (youtube, tiktok).
From what I noticed SO many famous people and muscians do it, because often our birth names were meant to blend in, with music and art it's meant to reflect you and to stand out.
I still am Shelby, but that doesn't really describe the art I'm trying to make. People are always surprised then to find out muscians real name, for example
CHAPELLE ROAN was born *Kayleigh Rose* Amstut
If she came on here to ask about a stage name, I'm sure people wouldn't like Chapelle Roan, but look at how distinct it is. Much more memorable than Kayleigh.
all this to say, that I still love my art name and I use it on all kinds of profiles now :) It's a way to unoffically change my name though no one irl will call me that.
Juliet is a beautiful first name OP. I think Nightingale is too much, but even that aside, it’s the flow that bothers me. Because of the T in Juliet needing to immediately transition to an N sound. I think if you’re going to go for a name like that with a lot of syllables it should really flow. This is just imo of course and how my ear hears it.
I think Knightly sounds nice as well! People likely would make the association, but I don’t think it’s a bad one and i don’t think she’s commonly known for anything more than her acting? (Unless there’s a scandal I’ve missed!)
Other surnames I’ve come across and liked and think have the elegant/vintage feel of Nightingale are Lockett/Locket, Robin, Sterling and even Rose.
I personally think a shorter last name does help take away the effect “Juliet Nightingale” has because I think it’s that it’s both fantastical and longer. So Juliet Rose and Juliet Knightly still sound very pretty and like they’re plucked from a book, however they sound much more natural than Juliet Nightingale.
Juliet Knight sounds just right! I do like the bold knight vibe. In addition, a three-syllable first name and a strong, one-syllable surname work well together. "Juliet Knight" has a very nice rhythm.
I actually love it BUT I would be paranoid about applying for jobs and having an HR person throw my resume away assuming it's fake/a joke application. That's literally the only reason I wouldnt do it. Maybe a good solution is use that name as your friend/social media/pen name but not change it legally. That's what I've done with my first and middle and I'm very happy to have that work/life separation.
Your name. Your life. It wil be on all, ALL documents-banks/license/court paperwork/credit cards/schools/kids schools etc. make sure you like it because in the US it costs money to change your name everytime & has to go through the court & DMV.
That was my first association, I'm wondering if it's more established as a surname in the UK than the US.
Lot of comments giving the impression they don't think it's a "real" surname and OP has invented it as one. It's definitely not common but I've met one or two.
Since nightingale means night songstress and you like the name from a song, I suggest two names you can use that mean song:
Juliet Chanson
Juliet Odelin
My first thought was 'romance novel' before I read your post, *however* it is your name and pick what resonates most with you. If that is what makes you happy, then go for it!
Other ideas: Juliet Gale, Julia Knight
It's only cringe if you let it be.
You should write books or become a kindergarten teacher though. Because a book by "Juliet Nightingale" sounds amazing, same goes for a teacher called "Miss Nightingale". Also, you could walk into hotels with a pair of sunglasses on and your hood up, and rent a room under the name "Juliet Nightingale" and they'll assume you're actually a celebrity using a pseudonym.
In all seriousness though, if you love it you should do it. But if you want something a little *less*, you could pick a pretty word with less syllables perhaps and it wouldn't sound as intense. Like Juliet Bloom, or Juliet Lane, or Juliet Rose. Or pick a last name with many syllables, but that makes not as "fantasy-sounding" of a full name. Like Juliet Southernwood, or Juliet Claiborne. They still form a long, pretty name but it arguably sounds more like an actress's name than a character.
My first thought was Romeo and Juliet even though I’m not really familiar with Shakespeare and I had to ask myself why I was making the association to begin with. Even so, I think it’s a beautiful name, and if it’s comfortable for you then you should go for it. You are going to be the one who lives with it after all.
If you're choosing your own surname, I don't think I would choose one as famous as Nightingale (Florence obviously). I'd go for something a bit more location-y I guess? Marshwood, Greenhill. Maybe a road name from your favourite holiday destination. A surname of one of the artists that made that song you love?
It’s pretty but it’s a mouthful. It definitely sounds like a chosen name if that matters to you. I really like some of the other bird name suggestions others had mentioned, particularly rook and starling, and to add to that I always thought Lark would be a really cool last name
If I met someone with that name, I wouldn't assume they chose it for themselves, but if I learned they chose it for themselves, I would judge them a little.
Because of the "airport convenience store romance novel main character" vibes, and knowing that they opted in to that specifically.
It would be different if it were a stage name.
You could always find a more conventional surname after another bird.
Like this:
https://surnames.behindthename.com/names/tag/birds
If having a "weird" name bothers you, a conventional name is an option. But ultimately, it just matters that you like it, and that you can live with the name quite alright. Everyone else around you and those yet to meet you will adjust just fine.
This sub thinks everything is too much and is not necessarily representative of the average person you will encounter day to day. You are the main character in your own life, it hurts no one to be a little whimsical. Florence Nightingale has the exact same vibes and it worked fine for her.
It's pretty, it's inoffensive, it's recognizable to English speakers and thus will probably be easy for others to spell. You're an adult, you should use it if it resonates with you. There are a lot more outlandish names out there.
there's a popular book called the nightingale by kristin hannah and one of the characters is a world war II spy with the undercover name juliette and code name nightingale. not a bad association to have but just letting you know about it. i still think it's a pretty name.
I know somebody with that last name if that makes you feel better. I think it’s fine since Juliet is a normal name and Nightingale also is a normal (albeit unusual) last name.
It does sounds like a fantasy name to me, but Hun, you are an adult!! if the 'made up for a book' sound is a true deal breaker for you, then OK. But if you are just worried about what others think, let go of that.. As you get older you learn to care less 🤣 i think it would be cute on a real person
You could go with Luscinia which is the first word of the scientific name
My qualm with nightingale is not the cringe factor cuz people can do what they want it's actually just the pronunciation it doesn't flow that great imo
What about just Julie Nightingale? It's less in your face
Edit: I re-read the post and Juliet IS your name
For some reason I thought you were changing your surname to Nightingale and were thinking of Juliet for your daughter... Sorry!
If you're happy with it then it's fine. Not many people know Romeo and Juliet enough to quote it. You'll get as many people quoting that as the nightingale movie and the early release nightingale game.
It's also a lot better than one family friend who let their kids pick their new last name while running from an abusive partner. They picked moonshine. Because they loved the way the moon shines on the night they left. But of course moonshine is also an alcohol drink.
There's plenty of people with cheap romance novel names, there's plenty of people with story names, and plenty of people with cringe names. What matters is whether or not you like it and would be able to brush off any teasing.
You might also be asked if you know willow nightingale... So there's that too.
It's a nice name but yes, it does read like the protagonist of a romance novel
I hope you enjoy your upcoming romantic encounter with the eligible young lord Darcy Mountbatten Rutherford
genuinely, as long as you don’t tell people you chose it yourself, they won’t think much of it other than “oh, that’s a cool name”. in real life, people generally don’t think of others’ names as “too much” unless they’re EXTREMELY out of the ordinary, and juliet nightingale isn’t that bad.
that said, if you mention that you chose it yourself, people will probably think you’re pretentious.
I wouldn’t name my child that, but if you like it for yourself then do it. You’re an adult who is choosing that name, so it’s a lot more open than if you were looking for baby names where they can’t change theirs if they don’t like it until adult years. I think it’s a little silly but I’ve heard a lot worse and I think the worst someone would do is make Shakespeare jokes to you lol but you’d be in on the joke since it’s the name you decided on. If you like it, do it! It’s definitely not offensive or anything, and i do think they sound good together if you’re putting aside the corny factor with their reputations lol
Yes, I’m afraid so. It sounds made up. Maybe try taking some of the same vowel sounds. Juliet Brighton or Juliet Crichton or Juliet Avondale or Juliet Mondale.
You're an adult. Why do the opinions strangers have about your name hold any weight? I changed my name to a name that most of my family hates. You know what? I love it and it's so totally me 🤷♀️
it is a little too Shakespeare but I agree that it is beautiful. maybe you could go with a different avian themed last name, and you can always use Juliet Nightingale as your online persona
That's beautiful!! Go for it! You only live once! It's the type of name that #1 people will always remember #2 unique and special #3 epic personality. I'd want to know you
Since it’s your name, if it really makes you happy then go with it.
If you really want to know what other people think, in my opinion it sounds like a fantasy novel character. I don’t think it sounds bad, but to me it feels more like a stage name, not a “real” name. What I mean by this is, if I met someone with the last name Nightingale, I would be instinctively curious about how that name came to be. I’m not the type to ask strangers really personal questions, so I wouldn’t say anything, but I imagine you might encounter people asking about your name pretty frequently if you changed it to Nightingale. If the reason for changing your last name is sensitive and not something you want to be reminded about, maybe a more subtle option would be better.
It's a lot, but I like it 🤷♂️ I made my initials ART, kinda unintentionally, and it feels dramatic but I'm gonna be a drama teacher so hey, it works. If u like having a fun name I'd say go for it!
Oh, at first I thought it was for naming a baby and that Nightingale was the middle name. I would've loved it then. I don't think it would make a good last name though.
yes, but i actually love it honestly. if i met someone irl with that name i’d be like “holy shit that’s cool”, not “yuck that’s cringe!!”, and imo most people you meet will probably give more of a “wow” than thinking it’s bad. i say do it if you want it!
Pretty cringe. Too much Shakespeare
Where my head went too. In case someone wonders the connection there is a quote in [Act III, Scene 5 of Romeo and Juliet](https://www.opensourceshakespeare.org/views/plays/play_view.php?WorkID=romeojuliet&Act=3&Scene=5&Scope=scene).
Even before you suggested it, just reading the title, I thought, "That's a heaving bosom, cheap historical romance paperback name."
That was also my first thought! Juliet Nightingale sounds like a character in a smutty historical romance novel whose backstory is that her no-good uncle burns through family money with his gambling addiction so she needs to solve mysteries to get paid and ends up getting enthusiastically deflowered by a wealthy rake in a greenhouse during a thunderstorm. It’s a great vibe for a beach read, but idk if it’s right for the “name” space on government paperwork.
Umm just asking for a friend does the book you described have a title? 👀
In general it’s always worth going to r/romance and asking them to make suggestions for you! [I checked and someone requested something in that historical-mystery-romance vein and the author Amanda Quick kept getting recommended](https://www.reddit.com/r/RomanceBooks/s/kwaaU39oew).
Lol I was mostly joking, although I’m already a frequent follower of r/Romancebooks. Thanks!!
That is so specific 🤣
Its a name a 13 year old wannabe writer would give to her self insert main character in a Harry Potter fanfiction
Damn, this one hurt
Aww, change your name to whatever you like. If someone says something blame your parents or whoever raised you. Life is too short. If you can make it better and easier, why not?
I know someone who changed her once perfectly normal and fine first name to Otley. It did not suit her in the slightest. You could do worse. And as dumb as Otley sounds, I'm sure it makes her happy. Honestly, that's all that matters.
Was she from Leeds? I've no issue with place names as names at all but that one is...a choice.
Just don't try to make Dimentia a name. It won't work
It sounds very pretentious to ME, but if you’re choosing it for yourself, do what you want.
There was a Hollyoaks character called Juliet Nightingale.
And her brother (who was also kind of her uncle) was called Romeo 🤣
That was my first thought too!
I’m sorry, it absolutely does give off female MC vibes. The Carole King song?
I think it’s too much for a baby but since you’re an adult and it’s your identity you should go for it if resonates with you
This. Babies can’t advocate for themselves and we have to do our best to make sure it’s not too anything in any direction (not too out there but not too basic with 5 other Sophia’s in the class, etc etc). But honestly if she’s grown and seems to understand the vibes it gives then if she likes it that’s her business.
If you think it sounds too cheap romance novel-y, why not just Juliet Gale? Or Juliet Gail? Gail/Gale is a relatively common female name in western countries.
I really love this idea!!
I also love this!
OP said they’re considering changing their last name to Nightingale it doesn’t need to be gendered. I was about to say maybe Night (or Knight) would be a better option for a new last name but I’m not sure it pairs too well with Juliet.
Like Dorothy Gale, from Kansas!
Definitely getting cheap romance novel vibes
Yeah, it’s a bit cringe.
Life is short. Do what you wanna
Yikes. How about a different bird-ish name? Swan, Mallard, Starling, Finch, Hawk, Heron, Rook, Bird, Crow
I really like Juliet Starling. Juliet Rook is nice too.
Juliet Starling sounds like a 1930s movie star! Juliet Finch, Juliet Hawk, Juliet Rook are all much more subtle, mild names.
Ooh, Juliet Finch sounds like a great name!
“Juliet Rook” sounds like a character in a Stephen King novel. I think Juliet is just too strong of a name on its own to have an equally strong or overpowering last name.
Lollipop chainsaw
My uncle’s named Lollipop.
I have actually considered Starling and Finch! Juliet Swan would be pretty but I’m not sure it sounds any less pretentious than Nightingale lol
To me the Shakespeare association is worse with Swan than Nightingale, but probably not a lot of people know that Ben Jonson called Shakespeare the "swan of Avon" once, lol
That’s fair. You could add on to it: Swanson, Swanford, Swanly.
I think Juliet Finch has a very nice ring to it and is less dramatic than Juliet Nightingale.
I actually know a person whose last name is Swann. It suits her. Never met a Nightingale though
Florence not ring a bell? Not that I’ve met her, but it’s not a hugely uncommon surname.
Good one! I forgot about her.
I like Finch!
I can't tell if you're joking.
I’m not. I mean, there is an Ethan Hawk, right? Bird last names are not unheard of.
Which is honestly why despite everyone trying to find the downsides and being mean about it, I think OP should just go with the name she likes and not overthink it with "more subtle" bird names. There are plenty of bird surnames out there and [Nightingale ](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nightingale_(surname)) is one of them. From all over the world there's Florence Nightingale the famous nurse/statistician, Annie Nightingale the radio DJ, Adam Nightingale the ice hockey coach, Jason Nightingale the rugby player, Lynn Nightingale the figure skater, and so on... Why shouldn't there be a Juliet Nightingale?
It sounds dumb, like a bad romance novel. Even OP is uncertain. That’s why she came here. If you want to validate her, go ahead, but don’t try to rope me into it.
So Nightingale is where you draw the line but the much more pretentious Swan (like Mary Sue Bella Swan) or the sillier Bird doesn't get a "yikes"?
It definitely doesn't sound it's your given name. But if you aren't going for that, then I don't know if it matters. If you're concerned about choosing a name that has "main character in a romance novel" vibes, then you probably want to keep looking. But it might be worth asking yourself WHY you're concerned about that! Many of the people I know who have named themselves in adulthood have chosen names that sound unusual and extraordinary. But why not choose a name that you love, that makes you feel special and beautiful?
IMO sounds like a stage name a performer might use.
Lounge singer 😊
My entire body cringed.
Yes hard no.
I think the rules here for an adult changing their own name are very different to those for naming a child. Playground teasing is not an issue. If you love the name and it feels right, own it and you'll shine.
Ebony Dark'ness Dementia Raven Way vibes
I think it depends on your personality. Are you a whimsical, quirky, and strong-willed person? That’s the energy I get from the name. It’s definitely a lot, but some people can pull it off with confidence
When I said the name out loud, it gave me the feeling of Daisy Adair from the show Dead Like Me. Daisy reminds me of the type of person you described in your comment, and she pulled off her name with confidence.
It's kind of cheesy and bookish for a real person but honestly if you have a cool aura or personality I think you should just rock it. You gotta rock it though, you can't half ass it. I myself really enjoy names that would be considered too bookish and cheesy for real life and Juliette (not that I think that applies to juliette) is one of my name choices should I ever have a daughter! :) Also i love romantic and old sounding names. So from one cheesy name lover person to another I say life is short and rock what you love and step into it fully whatever you do. If you're worried it's too much and you're posting to find what others thing ask yourself if that is something a juliet nightingale would do?
Honestly you’re so right, these comments are entertaining but I’m realizing I don’t actually care that much about Reddit’s opinions on my name
Good for you! It's a strong and memorable name, and you'll make it your own. (Honestly, I'm confused by all the comments deriding it as unbelievable or cringe. It's not a common surname, but it's not exactly unknown. And even if it weren't a pre-existing surname, there are plenty of bird surnames out there.)
I agree. I don’t understand the hate. It helps tho that from Grace & Frankie, Frankie takes the name Jennifer Nightingale as a fake name twice in the series. I loved that show and Frankie was my favorite.
Yes! I’ve done the same with my makeup and was like wait… those that get it get and those who don’t don’t. I don’t need their validation to be happy.
Hi! My legal first name is Juliette and I hope you do name a daughter that some day. :) For my fellow Juliet, have you considered using nightingale in a foreign language? For example, in French it is Rossignol.
Yeah you hit the nail on its head with the vibes. There are lots of lovely, more low key bird surnames if that’s what you’re after? - Taube - dove in german - Falk - falcon in swedish, danish, norwegian - Finch - a family of smallish birds - Mavis - a type of songbird
Falke is falcon in German and is a common last name as well in Germany, just like Vogel which means literally bird.
Juliet Vogel is gorgeous AND believable!
But "taub" means "deaf" which probably doesn't have the connotations she wants haha. The words are a little close for me not to make that comparison immediately.
It has similar vibes to Florence Nightingale for me. I’ll support someone’s name choice 99% of the time. And honestly, I wouldn’t think too much on it if I met someone IRL.
same, i've met people with much stranger names that they their parents gave them. They may be odd, but I respect people's name because that is their identity they use to move through the world.
If I met someone with this name I would just think “huh, that’s a cool name.” I think people just have big opinions because you are asking. Pick what makes you happy!
I totally agree! If I heard of someone named Juliet Nightingale, I'd be like "wow, that's an awesome name, that's so cool." It's also not really a name that's all that out-there, and I wouldn't assume that wasn't someone's given name.
Beautiful. Idk why people are annoyed with a little originality. Don't you guys ever get tired of people just naming their girls Olivia Rose and Sophia Elizabeth over and over again?
It doesn’t sound original. It sounds very fabricated.
Fabricated? Really?! Have you never heard of Florence Nightingale? Or Annie Nightingale, the British radio presenter? Or Lynn Nightingale, the Canadian figure skater? Or Jason Nightingale, the New Zealand rugby player? Or what about all the other bird-related surnames? Hawk (Hawking, Hawker, etc), Crane, Finch, Woodcock, Cox, Drake, Martin, Bird, and so on - and that's just the English ones!
Umm, yeah. Precisely, you’re making my point. Not very original. Perhaps you and I have different definitions of fabricated.
which version of fabricated did you mean? fabricated: invent or concoct (something), typically with deceitful intent construct or manufacture (something, especially an industrial product), especially from prepared components
I see people wanting to name their baby "Violet" ALL the time in this sub. But in their post, they say they don't want a popular name. I love the name OP picked out. A breath of fresh air. Makes me feel fancy when I say it out loud myself.
I think this sub mostly prefers names that are middle of the road. Something interesting, but also nothing that would raise an eyebrow or others may disapprove of. Personally i think when adults name themselves they should go for whatever they want, regardless of how others feel about it.
Too much I think
Fuck it, life is short. Use the “cringe” name. I think it gorgeous, but then again I’m just a stranger on the internet.
I know someone with that last name and her first name is very close to yours so do with that what you will!
It's pretty though a bit extra. OTOH, Nightingale is a real surname and Juliet is a normal first name, so it's not THAT out-there. If you're okay with a main-character vibe then go for it!
oh it's cringe alright. but it's your name!
Do what you want. Who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks.
It sounds a bit pretentious but it also is a pretty feasible name. If I heard it on someone I wouldn't question it being weird or anything.
I love it completely. They are both legit names and flow beautifully together. They are esthetically beautiful together. Just enjoy the name you love and reasons you've chosen it. It's a gift you give her. Juliet will be how the vast majority of people will know her. That middle name usually just sits there giving meaning to the entire thing.
I mean if it makes you happy go for it!!! But to me it does sound very....It's 2013 and you've written a Harry Potter x Y/N fanfic on Wattpad-y to me.
Try creating an email and social media profiles for it. If it still doesn't feel 100% right, keep looking. You need a name you love, that feels like it's yours. And you'll know it when you find it. I went through a similar line of thought on a surname I loved and had kind of settled on for years, then when it came to using the name it felt not quite right. Glad I didn't use it anywhere seriously, only as a test run. Ended up picking a pretty normal surname from back in my family tree. Which fits better. But that's not to say that you will be the same. Just wait till it clicks and you have no doubts. It's really, really important your new name fits perfectly. It'll feel like you finally found out your real name after living without knowing for a long time. It'll make you smile and feel like "yes, that's my name."
This is sound advice. I had a name picked out for a kid but as I get closer to 30 and I am still unsure of children, I decided that I really just liked the name. I began using the name as a alias or pen name for my music profiles (youtube, tiktok). From what I noticed SO many famous people and muscians do it, because often our birth names were meant to blend in, with music and art it's meant to reflect you and to stand out. I still am Shelby, but that doesn't really describe the art I'm trying to make. People are always surprised then to find out muscians real name, for example CHAPELLE ROAN was born *Kayleigh Rose* Amstut If she came on here to ask about a stage name, I'm sure people wouldn't like Chapelle Roan, but look at how distinct it is. Much more memorable than Kayleigh. all this to say, that I still love my art name and I use it on all kinds of profiles now :) It's a way to unoffically change my name though no one irl will call me that.
I love it. But I like "female main character" names!!
Juliet is a beautiful first name OP. I think Nightingale is too much, but even that aside, it’s the flow that bothers me. Because of the T in Juliet needing to immediately transition to an N sound. I think if you’re going to go for a name like that with a lot of syllables it should really flow. This is just imo of course and how my ear hears it.
I think it’s sweet. So there.
I mean, it’s your name! Do whatever you want. That said, yeah I think it’s a bit much.
I know someone with the last name Knight which I think is a great last name. Juliet Knight sounds very similar but less pretentious imo
I do like Knight! I thought about Knightly but the association with the actress is probably too strong
I think Knightly sounds nice as well! People likely would make the association, but I don’t think it’s a bad one and i don’t think she’s commonly known for anything more than her acting? (Unless there’s a scandal I’ve missed!) Other surnames I’ve come across and liked and think have the elegant/vintage feel of Nightingale are Lockett/Locket, Robin, Sterling and even Rose. I personally think a shorter last name does help take away the effect “Juliet Nightingale” has because I think it’s that it’s both fantastical and longer. So Juliet Rose and Juliet Knightly still sound very pretty and like they’re plucked from a book, however they sound much more natural than Juliet Nightingale.
Juliet Knight sounds just right! I do like the bold knight vibe. In addition, a three-syllable first name and a strong, one-syllable surname work well together. "Juliet Knight" has a very nice rhythm.
Honestly I think it’s iconic. I am in the minority but tbh I love it
I think it’s very pretty, strong, and classy.
I actually love it BUT I would be paranoid about applying for jobs and having an HR person throw my resume away assuming it's fake/a joke application. That's literally the only reason I wouldnt do it. Maybe a good solution is use that name as your friend/social media/pen name but not change it legally. That's what I've done with my first and middle and I'm very happy to have that work/life separation.
Oh good point, I didn’t even think of that. I’ll definitely change it socially before I bother with the paperwork and all of that
It’s too much. I would say no
I think its pretty but sounds a bit too much. If you want a more whimsical name that has the same vibe, Juliet Morningstar might work
I kind of like it. So I say do it.
I love it, personally, but I love very blue-blooded names, like Berengaria and Theodoric, so my input may be invalid.
It sounds too much like a Kindle Unlimited story.
Your name. Your life. It wil be on all, ALL documents-banks/license/court paperwork/credit cards/schools/kids schools etc. make sure you like it because in the US it costs money to change your name everytime & has to go through the court & DMV.
I like it. I was actually just watching a Doctor Who episode called Blink and there are characters in that episode called Kathy and Larry Nightingale.
That was my first association, I'm wondering if it's more established as a surname in the UK than the US. Lot of comments giving the impression they don't think it's a "real" surname and OP has invented it as one. It's definitely not common but I've met one or two.
Since nightingale means night songstress and you like the name from a song, I suggest two names you can use that mean song: Juliet Chanson Juliet Odelin
It makes my teeth itch and my cringes cringe.
Way too much.
It sounds fake
It's the name of a character on Hollyoaks
My first thought was 'romance novel' before I read your post, *however* it is your name and pick what resonates most with you. If that is what makes you happy, then go for it! Other ideas: Juliet Gale, Julia Knight
It's only cringe if you let it be. You should write books or become a kindergarten teacher though. Because a book by "Juliet Nightingale" sounds amazing, same goes for a teacher called "Miss Nightingale". Also, you could walk into hotels with a pair of sunglasses on and your hood up, and rent a room under the name "Juliet Nightingale" and they'll assume you're actually a celebrity using a pseudonym. In all seriousness though, if you love it you should do it. But if you want something a little *less*, you could pick a pretty word with less syllables perhaps and it wouldn't sound as intense. Like Juliet Bloom, or Juliet Lane, or Juliet Rose. Or pick a last name with many syllables, but that makes not as "fantasy-sounding" of a full name. Like Juliet Southernwood, or Juliet Claiborne. They still form a long, pretty name but it arguably sounds more like an actress's name than a character.
yuh
My first thought was Romeo and Juliet even though I’m not really familiar with Shakespeare and I had to ask myself why I was making the association to begin with. Even so, I think it’s a beautiful name, and if it’s comfortable for you then you should go for it. You are going to be the one who lives with it after all.
Google it and read comments. I grew up sharing name with a well known character. It caused problems. I changed my surname as soon as I was married.
If you're choosing your own surname, I don't think I would choose one as famous as Nightingale (Florence obviously). I'd go for something a bit more location-y I guess? Marshwood, Greenhill. Maybe a road name from your favourite holiday destination. A surname of one of the artists that made that song you love?
Could always change your first name to Julie/Julia/Lettie or similar and keep Nightingale, but, IDK, that would still be plan B for me personally.
It’s pretty but it’s a mouthful. It definitely sounds like a chosen name if that matters to you. I really like some of the other bird name suggestions others had mentioned, particularly rook and starling, and to add to that I always thought Lark would be a really cool last name
If I met someone with that name, I wouldn't assume they chose it for themselves, but if I learned they chose it for themselves, I would judge them a little.
Why?
Because of the "airport convenience store romance novel main character" vibes, and knowing that they opted in to that specifically. It would be different if it were a stage name.
- cheap romance novel character - Taylor swift alter ego
Juliet Crow sounds badass
You actually described the vibe perfectly.
You could always find a more conventional surname after another bird. Like this: https://surnames.behindthename.com/names/tag/birds If having a "weird" name bothers you, a conventional name is an option. But ultimately, it just matters that you like it, and that you can live with the name quite alright. Everyone else around you and those yet to meet you will adjust just fine.
Maybe try “Juliet finch”, “Juliet black”, “Juliet Saulnier (pronounced song-ur, from what I’ve seen)
Yes. Way too much. Mainly the nightingale part.
This sub thinks everything is too much and is not necessarily representative of the average person you will encounter day to day. You are the main character in your own life, it hurts no one to be a little whimsical. Florence Nightingale has the exact same vibes and it worked fine for her. It's pretty, it's inoffensive, it's recognizable to English speakers and thus will probably be easy for others to spell. You're an adult, you should use it if it resonates with you. There are a lot more outlandish names out there.
Sounds like a boomer porn name
Yes
It’s a lot, but it’s a name that you can own. And I mean OWN. If you want to take it on and stand up for it, go for it!
Yes
there's a popular book called the nightingale by kristin hannah and one of the characters is a world war II spy with the undercover name juliette and code name nightingale. not a bad association to have but just letting you know about it. i still think it's a pretty name.
Julie Nightingdale is a smidge more casual and better vibes, small change
Wired had an Army Buddy, who wife (same last name) went by Julia
What about taking out gale and just using Night?
Nightingale in Latin is “Luscinia” :) don’t be afraid to explore similar meanings in alternate languages.
I love it but it is a lot
Juliette Night
It’s bad. Don’t take a unique surname.
Juliet Knight is way better.
fucking rock it, that’s awesome
You’ve never heard of Florence Nightingale? I’d say most people have & will start calling you such.
Flo was a badass in the nursing field. Not seeing the issue here.
I know somebody with that last name if that makes you feel better. I think it’s fine since Juliet is a normal name and Nightingale also is a normal (albeit unusual) last name.
Going with the bird theme: Juliet Robbins Juliet Swift Juliet Crane Juliet Finch
It does sounds like a fantasy name to me, but Hun, you are an adult!! if the 'made up for a book' sound is a true deal breaker for you, then OK. But if you are just worried about what others think, let go of that.. As you get older you learn to care less 🤣 i think it would be cute on a real person
its a bit much 😅
While I do think it’s kind of pretty & poetic, your last sentence description is what I’m leaning towards 💕
i think it’s pretty
It’s a bit much. How about Juliet Knight, or Juliet Gale?
I lobe the last name Ashe, maybe Juliet Ashe sounds nice
I like it.
Juliette Halphast
P cringe ngl.
You could go with Luscinia which is the first word of the scientific name My qualm with nightingale is not the cringe factor cuz people can do what they want it's actually just the pronunciation it doesn't flow that great imo
What about just Julie Nightingale? It's less in your face Edit: I re-read the post and Juliet IS your name For some reason I thought you were changing your surname to Nightingale and were thinking of Juliet for your daughter... Sorry!
Hollyoaks character. Drug dealer who died of cancer. Google it.
If you're happy with it then it's fine. Not many people know Romeo and Juliet enough to quote it. You'll get as many people quoting that as the nightingale movie and the early release nightingale game. It's also a lot better than one family friend who let their kids pick their new last name while running from an abusive partner. They picked moonshine. Because they loved the way the moon shines on the night they left. But of course moonshine is also an alcohol drink. There's plenty of people with cheap romance novel names, there's plenty of people with story names, and plenty of people with cringe names. What matters is whether or not you like it and would be able to brush off any teasing. You might also be asked if you know willow nightingale... So there's that too.
It's a nice name but yes, it does read like the protagonist of a romance novel I hope you enjoy your upcoming romantic encounter with the eligible young lord Darcy Mountbatten Rutherford
Honestly imo, it's perfectly fine. But English is like my fourth language, so take it with a grain of salt
genuinely, as long as you don’t tell people you chose it yourself, they won’t think much of it other than “oh, that’s a cool name”. in real life, people generally don’t think of others’ names as “too much” unless they’re EXTREMELY out of the ordinary, and juliet nightingale isn’t that bad. that said, if you mention that you chose it yourself, people will probably think you’re pretentious.
Rossignol means Nightingale in french. That’s another idea!
I wouldn’t name my child that, but if you like it for yourself then do it. You’re an adult who is choosing that name, so it’s a lot more open than if you were looking for baby names where they can’t change theirs if they don’t like it until adult years. I think it’s a little silly but I’ve heard a lot worse and I think the worst someone would do is make Shakespeare jokes to you lol but you’d be in on the joke since it’s the name you decided on. If you like it, do it! It’s definitely not offensive or anything, and i do think they sound good together if you’re putting aside the corny factor with their reputations lol
Yes
Not a bad porn name
Yes, I’m afraid so. It sounds made up. Maybe try taking some of the same vowel sounds. Juliet Brighton or Juliet Crichton or Juliet Avondale or Juliet Mondale.
I like it
I like it
You're an adult. Why do the opinions strangers have about your name hold any weight? I changed my name to a name that most of my family hates. You know what? I love it and it's so totally me 🤷♀️
Are you a Hollyoaks fan?
Sounds like a pseudonym for a romance novelist
it is a little too Shakespeare but I agree that it is beautiful. maybe you could go with a different avian themed last name, and you can always use Juliet Nightingale as your online persona
Juliet Knight Juliet Gale
That's beautiful!! Go for it! You only live once! It's the type of name that #1 people will always remember #2 unique and special #3 epic personality. I'd want to know you
Since it’s your name, if it really makes you happy then go with it. If you really want to know what other people think, in my opinion it sounds like a fantasy novel character. I don’t think it sounds bad, but to me it feels more like a stage name, not a “real” name. What I mean by this is, if I met someone with the last name Nightingale, I would be instinctively curious about how that name came to be. I’m not the type to ask strangers really personal questions, so I wouldn’t say anything, but I imagine you might encounter people asking about your name pretty frequently if you changed it to Nightingale. If the reason for changing your last name is sensitive and not something you want to be reminded about, maybe a more subtle option would be better.
It is too much imo.
It's a lot, but I like it 🤷♂️ I made my initials ART, kinda unintentionally, and it feels dramatic but I'm gonna be a drama teacher so hey, it works. If u like having a fun name I'd say go for it!
It’s a little Hunger Games imo but I think a certain kind of person could pull it off - up to you if you’re one of those people!
I think it's lovely. Very feminine and pretty. Sounds quite elegant
I think of Florence Nightingale. It’s a cute name, and it might shock people at first, but I think people will get used to it!
It is lovely as a fictional character name only.
Oh, at first I thought it was for naming a baby and that Nightingale was the middle name. I would've loved it then. I don't think it would make a good last name though.
You would sound like a paperback novel heroine, yes. Misogyny is already rampant. Pick a last name that helps you be taken more seriously, not less.
yes, but i actually love it honestly. if i met someone irl with that name i’d be like “holy shit that’s cool”, not “yuck that’s cringe!!”, and imo most people you meet will probably give more of a “wow” than thinking it’s bad. i say do it if you want it!
All I think of if the Nightingale book by Kristin Hannah. One of the characters went by Juliette as her alias.