The blog post explores surnames derived from nicknames that have fallen out of common usage. It details how many last names originated as descriptive monikers referring to physical characteristics (like "Little," "Short," "Red," or "Black"), personality traits ("Good," "Wise," "Proud"), or occupations ("Cook," "Smith"). The post highlights the evolution of these once-common nicknames into hereditary surnames, illustrating how a person's defining characteristic or profession could become a family identifier passed down through generations. Now, these surnames offer a glimpse into the past, preserving nicknames that are rarely, if ever, used today.
Birls.org is a new search engine specifically designed for accessing US veteran records. It offers a streamlined interface to search across multiple government databases and also provides a free, web-based system for submitting Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to the National Archives via fax, simplifying the often cumbersome process of obtaining these records.
HN users generally expressed skepticism and concern about the project's viability and potential security issues. Several commenters questioned the need for faxing FOIA requests, highlighting existing online portals and email options. Others worried about the security implications of handling sensitive veteran data, particularly with a fax-based system. The project's reliance on OCR was also criticized, with users pointing out its inherent inaccuracy. Some questioned the search engine's value proposition, given the existence of established genealogy resources. Finally, the lack of clarity surrounding the project's funding and the developer's qualifications raised concerns about its long-term sustainability and trustworthiness.
Summary of Comments ( 312 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43000316
HN users generally enjoyed the article about surnames derived from lost nicknames. Several commenters offered further examples, like "Micklejohn" (big John) and "Shanks" (long legs). Some discussed the difficulty of tracing surname origins, acknowledging that sometimes assumed etymologies are incorrect. One highlighted the surprising prevalence of nicknames as surnames, speculating that perhaps such names were more common in the past or that they were bestowed with more permanence. Another appreciated the nuance that not all -kin surnames are diminutives, citing "Wilkin" (desirable) as an example. The concept of "lost" nicknames resonated with users, prompting reflections on the fading of descriptive nicknames in modern times.
The Hacker News post "Surnames from nicknames nobody has any more" links to a blog post exploring the etymology of surnames derived from nicknames. The comments section contains a moderate number of remarks, mostly focusing on personal experiences and observations related to surnames and nicknames.
Several commenters share anecdotes about their own surnames or those of their acquaintances. One user mentions their surname being a variant of "little," highlighting its prevalence in their region. Another commenter notes their surname meaning "son of Nicholas," reflecting a common patronymic naming pattern. Someone else points out their family name signifies "red-haired," a descriptor-based surname that likely originated from a physical characteristic.
A few comments delve into the linguistic aspects of surname evolution. One commenter observes the regional variations in surname spellings, attributing these differences to phonetic shifts and historical changes in record-keeping practices. Another user mentions the influence of immigration on surname adaptation, with names often being anglicized or simplified upon arrival in new countries.
Some commenters discuss the social implications of surnames, particularly those derived from less desirable nicknames. One user wonders about the historical implications of having a surname that translates to a negative trait, speculating on potential social stigma. Another comment humorously suggests that some surnames might have been intentionally chosen to be ironic or playful, reflecting a sense of humor within families.
A couple of users express fascination with the topic of surname etymology, suggesting resources and tools for further exploration. One commenter recommends a specific website for researching family history and surname origins, while another mentions the usefulness of online dictionaries and etymological databases.
Overall, the comments section offers a blend of personal reflections, linguistic insights, and historical considerations related to the origin and evolution of surnames derived from nicknames. While not containing any particularly groundbreaking revelations, the comments provide an engaging and relatable discussion around the topic, showcasing the diverse ways in which people connect with their family names.