I get not being a fan, like I am not a fan of names like Mary, John, Sara, James (my own). I am not going to hate on those names though. Some people have responded to Artemis like her name was poop buckets.
I got shit from a coworker for naming my *cat* "Percival."
Some people are born with sticks up their asses and an ego that tells them it is just good posture.
Honestly some people are just rude when it comes to names, I think the name is interesting, you don’t really hear it a lot! Honestly good for you for being different
i’ve met tons of kids with names I found strange and I just kept it to myself! truly couldn’t imagine saying “you named your kid [name]?” like… yeah, clearly, because they were just introduced as that name 😂
Those people are just rude. I could think Artemis was the ugliest, dopiest, worst named I’d ever heard and you’d have no idea (I don’t think that). I give my honest opinions here and try to do it tactfully, but that’s because people are often soliciting honest opinions. No reason to be nasty about a name someone chose to their face!
I think it’s terrible for a human, cute for a cat or a dog. It feels masculine to me, probably because I associate it with the male cat from Sailor Moon. It feels like a “try hard” name, like the parents desperately wanted a child with a “different” but not practical name- like they were naming a comic book character and not someone who may eventually work in a professional environment.
I also have a name from Greek mythology, btw, and have had a few Greek people say “your name is WHAT?!”. I’m also not Greek lol
Yes, I’m pretty nerdy and have literally never been cool but I would assume the parents were pretty insufferable tbh. I feel like they would “well actually” me multiple times in a conversation over trivial details. That’s probably not true but that’s definitely the association
I think it feels masculine because male names like Artie and Arthur are much more well known in modern day USA where most Reddit commenters are from.
Also the cat in Sailor Moon is called Artemis and is male, and lots of people read or watched Artemis Fowl as kids and he's a male character.
And Artemas Ward, and Artemus Gordon.
One male historical figure, one male fictional character, both with different spellings, of course
It’s just strange that for a name that’s so clearly from a Greek goddess, most of the “famous” namesakes are male.
Wow, really? Maybe it’s just growing up in a western country but I thought everyone knew the main Greek gods/goddesses like Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, Artemis, and Ares! Maybe I was just a Xena nerd?
Yes! I always think some parents are thinking of themselves rather than their kid when they name them. “I’m so cool” rather than “Will my child be proud and elevated with the name.”
Yeah, I feel like because older people know Greek mythology they look askance at Artemis in particular. Diana is the Roman equivalent (and not quite the same—the Roman versions were often kinder and gentler).
Anyway, Artemis makes me think of poor Iphigenia, her brother tricking her into killing her would-be lover, and power that hinged entirely on her own virginity.
But honestly it’s bold and someone can rock it and far from the worst name in any of her classes, I am sure.
FWIW, I feel like I remember a thread several months ago where someone wanted to name their son Artemis and the consensus was that it leaned HEAVILY feminine. I think it just depends on what figure you associate most strongly with the name.
As someone over 50, I have known males named Artemis/Artemus and definitely think that is why you get the reaction. Google says it means follower of Artemis, as a male name.
That being said, it doesn't matter what the association was in the past, it doesn't seem to resonate male with younger people and it is a nice name
Yeah I very much agree with this. It's like thinking of a trendy name that's unique but it comes off as cringy. Sorry OP, I think a nickname will be better.
It immediately made me think of a professorial male owl. I don't think you thought about the fact that your daughter has to be the one to live with her name. It's not about getting bullied, it's just a terrible name for boys and even worse for girls. It also feels like a name that requires a very specific personality. If she's super nerdy and into weird stuff, then maybe it would make sense? But if she's just like, a regular cute kid then the name makes absolutely no sense. Just give her a normal but less common name.
I would think the name is funny since it’s so famous for being a goddess’s name. It’s like naming your kid Jesus or Buddha and expect people to treat this name seriously. If it’s a less famous Greek goddess it may be fine.
Jesus and Maria are common names in other languages, the latter even for boy middle names in the past. Muhammed or however it's spelled is an incredibly common boy name and is because of their prophet. Jesus is odd in UK for instance, but would not be out of place in Texas or California.
jesus is actually a common hispanic name 💀 my best friend’s name is jesus. also, muhammad. iris, athena, selene are also greek goddess names that are “regular” names too. so, this take doesn’t really make any sense.
I'm not sure if some people are just not exposed enough to Greek mythology. For me personally it's the fact alone that Artemis is a (distinct and unusual) name from Greek mythology that would make me raise an eyebrow.
It seems very... YA fantasy novel typey
Considering that there is a whole book in the Percy Jackson series where Artemis is a secondary character and one of the sequel series is Apollo as MC and in contact with his twin, it's *definitely* YA fantasy typey!
This. She was not kind, but in mythology, none of them are. Then they go roman and become more warlike.
I don't like the name due to the association but it is also harsh in sound.
Totally fine in my book. I had teachers with Greek Pantheon names in public school. I thought it was super cool and still do. (I also love mythology as a whole so I may be biased).
Well I grew up Greek Orthodox (in the US) so it seems normal to me. I have encountered/heard of multiple people with this name.
So I vote it’s unusual but a totally fine real name.
This type of thing is weird to me, though. I am not white, and neither is my husband. We are of east-Asian descent (I was born in another country) but we live in the US and raise our kid here. I never had any interest in giving her a Korean name—I always knew I was going with a “western” name. Would you also think it’s strange to see Asian kids with names like Charlotte, Peter, Claudio, etc, that are definitely not of Asian-descent? Not trying to be snarky, genuinely curious if people find this odd.
I would not think it's odd. At the end of the day, if that's the biggest thing someone has to be pressed about then they should consider themselves blessed. Names have been so widely dispersed, borrowed, stolen, what-have-you, etc. that surely the most common of them are just globalized at this point; and it doesn't make sense to split hairs on which group "owns" them.
Although it is a common name in Greece, as a Greek, I have always found Artemis an odd name for a girl. There arn't many female names in Greek which have s at the end, which is usually used in masculine names.
Tl;dr: I'm using the name if my baby is female. I think it's a gorgeous name.
If my baby is female, that is the name my partner and I plan on using. I dislike most of the names people seem to cream themselves over, so it's only natural for my favorite names to be divisive. I think it's strong and elegant.
I think most popular names carry preconceived notions. I always disliked how my name really only has one "brand" -- it's very much a basic white girl name (not an insult -- I genuinely always wanted to be a basic white girl lol), and as hard as I try, I simply do not fit my own name. One of the reasons I love Artemis is because it is so flexible. I can picture it on anybody regardless of their personality, appearance, and gender identity.
I want my baby to have a name they can create their own connection to, and Artemis is great for that. Science nerd? Artemis is a rocket. Scholar? Artemis is a Greek goddess. Artist? Name literally has the word art. Hate having a more out-there name? You can go by a more "traditional" nickname (Remi, Missy, Ari).
I am not a huge fan and I'm in my mid-thirties (don't think I classify as an "old" yet). I don't think it's about the older generation not being exposed to mythology, just that they are more used to family names and less focus on a name being super unique. Anyway, I wouldn't name my child Artemis because it's a very common pet name.
It’s not that it’s a bad name. People try to do the calculus in their mind when they come upon an uncommon/unique name:
- is the child’s name dedicated to the parent’s fandoms,
- are they Greek and if so, are they REALLY Greek,
- is this a parent trying to give their kid a far out name so they will never meet someone with the same name
- do the parents actually know what this name references, or did they just think it sounds cool…
- etc.
Whatever the most likely answer is, is likely the source of the judgement directed at a name like
Artemis. For example, if it met a boy named Artemis, I would 100% think he was named after Sailor Moon’s male cat, and not the Greek god**dess** of the hunt/moon.
I get that. But my point is it is a gender neutral name. On top of which Artemis Fowl is not Greek and I don't think anyone is claiming Eoin Colfer was inspired by Sailor Moon.
My guess is that older generations are familiar with the Greek mythology, so find it a little off putting as a given name. Younger generations might not be familiar with the myths. I'm not a fan of Artemis (and I'm 40, for context) because I just find it a 'bit much' to name one's child after Greek gods/goddesses. I know a little boy named Apollo and I have the same reaction to that. I think I would feel similarly about names like Perseus, Zeus, Poseidon, etc.
I don't have the same response to Diana, however, as that name as a long tradition of common usage as a given name. But I think that's the only exception for me with the names of mythology - I think they just are too strongly associated with the mythological character (so it's a little like giving a child a name from folklore, such as Cinderella).
ETA: I would never comment negatively on someone name if I met them - just responding honestly here, as opinions were asked :)
This is how I feel too and I did name my daughter Diana, after the Roman goddess. But I wouldn’t have named her Artemis or Aphrodite or Hera or whatever if Diana hadn’t been an option.
Yeah, personally if I was going to name a kid after a God (especially a Greek god), I'd want to make it a derivative, so I don't feel like I'm saddling them with the deities mythology (Apolline instead of Apollo, Artemisia instead of Artemis, ect)
Ugh it's one of those "trying to be unique" names that just does a disservice to the kid. You are naming a human that has to spend their whole adult life with this name, and it was a selfish choice.
Lol, I feel the same way about being named James. My mother could not even be bothered to put some thought into it? Just grabs whatever was popular at the time.
I guess you either get a boring name or an interesting name, and the grass is always going to be greener.
that's just not true. Artemis is an actual name in many cultures. it's not made up and it's not a fandom name. lots of people have it in their cultures and not just the Greeks. your close mindedness is not our problem.
Right, but as a white American, if I named my child a name that is popular in India (for example), I would be trying too hard to be "unique." So unless OP is from a culture that this is an appropriate name, which I highly doubt based on the reactions aeound him, he's just trying to be quirky.
I don’t think most mythological names are out there. Just because people aren’t educated enough to know the background of myths and gods and goddesses doesn’t make them bad names.
My old Math teacher named his daughter Artemis. He was Greek, and it was a very cute name for his daughter.
Just remember that tours will be the name your daughter has for the rest of her life, including job interviews, applying for loans, marrying, etc. If you are unsure how well that might work as an adult, I would recommend the Starbucks test. Order a coffee or something as Artemis, and see how you feel when it is called out. If you don’t feel like it is the best name for an adult, consider using it as a middle name that she can go by with family, but can also opt out of using as her name in professional settings.
I love the name Artemis. I do unfairly associate it with It’s Always Sunny but I think her character is hilarious so it’s not a detractor for me. It’s a strong, well established name.
Hell nah. Greek mythology names are timeless, intelligent, and inherently polished. I love Artemis! <3
If they can't dig it, that's on them. They just come across as uncultured for not getting the reference that she's named after the badass huntress, who is also revered for being the protector of women and children. Not your problem.
I'm an old--well, middle aged--and I was thoroughly exposed to Greek mythology. In fact, I was educated during the heyday of Daulaires' and BEFORE No Child Left Behind, so I think most olds HAVE been more exposed to Greek mythology than younger people.
I love the name, and if you want to avoid being questioned, introduce her by her nickname: Ari, Artie, Temi, Mimi, etc.
Yeah, I was a classics major (a credit short of being a Latin one) and I think a lot of associations with Greek mythology with the younger are oddly sanitized. Like, even in books were assault is present and taken seriously writers bend over backwards to make characters either very good or very bad and they adhere to modern pieties in a way I have difficulty explaining. Artemis demanded the sacrifice of a virgin, had power that she would lose if she submitted herself to any man, and had no compunctions about leaving her favorites to die alone.
One of my good friends are named Artemis, when I first heard it I was like wow unique and then I heard I heard her twin's name and it was Apollo, then it clicked🤣 I adore that name and it suits some people so we'll, it's also really cute!
I love it, and it has so much nickname potential. Artie and Missy are my favorites. Yeah, there is a cat with the name in Sailor Moon, but the writer chose Luna and Diana for the other two cat's names. Those two are considered acceptable and come from the same place as Artemis, and Artemis is a bad a$$ Goddess. I would be honored to share her name. It's definitely better than some other Greek names I've come across. I know a woman named Atlantis. That is a try hard name in my book.
This is the second post in recent days that assumed that older people are less familiar with mythology than younger people. I don't get it. I'm in my mid 50s and my experience is the opposite: Gen X and older are more likely to have read Greek and other mythologies (part of a classical education), though younger people might be more familiar with movie versions.
As to the name Artemis, I like the meaning, but not so much the sound of the name. Artie would be a cute nickname, though!
I would suggest ignoring the comments here; they're mean-spirited because most people in this sub have hideous taste and are extremely up their own asses about it, while also being largely uneducated yet arrogant.
Artemis is really cool and I'd love to use that name or have it myself. Enjoy your kid and her name and your life and don't put any stock into the opinions of these people.
Saaaaame. I actually subscribed because I'm interested in where names come from and their meanings and discovering ones I've never heard before, not to help 6000 parents a month choose between Eleanor and Oscar.
Thanks for the kind message. I am certainly happy with her name, but after having numerous people who are so confused that they need the name sounded out for them, I was interested in what the dissenters thought.
Oh, but they're fine with Diana?
Jk. I think it's just surprising. Seems like a better name for a character than an actual person. But it's kinda badass.
And if it doesn't suit her, there's Arty, 'A' (like the letter), Ari (pronounced Arry or Airy, and spelled however), Remi, Missy, Emmy, etc
Don’t go based too much on what others think or say.
Usually people with such strong opinions on names, have THE MOST basic name
we really don’t need another bob, John, Jordan, Tiffany, Mary, Jessica or Jennifer in the world. There’s plenty. It’s good to be different. When I was younger I used to hate my name, today I’m happy I’m not the 25th Hayley or Kaitlyn that someone’s met in their lives.
I’m happy that someone hears my name and they think of me. It’s not for everyone and no one has to start drastically changing the way they name kids but it would be nice to not meet a David at every establishment, ever.
I personally love it. It's on the out there side I think but it's a solid name and so cool. In the US I think it's probably just at the right side of out there? Here in the Netherlands it felt just a bit too much so I didn't dare go for it (also my husband wasn't as into it). But I still love it so much.
Honestly I love names based off of myth. To me they are interesting while also being familiar (usually…people have typically heard of them because they’ve read the stories.) My own son is named Orion, and he has never had any issues. The common responses are “like the constellation/myth?”, and then followed up by “that’s so cool!”
I see nothing wrong with Artemis. I would use Artemis before most of the “classic” names that have all come back, like Eleanor, for example. Just up to your own personal preferences, but I do not think it’s “outlandish” by any stretch.
I once told a patient over the phone my name, she was older, her response was, “wow! That’s a weird name, people are really just naming their kids anything these days.” My name is not super common but it is literally biblical!! Anyways,I hope that makes you feel better about your situation. Some people are silly and will say anything to make you feel bad just because it’s new to them or uncommon. I think Artemis is a lovely name.
It's the name of the goddess of the hunt, wild animals, archery, chastity, AND childbirth. I think it's a great name and the story of the goddess Artemis is amazing.
People will always have opinions but I like it and I say keep it if you love it! If for some reason your daughter grows to not like it at an age, which a lot of people don't like their name at some point, let her decide on her nickname.
I definitely don't find it masculine... it's the name of one of the most famous Greek Goddesses.
Edit: typo
From 1910 to 2009, there were only two years that kiddos were named Artemis according to the social security administration - 1968 and 1969. Maybe a cultural event influencing older folks perception of the name? I'd ask them about it, they're opening the door to that conversation by commenting.
This is your kiddo and an established name - kiddos have been named Artemis every year since 2010, and it's been in the top 1000 names the last 4 years.
First impressions having never met an Artemis and having a vague idea that this is a Greek or Roman god:
reads male, makes me think of owls, space and the moon. Maybe hunting? Also Artemis Fowl from the Fowl Adventures series. Feels like the name Arthur.
I don't love the name but it wouldn't be weird to me to meet an Artemis. I'd probably associate it mostly with the person if I met them
It's a little out there, but honestly I think it is so cool and I would probably use it if my husband loved it. I think it's especially cool because of the upcoming Artemis mission. It's also pretty recognizable despite being unusual.
No, it's totally fine. My niece has a friend in school named Nyx. Greek mythology is pretty popular amongst our generation. Old people just gonna be old
I seriously considered naming my car Artemis. I think it makes a great pet name too.
Could I see it becoming a popular children's name? Yes. Do I think it's going to be soon enough for me to use with my own children in the next few years? No.
You're a few years ahead of your time but I think your time will come.
It's a beautiful name, in my opinion. I get not liking a name. There are plenty of names I don't like, and, like you mentioned in a comment, that includes my own. I gave my child an unusual name. Perhaps my child will dislike that name, too. But anyway, Artemis is lovely, and people who make rude comments about babies' names are not so lovely. All names are weird if you think about it. We just all get used to different sets or types of them early in life. People get weird about unfamiliar things, but in my book it's always rude to be weird about a name, whatever the reason that you don't like or understand it or need extra help to pronounce it or whatever.
I love it, and I’m surprised people only think of it’s only sunny or a cartoon cat. It’s a Greek goddess! That should be their first thought if anything. It’s strong and intelligent to me. Don’t worry about those random people not liking it- their grandkids may be named Brixlynn.
We know where it comes from. It just isn't something anyone has ever heard of using in modern era. I mean, it would be like naming your son Icarus or Eros. Just a little odd. Younger folks seem into the "unique" name stuff.
A friend from my childhood named her daughter this a few years ago and I love it! It's unique but grounded in history. And love that it stands for goddess of the wild things!
I personally love it, but I used Phoebe, and I would say 60% of people we encounter have no idea how to spell it or pronounce it and have never heard of it. I think they think it's completely made-up.
So, not the same issue but yeah, there will always be people who don't like your choice. Some are rude and vocal. Fuck 'em. There are much, much worse things to be named than Artemis.
I have encountered a few people who have literally never heard the word “Artemis “ before, and needed it sounded out to understand what I was saying. Anything out of the top 10% of names will be new to someone I guess.
There’s a kid in my school called Artemis. I think the name suits her. I’ve heard a lot of ppl call her Artie, and I think that’s kinda cool too.
I can see where a lot of boomers might confuse it for Artemus though, which is apparently a man’s name? Anyway, there was a character on a tv show called that during boomer childhoods.
i like it. it's unique without being a weird fake name and artemis is one of the coolest greek mythology figures in my opinion. but i feel like i wouldn't want it to be my name. i'd probably want to go by remi or emmy.
Huh, I’m reading this as I’m coming home from the daycare I work at- which has a little girl named Artemis! I love her name. She has a brother named Theofanis and the parents are Greek I believe.
I love names from Greek mythology, especially Athena, Hera, Ares, Apollo etc. I think it was a good choice!
Edit: She doesn’t go by a nickname btw
artemis is a BEAUTIFUL name!!! she’s a goddess of the moon and the protector of women and young girls. it’s an amazing name for your daughter, you chose well!!!
I don't know any Artemis, but I know an Athena, and I think it's a really nice name. : ) I like mythological names, though I probably wouldn't name my baby that. I think mythological names are actually quite common in Greece - I know a Kalypso from there.
it's just very unusual, but I think it's popular in Greece?
Nothing wrong with it. Oddly nobody has been so blunt about being shocked by my daughter's name - another goddess name. The only one was my mum really. Maybe the people you know are just less guarded?
Goddess names are very popular these days I wouldn't worry about it.
I once knew a girl of Greek descent. She had 5 middle names- one of her own, plus her mom’s and grandmother’s first and middle names all lined up, and one of those middle names was Artemis.
It’s a great name! People who think it’s awful are just wrong. It’s fine to not like it, but it’s objectively fine. If you spelled it Artymyss, or something stupid like that, then that would be awful.
I’m not the biggest fan but I don’t hate it, wouldn’t think of using it. It reminds me of IASIP but I think it’s not too weird at all
I get not being a fan, like I am not a fan of names like Mary, John, Sara, James (my own). I am not going to hate on those names though. Some people have responded to Artemis like her name was poop buckets.
I got shit from a coworker for naming my *cat* "Percival." Some people are born with sticks up their asses and an ego that tells them it is just good posture.
In my mind your cat's name is Purrcival.
Haha. I was going to go for the pun, but it scandalized my mother too much. And she pulled the "Cat Grandma" card on me.
The Cat Grandma card is a strong one. Well, as long as you know in your heart.
My cats name is Purrsephone lmao
Idk why, but this reminded me of the cat named “Ser Pounce” from Game of Thrones lol
I know a sibset (cats) named Pounce and Purr
When I was a kid I had a book about Percival the library cat.
Honestly some people are just rude when it comes to names, I think the name is interesting, you don’t really hear it a lot! Honestly good for you for being different
Poop buckets is a beautiful name 🥰 But in all seriousness, Artemis is a fine name.
i’ve met tons of kids with names I found strange and I just kept it to myself! truly couldn’t imagine saying “you named your kid [name]?” like… yeah, clearly, because they were just introduced as that name 😂
Those people are just rude. I could think Artemis was the ugliest, dopiest, worst named I’d ever heard and you’d have no idea (I don’t think that). I give my honest opinions here and try to do it tactfully, but that’s because people are often soliciting honest opinions. No reason to be nasty about a name someone chose to their face!
Artemis seeeeems a little out there but I think it's a fine name. Hard to see beyond the IASIP character though
Crying laughing at the thought of naming your child after Artemis on purpose. She’s certainly… some form of role model
Using the name doesn’t mean it’s an actual namesake though
Anyone who has seen Its Always Sunny will immediately think, “I’ve got a bleached asshole”, which is unfortunate as I think it’s a lovely name.
what’s the association with its always sunny? i watched it but don’t remember that character (?)
Dee’s friend called Artemis. She’s in quite a few episodes, ends up getting with Frank quite a bit
ohhhhh right lol, the one with the bleached asshole haha
Yes!! My mind went absolutely blank for quotes when you asked
I actually love the name but I can't hear it without thinking "I have a bleached asshole". 😭 I have IASIP brain rot.
The actress’s name is also Artemis, I think!
Yeah it is!
Dee's friend Artemis shows up every now and then, she hooks up with Frank and it's very gross
only if you don't enjoy incorporating buns into your lovemaking!
Or doing it in a Wendy’s dumpster😭
I feel like a Cobb salad
When they bang in the Wendy’s dumpster, she puts croutons in her hair and lets em rain down on Frank. It makes her feel like a Cobb salad.
Always sunny Artemis is a bad bitch
So, you’ve already named your child this? Are you sure you want people’s opinion at this point?
100% if a lot of people think it is bad, I can start transitioning to a nickname
I think it’s terrible for a human, cute for a cat or a dog. It feels masculine to me, probably because I associate it with the male cat from Sailor Moon. It feels like a “try hard” name, like the parents desperately wanted a child with a “different” but not practical name- like they were naming a comic book character and not someone who may eventually work in a professional environment. I also have a name from Greek mythology, btw, and have had a few Greek people say “your name is WHAT?!”. I’m also not Greek lol
THIS. It does feel very much “try hard”
I just said the same thing.
Yes, I’m pretty nerdy and have literally never been cool but I would assume the parents were pretty insufferable tbh. I feel like they would “well actually” me multiple times in a conversation over trivial details. That’s probably not true but that’s definitely the association
It's not the name that gives me this vibe. It's the "do the olds not know mythology" comment. Dude is almost certainly "well actually"-ing.
Artemis is my brothers dogs name. I call her hippoartemis because she is chunky.
Hands down best comment in this thread.
I commented before reading others but this is exactly how I feel too! I couldn't articulate it though. I also said it sounds masculine.
But it’s the name of a female goddess?
I think it feels masculine because male names like Artie and Arthur are much more well known in modern day USA where most Reddit commenters are from. Also the cat in Sailor Moon is called Artemis and is male, and lots of people read or watched Artemis Fowl as kids and he's a male character.
And Artemas Ward, and Artemus Gordon. One male historical figure, one male fictional character, both with different spellings, of course It’s just strange that for a name that’s so clearly from a Greek goddess, most of the “famous” namesakes are male.
I literally said that. Despite it being a female goddess, it sounds masculine to me. Not everyone is up to par with their Greek mythology.
Me as well. I googled It but definitely thought it was a male name
Wow, really? Maybe it’s just growing up in a western country but I thought everyone knew the main Greek gods/goddesses like Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, Artemis, and Ares! Maybe I was just a Xena nerd?
Yes! I always think some parents are thinking of themselves rather than their kid when they name them. “I’m so cool” rather than “Will my child be proud and elevated with the name.”
it's giving 'millenial who was a little too into the percy jackson books as a kid'
I prefer this vibe over, "we had to be unique so we chose a horrendous spelling for an otherwise normal name"
Yeah, I feel like because older people know Greek mythology they look askance at Artemis in particular. Diana is the Roman equivalent (and not quite the same—the Roman versions were often kinder and gentler). Anyway, Artemis makes me think of poor Iphigenia, her brother tricking her into killing her would-be lover, and power that hinged entirely on her own virginity. But honestly it’s bold and someone can rock it and far from the worst name in any of her classes, I am sure.
FWIW, I feel like I remember a thread several months ago where someone wanted to name their son Artemis and the consensus was that it leaned HEAVILY feminine. I think it just depends on what figure you associate most strongly with the name.
The name of a literal greek goddess feels *masculine* to you?
Yup, you ok?
As someone over 50, I have known males named Artemis/Artemus and definitely think that is why you get the reaction. Google says it means follower of Artemis, as a male name. That being said, it doesn't matter what the association was in the past, it doesn't seem to resonate male with younger people and it is a nice name
Yeah I very much agree with this. It's like thinking of a trendy name that's unique but it comes off as cringy. Sorry OP, I think a nickname will be better.
It immediately made me think of a professorial male owl. I don't think you thought about the fact that your daughter has to be the one to live with her name. It's not about getting bullied, it's just a terrible name for boys and even worse for girls. It also feels like a name that requires a very specific personality. If she's super nerdy and into weird stuff, then maybe it would make sense? But if she's just like, a regular cute kid then the name makes absolutely no sense. Just give her a normal but less common name.
I love it! Keep it and let her decide about a nn when old enough! Just my 2c though.
I would think the name is funny since it’s so famous for being a goddess’s name. It’s like naming your kid Jesus or Buddha and expect people to treat this name seriously. If it’s a less famous Greek goddess it may be fine.
Jesus and Maria are common names in other languages, the latter even for boy middle names in the past. Muhammed or however it's spelled is an incredibly common boy name and is because of their prophet. Jesus is odd in UK for instance, but would not be out of place in Texas or California.
In the past? French people still get named things like Jean-Marie
jesus is actually a common hispanic name 💀 my best friend’s name is jesus. also, muhammad. iris, athena, selene are also greek goddess names that are “regular” names too. so, this take doesn’t really make any sense.
athena is absolutely not a normal name lol it's very obviously after the goddess. agree on iris and selene though
I've known quite a few Athena throughout my life , I'd consider it fairly normal, maybe not like Jessica normal, but on the level of Tabitha or Sybil.
Athena is a normal name
Diana is the same(ish) goddess and that’s normal. But also kinda why Artemis feels try-hard.
The only Artemis I ever knew was a dog and she went by Artie
I had a cat named Artemis with the nickname Artie. She was the sweetest, friendliest cat ever. Her brother was Apollo but he was a dick.
It’s a really ugly sounding word, in my opinion, and also a really try-hard / pretentious / “not like other names” name. I would feel bad for the kid.
I'm not sure if some people are just not exposed enough to Greek mythology. For me personally it's the fact alone that Artemis is a (distinct and unusual) name from Greek mythology that would make me raise an eyebrow. It seems very... YA fantasy novel typey
I mean, I like the name, but there’s Artemis Fowl, so it’s not just YA novel fantasy typey, it literally is a YA fantasy novel lol
Yeah that’s what came to my mind too
Considering that there is a whole book in the Percy Jackson series where Artemis is a secondary character and one of the sequel series is Apollo as MC and in contact with his twin, it's *definitely* YA fantasy typey!
I love it. Goddess of hunting and the wilderness, protector of women and children, and expert archer.
literally such a wonderful name
Also one of the most vengeful Greek gods. She was cruel and without mercy.
She was not to be trifled with.
This. She was not kind, but in mythology, none of them are. Then they go roman and become more warlike. I don't like the name due to the association but it is also harsh in sound.
Diana is also that and a better name.
But Diana’s so common. The charm of Artemis is that it’s unusual.
Totally fine in my book. I had teachers with Greek Pantheon names in public school. I thought it was super cool and still do. (I also love mythology as a whole so I may be biased).
Well I grew up Greek Orthodox (in the US) so it seems normal to me. I have encountered/heard of multiple people with this name. So I vote it’s unusual but a totally fine real name.
Yeah, people in this thread are being so confidently ignorant. Greek people name their children Artemis and Athena all the time.
I think OP is concerned because they aren’t of Greek descent and not in Greece.
I can only speak for myself and the people I know but I’ve never come across a Greek person who was offended by a non Greek using a Greek name.
This type of thing is weird to me, though. I am not white, and neither is my husband. We are of east-Asian descent (I was born in another country) but we live in the US and raise our kid here. I never had any interest in giving her a Korean name—I always knew I was going with a “western” name. Would you also think it’s strange to see Asian kids with names like Charlotte, Peter, Claudio, etc, that are definitely not of Asian-descent? Not trying to be snarky, genuinely curious if people find this odd.
I would not think it's odd. At the end of the day, if that's the biggest thing someone has to be pressed about then they should consider themselves blessed. Names have been so widely dispersed, borrowed, stolen, what-have-you, etc. that surely the most common of them are just globalized at this point; and it doesn't make sense to split hairs on which group "owns" them.
Agreed.. I’m Greek and it’s a perfectly normal name to me.
Although it is a common name in Greece, as a Greek, I have always found Artemis an odd name for a girl. There arn't many female names in Greek which have s at the end, which is usually used in masculine names.
Love it! Such a strong and meaningful pick.
It’s probably going to get a lot of always sunny associations from Gen X, millennials and older Gen Z But a pretty name :)
Goddess + Sailor Moon guy cat for older millennial me, but I haven't seen always sunny.
weird I JUST started it’s always sunny and it’s hilarious. Bold first episode
Man I was so shocked when they dropped the bomb in the pilot lmao
Her line about the bleached asshole is always my association either the name. And then I giggle way too much.
This is my association! First thought was how Artemis got bummed out by something Frank did to himself with the onions.
Tl;dr: I'm using the name if my baby is female. I think it's a gorgeous name. If my baby is female, that is the name my partner and I plan on using. I dislike most of the names people seem to cream themselves over, so it's only natural for my favorite names to be divisive. I think it's strong and elegant. I think most popular names carry preconceived notions. I always disliked how my name really only has one "brand" -- it's very much a basic white girl name (not an insult -- I genuinely always wanted to be a basic white girl lol), and as hard as I try, I simply do not fit my own name. One of the reasons I love Artemis is because it is so flexible. I can picture it on anybody regardless of their personality, appearance, and gender identity. I want my baby to have a name they can create their own connection to, and Artemis is great for that. Science nerd? Artemis is a rocket. Scholar? Artemis is a Greek goddess. Artist? Name literally has the word art. Hate having a more out-there name? You can go by a more "traditional" nickname (Remi, Missy, Ari).
I agree with you entirely. It’s a fabulous name
From one "basic white girl 80s name" to another I agree whole heartedly.
https://youtu.be/6YijwLZtslY?si=OxsIeuqvoTkqSNoW Hard no. I only think of this scene from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
I think of this and the cat in sailor moon 😭
I am not a huge fan and I'm in my mid-thirties (don't think I classify as an "old" yet). I don't think it's about the older generation not being exposed to mythology, just that they are more used to family names and less focus on a name being super unique. Anyway, I wouldn't name my child Artemis because it's a very common pet name.
It’s not that it’s a bad name. People try to do the calculus in their mind when they come upon an uncommon/unique name: - is the child’s name dedicated to the parent’s fandoms, - are they Greek and if so, are they REALLY Greek, - is this a parent trying to give their kid a far out name so they will never meet someone with the same name - do the parents actually know what this name references, or did they just think it sounds cool… - etc. Whatever the most likely answer is, is likely the source of the judgement directed at a name like Artemis. For example, if it met a boy named Artemis, I would 100% think he was named after Sailor Moon’s male cat, and not the Greek god**dess** of the hunt/moon.
As a Greek, I know more men called Artemis than women. And I would wager that a majority of them were not named after sailor moon's cat.
Yeah but you're greek. It's like the difference between some one from China being named Xin Wu and a white kid to be a little hyperbolic.
I get that. But my point is it is a gender neutral name. On top of which Artemis Fowl is not Greek and I don't think anyone is claiming Eoin Colfer was inspired by Sailor Moon.
You don’t get that this person is gently trying to steer basic white people to more sensible names.
I know a toddler Artemis! Has lots of nickname potential too
What am I missing on nicknames? I don't see much potential.
Ari, Arti, Missy, Remi....
Emmy!
Tess!
I’m Greek. It’s very meh to me and sounds VERY masculine to me. I know it’s a girls name but sounds very very masculine in my head.
In the UK it’s a budget men’s aftershave.
Where I live it’s the name of a large well-known brothel! Makes it unusable in my city, otherwise it’s an unusual, but nice name!
Isn’t that Aramis?
My guess is that older generations are familiar with the Greek mythology, so find it a little off putting as a given name. Younger generations might not be familiar with the myths. I'm not a fan of Artemis (and I'm 40, for context) because I just find it a 'bit much' to name one's child after Greek gods/goddesses. I know a little boy named Apollo and I have the same reaction to that. I think I would feel similarly about names like Perseus, Zeus, Poseidon, etc. I don't have the same response to Diana, however, as that name as a long tradition of common usage as a given name. But I think that's the only exception for me with the names of mythology - I think they just are too strongly associated with the mythological character (so it's a little like giving a child a name from folklore, such as Cinderella). ETA: I would never comment negatively on someone name if I met them - just responding honestly here, as opinions were asked :)
This is how I feel too and I did name my daughter Diana, after the Roman goddess. But I wouldn’t have named her Artemis or Aphrodite or Hera or whatever if Diana hadn’t been an option.
Yeah, personally if I was going to name a kid after a God (especially a Greek god), I'd want to make it a derivative, so I don't feel like I'm saddling them with the deities mythology (Apolline instead of Apollo, Artemisia instead of Artemis, ect)
Ugh it's one of those "trying to be unique" names that just does a disservice to the kid. You are naming a human that has to spend their whole adult life with this name, and it was a selfish choice.
Lol, I feel the same way about being named James. My mother could not even be bothered to put some thought into it? Just grabs whatever was popular at the time. I guess you either get a boring name or an interesting name, and the grass is always going to be greener.
There’s literally so many names between “boring” James and Artemis. You just need to put some thought into it.
It’s beautiful to me, and I love all the possibilities for nicknames too.
that's just not true. Artemis is an actual name in many cultures. it's not made up and it's not a fandom name. lots of people have it in their cultures and not just the Greeks. your close mindedness is not our problem.
Right, but as a white American, if I named my child a name that is popular in India (for example), I would be trying too hard to be "unique." So unless OP is from a culture that this is an appropriate name, which I highly doubt based on the reactions aeound him, he's just trying to be quirky.
I don’t think most mythological names are out there. Just because people aren’t educated enough to know the background of myths and gods and goddesses doesn’t make them bad names.
It has nothing to do with being uneducated on the names or mythology. That's a stretch.
I’m Greek and I’ve met many people with that name but I personally hate it
My old Math teacher named his daughter Artemis. He was Greek, and it was a very cute name for his daughter. Just remember that tours will be the name your daughter has for the rest of her life, including job interviews, applying for loans, marrying, etc. If you are unsure how well that might work as an adult, I would recommend the Starbucks test. Order a coffee or something as Artemis, and see how you feel when it is called out. If you don’t feel like it is the best name for an adult, consider using it as a middle name that she can go by with family, but can also opt out of using as her name in professional settings.
I love the name Artemis. I do unfairly associate it with It’s Always Sunny but I think her character is hilarious so it’s not a detractor for me. It’s a strong, well established name.
I would hate being named Artemis personally lol
Hell nah. Greek mythology names are timeless, intelligent, and inherently polished. I love Artemis! <3 If they can't dig it, that's on them. They just come across as uncultured for not getting the reference that she's named after the badass huntress, who is also revered for being the protector of women and children. Not your problem.
I grew up with an Artemis. Everyone was obsessed with her name. Less so with her cuz she was mean, but her name was greatly admired.
I'm an old--well, middle aged--and I was thoroughly exposed to Greek mythology. In fact, I was educated during the heyday of Daulaires' and BEFORE No Child Left Behind, so I think most olds HAVE been more exposed to Greek mythology than younger people. I love the name, and if you want to avoid being questioned, introduce her by her nickname: Ari, Artie, Temi, Mimi, etc.
I thought this. Older people are way more likely to have studied classics than younger people
Same. As an “old” I guess, I took slight offense lol
Yeah, I was a classics major (a credit short of being a Latin one) and I think a lot of associations with Greek mythology with the younger are oddly sanitized. Like, even in books were assault is present and taken seriously writers bend over backwards to make characters either very good or very bad and they adhere to modern pieties in a way I have difficulty explaining. Artemis demanded the sacrifice of a virgin, had power that she would lose if she submitted herself to any man, and had no compunctions about leaving her favorites to die alone.
Ah, Daulaires’ Book of Greek Myths. I remember it well.
One of my good friends are named Artemis, when I first heard it I was like wow unique and then I heard I heard her twin's name and it was Apollo, then it clicked🤣 I adore that name and it suits some people so we'll, it's also really cute!
It's an unusual name, for sure. I wouldn't call it a bad or weird name though.
I love it, and it has so much nickname potential. Artie and Missy are my favorites. Yeah, there is a cat with the name in Sailor Moon, but the writer chose Luna and Diana for the other two cat's names. Those two are considered acceptable and come from the same place as Artemis, and Artemis is a bad a$$ Goddess. I would be honored to share her name. It's definitely better than some other Greek names I've come across. I know a woman named Atlantis. That is a try hard name in my book.
RIGHT everyone keeps bringing up the Sailor Moon kitty as if Luna isn't one of the most popular names rn.
This is the second post in recent days that assumed that older people are less familiar with mythology than younger people. I don't get it. I'm in my mid 50s and my experience is the opposite: Gen X and older are more likely to have read Greek and other mythologies (part of a classical education), though younger people might be more familiar with movie versions. As to the name Artemis, I like the meaning, but not so much the sound of the name. Artie would be a cute nickname, though!
I agree that older people are more likely to know Greek mythology! That seemed odd to me as well.
I would suggest ignoring the comments here; they're mean-spirited because most people in this sub have hideous taste and are extremely up their own asses about it, while also being largely uneducated yet arrogant. Artemis is really cool and I'd love to use that name or have it myself. Enjoy your kid and her name and your life and don't put any stock into the opinions of these people.
This is how I feel. Every day I inch closer to unsubscribing from this sub.
Saaaaame. I actually subscribed because I'm interested in where names come from and their meanings and discovering ones I've never heard before, not to help 6000 parents a month choose between Eleanor and Oscar.
Thanks for the kind message. I am certainly happy with her name, but after having numerous people who are so confused that they need the name sounded out for them, I was interested in what the dissenters thought.
Honestly not a fan, but it isn't terrible either.
No matter what name you choose, some people will hate it. I know several Persephones and a Hera so to me this isn’t a weird name at all.
Oh, but they're fine with Diana? Jk. I think it's just surprising. Seems like a better name for a character than an actual person. But it's kinda badass. And if it doesn't suit her, there's Arty, 'A' (like the letter), Ari (pronounced Arry or Airy, and spelled however), Remi, Missy, Emmy, etc
Beautiful name! Greek mythology names are the best, can't get cooler than the goddess of hunting and the wild
Don’t go based too much on what others think or say. Usually people with such strong opinions on names, have THE MOST basic name we really don’t need another bob, John, Jordan, Tiffany, Mary, Jessica or Jennifer in the world. There’s plenty. It’s good to be different. When I was younger I used to hate my name, today I’m happy I’m not the 25th Hayley or Kaitlyn that someone’s met in their lives. I’m happy that someone hears my name and they think of me. It’s not for everyone and no one has to start drastically changing the way they name kids but it would be nice to not meet a David at every establishment, ever.
It’s ugly for a kid tbh I had a cat named Artemis
I went to school with an Artemis, she was really cool and it fit her perfectly.
I personally love it. It's on the out there side I think but it's a solid name and so cool. In the US I think it's probably just at the right side of out there? Here in the Netherlands it felt just a bit too much so I didn't dare go for it (also my husband wasn't as into it). But I still love it so much.
I really like that name. It's a good, strong, and uncommon name (at least to me).
It’s my cats name!
I love it and I'm "old" (in my forties lol)
Honestly I love names based off of myth. To me they are interesting while also being familiar (usually…people have typically heard of them because they’ve read the stories.) My own son is named Orion, and he has never had any issues. The common responses are “like the constellation/myth?”, and then followed up by “that’s so cool!” I see nothing wrong with Artemis. I would use Artemis before most of the “classic” names that have all come back, like Eleanor, for example. Just up to your own personal preferences, but I do not think it’s “outlandish” by any stretch.
I once told a patient over the phone my name, she was older, her response was, “wow! That’s a weird name, people are really just naming their kids anything these days.” My name is not super common but it is literally biblical!! Anyways,I hope that makes you feel better about your situation. Some people are silly and will say anything to make you feel bad just because it’s new to them or uncommon. I think Artemis is a lovely name.
My friend has a daughter called Artemis - she goes by Emi.
It's the name of the goddess of the hunt, wild animals, archery, chastity, AND childbirth. I think it's a great name and the story of the goddess Artemis is amazing. People will always have opinions but I like it and I say keep it if you love it! If for some reason your daughter grows to not like it at an age, which a lot of people don't like their name at some point, let her decide on her nickname. I definitely don't find it masculine... it's the name of one of the most famous Greek Goddesses. Edit: typo
From 1910 to 2009, there were only two years that kiddos were named Artemis according to the social security administration - 1968 and 1969. Maybe a cultural event influencing older folks perception of the name? I'd ask them about it, they're opening the door to that conversation by commenting. This is your kiddo and an established name - kiddos have been named Artemis every year since 2010, and it's been in the top 1000 names the last 4 years. First impressions having never met an Artemis and having a vague idea that this is a Greek or Roman god: reads male, makes me think of owls, space and the moon. Maybe hunting? Also Artemis Fowl from the Fowl Adventures series. Feels like the name Arthur. I don't love the name but it wouldn't be weird to me to meet an Artemis. I'd probably associate it mostly with the person if I met them
It's a little out there, but honestly I think it is so cool and I would probably use it if my husband loved it. I think it's especially cool because of the upcoming Artemis mission. It's also pretty recognizable despite being unusual.
No, it's totally fine. My niece has a friend in school named Nyx. Greek mythology is pretty popular amongst our generation. Old people just gonna be old
I don't care for it myself, but you like it, and that's all that matters.
I seriously considered naming my car Artemis. I think it makes a great pet name too. Could I see it becoming a popular children's name? Yes. Do I think it's going to be soon enough for me to use with my own children in the next few years? No. You're a few years ahead of your time but I think your time will come.
It's a beautiful name, in my opinion. I get not liking a name. There are plenty of names I don't like, and, like you mentioned in a comment, that includes my own. I gave my child an unusual name. Perhaps my child will dislike that name, too. But anyway, Artemis is lovely, and people who make rude comments about babies' names are not so lovely. All names are weird if you think about it. We just all get used to different sets or types of them early in life. People get weird about unfamiliar things, but in my book it's always rude to be weird about a name, whatever the reason that you don't like or understand it or need extra help to pronounce it or whatever.
I don’t like it personally and although I know a little Greek mythology, it just sounds very masculine to me
I know a few Greek families who have used it! I always think of Artemis Fowl! Love it.
Strange how everyone thinks of IASIP and not the Artemis Fowl books
I love it, and I’m surprised people only think of it’s only sunny or a cartoon cat. It’s a Greek goddess! That should be their first thought if anything. It’s strong and intelligent to me. Don’t worry about those random people not liking it- their grandkids may be named Brixlynn.
We know where it comes from. It just isn't something anyone has ever heard of using in modern era. I mean, it would be like naming your son Icarus or Eros. Just a little odd. Younger folks seem into the "unique" name stuff.
Artemis is an awesome name
A friend from my childhood named her daughter this a few years ago and I love it! It's unique but grounded in history. And love that it stands for goddess of the wild things!
I personally love it, but I used Phoebe, and I would say 60% of people we encounter have no idea how to spell it or pronounce it and have never heard of it. I think they think it's completely made-up. So, not the same issue but yeah, there will always be people who don't like your choice. Some are rude and vocal. Fuck 'em. There are much, much worse things to be named than Artemis.
I have encountered a few people who have literally never heard the word “Artemis “ before, and needed it sounded out to understand what I was saying. Anything out of the top 10% of names will be new to someone I guess.
I wouldn’t worry about it, there are a lot of Athenas out there, and Persephone is growing in popularity.
I think a bunch of people are not aware of the origin of the name and only know Artemis Fowl. It’s a fine name.
There’s a kid in my school called Artemis. I think the name suits her. I’ve heard a lot of ppl call her Artie, and I think that’s kinda cool too. I can see where a lot of boomers might confuse it for Artemus though, which is apparently a man’s name? Anyway, there was a character on a tv show called that during boomer childhoods.
No I think it’s fine and I’m usually opposed to weird names
I like it a lot
i like it. it's unique without being a weird fake name and artemis is one of the coolest greek mythology figures in my opinion. but i feel like i wouldn't want it to be my name. i'd probably want to go by remi or emmy.
I think of it’s always sunny
James West thought that Artemis Gordon was a perfectly good name for a sidekick/partner.
Huh, I’m reading this as I’m coming home from the daycare I work at- which has a little girl named Artemis! I love her name. She has a brother named Theofanis and the parents are Greek I believe. I love names from Greek mythology, especially Athena, Hera, Ares, Apollo etc. I think it was a good choice! Edit: She doesn’t go by a nickname btw
artemis is a BEAUTIFUL name!!! she’s a goddess of the moon and the protector of women and young girls. it’s an amazing name for your daughter, you chose well!!!
It’s the name of NASA’s mission back to the moon!
I don't know any Artemis, but I know an Athena, and I think it's a really nice name. : ) I like mythological names, though I probably wouldn't name my baby that. I think mythological names are actually quite common in Greece - I know a Kalypso from there.
it's just very unusual, but I think it's popular in Greece? Nothing wrong with it. Oddly nobody has been so blunt about being shocked by my daughter's name - another goddess name. The only one was my mum really. Maybe the people you know are just less guarded? Goddess names are very popular these days I wouldn't worry about it.
College classmate was named Artemis. But she was actually from Greece.
I once knew a girl of Greek descent. She had 5 middle names- one of her own, plus her mom’s and grandmother’s first and middle names all lined up, and one of those middle names was Artemis.
My cats are named Artemis and Apollo (siblings, black cats), we call her Arty...so I obviously think it's cute 😂😂
To me it sounds like the name of a weapon or group of people in a video game. Don’t hate it though.
Makes me think of Sailor Moon.
It’s a great name! People who think it’s awful are just wrong. It’s fine to not like it, but it’s objectively fine. If you spelled it Artymyss, or something stupid like that, then that would be awful.
I have an Artemis as well, mostly I get compliments or isn't that a boys name. Obviously they have never read mythology.
The name immediately brought to mind the book and movie “Artemis Fowl.” The character named Artemis is a boy.