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Clare/Claire
It seems that Clare/Claire (I much prefer Clare) has become quite popular in the middle name slot. Is it just me, or does a name that becomes "too" popular in the mn slot lose its appeal?When I was growing up the middle name everyone had was Marie. Even now, when I hear the name Marie it just sounds stale. The same now goes with Grace for me, because you hear it so much as a mn.Do you see this happening with Clare? It is on our short list, and is exciting to me (while having that strong, stable quality). but I do have a concern that it will become just another one of those names thrown into the mn slot that will eventually make the name stale.
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I agree that overused middle names feel stale (Marie, Ann, Lynn) but I don't think Clare is overused. I do see it as a middle name occasionally but not to the extent of overuse. I like it. It is sweet yet strong, a classic. It feels modern & old fashioned to me at the same time.
A friend's niece (about 4) is Claire Madeline, which I think is gorgeous.
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I do see your point, but I don't think Claire/ Clare has gotten to that point yet. Definitely agree on MarieOther names that are just too common in the mn slot:
Rose
Louise
Lynn/ Lyn
May/ Mae (but I think this one is ready for a comeback)
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Middle names are usually pretty invisible, so I don't think it matters. Putting them in the fn position gives them a fresh vibe.And I do agree with you about Clare-without-the-i!
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I sort of find the opposite. When a name becomes popular as a middle name, then I like it extra as a first name just to be contrary. They sound a lot more fresh as first names.ETA: I guess I never mentioned anything about Claire. I can see it becoming a popular middle name because it's pretty, short, and goes with just about anything. But to me that would just make it even nicer as a first name, although I happen to love it a ton already, it would honor my grandfather, and we'd easily use it.

This message was edited 3/10/2011, 8:52 AM

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