Ever notice how some people’s names truly match their professions? Like Bernard Madoff, who “made off ” with billions of investors’ dollars. Or the lesser known Ray Gal, an astronomer at the University of Hawaii, who studies galaxies.
It makes me wonder: What’s really in a name? Does a name foretell profession, or is it simply coincidence?
Turns out that a name suited to the profession of its owner is aptly called an “aptronym“. At least it’s a defined phenomenon. If you know of someone who’s name matches their job, please reply and tell us here. Here are a few more aptronyms that I’ve uncovered:
Robert Strange McNamara — Former secretary of defense who said the military action in Vietnam was wrong, but would never come out against Iraq. Strange, indeed.
Bill Medley — Musician in the Righteous Brothers band, who came up with folk rock medleys and songs.
Summer Starfield — Astronomer studies, you guessed it, stars.
What about people’s names corresponding to their appearance? Like my old coach Dan Molnar who looks a little like a small furry mammal.
The town of Bala, Ontario, Canada holds some sort of a record for the most people that their name matched their job.
Bakeshop owner – Baker
Priest – Lord
Wood mill – Weismiller
Barber – Bush
Shoemaker – duh – Shoemaker
Blacksmith – Smith
There were supposed to be 7 families, but I do not know the 7th – if anyone finds out more about this, let me know 🙂 I was told about this from my Grandfather, but I can’t find exact details.
Democratic strategist Krystal Ball.
Omaha park maintenance supervisor Brook Bench.
Mulhall’s Landscaping spokesman Woody Wood.
Urologist – Dr. Seamen (in New Jersey, I kid you not)