Jennifer,

I was wondering if you know the meaning of the name Bellamy? I noticed the name after actress Bellamy Young appeared on the TV show Scandal and I couldn’t find a meaning anywhere. Also, I really love the name and I love The French language, so what do you think of twist on the spelling, such as Belleamie?

Thank you!

Lyndsie

Dear Lyndsie,

The name Bellamy was originally an English surname, which–as you guessed–has French/Norman roots. It means “Good Friend” from the French/Latin terms “Belle” (good) and “Ami” (friend).

If I were you I would stick with the traditional spelling, Bellamy. I’m sure as a person who has had an alternate spelling of a traditional name, you have always had to spell your name for people, right? Has your name been a burden on you because of that?  It is a great name, by the way, and we’ve added the name (and the alternate spelling) to our database.

Sincerely,

Jennifer