Doublenames

Doublenames are a naming practice in which a person is given two given names that are usually used together as a single personal name. The two parts can be separated by a space, but in many cases they are joined by a hyphen; the result is a compound given name. Doublename usage can reflect religious, familial, cultural, or regional traditions and is common in many language areas.

In different languages, doublenames take different forms. In English, examples include Mary Anne, John Paul. In French and Dutch, hyphenated forms like Anne-Sophie, Marie-Louise are common. In Spanish and Portuguese, two given names such as Juan Carlos or Maria Josefa are frequent, with the second element often used in informal address only in certain contexts. In some cultures, one of the two names may function as a middle name in official records while the other is the primary given name.

Legal and administrative treatment varies. Some jurisdictions recognize multiple given names on official documents, while others require a single given name. Name indexing and sorting in databases may rely on the first given name, the first element, or an official preferred name. People may face confusion in forms and identity verification when doublenames are shortened or altered.

Usage and identity: Individuals with doublenames may choose to go by either element, a combination, or a shortened form. Doublenames can carry family or religious significance and may affect social perception in formal settings or professional environments.

See also: Compound given name, Middle name, Hyphenated name.