pluralinimisiä

Pluralinimisiä is a neologism referring to the practice of using multiple given names, particularly in Finnish naming conventions. Historically, in Finland, it was common for individuals, especially those of a certain social standing, to be given several given names at birth. This tradition, while less prevalent in its original form today, has seen a resurgence in modern times with a slightly different emphasis.

The term "pluralinimisiä" itself is a Finnish compound word. "Plurali" derives from the Latin "pluralis," meaning "more than one," and "nimisiä" is the partitive plural of "nimi," meaning "name." Thus, it literally translates to "having multiple names."

In contemporary Finnish society, the choice to give a child multiple given names can stem from various motivations. Some parents may choose to honor multiple family members by including their names. Others might select names with specific meanings or sounds they find appealing, combining them for aesthetic or personal significance. It can also be a reflection of a broader trend towards more elaborate and unique naming choices observed in many Western cultures. While not a formal legal requirement to have more than one name, the practice of pluralinimisiä remains a recognized and accepted aspect of Finnish personal naming customs.