In 2012, 146 girls in the U.S. were named Khaleesi, the name of one of the protagonists from the hit HBO series, “Game of Thrones.”
The heroine, who gave birth to two dragons after marrying a Dothraki leader in “Game of Thrones” first season is the subject of one of the show’s most intriguing story arches. Her nonhuman offspring is what gave her the title of “Mother of Dragons”. Khaleesi, played by 26-year-old Emilia Clarke, is considered a symbol of feminism, strength, cleverness and beauty to most “Game of Thrones” fans.
Although Khaleesi didn’t break the top 1000 names, the name still came in before some more familiar names such as Brandy, Betsy or Nadine. According the Social Security database of names, only a handful of girls were named Khaleesi in 2010, with its popularity rising significantly in 2011 (26) to almost 150 in 2012. According to CNN, the character’s birth name Daenerys wasn’t as popular but still came in at 21 named girls.
Will we see other “Game of Thrones” name rise in popularity in the near future? Names of the villains will likely be less desirable than those who garner more sympathy, such as Sansa and Arya.
“Game of Thrones” has recently announced its extended 2 year renewal much to fan’s delight. “Games of Thrones” airs Sunday at 9 PM EST on HBO.
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