Poppy

Poppy, the flower.

Poppy is an English feminine name taken from the flower. Its appeal is unusually direct: the same word names both a person and a plant, so the floral image is part of the name itself rather than a hidden meaning. It is an established given name in its own right, even if its ending has the affectionate feel of a nickname. The two p sounds give Poppy a crisp little bounce, softened by the final ee sound. To our ear, that makes it feel bright and informal rather than elaborate or solemn. The flower imagery adds delicacy, but the consonants keep the sound lively: a useful distinction if you like botanical names with some energy. In Britain, the red poppy also carries a remembrance association, honouring those who have served and sacrificed in the armed forces. This cultural symbolism can give the name an extra layer of resonance, but remembrance is not its literal translation. The flower remains the starting point; how much of that symbolism belongs to the name is a personal connection.

Etymology: An English given name taken directly from the flower word poppy. The word goes back through Middle English popi to Old English popæg or popig, ultimately related to Latin papaver.