Banned Baby Names Worldwide: Surprising Picks Like Linda You Can’t Use

Banned Baby Names Around the World: From Linda to "Metallica"
(Approx. 600 words)

Choosing a baby name is a joyous yet challenging task for parents. While many opt for traditional or trendy names, some choices have sparked controversy—even leading to outright bans. From cultural clashes to trademark issues, here’s a look at names deemed too problematic in certain countries.

Saudi Arabia: Linda

The name Linda, common in the UK and U.S., was banned in Saudi Arabia in 2014 for being “non-Islamic” and culturally inappropriate. Authorities emphasized the need for names to align with Islamic traditions.

France: Fraise and Nutella

In France, Fraise (French for “strawberry”) was banned due to its slang association with a vulgar phrase. Similarly, Nutella was prohibited to prevent mockery, as the government prioritizes names that won’t burden a child.

Sweden: Metallica and the 43-Letter Name

Sweden’s strict naming laws rejected Metallica in 2007 over trademark concerns. The country also made headlines in 1996 when parents tried to name their child Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmnckssqlbb11116 (pronounced “Albin”). The name was deemed absurd, and the parents were fined.

UK: "Rogue" and "Cyanide"

British authorities banned Rogue for implying criminality, while Cyanide was prohibited as it references a deadly poison. The UK prioritizes names that avoid negative connotations.

Australia and New Zealand: Spinach and "Fish & Chips"

Australia banned Spinach to prevent mockery, and LOL (short for “laugh out loud”) for undermining official documents. In New Zealand, officials blocked Fish and Chips for twins, though they allowed Benson and Hedges (a cigarette brand) and intervened in a case where a girl was named Talula Does the Hula from Hawaii to protect her from bullying.

Malaysia: Fruit and Vegetable Names

Malaysia bans all fruit and vegetable-inspired names (e.g., Apple or Papaya) to preserve dignity and prevent teasing.

Global Oddities

• Japan: Akuma (meaning “devil”) is prohibited.
• U.S.: The symbol @ was banned as a name.
• Mexico: Burkey King (mocking Burger King) is illegal.
• Russia: The 30-letter BOChrVF260602 (referencing a family name and birthdate) was banned.

Why Do Names Get Banned?
Countries often restrict names to:

1. Avoid cultural disrespect (e.g., non-Islamic names in Saudi Arabia).
2. Prevent bullying (e.g., Fraise in France).
3. Respect trademarks (e.g., Metallica in Sweden).
4. Maintain legal integrity (e.g., LOL in Australia).

Image Suggestions

1. Saudi Arabia: A baby with a name tag crossed out, over a desert landscape.
2. France: A strawberry with a red "X" over it, Eiffel Tower in the background.
3. Sweden: A metal band poster with a "banned" stamp.
4. Malaysia: A fruit basket with names like "Apple" crossed out.

While creativity is key, these examples remind us that names carry weight—both legally and culturally. Parents must balance uniqueness with practicality to ensure their child’s name is a gift, not a burden.

Sources: Preply, global government reports.

(Word count: ~600)