How are newer personal names created from sounds and syllables?

Newer personal names are often created based on the personal preference for the phonetic shape of a name, rather than relying on existing linguistic meaning or traditional naming stocks. This process involves selecting a sequence of sounds and syllables that the individual finds pleasant or aesthetically appealing.1

In some cases, these invented names have no inherent meaning or associations, such as the name "Golly," which was created simply because the person choosing it liked how it sounded. This practice is relatively common in the United States. Additionally, some names are formed through the use of fanciful combinations of sounds, resulting in names like "Claretta," "Elizene," "Gwyned," and "Marilla," though these often have a limited impact on the broader naming landscape.12

This creative approach to naming is distinct from traditional methods, which typically draw from religious, familial, or historical associations. While these invented names are primarily driven by phonetic preference, they may also be influenced by broader cultural trends or the desire for unique identifiers.132