Too Controversial for Texas? 16 Baby Names That Got Banned in the Lone Star State

Texas is known for its big personality, wide open spaces, and boldness, but it has also made headlines for some surprisingly controversial baby name bans. Whether it's due to concerns about the names' meanings, their potential for harm, or simply cultural sensitivities, certain names have faced rejection in the Lone Star State.

Here are 16 baby names that were too much for Texas to handle.

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Messiah

In 2013, Texas officials ruled that “Messiah” could not be used as a first name on a birth certificate. This sparked a debate about the name's religious connotations.

The state argued that the title is reserved for Jesus Christ and that using it as a name could be seen as disrespectful. Despite the controversy, the decision was eventually reversed, and the name was allowed again.

Adolf Hitler

Perhaps one of the most infamous banned names, “Adolf Hitler” was deemed inappropriate by Texas officials. Given the name’s association with the notorious dictator, it was flagged as offensive and a potential source of harm for the child in the future.

The ruling emphasized that the name could cause emotional distress and social stigma.

Jihad

“Jihad,” meaning “struggle” or “striving” in Arabic, was banned because of its association with violence, particularly in the context of modern terrorism. The name, often misunderstood, was considered too controversial by Texas officials who feared it could lead to discrimination or harm to the child.

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Venerable

While the word “venerable” has positive connotations, meaning worthy of respect, Texas authorities found it unsuitable for a child’s name. The ruling highlighted that “venerable” is more of an adjective than a name, making it difficult to assign to a baby in a way that could be practical or meaningful in everyday life.

King

In 2015, the name “King” was banned in Texas, though this decision generated a lot of debate. While some argued that it had royal connotations and could be seen as a symbol of empowerment, others felt it was too bold and could lead to unrealistic expectations for the child.

The state was concerned that the name could create issues with identity.

Justice

Though it might sound like a strong, noble name, “Justice” was banned in Texas due to its association with abstract concepts rather than a specific identity. Officials argued that it was too much of a virtue or title to be used as a given name.

Still, supporters believed it conveyed important values like fairness and equality.

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4Real

In a truly unique case, Texas officials prohibited the name “4Real” for a child. The name, which uses a number as part of the spelling, was seen as impractical and problematic for official records and documentation.

Despite being a playful take on modern naming trends, it was ultimately too unconventional for state approval.

Scrotum

Texas authorities have also banned names that could be deemed vulgar or inappropriate, and “Scrotum” falls into this category. This unfortunate name was flagged as unsuitable due to its association with a body part, and the state deemed it disrespectful for a child.

The name was rejected in an effort to protect the child from potential embarrassment.

Cyanide

“Cyanide,” the name of a deadly poison, was banned in Texas due to its harmful associations. The name raised concerns about the child’s future well-being, as it could be seen as a form of emotional or psychological harm.

Naming a child after something toxic was deemed dangerous for both the child’s reputation and their emotional health.

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Robocop

A name inspired by pop culture, “Robocop” was banned by Texas authorities for being too unusual and inappropriate. While it references a popular film character, the name was seen as unfit for a child, potentially leading to bullying or social difficulties.

The state's rejection was based on the desire to avoid any name that could create undue attention or stigma.

Lucifer

“Lucifer” is another controversial name that Texas chose to ban. Due to its strong association with the devil in Christian theology, the name was considered too provocative and likely to bring unwanted attention to a child.

Despite its occasional use in literature and culture, the name was deemed too negative for a birth certificate.

Terminator

The name “Terminator,” though inspired by an iconic action film, was rejected by Texas officials. Named after a violent and destructive movie character, it was seen as inappropriate for a child.

The name had no practical value, and officials were concerned it could affect the child’s social life or cause emotional distress.

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Blood

Though it might sound tough, “Blood” was considered too extreme by Texas authorities. The name could be seen as too aggressive or intimidating, potentially leading to bullying or stigmatization.

The state was worried about the long-term impact of such a name on a child’s social integration and overall well-being.

Colonel

“Colonel,” although it may evoke military authority and respect, was banned for being a rank rather than a name. Texas officials argued that it was inappropriate for a child to carry a title of this nature, as it could create confusion or unrealistic expectations.

It was seen as too formal and not fitting for a baby’s identity.

God

While many parents may name their children after religious figures or deities, “God” was banned in Texas due to its direct association with the supreme being in many religious traditions. The state saw it as an overstep of religious and cultural norms, potentially disrespecting sacred concepts.

It was deemed an inappropriate choice for a child’s name.

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Prince William

“Prince William,” inspired by the British royal family, was rejected by Texas officials due to its potential for confusion. Since it closely mirrored the name of a real person, it could lead to legal or social issues.

The name was seen as more of a title than a personal name, making it unsuitable for a baby.