Princess Eugenie has recently announced the name of her newborn daughter, revealing that she has chosen the name Adelaide Elizabeth Annina Brooksbank. The announcement came two weeks after the baby girl was born on 3 August. The delay between the birth and the public revelation of the name has sparked interest, as royal name announcements can vary widely in timing, with some made mere days after a child’s arrival.
Royal family members have historically taken different approaches when it comes to sharing their children’s names. While some opt for quick announcements, others have kept their choices under wraps for a longer duration. In recent times, the fastest announcement of a royal baby’s name was made by Princess Diana and King Charles, who disclosed their second son Harry’s name just one day after his birth in September 1984.
Alongside Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed their children’s names, Archie and Lilibet, two days after each of their births in 2019 and 2021, respectively. Similarly, the Prince and Princess of Wales were quick to disclose the names of their three children, with Prince George and Princess Charlotte’s names both announced two days post-birth. However, they waited four days before revealing the name of their youngest son, Prince Louis.
In contrast, the name of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s eldest son, now King Charles, was withheld for 29 days, only being confirmed during his christening. This moment in history is noted as the longest wait for a royal baby name in recent memory, illustrating that family members have often adopted various customs when it comes to naming their children.
Eugenie took to social media on 17 August to share the joyful news, describing the special moment of welcoming her daughter into the world. In her heartfelt post, she expressed gratitude for the love and warmth that surrounded them since the birth, stating, “We are so happy to share Adelaide Elizabeth Annina Brooksbank. Named after three people we love and admire past and present,” highlighting the significant figures who inspired her daughter’s name.
The name Adelaide not only carries a personal significance but also a royal history, referencing Queen Adelaide, consort to King William IV. Eugenie has links to this heritage, having worn heirloom jewellery commissioned by King William IV at her wedding to Jack Brooksbank in 2018. Furthermore, the choice of Elizabeth is a tribute to her late grandmother, with several family members bearing the name in some form.
The significance of the name also extends to the family’s ties with Portugal, as the baby was born in Lisbon. Eugenie pointed out that her daughter’s name encompasses parts of both English and Portuguese heritage, affirming their affection for these cultures. The Portuguese influence is particularly poignant, as it alludes to Maria Adelaide, who is regarded as an honorary saint, despite not having been canonised.
In addition to her historical importance, the name Annina carries a personal connection for Eugenie and Brooksbank, although the specifics of its significance have not been publicly disclosed. The thoughtful selection of their daughter’s names reflects the couple’s deep appreciation for family history and heritage.
As public interest in the royal family continues to grow, Princess Eugenie’s announcement contributes to the ongoing narrative surrounding royal births and the subsequent naming conventions. Each name tells a story, interweaving personal affection with royal tradition, underscoring the enduring interest in the lives of British royals.
In essence, as royal baby announcements remain a subject of fascination, Princess Eugenie’s choice of Adelaide Elizabeth Annina serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of family connections and heritages that influence the royal lineage. As the new addition to the Brooksbank family grows, her name will undoubtedly carry with it the legacy of love and admiration from those who came before her.