The delicate task of naming a royal baby, especially one in line to the throne, is fraught with historical significance as the chosen name must bear no negative connotations. Each moniker—be it William, George, Charles or Elizabeth—is generally steeped in royal heritage.

Despite their careful consideration, the Princess of Wales has openly discussed feeling the weight of the world’s expectations when picking names for her offspring – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. During her 2022 visit to Royal Surrey County Hospital’s Maternity Unit, she shared personal insights with new parents – a conversation recounted to PEOPLE by a new mother named Amy.

“She just really talked about her own children including how they chose their names. She said they were their favourite names and that obviously the world was waiting for them to name their children – and that felt like quite a big pressure!” recounted Amy.

Kate also reflected nostalgically on her youngest, Prince Louis, saying: “I keep thinking Louis is a baby but he’s a big boy now. I just feels like yesterday.”

Much speculation surrounded the name choice for The Prince and Princess of Wales’ first child. It seems unbelievable that Prince George could have been named differently, but it appears Alexander was a strong contender.

Nicholl said: “Courtiers insisted the pair had not found out the sex of their unborn baby, and friends close to the couple claim William wanted a surprise. Although Kate apparently suspected it was a boy and had set her heart on the name Alexander, they had not yet decided what to call their firstborn.”

During her pregnancy, Kate referred to George as “our little grape”, suspecting she was carrying a boy due to his active movements. When his name was announced a few days after his birth, many gamblers celebrated as George was the favourite at 10-1.

The name George holds significant royal connections, having been the regnal name of six kings, including Queen Elizabeth II’s father, King George VI. His first middle name, Alexander, is the male version of Queen Elizabeth’s first middle name, Alexandra.