The Duke and Duchess of Sussex decided against the title Earl of Dumbarton for their son because they allegedly feared it would attract unfortunate nicknames.
The couple, who were appointed the titles of Earl and Countess of Dumbarton on their wedding day, reportedly 'refused the same title for their son Archie because it contains the word 'dumb'.
Speaking about Harry and Meghan's decision with The Telegraph, a source revealed, “They didn’t like the idea of Archie being called the Earl of Dumbarton because it began with the word 'dumb' [and] they were worried about how that might look.” Another person added, “It wasn’t just Meghan who pointed out the potential pitfalls, it also bothered Harry.”
Dumbarton is a town situated near Glasgow, on the north bank of the River Clyde. The area is steeped in history, and was founded in the fifth century, acting as the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde. It became a Royal Burgh in 1222.
In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan said Archie was denied the title of Prince after birth. She said, “In those months when I was pregnant we have in tandem the conversation of, you won’t be given security, not going to be given a title and also concerns and conversations about how dark his skin might be when he’s born.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle welcome their second baby, daughter Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, on June 4 earlier this month.
