November 10, 2005: Issue 113
When you use common nouns (mom, baby, grandma, etc.) as proper nouns, capitalize them.
correct: This is a soft, soothing nursery where any baby will have sweet dreams.
correct: This is a soft, soothing nursery where Baby will have sweet dreams.
correct: Give your mom a delicious surprise with this Mother’s Day cake.
correct: Give Mom a delicious surprise with this Mother’s Day cake.
If you’re not sure whether to capitalize, try substituting a person’s name for the noun without changing or deleting any other words. If the name makes sense, capitalize the noun.
Back to Style on the Go Archive
Back to BHG Stylebook Table of Contents