Names that Peaked in 1888

A color name, a gemstone name, and an ocean-inspired choice, Coral has a lot going for it with its sharp C sounds yet sweet vintage feel. Unlike Scarlett or Violet, however, it is only quietly used in the US these days, perhaps because of its similarity to more 'dated' Carol.

Mamie is back. Having finally shorn her Mamie Eisenhower bangs, this insouciant and adorable nickname name is perfect if you want a zestier way to honor a beloved aunt Mary. Meryl Streep's actress daughter, properly named Mary Willa, is called Mamie Gummer. You might think of Mamie as a sister of the stylish Maisie.

Since female cousins Mitzi and Fritzi have entered the realm of possibilities, there's a chance that Cousin Fritz could as well. Fritz is the name of several notables, from early German-born film director Lang to early footballer Fritz (born Frederick) Pollard, the first African-American to play in the Rose Bowl in 1916.

Upper-class surname in England that might be prime for adoption here.

Ebba, the feminine version of Ebbe (a diminutive of Eberhard or Asbjorn) and also a form of an old English name, is in the Swedish Top 10 but virtually unknown in the US. However, with the rise of Emma, Ella, Ada, and similar simple-yet-traditional names, Ebba may enjoy more widespread popularity.

The chic Euro spelling of Henry is rising along with the original form.

Like Lars, Sven, Niels, and Nels, an unjustly neglected straightforward Scandinavian name. Surname Nilsson or the anglicized Nelson derives from Nils.

A literary name with a simple yet alluring sound, Sula may appeal as an alternative to those who like Lula, Lola, Susannah, and Tallulah. The protagonist and titular character of Toni Morrison's 1973 novel, the name may relate to the Old Testament Shulammite (and the Hebrew shalom) or to the Latin Ursula, meaning "little she-bear".

Turner is a name that's both preppy and painterly, recalling the exquisite watercolor seascapes of British painter J.M.W. Turner. An occupational name in the Taylor-Carter mold, Turner is a more distinctive choice than many of the usual suspects.

Short and to-the-point, it turns an ancient biblical name into a friendly cowboy.

More user-friendly, though less substantial, than Bartholomew.

Despite Thornton Wilder, playwright of the perennial Our Town, only a handful of baby boys receive this name each year..

Emit is an uncommon masculine name with multiple origin possibilities. It can be seen as a reverse spelling of the word "time," giving it a creative, modern appeal. Alternatively, some connect it to the Latin word "emittere," meaning "to send forth" or "to emit," suggesting someone who radiates energy or ideas. The name's simplicity and distinctive four-letter structure make it appealing to parents seeking something brief yet meaningful. While Emit remains rare in usage statistics, it fits alongside minimalist modern names gaining attention. The name may occasionally be confused with Emmett, though its single 'm' and 't' spelling creates a more streamlined appearance and slightly different pronunciation.

Old-fangled nickname could make dot.com era short form or middle name.

The double 'n's in this spelling variation of vintage Winifred aesthetically looks closer to the loveable nickname Winnie which is likely the appeal for many parents. Winnifred, along with several other Win names, from vintage revivals Winnie and Winona to modern Winter and Winslow, is on the rise.

Elenora is a feminine name with elegant classical roots, representing a variant of Eleanor. The name ultimately derives from the Provençal name Aliénor, possibly meaning 'other' or 'foreign.' This particular spelling creates a softer, more vowel-rich version of the traditional Eleanor. Throughout history, the name has been associated with nobility and refinement, borne by numerous queens and aristocratic women. Elenora offers a slightly more romantic and melodic quality than Eleanor, with its additional vowel creating a flowing rhythm. While less common than Eleanor or Eleonora, this variation maintains the name's dignified heritage while providing a touch of distinctiveness. The name carries timeless appeal, making it suitable for a child and equally appropriate for an adult. Parents might choose Elenora for its classic elegance combined with a subtle uniqueness that sets it apart from more common traditional names.

Godfrey was very popular in the Middle Ages, but today you're more likely to hear it as a surname than a first name. It has a solid, old-man charm, but a couple of possible deal-breakers: the first syllable being God, and no obvious nickname. Goff, maybe? For a different feel, we also like the Italian artist's version Giotto.

Melton is a surname-turned-first-name of English origin, derived from a place name meaning 'middle farm' or 'settlement in the middle.' The place name combines the Old English elements 'middel' (middle) and 'tūn' (enclosure, settlement, or farm). As a given name, Melton has remained relatively uncommon in the United States and other English-speaking countries, maintaining a traditional, somewhat rustic appeal. It fits within the trend of using surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking a distinguished, strong-sounding name for boys that carries a connection to Anglo-Saxon heritage.

Too far gone to the girls.