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Names that Peaked in 1889

  1. Governor

    • Origin:

      English, occupational name

    • Description:

      Governor is far from one of the established occupational names such as Porter or Cooper, but with babies names King and Prince, Governor certainly wouldn't seem as outlandish today as it once might have.
  2. Lonie

    • Description:

      Lonie is a masculine name that likely originated as a diminutive form of names like Alonso, Leon, or Lionel. It may also function as an independent shortening of longer names with Germanic or Romance language origins. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its simple two-syllable structure. While uncommon as a formal given name, Lonie has historical usage particularly in Southern American naming traditions. In some contexts, it may also appear as a unisex name or nickname. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel, though it has historical precedent. Its pronunciation is intuitive, making it accessible despite its relative rarity.
  3. Betsey

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Elizabeth, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      This playful variation of Elizabeth became popular in its own right during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in England and America. Betsey offers a sweet, vintage quality with a touch of whimsy that distinguishes it from more formal versions like Elizabeth or even Betsy. While its popularity has declined since its peak, it maintains appeal for parents seeking a name with historical charm and nostalgic value. The name received renewed attention through American fashion designer Betsey Johnson, known for her playful and eccentric designs.
  4. Florencio

    • Origin:

      Spanish, from Latin, “flourishing, prosperous"

    • Description:

      Elaborate & floral, Florencio is a unique Spanish name originating from the Latin Florentius.
  5. Abie

    • Description:

      Abie serves as a diminutive form of Abraham, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'father of multitudes.' This friendly, approachable nickname variant has historical usage in Jewish communities as well as broader popularity in the early 20th century. Abie also occasionally appears as a standalone given name, particularly in communities with strong Jewish heritage. The name carries a vintage charm while maintaining connections to the biblical patriarch Abraham. Though not currently ranking among popular boy's names in most Western countries, Abie retains appeal for families seeking a simple, unpretentious name with historical depth or those looking to honor an ancestor named Abraham with a more casual form.
  6. Cressie

    • Origin:

      Short form of Cressida, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "gold"

    • Description:

      Derived from the Shakespearean Cressida, or perhaps from Crescentia or Lucrezia, Cressie is a sweet but unexpected nickname-name, reminiscent of Essie, Josie, Jessie, Cassie, and Lettie. For some, however, it might be too close to the salad garnish.
  7. Mell

    • Description:

      Mell is a masculine name with roots in various cultures. It may be a variant of 'Mel,' which is often a diminutive of names like Melvin, Melbourne, or Melchior. The name has Germanic and Latin influences, potentially deriving from elements meaning 'work' or 'labor.' In some cases, it might be related to the Latin 'mel,' meaning 'honey.' Mell remains relatively uncommon as a standalone given name, giving it a distinctive quality. In some cultures, it may be used as a surname that has transitioned to first-name usage, following a trend seen with many family names. The simplicity of the name gives it a modern, concise appeal that aligns with current naming preferences for shorter, stronger-sounding masculine names.
  8. Bush

    • Description:

      Bush is an uncommon masculine given name derived from an English surname. The surname originally referred to someone who lived near a bush or thicket, coming from the Old English word 'busc.' As a first name, Bush is exceedingly rare, known primarily for its association with the political family that produced two U.S. presidents. The name has strong nature connotations, evoking imagery of vegetation and wild landscapes. While some might choose it to honor the political family, others might select it for its simple, strong sound and natural associations. Its brevity gives it a distinct, memorable quality, though its primary recognition remains as a surname rather than a given name.
  9. Buena

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "good, excellent"

    • Description:

      Affirmative adjective occasionally used as a name.
  10. Fleda

    • Description:

      Fleda is a feminine name with ancient Germanic origins, possibly derived from elements meaning 'stream' or 'beauty.' This rare name appears occasionally in historical records across Northern Europe but never achieved widespread usage. In American naming history, Fleda saw modest use in the early 20th century before fading from popularity. The name has a delicate, vintage quality with its flowing sounds and feminine ending. Fleda's exceptional rarity today makes it distinctive, appealing to parents seeking names with historical roots that feel both graceful and uncommon. Its short, two-syllable structure gives it a subtle elegance without complexity.
  11. Acie

    • Description:

      Acie likely has multiple origin possibilities. It may have developed as a nickname or variant spelling of the name Ace, derived from the Latin "as" meaning "unit" or "one," which became associated with excellence. Alternatively, it could be a short form of names containing the element "Ac-" or a nickname for Horace, Ignatius, or similar names. Historical records show usage dating back to the early 20th century in the United States, particularly in southern regions. The spelling variation with "-ie" follows a pattern common in nickname formations. Though never widely common, Acie has shown persistent usage throughout the 20th century, primarily for males. The pronunciation typically follows the pattern of "AY-see," though regional variations might include "AH-see" or "ACE-ee."
  12. Herma

    • Description:

      Herma is a feminine name with Germanic and Greek origins. In its Germanic form, it's a shortened version of names containing the element 'herm,' meaning 'warrior' or 'soldier,' such as Hermina or Hermione. In Greek, it may derive from Hermes, the messenger god. Herma was moderately used in the early 20th century, particularly in German-speaking regions and among German immigrants to the United States, but has since become quite rare. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft sounds and classical roots. Some may associate it with 'herma,' a type of sculpture consisting of a head on a square pillar in ancient Greek art, adding a subtle artistic and cultural dimension to the name.

  13. Besse

    • Description:

      Besse is a feminine name with medieval English origins, typically considered a diminutive form of Elizabeth or possibly Beatrice. This short, sweet name carries a charming vintage quality reminiscent of rural England. Historically, Besse was commonly used as a nickname in the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, but occasionally stood as an independent given name. The name fell from common usage in the early 20th century, making it quite rare today. Besse shares connections with variants like Bess, Bessie, and Beth, all deriving from Elizabeth, which means 'God is my oath' in Hebrew. Its simple, unpretentious character evokes associations with honesty and straightforwardness. Parents might choose this name for its understated historical charm and connection to the enduringly popular Elizabeth.

  14. Sada

    • Origin:

      Hebrew variation of Sarah; also Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "chaste"

    • Description:

      The late actress Sada Thompson introduced this obscure but usable form.
  15. Hazle

    • Description:

      Hazle is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Hazel, derived from the English word for the hazel tree and its light brown color. The hazel tree has long been associated with wisdom and protection in folklore. This alternative spelling gives the traditional nature name a distinctive twist while maintaining its pronunciation. The name gained some popularity during the early 20th century but became less common until a revival of nature-inspired names in recent decades. Hazle carries vintage charm combined with natural imagery, making it appeal to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. The name evokes warm, earthy tones and woodland imagery. While less frequently used than the standard spelling Hazel, Hazle offers the same warm associations with a slightly unique presentation.