Extinct Names

Merilee and Merrilee were early respelled or word names, ahead of their time in some ways. Merrilee hit the Top 1000 for a couple of years in the 1940s, but last year no baby girls were given either version of the name in the US, which makes it more appealing.

Midcentury macramé-maker.

Best known these days as the name of an American department store chain, Dillard was once a baby name that ranked on the US Top 1000, at least until the middle of the last century.

You're so vain, I bet you think this name is about you.

Brunette is an unusual feminine name derived from the French word for a woman with brown hair. While more commonly recognized as a descriptive term rather than a given name, it has occasionally been used as a female name throughout history, particularly in French-speaking regions or among families with French heritage.

Willie is one of the adorable boyish nicknames newly fashionable for girls, rarer than Billie. It definitely makes the somewhat-fearsome Wilhelmina more fun and approachable.

Verlyn is an obscure name that found some use in the US in the early part of the 20th century, but now it and variation Verlin are virtually extinct, given to no baby boys in the US last year.

Luster is an uncommon masculine name derived from an English word meaning 'shine,' 'gleam,' or 'radiance.' Originally more common as a surname, it emerged as a given name through the practice of transforming family names into first names, particularly in American naming traditions. The name conveys qualities of brilliance, polish, and distinction, with implications of something that captures attention through its shining quality. Despite its positive connotations and appealing sound, Luster has never achieved widespread popularity as a first name, remaining notably rare in usage statistics. The name might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive option with strong sensory associations and an inherently positive meaning, though some might hesitate due to potential secondary meanings of the word in modern English.

The lilting Lorelei has given birth to many variations, including this one, now extinct.

Part Verna, part Bernice, Vernice saw use as a girls' name during the heyday of both those names. Both entered the Top 200 in the 1880s, where Verna lasted until 1940 and Bernice a decade longer.

Nedra was one of a phalanx of names -- Delma, Verda, Vernice -- popular in the late 19th and early 20th century that dropped out of fashion after World War II and now have disappeared completely. Like the others, Nedra is now extinct.

Nedra was one of a phalanx of names -- Delma, Verda, Vernice -- popular in the late 19th and early 20th century that dropped out of fashion after World War II and now have disappeared completely. Like the others, Nedra is now extinct.

Merrilee has several different origins. It's an alternative spelling of the unusual word name Merrily, as well as a variant of the smoosh name Marilee (Mary + Lee). Merrilee, Merrilees or Mirrlees are also found in Scotland, deriving from a Scottish place name. Merrilee hit the Top 1000 for a few years in the 1940s, but disappeared from the charts completely back in 2007. In 2023, however, 5 baby girls were given name, as it joined a number of vintage revivals making a reappearance in the US.

Short form of Alfred that had fallen out of favor, but could come back alongside Alfie and other clunky old-style nicknames like Gus and Ike.

A Dorothy nickname name with a measure of nostalgic charm. Kids will associate it with the funny fish character voiced by Ellen DeGeneres in the Pixar animated instant classic Finding Nemo.

If you're looking for a girl's name that honors an ancestral Arthur, try Artis.

Algie is a vintage masculine name that originated as a diminutive of names beginning with 'Alg-' such as Algernon or Albert. With Old French and Germanic roots, it gained modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in Britain and America. The name has a gentle, somewhat whimsical quality that reflects naming styles of bygone eras. Algie fell from common usage by the mid-20th century, now carrying a distinctive old-fashioned charm that might appeal to parents drawn to the revival of antique names. Its brevity and friendly sound give it accessibility, while its vintage nature makes it stand out among contemporary choices. Despite its rarity today, Algie represents the cyclical nature of naming trends as vintage options find new appreciation.

When ordering a baby name, hold the mayo.

Marge used to be as common as Maggie or Megan, ranking on its own in the girls' Top 1000 from 1900 until right after World War II, when so many Old School names fell off the list in favor of a new generation cuter, perkier choices.

Sandi is a feminine name typically functioning as a diminutive of Sandra or Alexandra, though it has established itself as an independent given name. Popular particularly during the 1950s through the 1970s in the United States, Sandi offers a friendly, approachable alternative to more formal versions. The name has English origins, ultimately derived from the Greek 'alexandros' meaning 'defender of mankind.' The 'i' ending creates a cheerful, casual impression compared to the 'y' spelling (Sandy). Sandi conveys warmth and accessibility, with a vintage charm that's reminiscent of mid-century America. While less commonly given to newborns today, it remains recognizable and straightforward, embodying a friendly, unpretentious quality many find appealing.