Best Rare Names from 100 Years Ago

Earnest

The name Earnest peaked for girls at #1773 in 1898. Earnest is occasionally used for boys in 2025.

7 Letter Boy Names

Names Ending in T for Boys

Two Syllable Names for Boys

Names that Peaked in 1900

Animal Names for Boys

<p>Earnest is a masculine name of English origin that developed from the word 'earnest,' meaning 'serious,' 'sincere,' or 'determined.' The name gained popularity during the Victorian era when virtue names were fashionable and personal qualities were considered appropriate inspirations for given names. Oscar Wilde's 1895 play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' playfully highlighted the name's association with seriousness and sincerity. Throughout the early 20th century, Earnest maintained moderate popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, before gradually declining after the 1950s. Often confused with Ernest (without the 'a'), this spelling variant has always been less common. The name conveys qualities of dedication, sincerity, and moral seriousness, making it appealing to parents who value these traditional virtues.</p>

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Virtue Names

Quirky and Vibrant Names for Boys

Nameberry

The name Earnest peaked for boys at #106 in 1900. The name is most popular in EARNEST, EARNEST, and EARNEST. Earnest is occasionally used for girls in 1980.

Ernest

Year	US rank	Births	Per million
2014	—	0	0
2015	—	0	0
2016	—	0	0
2017	—	0	0
2018	—	0	0
2019	—	0	0
2020	—	0	0
2021	—	0	0
2022	—	0	0
2023	—	0	0
2024	—	0	0
2025	—	0	0

Earnest

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