Names that Peaked in 1880
- Shade
Origin:
English word nameDescription:
Nice sound, but double meaning -- shady glen or shady character.
- Burr
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"bristle"Description:
Ruggedly appealing word name in the Thorn/Rider/Storm school of boys' names.
- Howell
Origin:
English variation of Hywel, an eminent Welsh kingDescription:
A familiar and usable last name turned first. Or you could look at it as a homophone of the verb howl, which gives it a wilder feel.
- Carra
Description:
Carra is a feminine name with varied origins. It may be an alternate spelling of Cara, derived from the Italian word for 'dear' or 'beloved,' or from the Irish name Ciara, meaning 'dark-haired.' Some sources also connect it to Latin 'carus' (precious). As a less common variant, Carra offers uniqueness while maintaining the melodic quality of more familiar forms. The name has remained relatively uncommon in popularity rankings but appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with a gentle sound. Its simple two-syllable structure makes it easy to pronounce across cultures while still feeling somewhat distinctive.
- Bert
Origin:
English, diminutive of Albert and BertramDescription:
A once-popular nickname for Albert and Bertram now being polished up by hip Brits, but still hibernating in the Land of Nerd over here.
- Isreal
Description:
Isreal is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variant of Israel, with ancient Hebrew origins. The biblical name Israel carries profound significance, meaning "one who struggles with God" or "God contends," originating from the story of Jacob in the Book of Genesis. The Isreal spelling variant may have emerged through regional pronunciation differences or spelling adaptations. While less common than the traditional Israel spelling, Isreal maintains the same rich biblical and historical associations. The name connects to both the biblical patriarch and the modern nation, carrying spiritual significance across Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions. Its distinctive spelling offers a subtle differentiation while preserving the name's cultural and religious heritage and powerful meaning.
- Columbus
Origin:
Variation of Columbo or Columbia, LatinMeaning:
"dove"Description:
This is a big name, both in heritage and sound. On the right child, this could be inspired, but others may shrink from all the connotations. While your preferred nickname for this option might be Col (or Kit if you're connecting it to Christopher Columbus), you may end up with the slightly more cumbersome "Bus" as the short-form.
- Manford
Description:
Manford is a masculine name with English origins, derived from an Old English place name meaning 'common ford' or 'shared river crossing.' The name combines 'man' (common or shared) with 'ford' (river crossing). While never extremely popular, Manford saw modest use in the United States during the early-to-mid 20th century, particularly in rural communities. The name has a sturdy, traditional quality that reflects its Anglo-Saxon heritage. Manford has declined in usage in recent decades, now considered a rare vintage name that might appeal to parents looking for a distinctive yet historically-rooted option with a connection to nature and geography.
- Manervia
Description:
Manervia is an uncommon feminine name with possible roots in Latin or Greek origins. It may be a variant of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and the arts. The name carries connotations of intelligence, creativity, and strategic thinking. Manervia remains quite rare in contemporary usage, giving it a distinctive quality for those who bear it. This uniqueness can be appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with classical undertones. While not frequently found in modern birth records, Manervia has appeared occasionally throughout history, particularly in the 19th century in some regions of the United States and Europe.
- Neppie
Origin:
Diminutive of Penelope, GreekMeaning:
"weaver"Description:
Bygone nickname for Penelope. Try Penny, Nellie, or Poppy today.
- Metta
Origin:
Swedish variation of Margaret, GreekMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Metta -- or Mette or Meta -- is an international short form of the classic Margaret, ranking in the Swedish Top 100 but never heard here. There were fewer than five baby girls given any spelling of this name in the US last year.
- Berry
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
If not for Motown founder Berry Gordy, this name would now be totally in the girl group.
- Kittie
Description:
Kittie is a diminutive form of Katherine or Catherine, originating from Greek roots meaning 'pure.' As a nickname-turned-independent name, Kittie emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when pet forms of names were commonly used as given names. Its playful, affectionate quality made it modestly popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name has declined in use since the mid-20th century, with many parents now preferring either the full Katherine/Catherine or other diminutives like Kate or Katie. Kittie also naturally evokes feline associations, which can add to its sweet, gentle character.
- Chrissie
Description:
Chrissie is a feminine name that functions as a diminutive of Christina or Christine, both derived from the Greek 'Christos' meaning 'anointed one.' Popular throughout the 20th century, particularly in the 1950s-70s, Chrissie has a friendly, approachable quality that resonates as both youthful and timeless. The name gained visibility through notable bearers like singer Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders. While less commonly used as a formal given name than Christine or Christina, Chrissie often appears on birth certificates as the official name. In contemporary usage, Chrissie maintains a cheerful, vintage charm that balances familiarity with distinctiveness, making it recognizable but not overly common.
- Lidie
Description:
Lidie is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'lid' or 'lyd,' such as Lydia or Elydia. The name Lydia has ancient origins, referring to a region in Asia Minor, and has been used since biblical times. Lidie presents a sweet, vintage-inspired alternative with a gentle sound. This variation was more common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. The name carries a delicate, old-fashioned charm that fits with the revival of vintage names. Its short, two-syllable structure makes it straightforward while maintaining a distinctly feminine quality that balances simplicity with character.
- Volney
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"spirit of the people"Description:
Has a rather heavy surname feel.
- Agustus
Description:
Agustus is an alternative spelling of Augustus, a name with deep historical roots in ancient Rome. The name derives from Latin and means 'majestic,' 'venerable,' or 'revered.' The original Augustus was the first Roman emperor, Octavian Augustus, giving the name strong associations with leadership and nobility. This spelling variation, Agustus, appears to simplify the traditional spelling while maintaining the classical essence. While less common than Augustus, this variant has occasionally appeared in English-speaking countries over the centuries. The name carries a dignified, imperial quality that suggests strength and historical significance, appealing to parents drawn to classical names with strong character associations.
- Effa
Description:
Effa is a feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may be derived from the Hebrew name Ephah meaning "darkness" or "gloom," or it could be a diminutive form of names containing the element "eff" or "ef." In some African cultures, particularly Ghanaian, Effa can be a surname or given name with roots in local languages. The name has a simple, vintage charm with its short structure and repeating consonant. Historically, Effa saw limited usage in the early 20th century in English-speaking countries but has remained quite rare. The name's brevity and gentle sound make it distinctive in an era of longer, more elaborate feminine names.
- Retta
Description:
Retta is a feminine name with multiple origins. Most commonly, it serves as a diminutive of names ending in "-retta" such as Henrietta, Loretta, or Margaretta. The name has Italian roots as well, where it can be short for Margherita. Retta carries a vintage charm reminiscent of the early 20th century, when abbreviated names were fashionable. Though never extremely common in the United States, it experienced modest usage in the early 1900s before declining in popularity. The name has a warm, approachable quality with its soft sounds and brevity. In recent years, Retta has gained some recognition through comedian and actress Retta (born Marietta Sangai Sirleaf), known for her role on "Parks and Recreation." The name offers a blend of classic appeal and uncommon distinctiveness for modern parents.
- Clemie
Description:
Clemie is a feminine name with vintage charm, typically considered a diminutive form of Clementine or Clemency. With French and Latin roots, the underlying meaning connects to mercy, gentleness, and mildness. Clemie peaked in popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, giving it a distinctive antique quality today. This sweet, unpretentious nickname-style name carries a warm, friendly quality while still maintaining a touch of uniqueness. Unlike the more formal Clementine which has seen a revival, Clemie remains relatively uncommon, making it appealing for parents seeking something both familiar and distinctive. The name has a lighthearted, affectionate quality that can grow comfortably with a person from childhood into adulthood.
The Nameberry App Is Live

- Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
- Names you match on are saved to your shared list
- Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
- Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
- Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.


