Names that Peaked in 1881
- Zillah
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"shade"Description:
A light, bohemian-sounding biblical name, mentioned in the bible as a wife of Lamech, one of the first men.
- Lillie
Origin:
Spelling variation of Lily or short form of Lillian, flower nameDescription:
This charming spelling of Lillie had its heyday in the late 1800s and ranked in the Top 100 until the end of the 1920s. It dropped off the Top 1000 completely in the 1980s and 1990s but is now back in play.
- Waldo
Origin:
German, pet form of names such as WaldemarMeaning:
"to rule"Description:
Its jaunty o-ending makes this name more appealing than most of its Germanic brothers, and we hope we're beyond the constant response to his name being "Where's Waldo?" The weighty reputation of writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson adds a measure of backbone to the name.
- Primus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"first"Description:
The revival of long-dormant Roman names would put this back in the lexicon if it wasn't so connected to a telecommunications network.
- York
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"from the yew estate"Description:
Brisk, preppy York is an underused classic with the potential to really shine in the 21st century. It's most familiar as a place name — York is a city in England — and surname. New York City and State were named after the Duke of York.
- Emry
Origin:
Variation of Emery, GermanMeaning:
"industrious"Description:
Emry is an abbreviated form of Emery but might also be considered a relative of the Welsh Emrys. Emry was used for only 35 baby boys in the US last year and about 150 girls, placing it well below the Top 1000.
- Elvie
Origin:
Short form of Elva, IrishMeaning:
"leader of the elves"Description:
If Ellie and Evie are fashionable, why not Elvie? This is a diminutive of the Anglicized version of the Irish name spelled Ailbhe.
- Brown
Origin:
Color and surnameDescription:
Most color names, like Scarlet and Violet, are definitely female, but not this one. Brown is as rich and warm as the tone it denotes, though we must admit the Italian version Bruno has more spark and substance.
- Thos
Description:
Thos is a masculine name that originated as an abbreviated written form of Thomas, common in older documents and records where scribes would shorten names. Thomas itself comes from the Aramaic word for 'twin' and became widely used throughout the Christian world due to the apostle Thomas. This contracted form Thos (typically pronounced like 'Thomas' rather than phonetically) appears in historical documents but is extremely rare as a given name in its own right. It has an antiquated, scholarly quality that might appeal to those interested in historical naming practices or seeking an extremely unusual variant of a classic name. While Thomas remains perennially popular across many cultures, Thos offers a distinctive alternative with the same essential meaning and heritage.
- Rilla
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"small brook"Description:
Rilla dropped out of the US Top 1000 in 1915, but it's starting to feel like an intriguing possibility again in this age of short, sweet, a-ending names for girls. It is traditionally a short form for names ending in -rilla, like Marilla from the Anne of Green Gables books (Anne's youngest daughter is Bertha Marilla, called Rilla for short). Rilla may also derive from the German word Rille, meaning "brook; stream".
- Obe
Description:
Obe is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Hebrew name Obadiah, meaning "servant of God," or it could be a short form of German names like Oberlin or Oberon. In some West African traditions, particularly Yoruba, Obe can refer to "knife" or "cutting tool." The name has remained extremely rare in English-speaking countries throughout recorded history, never appearing on most popularity charts. Its brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite its ancient roots. Obe might appeal to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with cross-cultural connections.
- Marshal
Description:
Marshal is a masculine name that originated as an occupational surname derived from the Old French 'mareschal,' referring to a person who cared for horses or a high-ranking military officer. The name carried significant prestige, as a Marshal was often a nobleman responsible for military affairs or household management in medieval courts. As a first name, Marshal emerged later, embodying qualities of leadership, authority, and service. While less common than the spelling variant 'Marshall,' Marshal maintains a strong, dignified quality. The name has never reached tremendous popularity but has maintained consistent usage, particularly in English-speaking countries, appealing to parents who appreciate its connotations of honor, discipline, and leadership.
- Lora
Origin:
German variation and spelling variation of LauraDescription:
Somewhat flat-footed form; go for the original.
- Sylvania
Description:
Sylvania is a feminine name derived from Latin elements 'silva' or 'sylva' meaning 'forest' or 'woods', combined with the suffix '-ia' denoting 'land of'. The name literally translates to 'woodland' or 'forest dweller'. With its classical roots, Sylvania evokes images of lush forests and natural beauty. Though uncommon as a first name, it has historical usage and shares roots with place names and the word 'sylvan' (relating to woods). The name carries an elegant, slightly vintage quality with its flowing four-syllable structure. Sylvania appeals particularly to nature-loving parents seeking a name with classical origins but distinctive usage. The name suggests qualities of natural grace, tranquility, and connection to the earth, while its relative rarity makes it a standout choice.
- Otho
Description:
Otho is a masculine name of Germanic origin that carries ancient historical significance. The name traces back to Old Germanic roots meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' Notably, it was borne by several important historical figures, including a Roman Emperor and German kings. While never extensively popular in modern times, Otho maintains an aristocratic and distinguished air. The name has various forms across European languages, including Otto in German and Othon in French. Today, Otho remains quite rare, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive classical name with historical depth and a strong masculine character.
- Pryor
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"head of the monastery, prior"Description:
Pryor is for those in search of an unusual occupational name...or in memory of comedian Richard.
- Katharina
Origin:
German variation of Katherine, GreekMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Katharina is an attractive form of Katherine and a great way to update a classic. But English speakers may want to choose the Katerina or Katarina spelling to avoid pronunciation confusion.
- Casimiro
Origin:
Spanish form of Casimir, Polish and SlavicMeaning:
"destroyer of peace"Description:
All names Cas are cool right night, from Cassius to Cassian to Caspian to, yes, Casimir and its Latin form Casimiro. An attractive possibility in this appealing group.
- Osa
Description:
Osa is a feminine name with diverse cultural origins. In Finnish, it means 'part' or 'portion,' while in Japanese it can mean 'chief' or 'ruler.' The name also has roots in certain African languages where it's associated with qualities like strength or divinity. In Spanish, 'osa' means 'female bear,' symbolizing maternal protection and strength. This short, distinctive name carries a natural quality, evoking imagery of wilderness and independence. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Osa's simplicity and cross-cultural appeal have attracted parents seeking a unique yet accessible name with a strong sound and meaningful connections to nature.
- Victorine
Origin:
French variation of Victoria, LatinMeaning:
"victory"Description:
Victorine is appealing if you know it's an authentic vintage French girls' name, less so if you assume it's an awkward feminization, ala Davette or Richardine.