Names that Peaked in 1883

  1. Litha
    • Description:

      Litha is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. In pagan traditions, particularly Wiccan, Litha refers to the summer solstice celebration, connecting the name to midsummer festivals and nature. Alternatively, it may derive from Anglo-Saxon or Old English roots. The name possesses a delicate, ethereal quality with its soft consonants and ending in 'a,' following patterns common in feminine names. Litha remains quite rare as a given name, offering a distinctive option for parents drawn to nature-inspired choices or ancient cultural references. Its brevity and melodic sound make it accessible despite its uniqueness, and it carries subtle associations with light, summer, and growth.
  2. Nealie
    • Description:

      Nealie is a feminine name of Irish origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Cornelia or occasionally as a variation of Neala, the feminine version of Neal. The name carries connotations of nobility and strength, as Cornelia derives from the Latin 'cornu' meaning 'horn,' symbolizing power. Historically, Nealie appeared sporadically in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in rural communities across Ireland and parts of the American South. It has remained quite rare in modern usage, giving it a distinctive vintage quality. The name has a melodic, friendly sound with its soft consonants and flowing vowels. Nealie offers an uncommon alternative for parents drawn to Irish heritage names or seeking a name with a gentle, nostalgic charm.

  3. Clyda
    • Description:

      Clyda is a feminine name with Scottish and Gaelic origins, possibly derived from the River Clyde in Scotland. It may also be a feminine variation of Clyde, which has been used as both a given name and surname. Clyda has a vintage charm, having seen modest popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in rural communities. It peaked in usage during the 1910s-1920s before gradually declining. Today, Clyda remains quite rare, giving it a distinctive quality for modern bearers. The name carries a sweet, somewhat nostalgic feel while maintaining a simple elegance. For parents seeking an uncommon vintage name with natural associations, Clyda offers both uniqueness and subtle historical connections.

  4. Jossie
    • Description:

      Jossie is a feminine name that functions as a diminutive of names like Jocelyn, Josephine, or Josette. With English and French influences, it carries a sweet, endearing quality through its 'ie' ending, which traditionally signals affection. The name has a bright, cheerful sound that conveys a sense of warmth and friendliness. While not among the most common girls' names, Jossie has maintained steady if modest usage throughout the years. It offers families a less formal alternative to longer classics while retaining their historical roots. The spelling variation with double 's' distinguishes it from similar nicknames like Josie, giving it a slightly more distinctive written appearance.
  5. Ewin
    • Description:

      Ewin is a masculine name with Scottish and Gaelic origins, likely derived from Eoghan (meaning 'born of the yew tree' or 'youth') or as a variant of Ewan/Ewen (the Scottish form of Eugene, meaning 'well-born' or 'noble'). This concise name carries historical significance in Scottish culture while maintaining a simple, accessible sound. Though uncommon in most English-speaking countries today, Ewin has deep historical roots. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary appeal, fitting current trends for shorter, stronger-sounding boys' names. Some might also see it as a variant of Edwin, though its origins are distinct. Ewin offers parents a name with authentic Celtic heritage that remains straightforward to spell and pronounce, striking a balance between uniqueness and accessibility.

  6. Mont
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Montgomery or French
    • Meaning:

      "mountain"
    • Description:

      Monty Burns, on The Simpsons, smashed to pieces any goodwill for his first name leftover from Monty Python. But if you drop the "y," you're left with a distinctly Gallic sounding nickname name. If it feels to slight for the birth certificate, there are tons of ways to get to it as a nickname: Montgomery, Montana, Montreal, even Montmorency.
  7. Tena
    • Origin:

      Croatian, from Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "to harvest"
    • Description:

      Tena is the short form of Terezija, the classic Croatian form of Theresa. It's commonly used on its own, popularized in Croatia at the end of the 19th century when author Josip Kozarac wrote a short novel called Tena which featured a main character by that name.
  8. Berton
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "fortified town"
  9. Doc
    • Origin:

      English word name
    • Description:

      A boy with this name is certain to be bombarded with "What's up, doc?" every day of his life. Even Doctor would be preferable.
  10. Catharine
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Catherine, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      Actress Hepburn made the Katharine spelling famous, which seems to be the inspiration for this spin on Catherine.
  11. Thurlow
    • Description:

      Thurlow is a masculine name of Old English origin, derived from the elements 'thor' (thunder) and 'hlaw' (hill), literally meaning 'thunder hill' or 'hill where Thor is worshipped,' connecting it to Norse mythology. Originally a surname and place name in England, Thurlow has occasionally transitioned to first-name status. It carries an aristocratic air, partly due to its association with Baron Thurlow, a British noble title. The name has never been common as a first name, giving it a distinctive and somewhat stately quality. Thurlow might appeal to parents seeking a rare name with historical depth and a connection to British heritage. Its strong sound and unique character make it stand out while still feeling grounded in traditional naming conventions.

  12. Fleming
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "man from Flanders"
    • Description:

      If it's not too phlegmatic for you, this surname and name of a Scottish clan could honor a number of people, especially Alexander Fleming, the father of antibiotics, and Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond.
  13. Corda
    • Description:

      Corda is a feminine name with Latin roots, meaning 'heart' or 'string of a musical instrument.' This uncommon name carries musical connotations and can be related to 'cordial,' suggesting warmth and sincerity. While rare in English-speaking countries, Corda may appear in Italian communities where its connection to 'cuore' (heart) resonates culturally. The name has never ranked in the US top 1000 names, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique yet melodious. Corda also bears similarity to Cordelia, though with a simpler, more streamlined sound profile.
  14. Gertha
    • Origin:

      English variation of Gerda, Scandinavian
    • Meaning:

      "enclosure, stronghold"
    • Description:

      Gertha hasn't been seen since 1971, and it's unlikely to make a comeback.
  15. Delpha
    • Description:

      Delpha is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from the ancient city of Delphi, which was considered the center of the world in Greek mythology and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi. The name carries connotations of wisdom, prophecy, and spiritual insight from this association. In some interpretations, it's connected to the Greek word 'delphis' meaning 'dolphin,' a creature revered in ancient Greek culture. Delpha was moderately used in the United States in the early 20th century but has since become quite rare, giving it a vintage charm with classical roots. The name's unusual quality, melodious sound, and rich mythological connections make it appealing for parents seeking a distinctive feminine name with historical depth and a touch of mysticism.
  16. Dink
    • Description:

      Dink is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may have originated as a nickname for names like Dominic or as a short form of Dinkins. In some contexts, it has been used as a term of endearment for the youngest or smallest child in a family, derived from the notion of something small or 'dinky.' The name has occasional usage in Southern United States communities and has historical presence as a nickname or informal name rather than a formal given name. Dink has a short, punchy quality that gives it a casual, friendly character. While not widely used, its simplicity and distinctive sound offer a unique option for parents seeking an unconventional, brief name with a somewhat playful quality.
  17. Missie
    • Description:

      Missie is a feminine name that originated as an affectionate nickname for Melissa or Mississippi. It has evolved into a given name in its own right, carrying a warm, friendly quality with its soft sounds. The name has a distinctly Southern American charm and evokes a sense of sweetness and approachability. Missie was more common in the mid-20th century but has become less frequently used in recent decades, giving it a vintage appeal. The name's diminutive nature creates an endearing quality that can grow comfortably with a person throughout life, balancing cuteness with genuine warmth.
  18. Vannie
    • Description:

      Vannie is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive form of names such as Vanessa, Savannah, or even Evangeline. This sweet, compact name has a friendly, approachable quality with its '-ie' ending, which traditionally denotes affection in English nicknames. Vannie has never been widely popular as a formal given name, remaining mostly in use as a nickname throughout the 20th century. In the American South, it occasionally appeared as an independent name. The name has a vintage charm that connects to the tradition of using nicknames as given names, which was more common in earlier generations. Vannie's rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking something familiar-sounding yet uncommon.

  19. Icey
    • Description:

      Icey is an uncommon feminine name that evokes a sense of coolness, clarity, and pristine beauty. As a nature-inspired name, it directly references ice and winter landscapes, projecting qualities of purity and translucence. While not traditional in origin, Icey emerged as a creative spelling variant of 'Icy' and belongs to the category of descriptive names that gained some popularity in the early to mid-20th century. The name has never been widely used, maintaining its distinctive quality. Some may see it as a diminutive of Iceland or Isolde, though it primarily stands as its own name. With its crisp, refreshing sound and unique spelling, Icey offers a distinctive choice that combines natural imagery with a bright, contemporary feel.
  20. Jeptha
    • Origin:

      Variant of Jephthah
    • Meaning:

      "he opens"
    • Description:

      The middle name of a Duck Dynasty castmember, who goes by Jep, derives from the rare Old Testament name that's gone almost completely unused for centuries.

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