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Names that Peaked in 1883

  1. Dock

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "enclosed area of water in a port for ships to load and unload"

    • Description:

      A sailing and sea-related choice, which also feels connected to the reparative powers of nature (via dock leaves) and to doctors generally, Dock made the Top 1000 in the first half of the 20th century, though today, it is only quietly and sporadically used.
  2. Parlee

    • Description:

      Parlee is an uncommon feminine name with American roots, possibly originating as a variant of Parley, which means 'discussion' or 'conference.' This distinctive name emerged in the southern United States during the 19th century and may have begun as a surname before transitioning to first-name usage. Parlee has a melodic, gentle sound with its soft ending, giving it a vintage charm. Though never widely popular, it represents a piece of American naming heritage that occasionally resurfaces as parents seek authentic, historical names with distinctive sounds. The name carries a sense of Southern grace and historical connection while remaining quite unique in modern usage.
  3. Linna

    • Description:

      Linna is a feminine name with Finnish and Swedish origins, derived from names like Karolina, Carolina, or Linda. It can also be a variant of the name Lina, which comes from names ending in '-lina' such as Adelina or Angelina. In Finnish, 'linna' means 'castle,' adding a noble connotation to the name. Linna remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a delicate, melodic sound while maintaining simplicity and elegance. Its rarity makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique yet accessible name with Scandinavian roots.
  4. 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.
  5. Author

    • Origin:

      Word and occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "writer"

    • Description:

      An occupation name with a preppy, scholarly air, Author could fit in alongside Arthur and August or Chosen and Booker, in terms of sound and style. Author saw more usage that you might think in the first half of the 20th century, peaking in 1933 when it was given to nearly 60 boys. While some may have used it as an occupational and word name, others may have chosen owing to misspelling or misinterpreting the classic Arthur.
  6. Alvan

    • Description:

      Alvan is a masculine name with ancient roots, likely derived from various sources including Old English, where it may have meant 'elf friend,' or from Arabic where similar names relate to 'high' or 'sublime.' It can also be considered a variant of Alvin, which comes from the Old English name Ælfwine, meaning 'elf friend' or 'noble friend.' Alvan appears in historical records dating back centuries but has remained relatively uncommon. The name experienced modest usage in the United States during the 19th century but declined through the 20th century. Alvan carries a dignified, somewhat scholarly air while maintaining approachability. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a traditional-sounding name that few others will share.

  7. Lissie

    • Description:

      Lissie is a feminine name that functions as a diminutive of Elisabeth or Elizabeth, though it has also developed as a standalone name. With Hebrew origins through Elizabeth (meaning 'God is my oath'), Lissie offers a playful, affectionate alternative to the more formal original. This sweet, vintage-inspired nickname gained modest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries alongside other diminutive forms like Lizzie and Bessie. After a period of decline, it has seen renewed interest as parents embrace vintage nicknames as given names. Lissie strikes a balance between youthful charm and timeless appeal, providing a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining connections to the regal, historical Elizabeth. Its simple, melodic sound gives it a naturally warm character.
  8. Berton

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "fortified town"
  9. Harve

    • Description:

      Harve is a masculine name that functions as a shortened form of Harvey, which derives from Old Breton origins meaning "battle worthy" or "iron." This concise variant maintains the strength of the original while offering a more casual, approachable quality. Harve was more commonly used in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in rural American communities, giving it a rustic, vintage charm. Though less common than Harvey in contemporary usage, Harve fits with the trend toward shorter, straightforward masculine names. The name carries associations of reliability, straightforwardness, and unpretentious strength. While uncommon today, its simplicity and historical usage make it an option for parents seeking a distinctive name with traditional roots.
  10. Estill

    • Description:

      Estill is a masculine name of English origin, derived from either a place name or surname. It likely relates to the Old English words 'east' and 'hyll,' meaning 'eastern hill.' As a first name, Estill was most common in the southern United States, particularly in Kentucky and surrounding states, where it has historical significance through Estill County, named after Captain James Estill. The name peaked in usage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Estill has a gentle yet dignified quality, with a subtle connection to nature through its etymological reference to landscape features. Today, it might appeal to parents seeking a truly uncommon vintage name with regional American heritage.

  11. Miner

    • Description:

      Miner is a masculine occupational name derived from the English language, referring to someone who works in mines extracting coal, ore, or other minerals. As a first name, Miner is uncommon and carries strong working-class connotations, evoking images of hard work, determination, and industrial heritage. The name gained limited use in America during the 19th century when occupational names were occasionally adopted as given names. While rare in contemporary usage, Miner might appeal to families with mining heritage or those seeking a unique, rugged name with clear meaning and historical significance.
  12. Marianita

    • Origin:

      Spanish diminutive of Mariana

    • Meaning:

      "of the sea"

    • Description:

      An elaboration of Mariana and a sea-inspired choice that once ranked in the US Top 1000 in the late 19th century.
  13. Byrd

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "bird"

    • Description:

      One of the rare cases where spelling a name with a y makes it less rather than more feminine. Birdie might be the freshest choice in this aviary.
  14. Henery

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Henry
  15. Fredericka

    • Description:

      Fredericka is the feminine form of Frederick, a classic Germanic name meaning 'peaceful ruler,' derived from the elements 'frid' (peace) and 'ric' (ruler, power). This elegant feminine variation adds the traditional Latin feminine suffix '-a' to create a distinctly female version with regal associations. The name has historical connections to nobility across Europe, including Prussia and the German states. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Fredericka has maintained a steady, if modest, presence throughout the centuries. It offers several appealing nickname options including Freddie, Freda, Ericka, or Rica. The name carries an air of classic sophistication and strength while being recognizable yet distinctive enough to stand out in contemporary settings.
  16. 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.
  17. Emett

    • Description:

      Emett is a masculine name with Germanic origins, considered a variant spelling of Emmett. The name ultimately derives from elements meaning 'universal' or 'truth'. This less common spelling offers a subtle distinction from the more popular Emmett, which gained recognition in the United States partly due to historical figures like Emmett Till and fictional characters such as Emmett 'Doc' Brown from 'Back to the Future'. The name carries a vintage appeal while still feeling contemporary. Emett has a strong, concise sound with its crisp ending consonant. While not among the most frequently chosen names for boys, Emett offers families a recognizable yet distinctive option that balances traditional roots with a slightly unusual spelling, giving it a modern edge without being overly trendy.
  18. Lesta

    • Description:

      Lesta is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Lester or Esther, or possibly derived from Romance languages where '-esta' is a common suffix. In some contexts, it could be related to the Latin 'laetus' meaning 'happy' or 'joyful.' Lesta has a gentle, melodic quality with its soft consonants and ending vowel sound, typical of feminine names. Though uncommon in most English-speaking countries, the name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible. Lesta could appeal to parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name that feels both modern and timeless. Its rarity gives a child bearing this name a sense of individuality without being difficult to spell or pronounce.
  19. Judge

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Eighties star Judge Reinhold (born Edward Jr. , he was given this nickname at the age of two weeks) made this possible, but it could cause a lot of confusion.
  20. 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.