Names that Peaked in 1883
- 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.
- Almeda
Description:
Almeda is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'almus' meaning 'nourishing' or 'kind.' It may also be connected to the Spanish term 'alameda,' referring to a tree-lined avenue or a poplar grove. The name was moderately popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Almeda carries connotations of nurturing and natural beauty, evoking images of serene pathways bordered by stately trees. While uncommon today, it represents a classic naming style with a melodic quality that could appeal to parents seeking a vintage name with subtle elegance.
- Lella
Description:
Lella is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Italian, it functions as a diminutive of names like Gabriella, Raffaella, or Donatella, conveying affection and familiarity. In Arabic cultures, Lella is an honorific title meaning 'lady' or 'madam,' used particularly in North African regions to show respect to women of importance. The name has a melodic quality with its repeated 'l' sounds creating a gentle, flowing pronunciation. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Lella offers cross-cultural appeal with its simplicity and warmth. The name's brevity makes it accessible and memorable, while its international connections give it depth and character beyond its compact form.
- Clide
Description:
Clide is a variant spelling of the more common masculine name Clyde. It has Scottish origins, derived from the River Clyde in Scotland. The name suggests strength and reliability, reflecting the powerful flow of the river. While less common than its traditional spelling, Clide maintains the same robust character and historical connections. The name has experienced moderate popularity throughout the 20th century but has become less common in recent decades. Clide offers an alternative spelling for parents who appreciate the name's Scottish heritage and masculine sound while wanting something slightly distinctive. It shares the same pronunciation as Clyde and carries similar associations with dependability and natural force.
- Arlena
Description:
Arlena is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Arlene, which derives from the Germanic elements meaning "pledge" or "oath." Alternatively, it could be related to the Celtic name Carlina, meaning "little champion." The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending. While never among the most popular names in the United States, Arlena saw modest usage during the mid-20th century. It carries a vintage charm that combines elegance with a touch of uniqueness. The name sometimes appears in literature and film, which has helped maintain its recognition despite its relative rarity. People named Arlena often appreciate the balance it strikes between distinctiveness and classic femininity.
- Mattye
Description:
Mattye is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive or variant spelling of Martha, which comes from Aramaic meaning 'lady' or 'mistress of the house.' This particular spelling has Southern American roots, where such creative variations became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Mattye experienced modest popularity in the United States during the 1880s-1920s but has since become quite rare. The name carries a vintage charm with its -ye ending creating a distinctive twist on the more common Mattie. It maintains a sweet, homespun quality that connects to traditional naming patterns while standing apart from contemporary trends. Mattye often represents family heritage when used today.
- Onie
Description:
Onie is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It likely developed as a diminutive of names like Leonie, Antonia, or Iona, though it can stand independently. The name has a sweet, vintage quality typical of early 20th century nickname-names. Onie appeared occasionally in American records during the early 1900s but never achieved widespread popularity. The name's short, melodic sound gives it a gentle charm, while its simplicity makes it accessible across cultures. Onie offers a distinctive alternative to more common vintage revivals like Annie or Maisie. Its rarity makes it especially appealing to parents seeking a name with historical precedent that few other children will share.
- Tena
Origin:
Croatian, from SpanishMeaning:
"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.
- Chauncy
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"gamble, fortune"Description:
A popular American name in previous centuries in honor of famed Harvard President, Charles Chauncy. This name is burdened by an incredibly pompous sound and best left in the past.
- Georgeanna
Origin:
English, combination of Georgia and AnnaDescription:
With the first two syllables pronounced Georgie, it has a stylish Masterpiece Theatre air.
- Daisie
Origin:
Diminutive of Margaret or flower name, EnglishMeaning:
"day's eye"Description:
This spelling variation of Daisy ranks in the British Top 1000 but was only used for a few dozen baby girls last year in the US. At the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th, it made the Top 1000 during the craze for ie-ending names.
- Crockett
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"large curl"Description:
Though Davy Crockett is a childhood hero, a frontiersman, soldier, politician, congressman and prolific storyteller. But be aware that "crock" is American slang for a lot of nonsense or something broken.
- Cena
Description:
Cena is a feminine name with roots in various cultures. In Latin, it means 'dinner' or 'meal,' while in Slavic languages, it can be related to meanings of 'value' or 'price.' The name has gained some recognition in modern times, possibly influenced by public figures such as John Cena, though as a feminine name it remains quite rare. Cena has a simple, melodic quality with its two syllables and soft sounds, making it an accessible yet uncommon choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet easy to pronounce. The name carries a subtle elegance and brevity that appeals to those preferring minimalist name choices.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Guss
Description:
Guss is a brief, punchy masculine name that typically functions as a nickname for names like Augustus, Gustave, or Angus. This shortened form carries a folksy, unpretentious charm with its single-syllable directness. The name has historical usage particularly in rural American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where abbreviated names were common. Guss has never achieved mainstream popularity as a standalone name, remaining instead in the realm of familiar nicknames or occasional given names. Its simplicity gives it a certain working-class authenticity and straightforward appeal. For contemporary parents, Guss might be chosen for its vintage feel and connection to longer, more formal names, while still maintaining an independent character of approachable masculinity.
- 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.
- Robt
Description:
Robt is an abbreviated form of Robert, a Germanic name composed of the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' This shortened version was historically used in written records and documents as an abbreviation for the full name. Unlike conventional nicknames like Rob or Bob, Robt is less commonly used as a standalone given name. Its brevity gives it a distinctive quality while maintaining connection to the popular and classic Robert. The name carries the same connotations of strength, distinction, and reliability as its parent name.
- 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.