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Names that Peaked in 1883

  1. 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.
  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. 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.
  4. Marget

    • Description:

      Marget is a feminine name representing a medieval variant of Margaret, which derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' This spelling was particularly common in Scotland and Scandinavian countries during the Middle Ages. Marget has a vintage charm that connects to its historical usage while sounding slightly different from the more common Margaret. The name carries the same associations with beauty and preciousness that the pearl symbolism suggests. Though less common today than Margaret or modern variations like Margot, Marget appeals to parents seeking names with historical authenticity and subtle uniqueness. Its concise form makes it straightforward while still evoking the elegance associated with its more familiar counterparts.
  5. Linzy

    • Description:

      Linzy is an uncommon masculine name that is more frequently used as a feminine name in contemporary usage. It appears to be a variant spelling of Lindsay or Lindsey, which originated as a Scottish surname derived from a place name meaning 'island of linden trees' or 'Lincoln's marsh.' This particular spelling with a 'z' gives the name a more modern, distinctive appearance. As a male name, Linzy represents a growing trend of names that cross traditional gender boundaries. The name has a friendly, approachable sound with its soft consonants and ending 'y.' While relatively rare for boys, it may appeal to parents seeking a gentle-sounding masculine name with an unconventional edge. The spelling variation helps distinguish it while maintaining the recognizable pronunciation of the more common Lindsay.
  6. Deetta

    • Description:

      Deetta is a feminine name with American origins, likely developed as a variation of names like Detta, Odetta, or potentially as an elaboration of Dee. The name may have emerged during the early-to-mid 20th century when creative feminine names with rhythmic sounds gained popularity. While never reaching widespread usage, Deetta peaked in the United States during the 1940s-1950s, reflecting the era's trend toward melodic, uniquely spelled feminine names. The name has a vintage quality that distinguishes it from more common counterparts. Some bearers might use the nickname 'Dee.' Deetta's rarity in contemporary naming practices makes it stand out, potentially appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with a mid-century aesthetic and straightforward pronunciation.
  7. 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.
  8. Lovey

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Love, English word name

    • Description:

      This cutesy nickname made it onto the Top 1000 in 1883.
  9. 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.

  10. Bama

    • Description:

      Bama is a concise feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In the United States, it's most commonly associated with the nickname for Alabama, particularly in reference to the University of Alabama's sports teams. In some African cultures, particularly Nigerian, Bama can be a given name with various meanings depending on the specific language or dialect. In parts of India, it may derive from Sanskrit with connections to the goddess Lakshmi. The name's brevity gives it a punchy, memorable quality with just two syllables. While uncommon as a formal given name in Western countries, Bama might appeal to parents seeking a unique name with regional American significance or those with cultural connections to its various international origins.
  11. Georgeanna

    • Origin:

      English, combination of Georgia and Anna

    • Description:

      With the first two syllables pronounced Georgie, it has a stylish Masterpiece Theatre air.
  12. 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.
  13. Hosteen

    • Description:

      Hosteen is a masculine name derived from Navajo (Diné) culture, where it functions as an honorific title meaning 'elder' or 'respected man.' In traditional Navajo society, the term indicates a man of wisdom, age, and community standing. As a personal name, it carries connotations of dignity, wisdom, and leadership. While uncommon outside Native American communities, particularly the Navajo Nation, Hosteen represents indigenous naming traditions and cultural heritage. The name has special significance in the American Southwest, particularly in areas with strong Navajo presence like Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. For those seeking a name with authentic Native American roots and meanings that honor wisdom and respect, Hosteen offers a distinctive choice with deep cultural significance.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.

  16. Almina

    • Description:

      Almina is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It might be a variant of Almina or Wilhelmina, combining 'al' (all) with 'mina' (love). In Arabic contexts, it could relate to 'al-Aminah' meaning 'the trustworthy one' or 'the honest one.' The name has historical usage in various European and Middle Eastern countries but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Almina gained some recognition through Almina Herbert, Countess of Carnarvon, who was the wife of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who famously funded the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb.
  17. Dorathea

    • Description:

      Dorathea is a feminine name representing an alternate spelling of Dorothea, derived from the Greek elements "doron" meaning "gift" and "theos" meaning "God" – literally "gift of God." This elegant variation, with its distinctive 'a' in the middle, maintains the classical beauty of the original while offering a slightly different visual aesthetic. Dorathea was moderately popular in medieval Europe and experienced brief revivals in the 19th century, though it remains relatively uncommon today. The name evokes images of classical literature and art, carrying an air of timeless sophistication. Bearers of this name have access to numerous nickname options, including Dora, Thea, or Dot. With its rich historical associations and melodious sound, Dorathea appeals to parents seeking a name with dignity, depth, and a touch of vintage charm.

  18. Argie

    • Description:

      Argie is a feminine name that likely developed as a diminutive of names beginning with 'Arg-' such as Argenta (meaning 'silver' in Latin). It may also be a nickname for Argentina, either referencing the country or as a feminine form of Argentius. Some families use Argie as a shortened form of Margaret. The name has a bright, cheerful sound with its soft 'g' and ending 'ie' that gives it a friendly, approachable quality. While never widely popular, Argie saw limited use in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in some Southern communities of the United States. Its vintage charm could appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet affectionate-sounding name.
  19. 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.
  20. 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.