Names that Peaked in 1905

  1. Bell
    • Origin:

      English and Scottish occupational name
    • Meaning:

      "ringer of the bell"
    • Description:

      Simplicity and pleasant associations give the word Bell real possibility as a first name -- but somehow it seems better for a girl, a la Belle.
  2. Neola
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "the young one"
    • Description:

      Has an arty, creative image.
  3. Lera
    • Description:

      Lera is a feminine given name with multiple origins. In Slavic countries, it functions as a diminutive of Valeria, meaning 'strength' or 'health.' In Greek contexts, it may relate to names derived from 'Leander,' meaning 'lion-man.' Lera has a simple, elegant sound with just two syllables, making it easily pronounceable across many languages. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, the name maintains a steady presence in Eastern European regions. Lera has a timeless quality that works well across generations. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its classical roots, potentially appealing to parents seeking something simple yet distinctive.

  4. Audie
    • Description:

      Audie is a feminine name with diverse origins, functioning as both a diminutive of Audrey and a name in its own right. Derived from Anglo-Saxon roots, it carries meanings associated with 'noble strength' or 'noble counselor.' The name gained some recognition in America through World War II hero Audie Murphy, though it's traditionally more common for females. With its short, sweet sound and vintage charm, Audie fits well with the trend toward reviving early 20th century names. It provides a less common alternative to popular 'Au-' names like Audrey and Autumn. While never reaching high popularity rankings, Audie has maintained continuous usage throughout the decades. Its simplicity and gentle sound make it appealing to parents seeking a name that's both distinctive and accessible.

  5. Novella
    • Description:

      Novella is a feminine name with Latin and Italian roots, derived from 'novus' meaning 'new' or 'young.' Beyond its literal meaning, Novella carries literary associations as it refers to a short prose narrative in Italian literature – longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. This connection gives the name intellectual and artistic connotations. While not among the most common names, Novella has maintained a steady presence in Italian communities and has seen occasional usage internationally. The name carries a romantic, melodic quality typical of Italian feminine names, with its soft consonants and vowel ending. Novella offers a beautiful option for parents seeking a name with literary flair and a touch of European elegance.
  6. Emmitt
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Emmett
    • Description:

      Emmitt is a new spelling spin borne of the popularity of Emmett.
  7. Hilton
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "hill settlement"
    • Description:

      Do you really want to name your baby after a hotel? Or a famous-for-being-famous starlet?
  8. Fairy
    • Origin:

      English word name
    • Meaning:

      "fairy"
    • Description:

      Fairy's reputation as a slur directed at gay men takes it off the table as a baby name option. Go with Pixie or Faye instead.
  9. Hill
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "someone who lives by a hill"
    • Description:

      Simple and down-to-earth, but would probably work best as a middle name.
  10. Johnson
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "son of John"
    • Description:

      No competition for Jackson.
  11. Ceil
    • Origin:

      Short form of Cecilia or Celia
    • Meaning:

      "blind or heavenly"
    • Description:

      With the growing popularity of Celia and Cecilia, this vintage canasta-playing nickname name could be due for a comeback.
  12. Delsie
    • Description:

      Delsie is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive of names like Adela or Cordelia, or possibly derived from the German name Adelheid, meaning 'noble type.' The name has a vintage charm characteristic of names popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Delsie peaked in popularity in the United States around the 1910s-1920s and has since become quite uncommon, giving it that distinctive quality sought by parents looking for revival names with historical precedent but current rarity. The name's soft sounds and ending 'ie' give it a gentle, feminine quality while maintaining simplicity and approachability, fitting with current trends of rediscovering vintage names.
  13. Ilda
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of HIlda, German
    • Meaning:

      "battle woman"
    • Description:

      The Italian form of Hilda is rarer but sweeter than its mother name, which still isn't ready for revival in the US.
  14. Theadore
    • Description:

      Theadore is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variation of Theodore, which has Greek origins meaning "gift of God" (from the elements "theos" meaning God and "doron" meaning gift). This alternative spelling maintains the distinguished, classic nature of the traditional name while giving it a slightly different visual appearance. Theodore has historical significance through notable figures like President Theodore Roosevelt and has remained consistently popular over generations. The Theadore spelling, while less common, offers the same potential for nicknames like Theo or Ted. Parents choosing this spelling variation might appreciate its subtle uniqueness while honoring the name's rich historical and linguistic heritage.
  15. Foy
    • Origin:

      Surname, from French
    • Meaning:

      "faith"
    • Description:

      This once-popular surname name (rhymes with Roy) has since faded away, but we think it has a simple, stylish charm.
  16. Wava
    • Description:

      Wava is a feminine name of uncertain etymology, though some sources suggest it may be a variation of the Germanic name Wava or a derivative of wave, suggesting water imagery. This uncommon name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the early 1900s, particularly in rural communities. Wava reached its peak usage around the 1910s-1920s but has since become quite rare. The name has a vintage, nostalgic quality that connects to an era of distinctive Americana. With its simple two-syllable structure and melodic sound pattern, Wava carries a gentle, flowing quality that reflects its possible connection to water imagery.

  17. Leola
    • Description:

      Leola is a feminine name of Latin and German origins. It can be a variant of Leola, meaning 'lioness,' derived from 'leo' (lion), or an elaboration of Leah or Lee. It was most popular in the United States during the early 20th century, peaking between 1890-1920 when it ranked in the top 300 names. The name conveys strength and grace, resonating with the powerful imagery of a lioness. Though less common today, Leola maintains a classic, vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking something both traditional and distinctive. Its soft sound contrasts with its strong meaning, creating a name with balance and character.

  18. Hermon
    • Description:

      Hermon is a masculine name with ancient Hebrew origins, derived from the biblical Mount Hermon mentioned in the Old Testament. The name means 'sacred mountain' or 'sanctuary,' carrying spiritual significance in multiple religious traditions. Mount Hermon stands at the border of Lebanon and Syria and appears in biblical narratives as a place of significance. While not among common mainstream names, Hermon has historical usage particularly in religious communities. The name possesses a dignified, classical quality with its biblical associations and straightforward pronunciation. Similar to the more familiar Herman but with a distinctive spelling, Hermon appeals to parents seeking names with religious heritage and meaningful etymology. Its relative rareness gives it a distinguished, uncommon quality while maintaining recognizable sounds.
  19. Edra
    • Description:

      Edra is a concise feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Hebrew name Edre, meaning 'flock' or 'cloud', or have connections to Greek or Welsh roots. In Welsh contexts, it could be related to the word for 'blessed'. Edra has remained quite uncommon throughout history, never breaking into popular name charts in most countries. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel, while its potential ancient origins provide historical depth. With just two syllables and a soft ending, Edra strikes a balance between strength and femininity. The name might appeal to parents seeking something short, distinctive, and easy to pronounce across multiple cultures.
  20. Everet
    • Description:

      Everet is a masculine name derived from Germanic roots, closely related to the more common spelling Everett. It originates from the elements 'eber' meaning 'wild boar' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong,' thus conveying the meaning 'brave as a wild boar' or 'strong boar.' This vintage name has Old English connections and was brought to England by the Normans. The single-t spelling variant Everet maintains the same distinguished quality while offering a slightly simplified form. Though less common than Everett, which has enjoyed a significant revival in the 21st century as part of the trend toward classical names, Everet shares the same appealing blend of strength and refinement.