Names that Peaked in 1905

  1. Johny
    • Description:

      Johny is a masculine name that functions as a diminutive or variant spelling of John, one of the most enduring and widespread names throughout Western history. Derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious,' John has produced numerous variations across cultures. The Johny spelling, with a single 'n,' gives the traditional name a more casual, affectionate feel compared to the more common Johnny (with two n's). This spelling appears in various regions, including parts of Europe and South Asia. The name balances friendly approachability with its connection to the classic John, which has been borne by countless notable figures throughout history, including saints, kings, and cultural icons. While less conventional than the standard Johnny, Johny offers a slightly different written form while preserving the familiar, warm sound associated with this beloved nickname.

  2. 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.
  3. Ozie
    • Description:

      Ozie is a feminine name with American origins, though it has been used for both genders historically. It emerged primarily as a nickname or diminutive form of names like Oswald, Osborne, or Ozella, but gained independent usage during the early 20th century, particularly in Southern states. The name has a warm, friendly quality with its soft sound and approachable feel. Ozie peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1910s and 1920s but has since become quite uncommon, giving it a distinctive vintage charm today. The name's simple two-syllable structure and ending with the feminine 'ie' sound connects it to the tradition of Southern diminutives while maintaining its own identity. Ozie carries echoes of a bygone era, evoking rural American heritage and simpler times.
  4. Neola
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "the young one"
    • Description:

      Has an arty, creative image.
  5. Bulah
    • Description:

      Bulah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, representing a variant spelling of Beulah, which means "married" or "bride" in Hebrew. In the Bible's Book of Isaiah, the land of Israel is called "Beulah" to symbolize its sacred relationship with God. This alternate spelling emerged in the American South during the 19th century, where it gained modest popularity. Bulah reached its peak usage in the early 1900s but has since declined significantly. The name carries vintage charm and rural associations, evoking the simplicity of agrarian America. Today, Bulah is rarely given to newborns, making it an uncommon choice that connects to biblical heritage with a distinctive Southern flavor.

  6. 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.
  7. Beadie
    • Description:

      Beadie is a diminutive feminine name with British origins, possibly derived as a nickname for names beginning with the letter 'B' such as Beatrice, Berenice, or Beatrix. It may also relate to the Old English word 'bēad' meaning 'prayer' or 'bead.' The name has a vintage, quaint charm that evokes the early 20th century when such diminutive forms were more common. Beadie remains exceptionally rare in modern usage, making it a distinctive choice. The name carries a gentle, sweet quality with its soft sounds and '-ie' ending. Its rarity gives it a certain charm for parents seeking something unusual yet accessible. In contemporary culture, the name may be recognized from the character Beadie Russell in the television series 'The Wire.'

  8. 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.
  9. Ardath
    • Description:

      Ardath is a feminine name with literary and biblical connections. It appears in the apocryphal book of 2 Esdras as a field where the prophet receives visions. The name may derive from Hebrew, possibly meaning 'flowering field' or 'meadow light.' Ardath gained some recognition through British author Marie Corelli's 1889 novel 'Ardath: The Story of a Dead Self.' While never widely popular, it saw modest usage in the early 20th century in English-speaking countries. Ardath has a vintage quality combined with a distinctive sound, appealing to those seeking uncommon names with literary or biblical connections. Its soft ending balanced with strong consonants gives it a memorable, melodic quality.

  10. 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.

Introducing the Nameberry App

Nameberry App
Find your perfect baby name together with our new mobile app.
  • Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
  • Names you match on are saved to your shared list
  • Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
  • Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
  • Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.
Sign up to be notified when the app launches and to receive a discount on full access.
Nameberry App Logo