Names that Peaked in 1910
- Almeta
Description:
Almeta is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of Almeda, which has Spanish roots meaning 'the table' or 'the plateau.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Greek name Althea, meaning 'healing.' Almeta has maintained a consistent but low profile in American naming history, experiencing modest popularity in the early 20th century but remaining relatively uncommon. The name has a vintage, melodic quality that combines the popular 'Al' prefix with a soft ending. In some Southern U.S. communities, Almeta has maintained usage through family naming traditions. Its rarity today gives it a distinctive quality for those seeking an uncommon vintage name.
- Halley
Origin:
Scottish and EnglishMeaning:
"hall or woodland clearing"Description:
While this has a distinguished male namesake -- astronomer Edmund Halley and his comet -- it still strays too close to the superpopular feminine Hailey family to work for some parents for a boy. Fewer than five baby boys were given the name last year, but that could change as formerly-female names become more acceptable for boys.
- Reatha
Description:
Reatha is a feminine name with American origins, emerging primarily in the early to mid-20th century. It likely developed as a variation of names like Ruth or Aretha, possibly influenced by the trend of creating distinctive names by adding prefixes or suffixes to traditional ones. The name has a melodic quality with its soft 'th' sound and ending vowel. Reatha experienced modest popularity in the United States between the 1910s and 1940s but has become increasingly uncommon since the 1960s. The name carries a vintage charm characteristic of its era, evoking associations with the strong, dignified women of earlier generations. Today, Reatha stands out as a distinctive choice that combines familiarity with uniqueness.
- Mozella
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"drawn from the water"Description:
A feminine twist on Moses, with a bright, zippy feel.
- Ozell
Description:
Ozell is a name with somewhat obscure origins that has been in use in the United States since at least the early 20th century. It appears most frequently as a masculine name, though it has occasionally been used for females as well. The etymology is not definitively documented, but it may represent a variant of Oswald (an Anglo-Saxon name meaning 'divine power') or possibly derive from a surname. Another theory suggests it could be related to other 'Oz-' names like Osborn or Osbert. Ozell Sutton (1925-2015), a notable civil rights leader, brought some recognition to this uncommon name. Usage records show Ozell appearing consistently but infrequently throughout the 20th century. The name has a distinctive sound with the strong 'O' beginning and the crisp 'zell' ending, making it both traditional yet uncommon.
- Jewell
Description:
Jewell is a feminine name derived from the English word 'jewel,' referring to a precious stone or gem. This name embodies qualities of beauty, rarity, and value. Originally used as a surname for jewelers or those who worked with precious stones, Jewell transitioned to first name usage in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1910s and 1920s but has since become less common. Jewell offers parents a distinctive choice with built-in symbolism of preciousness and worth. Its vintage quality appeals to those seeking names with classic charm and substantial meaning. The name can also be spelled as 'Jewel,' though the double-L version adds a traditional touch.
- Estell
Description:
Estell is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Estelle, derived from Latin 'stella' meaning 'star'. This celestial connection gives the name a sense of brightness and aspiration. The single-L spelling creates a distinctive variation while maintaining the elegant sound of the original. Estell has an antique charm that appeals to those seeking vintage names with a slightly unique twist. While never among the most popular names, Estell enjoyed modest usage in the early 20th century before declining. It carries a quiet sophistication and brevity that distinguishes it from longer elaborations like Estella or Estrella while conveying the same starry symbolism.
