Names that Peaked in 1912
- Mariano
Origin:
Italian, Spanish and PortugueseMeaning:
"relating to the god Mars"Description:
A handsome and romantic-sounding European option.
- Rosamond
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"horse protection"Description:
The kind of serious old-school name that sounds appealing again; perfect for the intrepid baby namer. More commonly spelled Rosamund but highly unusual these days in either version, with fewer than 20 baby girls named Rosamund in the US last year while Rosamond didn't even register with five.
- Velma
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"will helmet"Description:
Velma likely originated as a phonetic spelling of the German name Wilma, itself derived from Wilhelmina. Velma Dinkley is a smart, if nerdy, character in Scooby Doo.
- Myer
Description:
Myer is a concise masculine name with multiple origins and meanings. Primarily derived from the German surname Meyer, meaning 'farmer,' 'landholder,' or 'estate manager,' it reflects historical occupational roots. In some cases, it may also be a variant of the Hebrew name Meir, meaning 'one who illuminates' or 'giving light.' Myer has historical significance in Jewish communities and carries a sophisticated, understated quality. The name has connections to several notable business figures, including Sidney Myer, founder of Australia's Myer department store chain. Its brevity and strong sound make it both distinctive and accessible. While never extremely common, Myer offers a refined alternative to more popular short names, appealing to parents seeking a name with both historical depth and modern simplicity.
- Sigmund
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"victorious protection"Description:
The connection to Freud is a strong one, but this German name has a strong and interesting sound and great nickname potential: Ziggy, Iggy, Sim, Sid...
- Tyrus
Origin:
Latin, PhonecianMeaning:
"city of Tyre; rock"Description:
The full name of baseball great Ty Cobb and now the name of a popular board game, this name gained popularity due to its fashionable sounds – a combination of Tyrone and Cyrus. But it is also found in the King James Bible as a place name, the city of Tyre in modern-day Lebanon, whose name derives from the Phonecian word for "rock".
- Trula
Description:
Trula is a feminine name with uncertain origins, possibly derived from a variation of 'True' or as a diminutive form of Gertrude. It may also have connections to similar-sounding names in various European languages. The name has a melodic quality with its soft 'r' and flowing 'la' ending. Trula experienced minimal popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, peaking around the 1920s and 1930s, but has remained very rare since then. It has an antique, distinctive feel that might appeal to parents seeking uncommon vintage names. Trula combines simplicity with uniqueness, offering a short name that isn't commonly heard yet is relatively easy to pronounce and spell.
- Wayland
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"land beside the road"Description:
Way out.
- Myrtis
Origin:
Greek botanical nameDescription:
This Myrtle variation may not be the most melodious choice but it does have that appealing nature meaning.
- Assunta
Description:
Assunta is a feminine Italian name derived from the Latin word 'assumpta,' meaning 'taken up' or 'elevated.' The name has strong Catholic associations, specifically referring to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven—a significant feast day celebrated on August 15th. Girls born around this feast day were traditionally given this name in Catholic Italian families. Assunta has been used for centuries in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name carries a sense of devotion and religious heritage, connecting bearers to Italian cultural traditions. While less frequently given to newborns today even in Italy, Assunta maintains its cultural significance and timeless connection to religious heritage.
- Alvis
Origin:
Norse mythology nameDescription:
Alvis, sometimes spelled Alviss, is a dwarf in Norse mythology who claims to know everything and names all the features of the natural world to show off to Thor, whose daughter Alvis wants to marry. But he gets so caught up in showing off his knowledge that the sun comes up and turns him to stone.
- Domenic
Description:
Domenic is a masculine name representing a variant spelling of Dominic, which derives from the Late Latin name 'Dominicus,' meaning 'of the Lord' or 'belonging to the Lord.' This name has historical significance through St. Dominic, who founded the Dominican order of friars in the 13th century. The spelling without the final 'k' follows Italian orthographic patterns, suggesting Mediterranean connections. Domenic maintains the strong, classic feeling of the traditional spelling while offering a slightly different visual presentation. The name has remained steadily used over decades without becoming overly common, making it familiar yet distinctive. It conveys strength and carries positive associations with devotion and faith.
- Durward
Origin:
English occupational nameMeaning:
"doorkeeper"Description:
Literary, occupational, and very neglected.
- Norine
Description:
Norine is a feminine name derived from the Latin 'Honorina,' meaning 'honor,' or as a diminutive form of Nora or Eleanor. With Irish and Greek influences, it can be interpreted as 'light' or 'honor.' Norine enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, particularly in the 1910s-1930s, but has since become quite rare. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft sound and elegant simplicity. While not commonly used today, Norine maintains appeal for parents seeking a classic-sounding name with historical roots but without being overly common.
- Rubye
Origin:
Variation of Ruby, LatinMeaning:
"deep red precious stone"Description:
A spelling alternative of Ruby that ranked in the US Top 1000 in the early 20th century. It peaked in 1909 when it reached #372 on the charts. It mostly dropped out of use in the 50s, though at least 8 girls were given this spelling in 2023. Notably borne by actress Ruby De Remer, there's a good chance those unfamiliar with it would pronounce it roo-BYE instead of ROO-bee.
- Maebell
Description:
Maebell is a charming feminine name with American Southern roots, combining the names Mae (or May) and Bell. It evolved as a variant of Mabel (from the Latin 'amabilis' meaning 'lovable') or as a double name in the Southern tradition. Popular in the early 20th century, Maebell has that sweet, vintage quality that's seeing renewed interest as part of the revival of grandmother names. The name evokes images of rural simplicity and Southern hospitality. Though not currently among top-ranking names, Maebell offers nostalgic appeal while fitting the trend of rediscovering vintage names with a melodic quality and meaningful history.
- Allene
Description:
Allene is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive as a variation of Aileen or Eileen (from the Gaelic 'Eibhlín,' meaning 'bright, shining one'), or it could be a feminized form of Allen/Allan (of Celtic origin meaning 'handsome' or 'cheerful'). The name saw modest popularity in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1910s and 1920s, but has since become quite uncommon. Allene has an elegant, vintage quality with its soft sounds and classical feel. The distinctive spelling with double 'l' and ending 'e' gives it a refined appearance. The name carries connotations of brightness and beauty while remaining understated and sophisticated.
- Noma
Description:
Noma is a feminine name with diverse cultural origins. In Japanese, Noma means 'field of wild flowers,' creating a naturally beautiful image. In Swahili, it carries the meaning 'comfortable' or 'pleasant.' The name also appears in some Native American cultures. Noma has maintained a low profile in popularity charts but offers a distinctive quality with its simple two-syllable structure. The name's cross-cultural versatility makes it appealing to parents seeking something uncommon yet easy to pronounce. Noma's understated elegance and natural connotations give it a subtle charm without being overly elaborate.