Names that Peaked in 1924
- Mary
Origin:
Hebrew or EgyptianMeaning:
"drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"Description:
Mary is the English form of Maria, which ultimately was derived from the Hebrew name Maryam/Mariam. The original meaning of Maryam is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).
- Robert
Origin:
English from GermanMeaning:
"bright fame"Description:
Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains in the Top 100 for baby boys as a family favorite.
- Calvin
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"bald, hairless"Description:
Calvin is a slightly quirky but cozy name that has a fashion edge thanks to Calvin Klein. It has been steadily on the popularity list since records were kept, never lower than Number 250, peaking in the 1920s, the era of the Calvin (originally John Calvin ) Coolidge presidency.
- Harlan
Origin:
German and EnglishMeaning:
"rocky land"Description:
Pleasant but uninspired surname name somewhat connected to writers Ellison and Coben. After three decades off the US Top 1000, it reentered in 2013, maybe because it's an unusual example of the trendy class of two-syllable n-ending boys’ names. Kevin Harlan is an NFL, NBA, and college basketball announcer for TV and radio.
- Winona
Origin:
Sioux IndianMeaning:
"firstborn daughter"Description:
Rode two rockets to fame, with actress Winona Ryder and singer Wynonna Judd. Winona entered the Top 1000 for the first time since 1957 this past year in 2022, following in the footsteps of trending short form Winnie.
- Dorothy
Origin:
English variation of Greek DorotheaMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
In the 1930s, Dorothy left Kansas and landed in the Land of Oz; by the '80s she had become a Golden Girl, living in Miami with roommates Blanche and Rose, giving her a decidedly older image. But parents today seeking a quiet classic are bringing Dorothy back—she reentered the Top 1000 in 2011 after almost completely disappearing.
- Roland
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"famous throughout the land"Description:
Roland is a chivalrous old name made famous by the supposedly eight-foot-tall romantic hero and nephew of Charlemagne, celebrated in medieval poetry and song. It is more widely heard in the US now in its Spanish form, Rolando. You might want to consider rollicking short form Rollo, either on its own or as an abbreviation of Roland. Orlando is the graceful Italian form.
- Marian
Origin:
French medieval variation of Marie, HebrewMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
Marian's (and sister spelling Marion's) image has gone through a sea change of late, recalling less middle-aged matron and more Robin Hood's romantic Maid Marian. Some influences: the SJ Parker-M. Broderick twin daughter Marion and the glamorous French actress Marion Cotillard.
- Carmen
Origin:
Spanish variation of Carmel or LatinMeaning:
"garden or song"Description:
While the variation Carmine is more familiar for boys, Carmen has also been used as a masculine name; consider the very macho Carmen Basilio — the American boxer famous for defeating the great Sugar Ray Robinson — or composer Carmen Dragon.
Spanish and Italian forms Carmelo and Carmello are also quite popular in the US, with Carmelo ranking in the Top 1000.
- Seymour
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"marshy land near the sea"Description:
Out playing shuffleboard at his condo and not expected back for several generations -- unless it morphs into a girls' name, a la Sydney.
- Norris
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"northerner"Description:
Somehow more modern and likable than Morris or Doris.
- Melba
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Australian opera singer Nellie Melba—self-named for her hometown of Melbourne—inspired this now-dated name more associated today with a peach dessert and dietetic toast.
- Wilton
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"place by a stream"Description:
As passé as Hilton and Milton.
- Juanita
Origin:
Spanish, feminine variation of JuanDescription:
Pervasive in all Spanish-speaking cultures, Juanita, like Juana, has not emigrated.
- Wanita
Description:
Wanita is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Spanish, it's a diminutive form of Juana (the feminine form of Juan/John), meaning 'God is gracious'. However, it's also recognized as an Aboriginal Australian word meaning 'water spirit' in some indigenous languages. The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1920s-1940s but has since become less common. Wanita has a melodic quality with its three distinct syllables and soft sounds. The name carries a vintage charm while maintaining cultural connections that may appeal to families with Spanish or Australian indigenous heritage. Despite its relative rarity today, Wanita offers a combination of familiarity and uniqueness that distinguishes it from more common feminine names.
- Elenore
Description:
Elenore is a graceful feminine name that serves as a variant of Eleanor, which derives from the Provençal name Aliénor, introduced to England by Eleanor of Aquitaine in the 12th century. The name has roots in various ancient forms, possibly connected to the Greek 'helē' meaning 'torch' or 'bright light.' This particular spelling, with the final 'e,' gives the name a slightly more antique and romantic quality. Elenore has maintained a quiet presence throughout history, experiencing occasional revivals during periods when vintage names return to favor. Though less common than Eleanor, it carries the same sophisticated charm and historical richness, while offering a subtle distinction. The name evokes images of elegance and timeless beauty, appealing to parents drawn to classic names with a slight twist.
- Hiroshi
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"generous"Description:
Several artistic Hiroshis make this one of the more plausible Japanese imports.
- Jeane
Description:
Jeane is a refined feminine name, representing a variant spelling of Jean or Jeanne. Ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious,' it traveled through medieval French before becoming established in English. This particular spelling offers a blend of traditional substance with a touch of distinctive style through the final 'e.' Historically, Jeane peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but has since become less common, giving it a subtle vintage appeal. The name carries associations of strength and dignity while maintaining feminine elegance. Jeane offers the benefit of familiarity without being overly popular, making it attractive to parents seeking a classic name with a slight twist.
- Deward
Description:
Deward is a masculine name of Old English origin, derived from 'deor' meaning 'dear, beloved' and 'weard' meaning 'guardian' or 'protector.' Historically, it developed both as a given name and surname, conveying the honorable meaning of 'beloved guardian.' The name has medieval roots but became relatively uncommon after the Middle Ages. Deward has a dignified, traditional quality with its strong consonants and meaningful etymology. In the United States, it saw modest usage in the early 20th century but remains rare today. The name might appeal to parents seeking an uncommon traditional name with a clear, positive meaning and historical depth.
- Theola
Origin:
Form of Theophila, GreekMeaning:
"friend of God"Description:
A contracted form of Theophila, Theola could make an unusual twist on Thea, Theodora, and Viola. Other long forms include the Germanic Theolene and Theoldine meaning "gentle people".
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