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Names that Peaked in 1924

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Thu Nov 30 2023
  1. Robert

    • Origin:

      English from German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. Calvin

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Mary

    • Origin:

      Hebrew or Egyptian

    • Meaning:

      "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).
  4. Dorothy

    • Origin:

      English variation of Greek Dorothea

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  5. Roland

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Marian

    • Origin:

      French medieval variation of Marie, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Harlan

    • Origin:

      German and English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  8. Winona

    • Origin:

      Sioux Indian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  9. Seymour

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  10. Carmen

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Carmel or Latin

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  11. Wilton

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "place by a stream"

    • Description:

      As passé as Hilton and Milton.
  12. Norris

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "northerner"

    • Description:

      Somehow more modern and likable than Morris or Doris.
  13. Hiroshi

    • Origin:

      Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "generous"

    • Description:

      Several artistic Hiroshis make this one of the more plausible Japanese imports.
  14. 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.

  15. 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.
  16. Theola

    • Origin:

      Form of Theophila, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "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".
  17. Elayne

    • Description:

      Elayne is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Elaine, which derives from the Old French form of Helen, ultimately from Greek origins meaning 'bright' or 'shining light.' This name carries considerable literary prestige, as Elaine appears in Arthurian legends as the Lily Maid of Astolat who died of unrequited love for Sir Lancelot. The variant spelling Elayne adds a touch of uniqueness while maintaining the name's elegant sound. While never reaching tremendous popularity, Elayne saw modest usage in the mid-20th century in the United States. The name combines medieval romance with classical grace, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and feminine sophistication.

  18. Melba

    • Origin:

      Modern invented name

    • Description:

      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.
  19. Welton

    • Description:

      Welton is an English surname-turned-first-name with Old English origins, derived from place names meaning 'well town' or 'settlement with a spring.' It has historically been used primarily for boys and carries connotations of stability and natural resources. While never extremely common as a first name, Welton has maintained steady but minimal usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries. It offers the friendly nickname options of 'Well' or 'Welt' and projects a dignified, somewhat old-fashioned character that appeals to parents seeking distinctive yet traditional-sounding names.
  20. Vernelle

    • Description:

      Vernelle is a feminine name that likely originated as a variation of Verna, which derives from the Latin word 'vernus' meaning 'spring.' The addition of the '-elle' suffix gives it a French-inspired elegance and softness. Vernelle emerged in the United States during the early 20th century, experiencing modest popularity in the 1920s-1940s but remaining relatively uncommon. The name carries connotations of springtime, renewal, and growth. Its vintage charm may appeal to parents seeking a name that sounds both classic and distinctive. Vernelle balances familiarity with uniqueness—recognizable in structure but rarely encountered. It offers the sweet nickname options of Vern, Nelle, or Ellie while providing a more formal full name.

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