Names that Peaked in 1932

Willa has become increasingly fashionable, with its combination of Willa (born Wilella) Cather-like pioneer strength and the graceful beauty of the willow tree.

A classic old Norman name popular for a thousand years and favored for kings (Richard Nixon was named for Richard the Lionhearted), as well as the hoi polloi (as in every Tom, Dick and Harry), Richard was the sixth most popular US boys’ name in 1925, and was still Number 8 in 1950, but is now much less popular.

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 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.

Greta is an Old World name long tied to the iconic Garbo, but now synonymous with environmental activism.

Joan was the perfect name choice for one of the leading characters on Mad Men, being a quintessential girls' name of the period. A Top 10 name in the 30s, a Top 50 name from the 40s through the early 60s, it was the fifth most popular name in the country for three years running and ranks as one of the most common names for girls in the 20th century. But alas, Joan hasn't even appeared in the Top 1000 for a dozen years, and these days it's primarily associated with Joans of the generation of Joan Crawford, Joan Collins and Joan Rivers--just a few of the noted Joans whose ranks also include the singers Joan Sutherland, Joan Baez, Joan Armatrading and Joan Jett. But it's possible that modern parents who are reviving Jane might move on to Joan, inspired by Joan Hollaway Harris.

Combine the popularity of Betty White and Mad Men's glamorous Betty Draper Francis, with the residual sweetness of Ugly Betty's Betty Suarez, and the result is an impending return of the name. It's got presidential cred via Betty Ford and feminist history through Betty Friedan.

Invented for Bellini's opera, Norma had some star quality in the silent-screen and Marilyn Monroe days, but at this point it's a graying grandma in baby name limbo.

Though rarely used now that many parents would rather appropriate men's names than sweeten them with feminine endings, Thomasina does have some vintage appeal.

Like many passé boys' names, this one sounds fresh again for girls.

Yes, the poet Joyce Kilmer ("Trees") was a man, the very last male named Joyce. And even for women, it's been in limbo for several generations.

High-kicking cohort of Coco, Gigi, Fifi, Kiki, et al.

Gentle meaning and bona fide Hebrew history, but feels old-mannish, like Herman and Menashe.

This Spanish variation of the French Estelle and spelling spin on Estella is on the rise, along with most star-related names, even Starr (and Star) herself. Popular personality Ali Landry chose it for her daughter.

Garner is an unncommon word and surname with some prospect of garnering popularity, especially now that Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck have given it to son Samuel as his middle name, and Jessica Alba and Cash Warren have used it as the middle name of second daughter Haven. Garner is also Cash Warren's middle name. Gardner or Gardener is another, similar though unrelated possibility.

Lenard is a masculine name of Germanic origin, functioning as a variant of Leonard. It derives from elements meaning 'lion' and 'hardy' or 'brave,' thus conveying the meaning 'lion-strong' or 'brave as a lion.' This powerful etymology reflects qualities of courage and strength that have made it enduring across centuries. While Leonard has remained the more common spelling, Lenard offers a streamlined alternative that maintains the name's substantial character. The name enjoyed moderate popularity in the early to mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades, giving it a distinguished, vintage quality. Lenard's traditional roots and straightforward pronunciation make it appealing to parents seeking a masculine name with historical depth and clear meaning.

This ancient saint's name was borne by the infamous midcentury playboy, Porfirio Rubirosa.

Orlin is a masculine name with Slavic origins, particularly popular in Bulgaria where it derives from the word "orel" meaning "eagle." This connection gives the name associations with freedom, vision, and nobility. In some linguistic contexts, Orlin can also be related to words for "light" or "dawn." While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name has seen modest usage throughout Eastern Europe. Orlin has a sophisticated yet accessible sound with its crisp two-syllable structure. The name strikes a balance between uniqueness and pronunciation ease, making it distinctive without being difficult to say or spell. For parents seeking a name with natural symbolism and international character that remains relatively undiscovered in Western contexts, Orlin offers an appealing option with positive connotations.

Kaye as a masculine name represents an uncommon gender assignment for what is typically considered a feminine name in most Western countries. As a male name, it likely derives from the surname Kay or Kaye, which has Scottish and Celtic origins related to the word 'quay' (a loading dock) or possibly from a location name. The name Kay for men has historical precedent in Arthurian legend, where Sir Kay was King Arthur's foster brother and seneschal. The spelling 'Kaye' gives this short, simple name a slightly more distinctive appearance. While most commonly used for women in contemporary times, there is a minor tradition of using it as a male name or nickname. The gender-crossing nature of Kaye makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a gentle yet established name that defies typical gender associations.

Dorine is a feminine name of French origin, derived as a diminutive form of Dora or Dorothy, which ultimately comes from the Greek name Dorothea meaning 'gift of God.' Popular in France during the early 20th century, Dorine has a delicate, classical quality. The name appears as a character in Molière's classic French play 'Tartuffe,' adding literary significance to its appeal. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Dorine experienced modest popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft sounds and elegant simplicity, appealing to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon.