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Names that Peaked in 1964

  1. Richie

    • Origin:

      Short form of Richard

    • Description:

      Richie was once a popular enough nickname for Richard that it made the Top 1000 all by itself. It's seriously out of style now -- though still a better choice than Dick or even Ricky.
  2. Regan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "little king"

    • Description:

      A spelling variant of presidential surname Regan that briefly entered the Top 1000 for boys in the 1960s, but hasn't rejoined the list since. Shakespeare also used the name for a daughter of King Lear, inspired by an ancient king of the Britons in accounts of the medieval scribe Geoffrey of Monmouth.
  3. Barbie

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Barbara

    • Description:

      Despite the voluptuous doll's various career choices, from astronaut to doctor, her name still remains a euphemism for "bimbo".
  4. Annamarie

    • Origin:

      English combination of Anna and Marie

    • Meaning:

      "grace + drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      This variation of Annemarie ensures the name is pronounced with four syllables. Classic and sturdy but with a playful, spirited sound, Annamarie is popular in Czechia, where it is also written as Anna Marie.
  5. Quint

    • Origin:

      English from Quintus; diminutive of Quinton

    • Description:

      Clint with a glint; used for flinty characters in old TV westerns and soap operas.
  6. Robby

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Robert, English

    • Meaning:

      "bright fame"

    • Description:

      This classic Robert nickname is starting to sound sweet again, along with ultra-retro Bobby.
  7. Daneen

    • Description:

      Daneen is a feminine name of Irish origin, functioning as a feminized version of the male name Daniel, which means 'God is my judge.' This melodic three-syllable variation (da-NEEN) adds a graceful quality to the traditional root name. Emerging primarily in the mid-20th century, Daneen reached modest popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, aligning with the trend of creating feminine versions of traditional male names. The name carries both the biblical gravitas of its root while offering a distinctly feminine identity. Though never extremely common, Daneen appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with familiar sounds and clear pronunciation. Its usage has declined since its mid-century peak, now giving the name a somewhat vintage quality with potential for revival.
  8. Kieth

    • Description:

      Kieth is a masculine name representing an alternative spelling of Keith, which derives from an ancient Celtic surname and place name. The name originated from a Scottish clan name meaning 'wood' or 'forest.' While the traditional Keith spelling remains more common, Kieth emerged as a variant particularly during the mid-20th century. The altered spelling maintains the same pronunciation but offers a subtle visual distinction. Though less conventional, Kieth shares the strong, concise quality of its traditional counterpart. The name projects reliability and straightforwardness, attracting parents who appreciate its Celtic heritage and solid, masculine sound while wanting a slightly less common spelling.
  9. Ritchie

    • Description:

      Ritchie is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive of Richard, a Germanic name combining elements meaning 'powerful' and 'ruler' (literally 'strong king' or 'brave ruler'). The nickname version gained independence as a given name in its own right during the mid-20th century, partly influenced by popular cultural figures like singer Ritchie Valens and various fictional characters. Ritchie maintains the friendly, approachable quality typical of nicknames ending in '-ie,' while still connecting to Richard's distinguished history. The name experienced its peak popularity in the 1960s and 1970s in English-speaking countries but has declined since. Ritchie carries a vintage charm with nostalgic associations to mid-century America. The name's familiar sound and spelling make it accessible while its declining usage gives it a distinctive quality in contemporary contexts.
  10. Pernell

    • Description:

      Pernell is a masculine name with French origins, believed to be a variant of Purnell or a diminutive form of Peter (Pierre in French). The name may ultimately derive from the Latin 'Petronellus,' a masculine form related to Petronella. Pernell gained modest recognition in the United States during the mid-20th century, largely due to actor Pernell Roberts, known for his roles in 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, M.D.' Despite this cultural presence, the name has remained uncommon, never breaking into mainstream popularity. Pernell has a distinguished, somewhat aristocratic quality with its French influence, while maintaining a strong masculine sound. The name's rarity makes it distinctive for those seeking something recognizable but rarely encountered in contemporary naming.

  11. Valarie

    • Description:

      Valarie is a feminine name of Latin and French origin, a variant of Valerie, ultimately derived from the Roman family name Valerius, meaning 'strong' or 'brave.' This spelling variation with an 'a' instead of 'e' emerged as a distinctive alternative in the mid-20th century. Valarie reached its peak popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, reflecting the era's preference for names ending with the feminine '-ie' sound. The name carries connotations of strength and health, while maintaining an elegant, classic quality. While less common than Valerie, Valarie offers a slightly unique twist on a traditional name. Bearers of this name often appreciate its balance of familiarity and distinction.

  12. Jaimie

    • Description:

      Jaimie as a masculine name is a variation of Jamie, which originated as a diminutive form of James. The name James comes from the Hebrew name Jacob, meaning 'supplanter' or 'one who follows.' This particular spelling with the extra 'i' adds a distinctive touch to the traditional Jamie while maintaining its friendly, approachable character. While Jamie/Jaimie is used for both genders, for boys it has Scottish roots where it began as a nickname before becoming a given name in its own right. Though less common than the spelling Jamie, masculine Jaimie has maintained steady if modest usage, appealing to parents who appreciate its friendly sound and relaxed vibe while wanting a slight variation from the more common spelling.

  13. Karyn

    • Description:

      Karyn is a feminine name that emerged as a variant of Karen, which itself derives from the Danish form of Katherine. Originally from Greek, the name means 'pure.' Karyn gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, offering a more distinctive spelling of the more common Karen. The name peaked in usage during the mid-20th century but has since declined in popularity. Karyn offers a slight twist on the traditional spelling while maintaining the same pronunciation, giving it a touch of uniqueness while still being recognizable. Today, it's considered a vintage name that occasionally appears for baby girls, though much less frequently than in previous decades.
  14. Penni

    • Description:

      Penni is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Penelope. It originated as a variation of Penny, which was traditionally a nickname for Penelope but has become a standalone name in modern usage. The name has English origins and carries the same meaning as Penny - 'weaver' or 'duck' from the Greek original. Penni enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, but has since become less common. The variation with an 'i' ending gives the name a slightly more distinctive and playful quality compared to the more standard spelling of Penny. Today, Penni remains a charming, vintage choice that projects friendliness and warmth.
  15. Denine

    • Description:

      Denine is a feminine name that appears to be a variation of Denise or possibly Janine. With French roots, Denine likely shares etymology with names derived from Dionysius, the Greek god of wine and revelry. This uncommon name saw limited popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has since become quite rare. Its soft sound with the long 'i' followed by a gentle 'n' ending creates a delicate impression. Parents may choose Denine seeking a subtly distinctive alternative to more common names, appreciating its feminine quality while maintaining familiar phonetic elements. The name carries a vintage charm that might appeal to those drawn to revival names.
  16. Shirl

    • Description:

      Shirl is a feminine name that emerged as a diminutive of Shirley, which originated as an English surname derived from Old English words meaning 'bright clearing' or 'bright meadow.' Reaching peak popularity in the 1930s when actress Shirley Temple was a child star, Shirl became used as a standalone name. It has a brief, no-nonsense quality characteristic of mid-20th century nickname-names. Though much less common today, Shirl evokes a vintage charm and simplicity. The name carries associations with bright, sunny dispositions and the straightforward practicality of the Greatest Generation. While considered somewhat dated in contemporary naming practices, it could see renewed interest as vintage names cycle back into fashion.
  17. Jacquline

    • Description:

      Jacquline is a feminine name that represents a spelling variation of Jacqueline, the French feminine form of Jacques (the French equivalent of James). The name ultimately derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'supplanter' or 'holder of the heel.' This particular spelling, without the second 'e,' creates a streamlined version while maintaining the elegant French sound. Jacquline carries the sophisticated air associated with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who popularized the traditional spelling. While less common than the standard form, this variation emerged as parents sought to give a subtle twist to the classic name. Jacquline suggests qualities of elegance, intelligence, and quiet confidence, balancing traditional appeal with a touch of uniqueness.

  18. Loreen

    • Origin:

      English elaboration of Lora

    • Description:

      Superseded by Lauren.
  19. Deneen

    • Description:

      Deneen is a feminine name that emerged in America during the mid-20th century. It likely developed as a variation of Denise or a feminized form of Dennis, both ultimately deriving from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivity. The name peaked in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, capturing the trend toward creative feminine names with the distinctive '-een' ending. Deneen has a melodic quality and modern feel while maintaining connection to traditional naming roots. Though less common today, it remains an elegant choice that carries a touch of mid-century American nostalgia.
  20. Djuana

    • Description:

      Djuana appears to be a variant spelling of Joanna or Johanna, traditional feminine names derived from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' The distinctive 'Dj' spelling represents a modern orthographic variation that emerged in the late 20th century, possibly influenced by French or musical terminology where 'dj' appears in words like 'djembe' or the abbreviation 'DJ.' The name has remained relatively uncommon, never appearing in top name rankings. Pronunciation likely follows the same pattern as Joanna (jo-AN-uh), though the unique spelling might lead to pronunciation variations. The name represents creative spelling innovations that began to appear with greater frequency in the latter half of the 20th century. Usage data shows sporadic appearance of the name across diverse communities in the United States since the 1970s, though it has remained relatively rare compared to more traditional variants like Joanna or Joan.