Names that Peaked in 1939

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.

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).

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.

Patricia still sounds patrician, though its scores of nicknames definitely don't. Wildly popular from the forties (alternately Number 3 and 4 throughout the decade) to the sixties, Patricia has been fading ever since. But a comeback in its full form is definitely conceivable—just look at Penelope.

Sally is a cheerful, fresh-faced girl-next-door name that was originally a nickname for Sarah, but has long been used independently. Sally was popular in the eighteenth century and then again from the 1920s to the 1960s--it was just outside the Top 50 around 1940. Though it hasn't been heard as a baby name for decades, we can see Sally bouncing back, especially after her exposure as young Ms. Draper on Mad Men--the Nameberries rank it at Number 621, and it's a Top 100 name in Sweden.

Kenneth may have lost much of its luster now, but Kenneth has had its moments of glory. The first king of Scotland was Kenneth, and Sir Kenneth, a Christian crusader, was the hero of the Sir Walter Scott novel The Talisman.

Barbara is back! Among the fastest-rising names of 2023, Barbara came back from oblivion at the very bottom of the Top 1000, gaining nearly 100 places on the popularity list.

A variant form of Laurence or Lawrence which ranked in the #200s in the US from the 1900s through to the 1960s. It didn't fall off the boys' Top 1000 until the late 1990s, following the huge popularity of Lauren for girls.

Both a saint's name and a presidential one via Gerald Ford—who was born Leslie—Gerald is a quintessential 1930s-40s name, when it ranked as high as Number 19. Hence all those nice middle-aged and senior Jerrys we've known and loved. Gerald has always been popular in Ireland, accounting for the prevalence of Fitzgeralds there. Though not considered stylish, Gerald remains on the popularity charts. Cousin Gerard has a similar profile, Geraldo is the well-used Spanish version, and Geraldine is the most promising of the family, in line to follow the path of Josephine to imminent revival.

Jerome has a bespectacled, serious, studious image, just like its namesake saint, who was a brilliant scholar. St. Jerome is the patron saint of students, librarians, and archaeologists.

Gale for boys is more a storm name than a short form of Abigail. Since Gale has resurfaced as the name of Liam Hemsworth's daring character in The Hunger Games, it has new force for boys.

Relic of a past period of French favorites, out to pasture with Claudette and Paulette.

Harlon is a masculine name with English and Germanic origins, likely derived as a variant of Harlan. The name Harlan comes from Old English elements meaning 'army land' or 'hare land.' Harlon emerged as a spelling variation in the United States, particularly in southern regions during the mid-20th century. While less common than Harlan, Harlon gained some recognition through notable bearers like American football player Harlon Hill. The name has a strong, rugged quality that conveys masculinity and resilience. Though relatively uncommon in contemporary usage, it appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with traditional roots. Harlon combines the strength associated with Germanic names while offering a uniquely American character.

Used by the Puritans but off the US charts completely since the mid-1990s, Eartha is best known today as the name of American singer Eartha Kitt, as well as of the philanthropist and humanitarian Eartha M. M. White.

Arlyn is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Old English elements 'earn' (eagle) and 'lin' (lake), creating a meaning of 'eagle lake.' Alternatively, it could be a variation of Arlen, with Irish and Gaelic roots meaning 'pledge' or 'oath.' Some sources suggest it may also be a modern combination inspired by the names Arthur and Lynn. Arlyn emerged in usage in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. The name has a gentle yet strong quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive but accessible. While never extremely common, Arlyn continues to be chosen by parents looking for a name with nature associations and a melodic sound.

Long-used surname name that's up for promotion to greater popularity.

Occasionally heard in Ireland, small chance of success here.

Jeraldine is a feminine variant of Gerald, which has Germanic origins meaning 'ruler with the spear.' This elegant elaboration adds the feminine suffix '-ine' to create a distinctly female version of the traditional male name. Popular primarily in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, Jeraldine offers a formal alternative to the nickname Jerry while maintaining connection to its masculine counterpart. The name conveys dignity and classic femininity, though it has become less common in recent decades. Jeraldine appeals to parents seeking traditional names with history and substance while being uncommon enough to feel distinctive in contemporary classrooms.

Arleen is a feminine name of Irish origin, typically considered a variant of Arlene. Derived from the Gaelic elements meaning 'pledge' or 'oath,' it carries connotations of loyalty and commitment. The name gained popularity in the United States during the 1930s-1950s, reaching its peak in the mid-20th century. Arleen has a gentle, vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking names with both history and a touch of nostalgia. While less common among today's babies, it maintains recognition without being overused. The double 'e' spelling variation gives this classic name a slight distinction from the more standard Arlene.