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Names that Peaked in 1942

  1. Maryanne

    • Origin:

      English, combination of Mary and Anne

    • Meaning:

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

    • Description:

      Variant of Marianne or Maryann
  2. Lanny

    • Description:

      Lanny is a masculine name with English origins, often used as a diminutive of names like Landon, Lance, or Orlando. It gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s. The name carries a friendly, approachable quality with its informal sound and easy pronunciation. Lanny has associations with several notable figures, including musician Lanny Wolfe and former hockey player Lanny McDonald, which has helped maintain its recognition. Though never extremely common, the name has a distinctly American feel that balances casualness with a certain charm. Today, Lanny maintains a nostalgic appeal while remaining uncommon enough to be distinctive.

  3. Barrie

    • Description:

      Barrie is a masculine name of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, derived from the name Barry, which means 'spear' or 'fair-haired.' It gained some recognition through association with the Scottish author J.M. Barrie, creator of Peter Pan. The name has a friendly, approachable quality while still maintaining a certain strength. While traditionally masculine, Barrie has occasionally been used for girls as well, particularly in English-speaking countries. As a male name, it peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but has since become less common, giving it a somewhat vintage appeal. The spelling with an 'ie' ending lends a slightly softer touch to this otherwise straightforward name, making it an interesting option for parents seeking something familiar yet not overused.

  4. Jerrie

    • Description:

      Jerrie is a feminine name that typically functions as a diminutive of Geraldine or Jeraldine, ultimately deriving from Germanic elements meaning 'spear ruler.' It can also serve as a feminine variation of Jerry (short for Gerald or Jerome). The name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the 1930s-1950s but has since become uncommon. Jerrie has historical connections to notable women including Jerrie Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world. With its friendly, approachable sound and vintage charm, Jerrie represents the mid-century trend of using nicknames as given names while maintaining a cheerful, unpretentious quality that feels both familiar and distinctive.

  5. Merrilee

    • Origin:

      English, word name or combination of Mary and Lee, or Scottish place-name

    • Description:

      Merrilee has several different origins. It's an alternative spelling of the unusual word name Merrily, as well as a variant of the smoosh name Marilee (Mary + Lee). Merrilee, Merrilees or Mirrlees are also found in Scotland, deriving from a Scottish place name. Merrilee hit the Top 1000 for a few years in the 1940s, but disappeared from the charts completely back in 2007. In 2023, however, 5 baby girls were given name, as it joined a number of vintage revivals making a reappearance in the US.
  6. Mcarthur

    • Origin:

      Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "son of Arthur"

    • Description:

      The Mc and Mac surnames are asserting themselves as first names and this is one of the most popular. Though outside the U.S. Top 1000, it's among the fastest rising names for boys.
  7. Saundra

    • Description:

      Saundra is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Sandra, which itself is a shortened form of Alexandra. This name has Greek origins, ultimately derived from the Greek word "alexein" meaning "to defend" or "to help." Saundra gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1940s through the 1960s, reaching its peak usage in the mid-1950s. The distinctive spelling with 'u' gives the name a slightly more sophisticated or unique quality compared to the more common Sandra. While its usage has declined since the 1970s, Saundra maintains appeal among parents who appreciate vintage names or seek to honor family members. The name carries connotations of strength and dependability, reflecting its etymological roots.
  8. Carolynn

    • Description:

      Carolynn is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Caroline or Carolyn. These names derive from the masculine name Charles, which comes from the Germanic name Karl, meaning "free man" or "man." The -lynn ending gives Carolynn a more contemporary feel while maintaining connection to its classic roots. This particular spelling gained modest popularity in the mid-20th century United States but remains less common than Carolyn. Carolynn carries the dignity and timelessness of Caroline while the unique spelling offers a touch of distinction. The name suggests qualities of strength and grace, and its familiar sound paired with uncommon spelling creates a balance between traditional and unique. Carolynn works well across age groups, maintaining its appeal from childhood through adulthood.
  9. Merrily

    • Origin:

      English word name or combination of Mary and Lee

    • Meaning:

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

    • Description:

      Slightly sing-song and very joyful, with a hint of Melody, a bit of Felicity, and a dash of Truly thrown in, Merrily was briefly popular in the 1940s.
  10. Jerilyn

    • Description:

      Jerilyn is a feminine given name that emerged in mid-20th century America as a variation of Jeri or a feminine form of Jerry, combined with the popular '-lyn' suffix. The name ultimately derives from Gerald/Geraldine, which has Germanic origins meaning 'rule of the spear.' Jerilyn gained modest popularity during the 1940s-1960s, reflecting the trend of creating more elaborate variations of simple names. It offers a balance between familiar sounds and distinctive character. The name has since declined in usage, giving it a generational connection to the Baby Boomer era. Jerilyn's melodic three-syllable structure and soft sounds create an impression of femininity while maintaining an approachable quality. Though uncommon today, it remains recognizable and easy to pronounce.
  11. Douglass

    • Description:

      Douglass is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Douglas, which originated as a Scottish surname meaning 'dark water' or 'dark stream.' This specific spelling with the double 's' is most famously associated with Frederick Douglass, the renowned 19th-century abolitionist, writer, and statesman who was born into slavery and became a powerful advocate for freedom and equality. The name carries historical weight and dignity, particularly in connection to civil rights and social justice. While less common than the single-s spelling, Douglass maintains the strong, classic character of the original while subtly distinguishing itself. It conveys traditional masculinity combined with intellectual substance.
  12. Kaaren

    • Description:

      Kaaren is a feminine name that represents a Scandinavian variant of Karen, which ultimately derives from Katherine. The name's roots trace back to the Greek 'Aikaterine,' with debated meanings including 'pure' or possibly connecting to the goddess Hecate. The distinctive double 'a' spelling reflects Norwegian and Danish linguistic influences, giving the name a Nordic touch that sets it apart from the more common Karen. While never achieving mainstream popularity in the United States, Kaaren saw modest usage during the mid-20th century when Karen was at its peak. Today, Kaaren remains uncommon, offering a unique alternative with the same pleasant sound but less cultural baggage than its more common counterpart.
  13. Allyn

    • Description:

      Allyn is a gender-neutral name with versatile usage as a masculine name, though it also appears as a feminine option. With Welsh and Celtic origins, it relates to names like Alan and Allen, derived from elements meaning "handsome" or "cheerful." As a surname-turned-first-name, it carries an elegant, sophisticated quality. The distinctive 'y' spelling gives Allyn a more contemporary feel compared to traditional variants. Despite never reaching high popularity rankings, Allyn has maintained consistent, modest usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The name appeals to parents seeking a classic-sounding option with a modern twist. Its gender flexibility makes it appealing in contemporary naming trends that favor unisex options. Allyn projects strength and refinement while maintaining an approachable quality.

  14. Jerald

    • Description:

      Jerald is a masculine name of Germanic origin, a variant spelling of Gerald, which combines the elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'wald' meaning 'rule' or 'power.' This traditional name has been in use since medieval times, carried by saints and nobility throughout European history. The Jerald spelling variation emerged in English-speaking countries, particularly gaining popularity in America during the early to mid-20th century. Though less common now than in its peak decades of the 1930s-1950s, the name maintains associations with reliability, strength, and traditional masculinity. Many bearers go by the shortened form 'Jerry,' which adds an approachable, friendly dimension to the more formal Jerald.
  15. Jerrilyn

    • Description:

      Jerrilyn is a feminine name that emerged as a modern elaboration of the name Jerry, combined with the popular feminine suffix '-lyn.' Jerry itself is traditionally a diminutive of Gerald or Jerome. Gerald comes from Germanic origins meaning 'rule of the spear,' while Jerome derives from Greek, meaning 'sacred name.' Jerrilyn gained modest popularity in America during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, aligning with the trend of creating new feminine names by adding suffixes to masculine names. The name has a distinctly mid-century American feel, though it never reached widespread popularity. Jerrilyn offers the friendly, approachable quality of Jerry with a feminine twist, creating a name that balances familiarity with distinctiveness.

  16. Georgiann

    • Description:

      Georgiann is a feminine name that combines the classic 'Georgia' with the suffix 'ann,' creating a distinctive elaboration on the more common Georgian names. Derived from the Greek name George, meaning 'farmer' or 'earth-worker,' Georgiann carries associations with groundedness and connection to the land. The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, but has since become less common. Georgiann offers a slightly more elaborate alternative to Georgia or Georgina while maintaining the familiar root. The double 'n' ending gives it a unique quality that distinguishes it from other Georgia-derived names. Today, it carries a somewhat vintage charm that may appeal to parents seeking a name with traditional roots but distinctive styling.
  17. Carolyne

    • Description:

      Carolyne is a feminine name with Germanic origins, derived from the masculine name Charles (Karl), meaning "free man" or "strong." This elegant variation adds a sophisticated touch to the more common Caroline with its distinctive "y" spelling. Carolyne combines classical heritage with a touch of uniqueness, making it appealing to parents who want a recognizable yet slightly uncommon name. Throughout history, the name has maintained steady usage without becoming overly popular. Carolyne carries associations with grace, intelligence, and refinement. The name has royal connections through various European monarchies, lending it an air of nobility. Its multiple nickname possibilities (Caro, Carol, Lyn) offer versatility while maintaining its classic roots.

  18. Macarthur

    • Description:

      Macarthur as a feminine given name is quite unusual, as it's traditionally a Scottish surname meaning "son of Arthur." The name gained prominence through historical figures like General Douglas MacArthur. While uncommon as a first name for girls, it follows the trend of using surnames as given names, similar to Madison or Kennedy. The masculine associations make it a bold, unexpected choice for a girl, perhaps appealing to parents seeking a strong, distinctive name. Mac or Artie could serve as natural nicknames. The name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and military heritage, creating an impression of resilience and authority.
  19. Jerold

    • Description:

      Jerold is a masculine name of Germanic origin, considered a variant of Gerald, which combines elements meaning 'spear' and 'rule' or 'power.' The name emerged in medieval Europe and was brought to England by the Normans. Jerold had its peak popularity in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s, but has gradually declined since then. It's appreciated for its traditional sound while being less common than similar names like Gerald or Jerome. People named Jerold are often nicknamed Jerry or Jeri. The name carries connotations of strength and leadership, reflecting its warrior origins.
  20. Georgeann

    • Description:

      Georgeann is a feminine variant of the classic name George, which has Greek origins meaning "farmer" or "earth-worker." This elaborated form combines George with the feminine suffix -ann, creating a more distinctly female version while maintaining the strong foundation of its root name. Georgeann gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1930s-1950s, coinciding with the trend of compound feminine names. While never reaching the top ranks of popularity, Georgeann offers a traditional yet distinctive alternative to more common Georgian variations like Georgina or Georgette. Today, the name carries a vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking names with historical depth and feminine elegance.