Names that Peaked in 1974
- Tanya
Origin:
Russian diminutive of TatianaDescription:
Long integrated into the U. S. name pool but still retaining some Slavic flavor, Tanya feels a bit tired; it's ready for replacement by cooler Russian choices like Sasha, Mischa, or parent name Tatiana.
- Jodi
Description:
Jodi is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive of Judith or Joan. With Hebrew roots, it carries the beautiful meaning of "praised" or "Jehovah increases." Gaining significant popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, Jodi reached its peak ranking in the early 1970s. Often also spelled as Jodie or Jody, this short, sweet name has a friendly, approachable quality that resonates with its casual American origins. Though its usage has declined since its heyday, Jodi maintains a classic appeal while avoiding feeling dated. The name brings to mind a person who is good-natured, straightforward, and vibrant.
- Toma
Origin:
Romanian, CroatianMeaning:
"twin"Description:
Toma is one of the handful of names that has different versions for boys and girls. For boys, it's the Romanian and Croatian short form of Thomas.
- Joey
Origin:
Diminutive of Joanna or Josephine, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Fun, friendly and fresher than Jo or Josie as a nickname for Joanna or Josephine. Joey can be thought of as one of the Stevie/Billie/Frankie boyish nicknames for girls so fashionable today.
- Mauro
Origin:
Spanish and ItalianMeaning:
"moorish"Description:
Mauro, a Top 100 name in Spain and Puerto Rico, is etymologically unrelated to the girls' name Maura, but that won't stop many English speakers from drawing the comparison.
- Telly
Description:
Telly emerged as a nickname for names like Aristotle or Telemakhos, but gained recognition primarily through Greek-American television personality Telly Savalas, famous for his role as Kojak in the 1970s. The name has a distinctive, friendly quality with its approachable sound and modern feel. Despite its association with television (which sometimes serves as a playful reference), Telly has Greek roots and maintains connections to classical naming traditions. It remains relatively uncommon as a formal given name, though it enjoys occasional use in Greek-American communities and among families seeking short, memorable names with cultural significance. Telly's brevity and recognizability make it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell.
- Tito
Origin:
Spanish variation of TitusDescription:
Has diverse associations: the long-term Communist head of Yugoslavia, one of Michael Jackson's older brothers, and an animated Disney character -- none of them a very strong recommendation.
- Corrina
Description:
Corrina is a feminine name with Latin and Greek origins, derived from the name Corinna, meaning 'maiden' or possibly 'beautiful maiden.' The name appears in classical literature and mythology, most notably as a Greek lyric poet from the 5th century BCE. Corrina, with its double 'r' spelling, offers a slight variation that maintains the name's melodic quality while giving it a distinctive touch. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century, partly influenced by the 1950s country song 'Corrina, Corrina.' With its flowing sound, classical roots, and romantic associations, Corrina appeals to parents seeking a name that balances traditional femininity with a touch of literary sophistication.
- Nakia
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"pure"Description:
Technically a boy's name, but certainly one that would work in the Western culture for a girl, especially after the release of Black Panther, in which it was the name of Lupita Nyong'o's fiery character. Nakia lies outside the Top 1000 but is among the fastest-rising names for both girls and boys.
- Demian
Origin:
Variant of DamianDescription:
Two Latino men have put this Damian variant on the map in the last decade: Brazilian MMA champ Demian Maia and Oscar-nominated actor Demian Bichir.
- Latrina
Description:
Latrina is a feminine name that emerged in American naming patterns in the mid-20th century. The name may have developed as a variation of names like Katrina (a form of Katherine, meaning 'pure') with the 'La-' prefix that became popular in many modern names. Alternatively, it could represent a feminine form of Latrell or be inspired by the Latin word 'latrina.' Despite having phonetic similarity to the English word for a type of toilet (derived from Latin), the name's usage suggests it developed independently as a melodic feminine name. Usage patterns show Latrina appearing in records from the 1950s onward, with peak popularity in the 1970s. The name has a rhythmic quality with its three syllables and flowing sound, characteristic of many feminine names ending in '-a' that have been popular throughout various periods.
- Tawana
Description:
Tawana is a feminine name that gained particular popularity in the United States during the 1970s. Its etymology is not definitively established, but several possible origins exist. One theory suggests it may be derived from a Native American language, possibly meaning 'singing water' or 'morning sun' in Shawnee or another tribal language, though definitive linguistic evidence for this is limited. Alternatively, it could be a modern creation following the pattern of names beginning with 'Ta-' (like Tamara or Tanya) combined with the ending '-wana.' The name has a melodious quality with its three syllables and vowel ending, characteristic of feminine naming trends during the period of its peak popularity. While Tawana's usage has declined since the 1980s, it remains a distinctive name with an established history of use spanning several decades in American naming practices.
- Holli
Description:
Holli is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Holly, which derives from the English word for the holly tree with its distinctive red berries and green leaves. This alternative spelling gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s when parents began seeking more distinctive ways to spell traditional names. Holli maintains the natural, cheerful associations of Holly while adding a touch of individuality through its spelling. The name evokes images of the holiday season when holly is often used as decoration, giving it a festive, bright quality. Though less common than the traditional spelling, Holli has maintained steady usage, particularly in the United States, appealing to parents who want a familiar-sounding name with a unique written form.
- Tarsha
Description:
Tarsha is a modern feminine name that likely emerged as a variant of more traditional names like Natasha or Latasha. It combines the popular feminine suffix '-sha' with a distinctive prefix, creating a name that's both familiar and unique. Popular primarily in the United States since the 1970s, Tarsha reached its peak usage in the 1980s. The name has African-American cultural connections and conveys a sense of strength and individuality. Though less common today, Tarsha remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with a melodic quality and contemporary feel without being overly trendy.
- Shanda
Description:
Shanda is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. In Yiddish culture, it derives from 'schande' meaning 'shame' or 'disgrace,' though this negative connotation isn't typically associated with the name in modern usage. Alternatively, it may be a variation of Chanda (meaning 'moon' in Sanskrit) or a feminine form of Shane. The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, reaching its peak usage in 1970. Shanda's appealing rhythm and distinctive sound helped establish it as a modern choice that wasn't tied to traditional naming patterns. While never extremely common, Shanda has maintained a steady presence, appreciated for its contemporary feel and melodic quality.
- Mendy
Description:
Mendy originated as a diminutive of names such as Amanda, Melinda, and Amenaide. It has also evolved as a feminine variant of Menachem in Jewish communities, deriving from Hebrew meaning 'comforter.' In Irish contexts, it may relate to the surname Mindy or Míndy. Mendy gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting the trend toward informal, friendly-sounding names. The name has a cheerful, approachable quality with its ending 'y' sound, characteristic of affectionate nicknames. While never reaching mainstream status, Mendy appeals to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. Its pronunciation is straightforward, and it transitions well from childhood to adulthood despite its diminutive origins.
- Antione
Description:
Antione is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Antoine, the French form of Anthony. Derived from the Roman family name Antonius, it ultimately comes from unknown Etruscan origins. The spelling variant Antione emerged primarily in American naming patterns, possibly reflecting phonetic spelling or creative adaptation. The name gained some usage in the United States during the latter 20th century, particularly in the 1970s-90s, though it remained less common than the standard Antoine or Anthony. Antione combines a classical heritage with a distinctive spelling, giving it a unique quality while maintaining connections to a well-established name tradition. The pronunciation typically follows the French Antoine (ahn-TWAHN).
- Kristie
Description:
Kristie is a feminine name primarily used in English-speaking countries as a diminutive or variant of Christine, Christina, or Kristen. Derived from the Latin 'Christiana,' it ultimately traces back to Greek roots meaning 'follower of Christ.' Kristie enjoyed significant popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, reflecting the era's preference for friendly, approachable names ending with the 'ie' sound. The spelling with 'K' rather than 'Ch' gives it a slightly more modern feel than Christie. While its usage has declined since its peak, Kristie maintains an accessible, friendly quality that balances familiarity with relative distinctiveness. The name evokes a cheerful, unpretentious personality and carries nostalgic associations for many.
- Joleen
Description:
Joleen is a feminine name that emerged as a variation of Jolene, which itself is likely a combination of Jo (from Josephine) and the suffix -leen or -lene. The name gained recognition through Dolly Parton's 1973 hit song 'Jolene,' though this alternate spelling provides a slight distinction. With French and English influences, Joleen carries a soft, melodic quality with its two syllables and smooth sound. The name peaked in popularity during the 1970s but remains relatively uncommon today, making it both recognizable and distinctive. Joleen suggests a balance of sweetness and strength, often associated with a Southern charm partly due to its country music connections.
- Damond
Description:
Damond is a masculine name that originated as a variation of Desmond or Diamond. The name Desmond comes from Irish elements meaning 'man of the world' or from a place name in Munster, Ireland. As Diamond-inspired, it relates to the precious gemstone, symbolizing strength and unbreakable qualities. Damond emerged primarily in the United States during the latter half of the 20th century as parents sought distinctive variations of traditional names. While less common than Desmond, Damond has maintained a steady if modest presence in American naming patterns. The name balances a contemporary feel with traditional roots and carries connotations of resilience, value, and distinctiveness.