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Names that Peaked in 1978

  1. Kristi

    • Description:

      Kristi is a feminine name primarily used as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, derived from the Greek word 'Christos,' meaning 'anointed one.' This short, sweet variation gained particular popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The name carries Christian religious connotations while maintaining a contemporary feel. Kristi strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, as it's widely recognized but not overly common. The spelling with 'K' rather than 'C' gives it a slightly Nordic flair, reflecting its popularity in Scandinavian countries. Notable bearers include several athletes and performers, adding to its dynamic, spirited associations.
  2. Kristy

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of all variations of Kristina

    • Meaning:

      "a Christian"

    • Description:

      Kristy (and Kristi and Kristie) are the ultimate kool girl nicknames of the sixties and seventies, not kwite as kute any more.
  3. Shanna

    • Description:

      Shanna is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. Most commonly, it's considered an Americanized variation of the Irish name Shannah, meaning 'wise' or a feminine form of Shane, meaning 'God is gracious.' Alternatively, it may derive from the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' Shanna gained considerable popularity in the United States during the 1970s, reaching its peak usage in 1977. The name has a soft, melodic quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce and spell. Often pronounced 'SHAN-uh,' this accessible name offers the nickname option 'Shan.' Though less common for babies today, Shanna retains a classic, unpretentious charm that bridges multiple cultural traditions.
  4. Qiana

    • Description:

      Qiana is a feminine name that emerged in the United States during the 1970s, inspired by a silky nylon fabric of the same name that was popular during that era. The fabric was created by DuPont in 1968 and became fashionable in women's clothing. The name gained modest popularity as parents were drawn to its exotic sound and stylish associations. Pronounced 'kee-AH-nah' or 'key-AH-nah,' the name has a melodious quality enhanced by its unusual initial 'Q.' While never reaching mainstream popularity, Qiana has maintained consistent usage since its introduction. The name appeals to parents seeking something distinctive with a contemporary feel. Its unusual initial letter gives it a striking appearance, while its pronunciation remains relatively intuitive despite the uncommon spelling.

  5. Monika

    • Description:

      Monika is a feminine name primarily of Latin origin, being a variant spelling of Monica. The name derives from the Latin 'moneo' meaning 'to advise' or 'to remind.' Monika is particularly popular in Central and Eastern European countries, including Poland, Germany, Czech Republic, and Hungary, where this spelling is preferred over the more Anglicized 'Monica.' The name gained international recognition through Saint Monica, the persistent and prayerful mother of Saint Augustine. Monika has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. While the 'Monica' spelling peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1970s, the 'Monika' variant maintains steady usage particularly in European countries and among families honoring their European heritage.
  6. Christel

    • Description:

      Christel is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Christina or Christine. Popular throughout Germany, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands, it represents a variation of the name derived from 'Christ.' The name conveys the meaning 'follower of Christ' or 'little Christian one' with its diminutive suffix. Christel experienced modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. It offers a distinctive European alternative to the more familiar Christine or Christina while maintaining the same religious connection. The name has a delicate, melodious quality that combines traditional religious significance with a touch of continental European sophistication.
  7. Chrissy

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Christina or Christine, Latin and Greek

    • Meaning:

      "Christian"

    • Description:

      This slightly unusual spelling of the '80s cheerleader name is now associated with two appealing young celebrities: model Chrissy Teigen and This Is Us star Chrissy Metz. Both have Christine on their birth certificate.
  8. Shasta

    • Origin:

      Place-name, Sanskrit

    • Meaning:

      "teacher, guide, ruler"

    • Description:

      A Californian mountain name revered by healers and spiritualists, Shasta has a New Age, cowboy feel. The mountain takes its name from the Indigenous American tribe, the Shasta people - though this name is believed to have been given to them either by white people, or by the nearby Klamath people.
  9. Shaunna

    • Description:

      Shaunna is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Shauna, which itself is the feminine form of Shaun/Sean, meaning 'God is gracious' with Irish and Hebrew roots. This particular spelling gained popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, aligning with the trend of creative name variations. The double 'n' adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the original pronunciation. Shaunna projects a friendly, approachable quality while retaining connection to its traditional roots. Though never reaching the highest popularity rankings, Shaunna has maintained steady usage, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name balances familiarity with uniqueness, offering a slightly unconventional spelling of a recognized name.
  10. Anwar

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "brighter, clearer"

    • Description:

      Strongly identified with peace-accord-seeking Egyptian president Anwar el-Sadat.
  11. Lakeisha

    • Origin:

      Modern invented name

    • Description:

      Perhaps the best known of the La names that peaked in the 1980s, it stems from the biblical Keziah, plus the gallic La prefix that rose to prominence centuries ago among the Creole people and Free Blacks of New Orleans.
  12. Delvin

    • Description:

      Delvin is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It likely derives from the Irish place name Delvin (Dealbhna in Irish), a region in County Westmeath, Ireland. The name may ultimately stem from the Gaelic word 'dealbh', meaning 'form' or 'shape'. Delvin has a strong, dignified sound while maintaining a somewhat soft quality through its 'v' consonant. The name gained modest usage in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon. It shares some phonetic similarities with more popular names like Kelvin and Melvin, making it familiar-sounding yet distinctive. Delvin offers parents a name with authentic Celtic origins without being overly common.

  13. Kindra

    • Description:

      Kindra is a feminine name that emerged in the mid-20th century as a creative variation, possibly derived from the word "kin" or as a blend of names like Kimberly and Sandra. It may also relate to the Welsh name Kendra, which comes from the place name Kendrick, meaning "royal ruler" or "champion." The name has a melodic quality with its balanced syllables and the pleasant combination of the strong 'k' sound followed by softer consonants. While never extremely common, Kindra saw modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s. The name carries positive connotations of kindness and strength, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name.
  14. Hasan

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "beautiful, handsome"

    • Description:

      Hasan is a significant Muslim historical figure — he was the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali and Fatimah. Shia Muslims consider Hasan a martyr — he died after being poisoned by his wife.
  15. Jamil

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "beautiful"

    • Description:

      Familiar and handsome, Jamil is a name of Arabic origin. Its literal meaning is "beautiful" and while this can refer to physical beauty, as a Quranic name, it more specifically refers to beautiful behavior, such as patience, kindness, and courteousness.
  16. Marlana

    • Description:

      Marlana is a feminine given name that evolved as a variant of Marlene or Marlana. It has Germanic roots, deriving from elements meaning 'famous' and 'love' or 'grace.' This melodic name gained modest popularity during the latter half of the 20th century, particularly in North America. Marlana offers a more distinctive alternative to the more common Marlene while maintaining its sophisticated sound. The name conveys a sense of timeless elegance while remaining relatively uncommon, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional roots but not overused. Marlana may be given with alternate spellings including Marlena or Marlene.
  17. Krissy

    • Description:

      Krissy is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, ultimately derived from the Greek word 'Christos' meaning 'anointed one.' This affectionate nickname began appearing as an independent given name in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when informal names gained popularity. Krissy conveys a perpetually youthful, friendly quality with its diminutive -y ending. While it peaked several decades ago, it remains recognized as a cheerful, approachable name. Some parents now choose it as a formal name rather than using the longer Christina, appreciating its unpretentious charm. The name maintains connections to the Christian tradition while offering a casual, familiar feel.
  18. Adrain

    • Description:

      Adrain is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variation of Adrian, which derives from the Latin name Hadrianus, meaning 'from Hadria' - an ancient town in northern Italy. This alternative spelling creates a subtle distinction while maintaining the classical roots of the original name. Throughout history, Adrian has been associated with several saints and emperors, including the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The Adrain spelling, though less common, offers a slightly different visual presentation while retaining the same pronunciation. The name conveys strength and sophistication with its classical origins, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth but a slightly distinctive presentation. The subtle spelling variation may also reflect regional pronunciation differences or simply a desire for uniqueness.
  19. Shanta

    • Origin:

      Indian

    • Meaning:

      "peace"

    • Description:

      This is the Indian version of the Hindi word meaning peace.
  20. Jameel

    • Description:

      Jameel is a masculine name of Arabic origin meaning 'beautiful,' 'handsome,' or 'graceful.' Traditionally spelled جميل in Arabic, the name has been used throughout the Islamic world for centuries. Its positive meaning and melodious sound have contributed to its enduring popularity across the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities worldwide. In Western countries, Jameel began gaining recognition in the late 20th century as cultural diversity in naming practices increased. The name carries an elegant simplicity with its two-syllable structure and smooth pronunciation. Parents might choose Jameel for its meaningful definition, cultural significance, or its balance of being recognizable yet distinctive in many Western contexts.