Names that Peaked in 1979
- Latisha
Origin:
Modern variant of LetitiaMeaning:
"joy, happiness"Description:
Latisha peaked in popularity in the US in 1979, reaching #221.
- Antwain
Description:
Antwain is a modern masculine given name that appears to be a variant spelling of Antoine or Antwan. The name Antoine originates from the Roman family name Antonius, which gave rise to several names across different languages. The variation Antwan emerged in the United States during the late 20th century as an anglicized phonetic spelling of the French Antoine. Antwain represents a further distinctive spelling that began appearing in American naming records in the 1970s and gained modest popularity through the 1980s and 1990s. The name has maintained a presence in U.S. naming records but remains relatively uncommon. Like many names with multiple spelling variations, Antwain allows families to personalize the traditional name while maintaining its phonetic pronunciation.
- Nicholaus
Description:
Nicholaus is a masculine name representing a classical Latin variation of Nicholas, which derives from the Greek 'Nikolaos' combining 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people), meaning 'victory of the people.' This spelling maintains the name's historical roots while offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Nicholas. The name carries rich historical significance through connections to Saint Nicholas and numerous notable figures throughout European history. While less common than Nicholas, Nicholaus appeals to parents seeking traditional names with classical flair. The name projects strength and intellectual depth, with cultural relevance across many European traditions. This spelling variation preserves the name's dignified character while standing out in contemporary usage.
- Sharee
Description:
Sharee is a feminine name that gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. It likely developed as a variation of Sherry or Cherie, both derived from the French 'chérie' meaning 'beloved' or 'darling.' The name may also be connected to the Hebrew name Sarah, meaning 'princess.' Sharee offers a distinctive spelling that sets it apart while maintaining a familiar sound. The name's popularity coincided with an era when similar-sounding names like Sherry, Sherri, and Shari were in vogue. Sharee combines a gentle, melodic quality with a modern feel, featuring the popular 'Sh' beginning found in many contemporary female names. While less common today, it retains a sweet, affectionate connotation and carries a subtle vintage charm.
- Sharonda
Description:
Sharonda appears to be a modern feminine name that emerged in the United States during the 1960s and gained peak popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. The name likely developed as a variant or elaboration of names like Rhonda (of Welsh origin meaning 'grand' or 'noisy'), possibly with the prefix 'Sha-' which became a common naming element during this period. The 'Sha-' prefix may have been influenced by French 'cher/chère' (meaning 'dear') or simply valued for its melodic quality. Linguistically, Sharonda follows phonetic patterns common in many American naming innovations of the mid-to-late 20th century, featuring a combination of consonant and vowel sounds that create a rhythmic, three-syllable name. Usage data shows the name has declined in popularity since the 1990s but continues to be used.
- Janell
Description:
Janell is a feminine name that originated as a variant of Jane, which itself derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious.' This melodic name gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s. Janell combines the classic simplicity of Jane with a distinctive ending, giving it a more modern and unique quality. While never reaching the top tiers of popularity charts, Janell has maintained a steady presence throughout the decades. The name carries a soft, gentle sound with its two-syllable structure and flowing 'ell' ending, similar to names like Danielle and Michelle. Janell projects an image of femininity with a hint of individuality.
- Jeremey
Description:
Jeremey is an alternate spelling of Jeremy, which derives from the Hebrew name Jeremiah (Yirmeyahu), meaning 'God will uplift' or 'appointed by God.' This variant spelling gives the classic name a slightly distinctive touch while maintaining its familiar pronunciation. Jeremy became popular in English-speaking countries during the 20th century, with Jeremey emerging as a less common alternative. The name carries biblical connections to the prophet Jeremiah from the Old Testament. While not as widely used as the standard spelling, Jeremey offers a subtle uniqueness while still being recognizable. The name peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s but has gradually declined since, making it somewhat less common for boys born in recent years.
- Shavon
Description:
Shavon is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Siobhan, the Irish feminine form of John, meaning 'God is gracious.' Alternatively, it could be a modern creation combining elements of other names or sounds. The spelling Shavon adapts the traditional Irish name to English pronunciation patterns, making it more intuitive for English speakers to pronounce. This name gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but remains relatively uncommon. Shavon has a melodic quality and contemporary feel while maintaining a connection to traditional Irish naming heritage. People named Shavon are often perceived as having a distinctive yet accessible name that balances uniqueness with pronounceability.
- Mellisa
Description:
Mellisa is an alternative spelling of the more common Melissa, a name with Greek origins meaning "honey bee." This variant spelling emerged as parents sought ways to personalize traditional names while maintaining their essential pronunciation and character. The doubling of the 'l' rather than the 's' gives the name a slightly different visual impact while preserving its melodic sound. Mellisa enjoyed modest popularity primarily in the 1970s and 1980s, coinciding with the peak popularity of Melissa. The name carries the same sweet connotations as its traditional counterpart, evoking imagery of nature, industriousness, and sweetness associated with honey bees. Today, this spelling variant is less frequently used than the standard Melissa.
- Shanika
Description:
Shanika appears to be a modern constructed name that emerged in the United States in the 1960s and gained popularity through the 1970s and 1980s. The prefix 'Sha-' is found in many contemporary names and may relate to the French 'Cha-' sound found in names like Charlotte and Chantal. The suffix '-nika' could be connected to names of Slavic origin where 'Nika' means 'victory,' or to Greek 'Nike' with the same meaning. Alternatively, it might relate to the name Monica with a modified prefix. Shanika reached its peak popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s before gradually declining. The name exemplifies creative naming patterns that combine recognizable phonetic elements to create distinctive sounds. Usage records show the name has been used consistently, though not extensively, across various regions of the United States.
- Mindi
Description:
Mindi is a feminine name that emerged primarily as a nickname or diminutive form, but gained usage as an independent given name during the mid-20th century. It likely developed as a shortened version of Melinda (meaning 'gentle' or 'sweet' from the Spanish Melinda), or possibly from Amanda (Latin for 'worthy of love'). The spelling variant with an 'i' ending gives it a playful, friendly quality compared to the 'y' ending in Mindy. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s, reflecting the trend toward casual, approachable names with a contemporary sound. Though less common today, Mindi maintains an upbeat, youthful quality that appeals to parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and somewhat distinctive.
- Shavonne
Origin:
Phonetic variation of SiobhanDescription:
Many of the parents who choose this name may not even be aware of the lovely Irish_Gaelic name that spawned it.
- Latosha
Description:
Latosha combines the French-derived prefix 'La-' (meaning 'the') with 'Tosha,' which may have multiple origins. Tosha could be a diminutive of names like Natasha (of Slavic origin meaning 'birthday of the Lord'), or it could stand independently. The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1970s, peaking in usage around 1977-1978. The name's phonetic appeal and distinctive combination of elements contributed to its rise during a period when prefixed names with melodic endings were trending. Usage data indicates the name crossed various demographic groups but saw declining frequency from the 1980s onward. Pronunciation typically follows the pattern luh-TOH-shuh, with emphasis on the middle syllable.
- Mellissa
Description:
Mellissa is a feminine variation of Melissa, derived from the Greek word 'melissa' meaning 'honeybee.' This spelling with double 'l' adds a distinctive touch to the classic name while maintaining its sweet essence. Mellissa emerged as an alternative spelling primarily in the late 20th century, offering a slight twist on the more common Melissa. Like its traditional counterpart, Mellissa conveys images of industriousness, sweetness, and natural beauty. While less common than Melissa, this variation appeals to parents seeking a familiar name with a unique spelling. Mellissa reached modest popularity in the 1970s and 1980s in the United States but has since become less frequent, giving it a somewhat distinctive quality in contemporary settings.