Names that Peaked in 1980
- Mario
Origin:
Italian variation of Marius, form of mythological name MarsMeaning:
"warlike"Description:
Many may associate Mario with the popular platform game - unsurprising when it's the 5th best-selling video game worldwide, and was voted the 2nd best game ever by IGN in 2024. The titular plumber was apparently named after American businessman, Mario Segale, who rented a warehouse to Nintendo, and this in itself reflects that Mario is much more established than just a name for a video game character.
- Elisha
Origin:
Variant of Alicia or HebrewMeaning:
"God is my salvation"Description:
Elisha (ee-LYE-sha) is an Old Testament male name, sometimes borrowed for girls. Pronouced eh-LEE-sha, it is also used as a spelling variant of Alicia or Elysia.
- Terrance
Description:
Variation of Terence.
- Corina
Description:
Corina is a feminine name with diverse cultural roots, appearing in Romanian, Spanish, Italian, and Greek naming traditions. Derived from the Greek name 'Korinna' meaning 'maiden' or possibly from 'kore' meaning 'girl,' it has ancient literary connections to a Greek lyric poetess. The name enjoyed notable popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly after singer Corina Chiriac in Romania and through various musical references in other cultures. Corina balances classical elegance with a contemporary sound, offering the appealing nickname 'Cora.' Its melodic quality, with the gentle flow of the 'r' sound, gives it a romantic, feminine character. While not among the most common names today, Corina maintains consistent usage across several European countries and in Latin American communities.
- Lesley
Origin:
Variation of Leslie, ScottishMeaning:
"garden of holly"Description:
Lesley runs a distant second to more popular sister Leslie, used for about 30 baby girls in one recent year vs. Leslie's 400+. And interestingly, no baby boys were named Lesley though about 40 were named Leslie. Once one of the most widely-used girl names starting with L, Lesley and Leslie now trail behind trendy L-starting girl names like Layla and Lily.
- Juston
Description:
Juston is a modern variant of the classic name Justin, derived from the Latin name 'Justinus,' meaning 'just' or 'fair.' This masculine name maintains the strong, straightforward appeal of its original form while offering a slightly unique spelling. Juston gained some modest popularity in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s but remains relatively uncommon compared to the more traditional Justin. The name conveys qualities of integrity and fairness, inherited from its Latin roots, while the distinctive spelling gives it a contemporary edge that some parents appreciate for helping their son stand out.
- Tasha
Origin:
Diminutive of NatashaDescription:
See NATASHA.
- Derrick
Origin:
Spelling variation of Derek, English from German form of Theodoric,"the people's ruler"Meaning:
"the people's ruler"Description:
Derek is one of those names that, in its heyday, spawned lots of variations, all trendy. Last year, about 300 baby boys were named Derrick and about 1350 were named Derek.
- Brook
Origin:
English nature nameMeaning:
"small stream"Description:
Brooke variation – or is the other way around? – that makes it more a nature name, less an eighties-style androgynous name.
- Derik
Description:
Derik is a masculine name functioning as a variation of Derek, which ultimately derives from the Germanic name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people.' This spelling variant maintains the strong, succinct quality of Derek while offering a slightly different visual presentation. The name gained moderate popularity in the United States during the 1960s-1980s but has since become less common, giving today's Derik a somewhat distinctive quality. Its single-syllable pronunciation despite the two-syllable spelling creates a punchy, memorable effect. Derik projects qualities of leadership and strength while remaining approachable. The name travels well internationally and offers straightforward pronunciation across many languages, making it practical yet characterful for families seeking a name with Germanic roots and modern appeal.
- Alfredo
Origin:
Spanish variation of Alfred, EnglishMeaning:
"wise counsellor; elf counsel"Description:
Alfredo, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese variation of Alfred, is most familiar as the romantic lead in Verdi's evergreen opera La Traviata. On a less romantic note, Alfredo is also the name of a pasta sauce.
- Derick
Description:
Derick is a masculine name that originated as a variation of Derek, which itself derives from the Germanic name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people.' This Old German name combines 'theud' (people) and 'ric' (ruler, power). Derick emerged as an alternative spelling that gained its own usage pattern, particularly in the United States during the mid-20th century. The name carries a solid, traditional quality while being less common than its variant Derek. It reached modest popularity in the 1960s-1980s but has become less frequent in recent decades. Derick conveys strength and reliability, appealing to parents who appreciate traditional masculine names with straightforward pronunciations and a slight touch of distinction through its spelling.
- Roberto
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of Robert, English from GermanMeaning:
"bright fame"Description:
Standard Latin classic that brings some flair to the basic boy name Robert. Nearly 4000 baby boys are still named Robert in the US each year, many of them undoubtedly named for a father or grandfather, while about 550 are named Roberto.
- Yoel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah is his God"Description:
The Hebrew version of Joel has a pleasant, almost jolly sound.
- Brannon
Origin:
Irish variation of BrennanDescription:
Occasionally used as an alternative to Brandon or Brennan.
- Rolando
Origin:
Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese variation of Roland, GermanMeaning:
"famous throughout the land"Description:
Rolando, along with brother name Orlando, are among the most attractive and appealing of Latinate names. It has been in the US Top 1000 every year since 1946.
- Charissa
Description:
Charissa is a feminine name of Greek origin, derived from 'charis,' meaning 'grace,' 'kindness,' or 'beauty.' It's related to the more common Charisse, Carissa, and Karissa, all variations of the same root. The name carries connotations of elegance and divine benevolence, as 'charis' was associated with divine favor in ancient Greek culture. Charissa experienced modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but has remained relatively uncommon. The name has a melodic quality with its three syllables and soft 'ch' sound, giving it a gentle yet distinguished character. For parents seeking a name with classical roots, feminine qualities, and a touch of uniqueness, Charissa offers historical depth without being overly common.
- Horacio
Description:
Horacio is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Horatius, a masculine name of Latin origin derived from the Roman clan name Horatius, whose meaning remains uncertain. Made famous by the Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and intellectual associations. Horacio has been consistently popular in Spanish-speaking countries and Brazil, appreciated for its classical roots and distinguished sound. The name conveys a sense of cultural sophistication and historical depth. Notable bearers include Argentine writer Horacio Quiroga and numerous politicians and artists throughout Latin America, helping maintain the name's prestigious reputation.
- Tiffanie
Description:
Tiffanie is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Tiffany, which originated from the Greek 'Theophania,' meaning 'manifestation of God' or 'divine appearance.' This spelling variation, with the -ie ending, gained some popularity in the 1980s and early 1990s, offering a slightly more elaborate alternative to the standard spelling. The name carries associations with elegance and luxury, partly due to the renowned jewelry brand Tiffany & Co. Despite its elegant sound and positive connotations, Tiffanie has declined in use since its peak, giving it a somewhat nostalgic quality today. The name combines classical Greek origins with a modern American feel, creating a feminine name that balances tradition with a contemporary twist.
- Chimere
Description:
Chimere is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Igbo (Nigerian) tradition, it relates to 'God's creation' or 'something made by God.' The name also has French connections, where 'chimère' refers to a mythical creature or fantastic dream. In American usage, it emerged as a distinctive modern creation, sometimes spelled Chimere, Chymere, or Kimere. The name conveys imagination, creativity, and spiritual connection. Its melodic quality with the soft 'ch' sound and flowing syllables gives it an elegant, dreamy quality. While not among the most common names, Chimere appeals to parents seeking something unique with multicultural dimensions and beautiful sound patterns.
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