Names that Peaked in 1980
- 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.
- Lamar
Origin:
English from FrenchMeaning:
"dweller by a pool"Description:
While it may sound a little dated, Lamar is a name that has never been outside the US Top 1000, but it is in danger of falling off the list.
- Star
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Most parents today would prefer the softer-sell Stella. But Star has symbolic power related to Christmas, so this could make one of the perfect names for December babies.
- 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.
- 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.
- Terrance
Description:
Variation of Terence.
- 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.
- Terra
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"earth"Description:
A video-game import (Final Fantasy VI) for a character with green hair and a name that brings the outmoded Terry and Tara into the postmodern age.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Heriberto
Description:
Heriberto is a Spanish and Portuguese masculine name derived from the Germanic name Herbert, composed of the elements 'heri' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous.' The name traveled to Spanish-speaking countries during medieval times and has remained in use particularly in Latin America and Spain. Heriberto carries connotations of strength and nobility, offering a distinctive Latin alternative to the more common Herbert. The name has moderate popularity in Hispanic communities but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Names with similar roots include Roberto and Alberto, though Heriberto maintains its own unique cultural identity and melodic quality.
- Tai
Origin:
ChineseMeaning:
"great extreme"Description:
Skater Tai Babilonia brought this sleek modern name to the world's attention. Pronounced "tie."
- 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.
- Andria
Description:
Andria is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. It can be considered the feminine form of Andrew, derived from the Greek 'Andreas' meaning 'manly' or 'brave.' In Italian, Andria is also a place name, referring to a city in southern Italy. The name has a soft, flowing quality that has helped maintain its appeal across generations. While not among the most popular girls' names in English-speaking countries, Andria offers an alternative to the more common Andrea, with a slightly different pronunciation emphasis. Its cross-cultural nature makes it appealing to diverse families, and its classical roots give it a timeless quality while maintaining a contemporary feel.
- 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.
- Renada
Description:
Renada is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Renata, which has Latin roots meaning 'reborn' or 'born again,' carrying spiritual connotations of renewal and transformation. Alternatively, it could be related to the French name Renée, the feminine form of René, meaning 'reborn.' The addition of the '-ada' suffix gives the name a more melodic, flowing quality. Renada remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique yet accessible. The name has a romantic, somewhat exotic sound while still being relatively easy to pronounce and spell, balancing uniqueness with practicality.
- 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.
- Syreeta
Description:
Syreeta is a feminine name that gained recognition partly through singer Syreeta Wright (1946-2004), who worked closely with Stevie Wonder. The name may be a variant spelling of Sarita, which is a diminutive of Sara, meaning 'princess' in Hebrew. Alternatively, it could be related to the Greek name Syrinx or represent a creative modern formation. The melodious quality of Syreeta, with its flowing vowel sounds, gives it a musical quality that may contribute to its appeal. The name saw increased usage in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s, coinciding with Syreeta Wright's musical career. While never extremely common, the name has maintained a presence in naming records. Its distinctive spelling and lyrical sound make it stand out while still being relatively intuitive to pronounce.
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