Names that Peaked in 1981
- Griselda
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"grey battle"Description:
Griselda is a famous folklore figure, noted for her patience and obedience. Her story has been told by Petrarch, Chaucer, Boccaccio and set to music by Scarlatti, Vivaldi and Massenet.
- Nereida
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"sea nymph"Description:
More intriguing than the more familiar form Nerida, this name is perfect for a beach baby, or a baby born under a water sign.
- Rogelio
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"famous spearman"Description:
A Spanish variation of the name Roger meaning "famous spearman." Rogelio is popular among the Filipino and Argentine communities and could be a great alternative for international families looking for a name that can still be shortened to the very Anglo nickname "Rodge."
- Brandi
Origin:
Variation of Brandy, DutchMeaning:
"burnt wine"Description:
Only slightly fewer girls are named Brandi each year than Brandy, 45 versus 57 in the US. Both spellings have their advantages and disadvantages.
- Jesse
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God exists"Description:
The boyish spelling, which is still pronounced with two syllables and a long e at the end, is sometimes used for girls, though the Jessie form -- whether short for Jessica or standing on its own -- is usually considered the feminine one.
- Kristin
Origin:
German and Norwegian variation of ChristinaMeaning:
"a Christian"Description:
A crystalline name that retains its loveliness far past its prime. Its biggest downside: Eternal confusion over spelling and pronunciation. Kristen? Kirsten? It can be so confusing that many parents today opt to bypass it.
- Martine
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"warlike"Description:
Sleek and sophisticated.
- Susana
Description:
Susana is a feminine name with Hebrew and Spanish origins, being a Latin variant of Susannah, derived from the Hebrew name Shoshana meaning "lily" or "rose." This elegant name appears in biblical tradition as the virtuous and beautiful Susanna in the Book of Daniel. Widely used throughout Spanish-speaking countries and Portugal, Susana has a timeless quality that has maintained steady popularity across generations. The name blends melodious sounds with a rich historical legacy, making it both accessible and meaningful. While less common in English-speaking countries than Susan or Suzanne, Susana offers a more romantic, international flair. The name's association with flowers gives it connotations of natural beauty, purity, and grace. Its cross-cultural appeal makes it recognizable worldwide while maintaining distinctive character.
- Efrain
Origin:
Spanish variation of EphraimDescription:
On the Latino Hit Parade, heard much more often than the English version.
- Latrice
Description:
Latrice is a feminine given name that appears to be a modern variant of names like Letitia or Beatrice, possibly combining elements of 'La' (a popular prefix in naming patterns since the mid-20th century) with '-trice' from names like Beatrice. The name emerged in usage in the United States during the 1960s and saw its peak popularity in the 1970s and early 1980s. While sometimes categorized as a creative modern coinage, Latrice demonstrates phonetic patterns common in contemporary American naming trends. Usage data shows the name has appeared across diverse communities in the United States, though it has never ranked among the top 1000 most popular names nationally. The name has a melodic quality with its soft 'La' beginning and strong 'trice' ending, which may contribute to its enduring appeal among parents seeking distinctive yet accessible names.
- Jessi
Description:
Jessi is a diminutive form of Jessica, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Yiskah, meaning "to behold" or "God beholds." This short, sweet variation emerged in the late 20th century as an independent given name, offering a casual, friendly alternative to the more formal Jessica. Jessi's popularity peaked in the 1980s and 1990s when Jessica ranked among the top baby names in many English-speaking countries. This variant has a youthful, approachable quality that retains its charm into adulthood. The spelling with an 'i' ending gives it a perky, modern feel compared to the 'ie' or 'y' variants. Jessi strikes a balance between familiarity and individuality, recognizable without being overly common in its specific form.
- Gilberto
Origin:
Spanish variation of GilbertDescription:
At this point, there are more newborn American baby Gilbertos than Gilberts.
- Cristin
Description:
Cristin is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of Kristen or Kristin, which themselves derive from Christian, ultimately coming from the Latin "Christianus" meaning "a follower of Christ." This particular spelling offers a softer, more streamlined appearance while maintaining the same pronunciation as Kristin. The name enjoyed moderate popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but has become less common in recent decades. Cristin carries religious connotations for those who emphasize its Christian roots, though many parents choose it simply for its pleasant sound and familiar yet slightly distinctive quality. The name has an elegant simplicity that works well across cultures, aging gracefully as trends change.
- Rodolfo
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"bold wolf"Description:
Romanticizes Rudolph and distances the name from the red-nosed reindeer. After remaining steadily in the US Top 500 for much of the twentieth century, Rodolfo has been slipping of late.
- Adalberto
Origin:
Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of Albert, GermanMeaning:
"noble, bright"Description:
Adalberto is a masculine name of Germanic origin, combining the elements 'adal' meaning 'noble' and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous.' This powerful combination creates the meaning 'noble and bright' or 'famous through nobility.'
- Tashina
Description:
Tashina is a feminine name with Native American origins, particularly attributed to the Sioux and Dakota tribes. It is commonly understood to mean 'baby girl' or sometimes 'little girl' in Lakota. Some sources also suggest it could mean 'shadow' or 'chaser of shadows.' The name has a gentle, melodic quality with its soft consonants and flowing vowel pattern. While not widely used in mainstream American culture, Tashina has maintained steady but limited usage, particularly among families honoring Native American heritage. The name offers a beautiful alternative to more common feminine names while carrying cultural significance. Its relative rarity gives it a distinctive quality while still being approachable in pronunciation and spelling for most English speakers.
- Tyrel
Description:
Tyrel is a masculine name with varied origins. It developed as a variant of Tyrell, which originated as an Anglo-Norman surname derived from the French place name Tirel. The surname has aristocratic associations in medieval England. As a given name, Tyrel gained modest popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. The name carries a strong, distinctive sound with a somewhat rugged appeal. Tyrel's alternative spelling variations include Tyrell, Tyrrell, and Tyree. The name may evoke associations with strength and individuality. In popular culture, the name received some exposure through characters in Western novels and television shows.
- Tiffani
Description:
Tiffani is a feminine name representing a variation of Tiffany, which originated as a medieval form of Theophania, meaning 'manifestation of God.' The name became associated with the fine jewelry retailer Tiffany & Co., lending it an aura of elegance and luxury. Tiffani, with its 'i' ending, gained popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s as an alternative spelling to the more traditional Tiffany. The name reached its peak usage in the late 1980s, partly influenced by actress Tiffani Thiessen. Though less common today than in previous decades, Tiffani retains a bright, youthful quality and carries associations with both refinement and the vibrant pop culture of the late 20th century.
- Marchello
Description:
Marchello is a masculine name with Italian origins, representing a variant spelling of Marcello, which itself derives from Marcus or Mark. The name ultimately traces back to Mars, the Roman god of war, suggesting qualities of strength and courage. This melodic variation, with its double 'l' and 'o' ending, adds a distinctive flair to the traditional form. Marchello carries a romantic, musical quality that evokes the charm and cultural richness of Italy. While not among the most common names, it offers a sophisticated European appeal that works well internationally. The name suggests an artistic temperament and passionate character, perhaps explaining why it's occasionally associated with musicians and creative personalities. Marchello provides a distinctive alternative to more common names like Mark or Marco.
- Sherita
Description:
Sherita is a feminine name that gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. It likely developed as a variation of Sheila or Rita, or possibly as a combination of the two. The name has a melodic quality with its soft 'sh' beginning and rhythmic three-syllable structure. Sherita peaked at #468 on the U.S. baby name charts in 1970 but has since declined in usage, making it now relatively uncommon for newborns but recognizable on women of Generation X. The name carries a certain retro charm and distinctiveness today, potentially appealing to parents seeking names that are familiar yet not currently popular.