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Names that Peaked in 1981

  1. Felipe

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Philip, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"

    • Description:

      A royal name in Spain, Felipe could make a lively alternative to the English sounding Philip. It has ranked on the US Top 1000 almost every year since the beginning of the twentieth century, but has never risen above the Top 300, making it a familiar without being overused.
  2. Evita

    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Eva

    • Description:

      There's only one Evita.
  3. Ernesto

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Italian variation of Ernest

    • Description:

      A Latin classic, widely used here and abroad, though in the U.S. it has fallen on the charts in recent years.
  4. 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.

  5. Brandi

    • Origin:

      Variation of Brandy, English from Dutch

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Dusty

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Description:

      While the most famous Dusty, Dusty Springfield, might be female, Dusty as a boys' name is derived directly from Dustin. And there are about twice as many baby boys named Dusty as baby girls -- 33 to 14 last year, so a fairly rare name for either sex.
  7. Efrain

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Ephraim

    • Description:

      On the Latino Hit Parade, heard much more often than the English version.
  8. 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.
  9. Nereida

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  10. Martine

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "warlike"

    • Description:

      Sleek and sophisticated.
  11. Rogelio

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "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."
  12. Norberto

    • Description:

      Norberto is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'north' and 'bright,' essentially meaning 'bright northerner' or 'from the north.' It represents the Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form of Norbert, a name introduced to medieval Europe through Saint Norbert of Xanten, founder of the Premonstratensian order of monks. Norberto carries a distinguished quality with historical depth, maintaining steady popularity in Spanish-speaking countries, Italy, and Portugal. In the United States, the name has modest usage, primarily within Hispanic communities, though it has never reached mainstream popularity. Norberto balances traditional strength with a melodic quality, offering a distinctive yet recognizable option. The name lends itself to nicknames like Norb or Berto, providing versatility while maintaining its classical roots.
  13. Jenelle

    • Origin:

      Variation of Jean

    • Description:

      Combo name wedding two long-popular syllables.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.

  16. Shamika

    • Description:

      Shamika appears to be a modern constructed name that emerged in the United States during the 1970s, gaining peak popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. It follows a naming pattern that combines the prefix 'Sha-' (a popular prefix in contemporary American naming) with the ending '-mika,' which could be related to Mika (a name with various origins across cultures, including as a diminutive of Michael in some European contexts). The name might also be influenced by the sound of names like Tamika or Jamika, which follow similar phonetic patterns. Shamika represents the innovative naming trends that developed in the United States during the late 20th century, where prefixes, suffixes, and distinct sounds were combined to create new and melodious names. Usage data shows the name has been more common in southern states but appears across diverse communities.
  17. 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.

  18. Gilberto

    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Gilbert

    • Description:

      At this point, there are more newborn American baby Gilbertos than Gilberts.
  19. 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.
  20. 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.