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Names that Peaked in 1982

  1. Eliezer

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "God helps"

    • Description:

      Eliezer is a Biblical name with an air of antiquity, a distinctive sound, and hint of mystery. The name has been in and out of the US Top 1000 since the 80s, with its most recent appearance being in 2023, when it was given to more than 200 babies.
  2. Schuyler

    • Origin:

      Dutch

    • Meaning:

      "scholar"

    • Description:

      This worthy name, imported by the early Dutch colonists, has been all but overpowered by the phonetic spellings -- Skyler for boys and Skylar for girls. With the surnames-as-first-names trend, however, and the popularity of the Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical Hamilton, which features the Schuyler sisters, perhaps Schuyler might receive some more interest in the coming years.
  3. Jamar

    • Origin:

      Invented variation of Jamal

    • Meaning:

      "beauty"

    • Description:

      An attractive twist on an Arabic classic, with further twists being Zamari, Jamari, and Jamarion. It was a popular choice from the 70s onwards in the US but has fallen out of favor in recent years, replaced by Jamir.
  4. Rigoberto

    • Description:

      Rigoberto is a masculine name of Germanic origin, combining the elements 'rik' meaning 'power', 'ruler', or 'wealthy' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. It literally translates to 'bright ruler' or 'famous power'. The name is particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Latin America, where it has been embraced since medieval times. Rigoberto has cultural significance in various communities, with notable bearers including athletes, political figures, and artists. The name offers the friendly nickname options of 'Rigo' or 'Berto'. While maintaining steady usage in Hispanic communities, Rigoberto represents a strong, traditional choice that carries both authority and warmth, embodying aspirational qualities many parents wish for their sons.

  5. Salvador

    • Origin:

      Spanish from Latin Salvator

    • Meaning:

      "savior"

    • Description:

      A common epithet of Christ, frequently heard in the Hispanic community, Salvador could also be a great choice for artistic parents, given the continuing popularity of Dada and Surrealist painter Salvador Dalí. (If Monet and Raphael get a look in, why not Salvador?)
  6. Jamaal

    • Description:

      Jamaal is a variant spelling of Jamal, which derives from Arabic origins meaning 'beauty' or 'handsome.' The name appears in various forms across Arabic-speaking regions and has been used for centuries. The doubled 'a' spelling (Jamaal) preserves the long vowel sound of the original Arabic pronunciation. The name gained popularity in the United States particularly from the 1960s through the 1980s, with its peak usage occurring around 1973. Jamaal has maintained consistent usage across diverse communities. Notable individuals with this name include several professional athletes such as Jamaal Charles (football) and Jamaal Wilkes (basketball), which may have contributed to the name's recognition. The name's appeal lies in its meaningful etymology, melodic sound, and international recognition.
  7. Tuan

    • Description:

      Tuan is a masculine name with rich multicultural origins, most prominently Vietnamese, where it means 'gentleman' or 'dignified person.' In Vietnamese usage, it's often paired with another name like Anh-Tuan or Minh-Tuan, though it can stand alone. In Chinese culture, Tuan (with different characters) can mean 'correct' or 'upright.' The name also appears in Arabic contexts, derived from 'tawaan' meaning 'repentance' or 'returning to righteousness.' With its short, strong pronunciation and positive connotations across multiple cultures, Tuan has gained modest recognition internationally. In the United States, it remains uncommon but recognizable, particularly in communities with Vietnamese heritage, valued for its simplicity, distinctive sound, and meaningful associations with dignity and proper conduct.
  8. Renaldo

    • Description:

      Renaldo is a masculine name with Latin and Spanish origins, being a variation of Reynaldo and Ronald. These names ultimately derive from the Old Norse 'Rögnvaldr,' combining 'regin' (advice, decision) and 'valdr' (ruler). Renaldo gained popularity in Spanish-speaking countries and Italian communities, offering a romantic, melodious alternative to the more common Ronald. In the United States, it saw modest usage during the mid-20th century, particularly among Hispanic Americans. The name evokes a charismatic and passionate character, often associated with Latin culture. Well-known bearers include Brazilian footballer Ronaldo, often called Renaldo in some regions, contributing to the name's athletic associations.

  9. Tanisha

    • Origin:

      American invented name

    • Description:

      Many invented names that end in -isha spring from the Arabic Aisha, an important name in the Muslim religion. The Ta- or Te- prefix was especially stylish for both girls and boys in the eighties. This name may also be related to Tanis.
  10. Hung

    • Description:

      Hung is a masculine name with significant usage in Vietnamese culture, where it's pronounced with a rising tone unlike its English pronunciation. In Vietnamese, Hùng means 'brave' or 'heroic' and carries strong connotations of courage and strength. The name has historical significance in Vietnam, connected to the legendary Hùng kings who are considered the founders of Vietnamese civilization. While the name may face pronunciation and unfortunate homonym challenges in English-speaking countries, it remains a proud cultural identifier for many Vietnamese families globally. In Chinese culture, the name (洪) can represent greatness or vastness, often symbolizing prosperity and grand ambitions. It's a name that carries deep cultural meaning for its bearers.
  11. Tenika

    • Description:

      Tenika is a feminine name with modern origins, likely emerging as a creative variation of names like Tina, Tamika, or Tanika. This melodic name gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s as part of a trend toward distinctive, musical-sounding feminine names. With its rhythmic quality and accessible pronunciation, Tenika offers a blend of familiarity and uniqueness. The name carries a contemporary feel while maintaining feminine elegance. Though never reaching mainstream popularity, Tenika appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name that stands out while remaining relatively straightforward. Its modern creation gives it flexibility in interpretation, without the weight of specific historical or cultural associations.

  12. Christen

    • Origin:

      English variation of Kristin, German and Norwegian

    • Meaning:

      "a Christian"

    • Description:

      Christina who decided, at the last minute, she'd rather be Kristen.
  13. Jarrad

    • Description:

      Jarrad is a masculine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Jared, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'descent' or 'he who descended.' This alternative spelling became particularly popular in Australia and parts of the English-speaking world during the 1970s and 1980s. Jarrad offers a slightly more contemporary feel than the traditional Jared while maintaining the same phonetic pronunciation. The name carries associations with strength and individuality due to its modified spelling. While less common than Jared, Jarrad has maintained steady usage, particularly in Australia where it found its strongest following. The name projects a modern, slightly rugged quality while retaining biblical connections.
  14. Randi

    • Origin:

      Feminine diminutive of Randolph

    • Meaning:

      "shield-wolf"

    • Description:

      A relic of the midcentury Mandi-Sandi-Andi era.
  15. Bradly

    • Description:

      Bradly is a masculine name that originated as a variant of Bradley, derived from an English surname meaning "broad clearing" or "broad meadow" in Old English. This simplified spelling omits the second 'e' found in the more common Bradley. Bradly gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but has remained less common than its traditional counterpart. The name conveys qualities of strength and reliability, often associated with a down-to-earth personality. Though never reaching the top tier of popular names, Bradly appeals to parents seeking a slightly distinctive twist on a familiar classic while maintaining clear pronunciation and recognition.
  16. Cristen

    • Origin:

      Variation of Kristen

    • Description:

      Kind of a Kristen/Christine compromise name that makes less of either choice.
  17. Jered

    • Description:

      Jered is a masculine name with biblical roots, representing a variation of 'Jared.' From Hebrew origins, it means 'descent' or 'he who descended.' The name appears in the Old Testament, where Jared was a patriarch in the line from Seth to Noah, living before the Great Flood. This alternative spelling offers a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's historical significance. Jered has maintained consistent but modest usage in English-speaking countries, appealing to parents seeking biblical names with a slightly unique presentation. The name carries connotations of longevity and wisdom, as the biblical Jared was said to have lived 962 years. With its strong consonants and straightforward pronunciation, Jered presents a masculinity balanced with accessibility.
  18. Toccara

    • Origin:

      Invented name, French

    • Meaning:

      "to touch"

    • Description:

      America's Next Top Model contestant Toccara Jones introduced this rhythmic choice into the lexicon. Her own name likely came from that of an Avon perfume, released in 1981, the year Jones was born.
  19. Jenilee

    • Origin:

      Variation of Jenny Lee

    • Description:

      Jennifer was so popular in the eighties that it spawned many "creative" offshoots, of which this is one of the less enduring.
  20. Eboni

    • Description:

      Eboni is a feminine name reflecting the rich, deep beauty of ebony wood. It's an alternative spelling of Ebony, which gained popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s as part of a broader cultural embrace of African-inspired names and words celebrating Black identity and heritage. The variant spelling with an 'i' ending gives the name a softer, more distinctively feminine quality while maintaining its powerful meaning. Eboni suggests strength, elegance, and natural beauty. The name has musical qualities with its flowing vowel sounds and gentle consonants. While less common than at its peak, Eboni continues to be chosen by parents seeking a name with cultural significance, natural imagery, and a modern yet substantial feel.