Names that Peaked in 1953
Across 2 pages
of 2
The names
Thomas
Aramaic
"twin"
A solid classic with plenty of history, Thomas strikes the balance between strength and gentleness. A favorite in the UK, a staple in France, and Australia, and never absent from the US Top 100,…
Robert
English from German
"bright fame"
Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains…
Mary
Hebrew or Egyptian
"drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"
Mary is the English form of Maria, which ultimately was derived from the Hebrew name Maryam/Mariam. The original meaning of Maryam is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew…
Gwendolyn
Variation of Gwendolen, Welsh
"white ring"
One spelling variation that's more popular than the original, this somewhat old-fashioned name might be in honor of poet Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African-American to win a Pulitzer prize for…
Neil
Irish
"cloud"
Always the top spelling of the name; Neil peaked in the 1950s, but then enjoyed a second coming following the fame of such Neils as astronaut Armstrong and singers Sedaka, Diamond, and Young. Now…
Doretta
English variation of Dora, Greek
"gift"
Frilly, feminissima, unstylish Dor name.
Hollis
English
"dweller at the holly trees"
Hollis is a surname-name used quietly for both genders. At last count, it was given to over 200 baby boys and 160 baby girls in the US. Now a Top 1000 name for boys, it could well break into the…
Jann
Jann is a feminine name with multiple origins. It can be considered a feminine form of Jan (a Dutch/Scandinavian variant of John) or a short form of Janette or Janet. The name ultimately derives from…
Janette
Janette is a feminine name derived from Jane, which ultimately comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious." This French diminutive form adds refinement and elegance to the simpler…
Lyn
Variation of Lynn, Welsh
"lake"
Lynn was a Top 100 girls' name in the US from the 1940s through the 60s, and shortened form Lyn's popularity followed the same trajectory. Today, Lyn is far more often found as a name suffix, in…
Luanne
Luanne is a feminine name that originated as a combination of the names Lou and Anne, or as a variant of Luann. The name has American roots, becoming particularly popular in the mid-20th century. Lou…
Pamela
English
"all honey"
Pam was a somewhat pampered prom queen of the sixties who was never called by her full name, which is a pity because Pamela is so mellifluous and rich in literary history. A Top 25 name from the late…
Rosanne
Rosanne is a feminine name combining elements of Rose and Anne/Anna, two classic names with long histories. Rose derives from the Latin "rosa," referring to the flower that symbolizes love and…
Rosario
Spanish
"rosary"
Anglo parents are taking note of this Hispanic classic, thanks to actress Rosario Dawson and a character on Will & Grace. Poetic and powerful, it comes from the Spanish title of the Virgin Mary,…
Blair
Scottish
"dweller on the plain"
One of the first generation of cool surname names, now largely used for girls in the US, but still popular for boys in its native Scotland. A prominent association for Brits is former prime minister…
Bradford
English
"wide river crossing"
Brad in a Brooks Brothers suit.
Dwight
German and Dutch
"white or blond"
This presidential name is in style limbo today - or, some might say, in the the sweet spot of familiar but little-used.
Jacky
Jacky is a masculine name commonly used as a diminutive of Jack or Jacob, though it sometimes stands as an independent given name. Jack derives from John, meaning 'God is gracious,' while Jacob means…
Mikel
Basque and Scandinavian variation of Michael
"who is like God"
A Basque and Scandinavian form of Michael, pronounced MEE-kel. In the US, it is sometimes chosen as a modern alternative spelling of Michael.
Patric
Patric is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Patrick, which derives from the Latin name Patricius, meaning "nobleman" or "patrician." It has roots in ancient Roman society, where…