Names that Peaked in 1953
Across 2 pages
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About this list
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…
Nancie
Nancie is a feminine name of French and English origin, serving as a diminutive variant of Nancy, which itself originated as a medieval pet form of Anne. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew…
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…
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…
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.
Carnell
Carnell appears to be derived from Old French and English origins, possibly beginning as a surname before transitioning to a given name. It may come from the Old French 'carnel,' referring to…
Doretta
English variation of Dora, Greek
"gift"
Frilly, feminissima, unstylish Dor name.
Stevan
Stevan is a masculine variation of Stephen, derived from the Greek name 'Stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' Common in Slavic countries, particularly Serbia and Montenegro, this spelling…
Randel
Randel is a masculine name of Germanic origin, serving as a variant of Randall or Randolph, which derive from elements meaning 'shield' or 'rim' and 'wolf.' This spelling variation maintains the…
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…
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…
Cinda
Diminutive of Cynthia or Lucinda
Cindy for the 21st century, with a word adjacent feel.
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.
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…
Randolf
Randolf is a masculine name with Germanic origins, combining the elements 'rand' meaning 'shield' or 'rim' and 'wolf,' literally translating to 'shield wolf' or 'wolf shield.' This powerful…
Cathey
Cathey is a feminine name that originated as a variant spelling of Cathy, which itself is a diminutive of Catherine. Dating back to Greek origins, the root name Catherine means 'pure.' Cathey emerged…
