Names that Peaked in 1954
Across 5 pages
of 5
The names
Michael
Hebrew
"who is like God?"
Michael was the Number 1 American boys' name for almost half a century. While Michael has moved out of the Top 10 baby boy names , it's still widely used. How has Michael racked up this phenomenal…
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,…
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…
Paula
Feminine variation of Paul, Latin
"small"
Paula still seems somewhat stuck in the era of duo Paul and Paula bopping out the song "Hey, Paula." Two pronunciations are possible—the English "PAW-la" and the Portuguese "POW-la." Modern bearers…
Denese
Denese is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Denise, which derives from the masculine name Dennis. The ultimate origin is the Greek name Dionysios, meaning 'devoted to…
Denice
Denice is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of Denise, which originated as the female form of Denis/Dennis. The name derives from Dionysius, the Greek god of wine, fertility, and…
Kathi
Kathi is a feminine name that emerged as a diminutive form of Katherine. With Greek roots in the name Aikaterine, it carries the meaning 'pure' or 'clear.' This shortened, more casual variant became…
Jacalyn
Jacalyn is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Jacqueline, which itself is the feminine form of Jacques, the French equivalent of James. Ultimately derived from the Hebrew name…
Debrah
Debrah is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of the biblical name Deborah, derived from Hebrew meaning 'bee.' This particular spelling offers a more phonetic approach than the…
Gayla
Gayla is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It most likely developed as a feminine form of Gale (meaning "cheerful" or "merry" in Middle English) or as a variant of Gaila, which has…