Names that Peaked in 1986

A rarely used play on Amber, making it more feminine and both more modern and old-fashioned at the same time.

Meaghan represents an alternative spelling of Megan, a Welsh feminine name derived from Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' This particular spelling variation emerged as parents sought distinctive ways to present familiar names, particularly gaining traction in the 1980s and 1990s. The additional 'a' creates a more phonetic spelling that helps maintain the traditional pronunciation. Meaghan reached its peak popularity during the era when Megan was among the top girls' names in English-speaking countries. The name combines Celtic heritage with a recognizable sound, while the spelling gives it a slightly more uncommon quality. Though less frequently used than the standard spelling, Meaghan maintains the friendly, approachable character associated with all variations of this classic name.

Cool a few decades ago, along with Lori and Tori. Currently out of fashion but may make a retro tomboy choice as an offbeat spin on Charlie.

Shaquita emerged in American naming patterns during the 1960s and gained increasing popularity through the 1970s and early 1980s. The name appears to be a variant of Shaquita, possibly derived from combining the prefix 'Sha-' (common in names like Shanna or Shandra) with the ending '-quita' (which may relate to variants of names like Marquita). The 'Sha-' prefix became incorporated into numerous names during this period. Another possibility is that it represents a feminine form of names like Shaquille, which has Arabic origins meaning 'handsome' or 'comely.' The name peaked in popularity during the mid-1970s and has gradually declined since. Shaquita exemplifies the trend of melodic, multi-syllabic feminine names with creative phonetic structures that became more common in American naming practices during this period.

Yesterday's Jaylen.

A spelling variation of the unisex Dominique that was briefly popular in the late 80s and early 90s.

Cherelle is a feminine given name that appears to be a variant of Cherell or possibly derived from 'Cherie,' a French word meaning 'darling' or 'beloved.' The name has been in use since at least the mid-20th century but gained more visibility in the 1980s, partly due to American R&B singer Cherelle who had several hit songs during this period. Linguistically, the name follows French-influenced naming patterns with the '-elle' suffix, which typically creates a feminine form and has a softening effect on the name's sound. This suffix appears in many French-derived names and words, indicating 'little one' or serving as a feminine marker. Cherelle has a melodious quality with its two-syllable structure and soft consonants. While never extremely common, the name saw periods of increased usage in the United States during the 1970s through 1990s, and continues to be used today, though less frequently than during its peak periods.

Cherrelle is a feminine name that emerged in the mid-20th century, possibly as an elaborated form of Cheryl or an ornamental version of Cherry. The name gained some recognition through American R&B singer Cherrelle who had several hits in the 1980s. With its melodious sound and distinctive spelling, Cherrelle combines the natural sweetness associated with cherries with a fashionable '-elle' ending that adds sophistication. The name peaked in popularity during the 1980s and early 1990s, influenced partly by the singer's visibility. Cherrelle has a musical, rhythmic quality that feels both familiar and unique. While less common today than in previous decades, it remains a distinctive choice that carries a blend of natural imagery and musical associations.

Sharde appears to be a modern name that emerged in the United States in the late 20th century. It may be a variant spelling of Sharday or Shardae, or possibly related to the French word 'charder' (though this connection is speculative). Another possibility is that it's a creative respelling of the word 'shared.' The name gained modest usage beginning in the 1980s and 1990s. Phonetically, Sharde is typically pronounced with two syllables (shar-DAY or SHAR-day), though pronunciations may vary. The name has a contemporary, melodic quality that fits with other modern naming trends. While never extremely common, Sharde has established itself as a distinctive given name with a modern aesthetic. The various spelling forms (including Shardae, Sharday, and Sharde) all share similar pronunciation but offer parents different visual presentations.

Shatara is a feminine given name that emerged in the United States primarily in the 1970s and 1980s. The name may be a creative coinage that follows phonetic patterns popular during that era, particularly the melodic 'sh' beginning and the three-syllable rhythm. Some sources suggest possible connections to Arabic origins, where 'shatara' relates to concepts of cleverness or skill, though this etymology is not definitively established. The name may also represent a creative variation of names like Tara or Tamara, with the added 'Sha-' prefix that became popular in American naming practices during the late 20th century. Shatara exemplifies the trend toward distinctive, sonorous names with a modern feel. While never among the most common names, Shatara has maintained consistent usage across diverse communities in the United States.