Names that Peaked in 1986

If you want a pan-Scandinavian name with energy and style that could have been a winner, if not for the sound-alike water filtration company Brita.

Martell is a masculine name that originated as a surname, derived from the French word 'martel,' meaning 'hammer.' The name gained historical significance through Charles Martel, the 8th-century Frankish military leader whose surname referred to his fighting prowess ('The Hammer'). As a given name, Martell emerged primarily in the United States during the 20th century, offering a strong, distinctive alternative to more common names like Martin. It carries connotations of strength and determination, enhanced by its percussive sound. In recent years, the name gained additional recognition through its use in George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series for House Martell. Though uncommon, it provides a masculine option with historical depth and contemporary appeal.

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.

The original Hebrew form of Jacob is resurfacing in the US charts after a several-decade-long hiatus. The Old Testament figure is considered the founding father of the Jewish nation, whose twelve sons descended into the twelve tribes of Israel.

Yesterday's Jaylen.

Sharday is a contemporary feminine name that emerged in American naming culture during the late 20th century. Its popularity likely drew inspiration from the French-American singer Sade (pronounced shah-DAY) who rose to fame in the 1980s. The name has no traditional historical roots but represents the modern trend of creating distinctive names with appealing sounds. Sharday typically features the emphasis on the second syllable (shar-DAY), giving it a rhythmic, melodic quality. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Sharday saw modest usage particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s among parents seeking distinctive names with musical connections or contemporary flair.

The only thing wrong with the name James is its popularity: James has been among the Top 20 boys' names in the US since the dawn of baby naming time.

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.

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.

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.