Names that Peaked in 1986

Krista may be past its peak -- along with all similar C-starting sisters and their K variations -- yet it's still a pretty name.

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.

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.

Cristina is one case where the streamlined version feels more alluring.

Yesterday's Jaylen.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.