Names that Peaked in 1959
By Nameberry
Updated Thu Nov 30 2023
Share
Copy link
- Michael
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"who is like God?"Description:
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.
- Mary
Origin:
Hebrew or EgyptianMeaning:
"drop of the sea; bitter; beloved; love"Description:
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 roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).
- Valerie
Origin:
French variation of ValeriaMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
The name of a martyred medieval saint, Valerie has been on the popularity list since its earliest publication in 1880. Though it peaked in the 1960s, remaining in the Top 100 until 1988, it still doesn't sound terminally dated; the association with the word valor gives it a sense of boldness and makes it one of the special group of girl names that mean strong.
- Rory
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"red king"Description:
This spirited Gaelic classic, which became popular in Ireland via the illustrious twelfth century king Rory O'Connor, makes a highly energetic choice, now used for either sex. Rory's gender split is still trending boyward; it's one of the coolest boys' names starting with R.
- Mark
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"warlike"Description:
Mark has the rare appeal of a strong, sleek name with a minimalist modern feel and ancient roots. The name Mark is taken from the Roman god of war Mars, also the namesake of the planet.
- Steven
Origin:
English variation of StephenMeaning:
"garland, crown"Description:
Steven, the phonetic and now predominant spelling of the classier Stephen, has finally dropped out of the Top 100 after seventy years. Steve has become one of the ultimate regular-guy names, right up there with Dave and Joe. and there have been innumerable pop-culture role models among its bearers--from Steven Spielberg to Steven Soderbergh to Steve Jobs.
- Layne
Origin:
Spelling variation of LaneDescription:
As surname Lane becomes more popular, so too does this variant. Regardless, it does create the possibility for spelling confusion.
- Wayde
Description:
Wayde is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Wade, which originated from the Old English word 'wadan' meaning 'to go' or 'to proceed.' Historically, it referred to someone who lived near a ford or river crossing. This alternative spelling adds a distinctive touch to the classic name while maintaining its strong, concise sound. Wayde gained moderate popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century but remains relatively uncommon. The name conveys a sense of movement and progress, suggesting someone who forges their own path. Notable bearers include South African Olympic sprinter Wayde van Niekerk, which has helped increase recognition of this spelling variant.
- Gwen
Origin:
Diminutive of Gwendolen or Gwendolyn, WelshMeaning:
"white circle"Description:
While Gwen may have originated as a short form of Gwendolen and Gwendolyn, these days it frequently stands on its own. Rocker Gwen Stefani has given it a shot of cool, and parents are choosing it as a standalone more and more often—Gwen hopped back onto the US Top 1000 in 2013 after an absence of over 30 years. Gwen could also be short for Guinevere.
- Betsy
Origin:
Diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
This Elizabeth nickname has a decidedly retro feel--think Betsy Ross and the Betsy Wetsy doll-- once seen as a perkier, younger-sounding alternative to Betty. But with Betty on the brink of a comeback, pigtailed Betsy could return as well.
- Flint
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"born near outcrop of flint"Description:
Flint is one of the new macho names on the rise today, part old-school tough guy, part rebel. You won't find a tougher, steelier-sounding name; it's part of a genre on the rise along with cousins Slate, Stone and Steel.
- Wally
Origin:
English, diminutive of Walter or WallaceDescription:
A Leave It to Beaver/old comic-strip name, vacationing for years with the Griswolds in WallyWorld, but now back as WALL-E?
- Debbie
Origin:
English diminutive of Deborah, HebrewMeaning:
"bee"Description:
The quintessential friendly fifties name, nearly epidemic in its day. Now many grownup Debbies have reverted to the full and lovely form of their name, which modern parents often avoid because of the name Debbie ringing too loudly in their ears.
- Migdalia
Description:
Migdalia is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, derived from the place name Migdal or Magdala, meaning 'tower' or 'elevated, magnificent.' The biblical town of Magdala was located on the Sea of Galilee and is associated with Mary Magdalene. The name carries connotations of strength, dignity, and resilience. Migdalia is particularly popular in Hispanic communities, especially in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela. It has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending. While not among the most common names in the United States, it remains a cherished cultural name that balances uniqueness with traditional roots. Women named Migdalia might use the nicknames Mig, Migda, or Dalia.
- Dwain
Description:
Dwain is a masculine name with Welsh and Celtic origins, emerging as a variant of Duane or Dwayne. These names ultimately derive from the Gaelic name Dubhán, meaning "dark" or "black-haired." Dwain peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1930s-1950s, though it never reached the mainstream status of its variant forms. The name carries a strong, straightforward quality with its single-syllable pronunciation despite the two-syllable spelling. Dwain evokes a sense of mid-century Americana and projects reliability and steadfastness. Though less common today, it retains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive yet recognizable name with vintage charm. The name's Celtic heritage adds a layer of cultural depth to its simple, strong sound.
- Shelia
Description:
Shelia is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Sheila, which originated from the Irish name Síle (pronounced SHEE-la), the Irish form of Cecilia meaning "blind." In Irish legend, Síle was a common name in folklore. This alternate spelling gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s-1960s. While less common than Sheila, Shelia has maintained its own identity and usage. The name has a gentle, melodic quality with its two syllables flowing smoothly together. Its Irish heritage gives it cultural depth, while its familiar sound makes it accessible. Parents might choose Shelia for its slight uniqueness compared to the more conventional spelling while still honoring Irish heritage.
- Kerwin
Description:
Kerwin is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from the Old English elements 'ceorl' meaning 'free peasant' or 'man' and 'wine' meaning 'friend.' The name can also be found as a surname in English and Irish contexts. Kerwin saw modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, but remains relatively uncommon. The name has some recognition through figures like American astronaut Kerwin Washington and various athletes. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Kerwin has maintained steady if limited usage. The name possesses a distinctive sound that balances traditional roots with a somewhat modern feel, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with authentic historical origins.
- Andra
Origin:
Variation of AndreaDescription:
Arty seventies name usually pronounced AHN-dra.
- Tim
Origin:
Diminutive of Timothy, GreekMeaning:
"honoring God"Description:
Tim is a boyish short form occasionally given on its own. There were 37 baby boys named Tim in the US last year, versus over 1700 named Timothy.
- Tamera
Description:
Tamera is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, typically considered a variant of Tamara. The name Tamara derives from the Hebrew 'tamar,' meaning 'date palm tree,' a symbol of beauty, grace, and fertility in ancient cultures. Tamera gained notable recognition in the United States during the 1970s and peaked in popularity during the 1980s, partly influenced by actress Tamera Mowry. The name carries a melodic quality with its three syllables and soft consonants, giving it both strength and femininity. While less common than Tamara, Tamera offers a slightly distinctive variation that maintains the original name's elegant associations while standing out on its own. The palm tree symbolism connects bearers to qualities of resilience and natural beauty.
The Nameberry App Is Live
Find your perfect baby name together in our app, now available on the App Store and Google Play.
- Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
- Names you match on are saved to your shared list
- Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
- Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
- Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.
