Forever Geeky Names

  1. Nannie
    • Description:

      Nannie is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Ann or Nancy. The name has historical roots as an affectionate nickname before establishing itself as a standalone given name, particularly in the Southern United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Nannie peaked in popularity in the 1880s-1890s but has since become rare as a formal name. The term also evolved into a common affectionate title for grandmothers or nursemaids in some regions. With its warm, vintage quality, Nannie evokes a sense of nostalgic charm and Southern heritage. Though seldom used for newborns today, it retains a sweet, homespun appeal that connects to a simpler era.

  2. Sherm
    • Description:

      Sherm is traditionally a masculine name that originated as a nickname or shortened form of Sherman. Sherman itself derives from the Old English occupational surname meaning 'shearer of woolen cloth' or 'cloth cutter.' Sherm maintains a distinct American character and gained some usage during the mid-20th century. While never extremely common, it has a friendly, approachable quality that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet recognizable name. The name carries associations with determination and practicality. Famous bearers include various athletes and musicians, though it remains relatively uncommon in contemporary naming practices.
  3. Gomer
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "to complete"
    • Description:

      A rare, unisex Biblical name, with a similar feel to choices like Omar, Haziel, Gideon, and Ofir, but also to Montgomery and Grover. In the Bible, Gomer was both a son of Japheth (and therefore grandson of Noah), and the wife of the prophet Hosea.
  4. Virgie
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Virginia, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "virginal, pure"
    • Description:

      Virginia is a hundred years past its peak of the 1920s, but according to Nameberry's own Hundred Year Rule, that means it's due for a comeback. Indeed, Virginia's long downward slide leveled off and reversed over the past 15 years, which means we'll be hearing more little girls called Virgie -- not the easiest nickname to bear, but still a cute old-fashioned choice.
  5. Mervin
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "sea hill"
    • Description:

      A blend of Mervyn and Marvin that is every bit as dated as either of the originals. That -erv sound is difficult no matter what. Mervin is still used today among Amish families.
  6. Elbert
    • Origin:

      English variation of Albert
    • Description:

      Rocking out on the porch with buddies Hubert, Norbert, and Osbert.
  7. Hulda
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "sweet, lovable"
    • Description:

      Hilda with a stuffed nose.
  8. Elfreda
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "elf power"
    • Description:

      Form of Elfrida
  9. Jutta
    • Description:

      Jutta is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as a medieval German form of Judith. The name Judith comes from Hebrew, meaning "woman from Judea" or "praised." Jutta has been used in Germany and Scandinavia for centuries and remains moderately popular in these regions. It gained some recognition in English-speaking countries through Jutta Kleinschmidt, the first and only woman to win the Dakar Rally. The name has a strong, distinctive sound with its crisp consonants. While uncommon in the United States and United Kingdom, Jutta offers an interesting European alternative to more familiar names like Judith or Julie.

  10. Earlene
    • Origin:

      Feminine form of Earl, English aristocratic title
    • Description:

      Earlene is even more out of style than Earl. These are among the names that have not been revived ala the Hundred Year Rule.
  11. Lugenia
    • Description:

      Lugenia is a feminine name that may have evolved as a variant of Eugenia, which derives from the Greek word 'eugenes' meaning 'well-born' or 'noble.' The substitution of 'L' for 'E' represents a phonetic adaptation that appears to have emerged in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Historical records show Lugenia had its peak usage in the early 1900s through the 1930s. The name follows patterns seen in other traditional feminine names that underwent regional or dialectal variations. While never among the most popular names, Lugenia maintained a steady presence in naming records during the first half of the 20th century before declining in usage. The name exemplifies how traditional names evolve through phonetic adaptations while maintaining connections to their classical origins. Today, Lugenia has a vintage quality that connects to early 20th-century naming traditions.