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Endangered Baby Names

  1. Val

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Valentina, Valerie, etc, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "strength, health"

    • Description:

      Occasionally used as an independent name, but why.
  2. Shana

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Shoshana or Shannon, variation of Shaina

    • Description:

      Part of a group of similar midcentury names rarely given to babies today.
  3. Gerry

    • Description:

      Gerry is a friendly, approachable masculine name that functions both as a standalone name and as a diminutive of Gerald, Gerard, or Geraint. Derived from Germanic roots meaning 'spear ruler' or 'brave with a spear,' Gerry carries the history of these longer forms while offering a more casual, accessible feel. The name peaked in popularity in the mid-20th century and maintains associations with that era. Gerry has cross-cultural appeal, being recognized in English-speaking countries as well as throughout Europe. Notable bearers include musicians Gerry Rafferty and Gerry Marsden, lending the name a somewhat artistic, musical association. Though less commonly given today as a formal name, it remains a well-recognized and affable choice.

  4. Keri

    • Description:

      Keri is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It can be a variant spelling of Kerry, derived from the Irish county name Ciarraí, meaning "people of Ciar" or "dark-haired people." Alternatively, it may be a diminutive of names like Katherine or Kerith. The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, reaching its peak in 1976. Keri has a brief, bright sound that feels both friendly and professional. Notable bearers include actress Keri Russell and basketball player Keri Sanford. The name has declined in usage since its peak but maintains a contemporary feel while being recognizable. Its simplicity in spelling and pronunciation makes it practical across various cultures.

  5. Rich

    • Description:

      Rich is a masculine name that functions both as a standalone name and as a diminutive of Richard, which derives from Germanic elements meaning "powerful" and "brave ruler." As an independent name, Rich emerged in English-speaking countries during the 20th century when abbreviated forms gained popularity. The name carries obvious associations with wealth and abundance, conveying a sense of prosperity and success. Its simplicity and positive connotations have made it appealing, though it remains less common as a formal given name than Richard. As a nickname, Rich has been consistently popular throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, valued for its straightforward, unpretentious quality.
  6. Tricia

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Patricia

    • Meaning:

      "noble, patrician"

    • Description:

      Back in Patricia's midcentury heyday, Patty/Patti was the plebeian nickname while Tricia/Trisha and Tish/Trish carried a snobby-yet-insubstantial image associated with then First Daughter Tricia Nixon.
  7. Arleen

    • Description:

      Arleen is a feminine name of Irish origin, typically considered a variant of Arlene. Derived from the Gaelic elements meaning 'pledge' or 'oath,' it carries connotations of loyalty and commitment. The name gained popularity in the United States during the 1930s-1950s, reaching its peak in the mid-20th century. Arleen has a gentle, vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking names with both history and a touch of nostalgia. While less common among today's babies, it maintains recognition without being overused. The double 'e' spelling variation gives this classic name a slight distinction from the more standard Arlene.
  8. Dom

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Dominic, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "belonging to the Lord"

    • Description:

      A bit slight to put directly on the birth certificate, but Dom is a pleasant nickname for a boy or a girl.
  9. Mel

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Melanie

    • Meaning:

      "black, dark"

    • Description:

      Not one but two Spice Girls are named Mel, which led to it briefly being more popular for girls than boys in the 90s and early 00s, but it has now fallen out of favor for both sexes.
  10. Judi

    • Description:

      Judi is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Judith, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'woman from Judea' or 'praised.' This shorter variation gained particular popularity in the mid-20th century as a more modern alternative to the traditional Judith. The name received significant visibility through acclaimed British actress Dame Judi Dench, whose distinguished career helped maintain the name's association with elegance and talent. Judi peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, reflecting the era's preference for friendly, accessible shortened names. Though less common among newborns today, Judi maintains an image of warmth and approachability. The name's straightforward pronunciation and spelling, combined with its rich historical roots, make it simultaneously unpretentious and meaningful.
  11. Melba

    • Origin:

      Modern invented name

    • Description:

      Australian opera singer Nellie Melba—self-named for her hometown of Melbourne—inspired this now-dated name more associated today with a peach dessert and dietetic toast.
  12. Kisha

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Keziah

    • Description:

      Rather than simplifying matters, this spelling only complicates them.