Final list

  1. Heidi
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Adelheid; German
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"
    • Description:

      Heidi became known — and popular — via the 1880 eponymous children's classic by Swiss writer Johanna Spyri and, despite decades of American Heidis of all sizes, shapes, and personalities, the name seems permanently tethered to that spunky little girl on the Alpine mountaintop in the book and Shirley Temple movie.
  2. Holly
    • Origin:

      English nature name
    • Description:

      Holly ranks just in British Top 50, but it's been out of favor here since the 1970s Era of Nickname Names. Still, the name may be on her way back as a rejuvenated nature pick.
  3. Indianna
    • Jed
      • Origin:

        Diminutive of Jedidiah, Hebrew
      • Meaning:

        "beloved of the Lord"
      • Description:

        Cowboyish short form that's both macho and cool. Got prime time exposure on The West Wing.
    • Zachary
      • Origin:

        Hebrew
      • Meaning:

        "the Lord has remembered"
      • Description:

        Zachary, a Top 20 name throughout the 90s, is now sliding down the rankings though it remains in the Top 200. With its ancient roots and modern feel, it's easy to understand why Zachary has been such a longtime winner.
    • Zane
      • Origin:

        Possible variation of John
      • Meaning:

        "God is gracious"
      • Description:

        Western novelist Zane (born Pearl!) Grey made this name famous. Now, it's in tune with the style of our times, retaining that appealing cowboy image.