Names that Peaked in 2009
- Saniyah
Origin:
Persian, Urdu, ArabicMeaning:
"second; brilliant, splendid"Description:
Deriving from the names Sania, meaning "second" or Saniyya meaning "brilliant", it is the single Y spelling that has been preferred in the US, probably owing to its similarity to popular Aaliyah. The name entered the Top 1000 in 2004 but has been out of favor since 2019 when it disappeared from the charts. Still given to 150 girls each year however, it easily crosses cultures and gets you to the possible nickname Sunny.
- Haylee
Origin:
Spelling variation of HaileyDescription:
Haylee dropped out of the Top 500 for the first time since 1992 recently, in step with a decline by Hailey (though the alternative Hadley is still near the Top 100). For some, Haylee is one E too many, but it reflects the broader popularity in -lee suffixes.
- Abbigail
Origin:
Spelling variation of Abigail, HebrewMeaning:
"my father is joyful"Description:
A fast-rising variation of Abigail that was shooting up the popularity charts a few years ago, but whose star is now falling now that Abigail is not quite as hot as she once was.
- Amiya
Description:
A possible variation of Amia and Amaya. It has charted in the U.S. Top 1000 for most of the 21st century.
- Maleah
Origin:
Variation of MaliaDescription:
Oh dear! We can see where you were going with connecting this name to the classic "Leah," but it just doesn't work. We recommend sticking with the classic Malia.
- Jaylynn
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
This spelling of the name entered the US Top 1000 in 2001, rising until it found its apex at Number 487 in 2009. It has since been trending in the opposite direction. As with all her sister spellings—Jaelyn, Jaelynn, Jaylin, Jalyn—we urge you to consider a name that has more substance and doesn't sound like the word "jail."
- Jaydan
Description:
Jaydan is a modern masculine name that emerged in popularity during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It's considered a variant spelling of Jayden, which itself developed as a creative extension of the name Jay. The name has no specific historical roots but follows the contemporary trend of names ending with the '-dan' or '-den' sound. Jaydan blends the casual appeal of Jay with a more substantial two-syllable structure. The name saw increased usage in the United States after celebrities began choosing similar names for their children in the 2000s. Jaydan evokes a youthful, energetic quality while maintaining a degree of flexibility that allows it to mature well with its bearer.
- Zavion
Description:
Zavion is a modern masculine name that appears to have emerged in the late 20th century. It may be related to Xavier (from Basque, meaning 'new house' or possibly 'bright') with the popular '-on' ending that appears in many contemporary names. Alternatively, it could be a creative variation of names like Zavier or Savion. The initial 'Z' gives the name a distinctive, strong beginning, while the overall sound has a contemporary feel. Zavion began appearing more frequently in naming records in the 1990s and early 2000s. The name exemplifies modern naming trends that favor strong consonant sounds (particularly Z, which has grown in popularity) combined with familiar name endings. While not among the most common names, Zavion has established a consistent presence in contemporary naming patterns, offering a distinctive option with accessible pronunciation.
- Alisson
Origin:
Spelling variation of Allison/AlisonDescription:
With the still popular Allison ranking at Number 60 in the United States, and variant Alison sitting at Number 343—not to mention Allyson (Number 490 and Alyson (Number 835)—it makes sense that Alisson is still getting some attention from parents today, although it may unfortunately seem more like a spelling error than a legitimate name to some.
- Konner
Origin:
Spelling variation of ConnorDescription:
This try-too-hard variation is just begging to be spelled at every turn.
- Kaylen
Origin:
Variation of KaylinDescription:
Kaylen is a little bit Kayla, a little bit Kay plus Lynn, and ultimately one of those modern names that is unlikely to survive the future.
- Urijah
Origin:
Spelling variation of UriahDescription:
A creative spelling of Uriah, possibly without the negative connotation. Biblically, Urijah was a prophet mentioned in the book of Jeremiah.
- Yandel
Description:
Yandel is a contemporary masculine name that gained prominence primarily through Latin American culture and music. While the name doesn't have deep historical roots, it emerged in popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly in Puerto Rico and other Spanish-speaking regions. The name received significant attention through Puerto Rican reggaeton artist Yandel (born Llandel Veguilla Malavé), who performed as part of the duo Wisin & Yandel before pursuing a solo career. Yandel has a modern, distinctive sound that appeals to parents seeking unique names. Its popularity has gradually increased among Hispanic communities in the United States and Latin America, though it remains relatively uncommon in broader usage.
- Kadyn
Description:
Kadyn is a modern masculine name with contemporary appeal, representing a creative spelling variation of Caden/Kaden. These names likely derive from a Gaelic surname meaning 'battle' or possibly from the Welsh element 'cad' meaning 'battle.' Kadyn emerged in popularity during the late 1990s and early 2000s amid the trend for names with the '-en/-an/-in' ending. The distinctive 'K' spelling and 'y' substitution give the name a more unique appearance while maintaining the popular sound. Kadyn fits well with other modern masculine names like Jayden, Brayden, and Kayden. While less common than some similar variants, Kadyn continues to attract parents seeking a contemporary name with a slightly distinctive spelling.
- Cailyn
Description:
Cailyn is a feminine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, representing a modern anglicized spelling of the traditional Irish name Caoilfhionn, which means 'slender' or 'fair.' It can also be seen as a creative variation of Kaylin or a feminine form of Calen. The name began gaining popularity in the United States during the 1990s and early 2000s, part of the trend toward Irish-inspired names with contemporary spellings. While maintaining its Celtic roots, Cailyn offers a more intuitive spelling for English speakers than the traditional Irish form. The name has a gentle, melodic quality that contributes to its appeal. Cailyn strikes a balance between uniqueness and familiarity, making it recognizable without being overly common.
- Caydence
Description:
Caydence is a feminine name representing a modern spelling variation of Cadence, which derives from the Latin word 'cadentia' meaning 'rhythm, flow, or falling.' The alternative spelling with 'y' emerged as part of the trend toward unique name spellings in the early 2000s. The name evokes musical harmony and natural flow, making it appealing to music-loving parents or those drawn to names with artistic associations. Caydence gained popularity alongside similar melodic names like Melody and Harmony. The name has a contemporary feel while maintaining connections to classical concepts of rhythm and grace. While the traditional spelling Cadence is more common, Caydence offers a distinctive variation with the same beautiful meaning.
- Kamya
Description:
Kamya is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. In Sanskrit, it means 'desirable' or 'lovable,' while it may also have African origins in some contexts. The name has been growing in usage in the United States since the early 2000s, though it remains relatively uncommon. Kamya has a modern, streamlined sound with its two syllables and appealing 'ya' ending that's popular in contemporary naming trends. The name's cross-cultural nature makes it versatile for diverse families. Its brevity combined with melodic sounds gives it an accessible yet distinctive quality that works well internationally. Parents might choose Kamya for its positive meaning and contemporary feel while maintaining cultural significance.
- Calleigh
Description:
Calleigh is a feminine name that emerged as a modern variant spelling of Callie, which itself originated as a nickname for Caroline, Carolyn or other Cal- names. This contemporary spelling gained recognition through the character Calleigh Duquesne in the television series "CSI: Miami," which aired from 2002 to 2012. The name has a Southern charm quality with its soft sounds and unique spelling pattern. Following the show's popularity, Calleigh saw increased usage in the United States, though it has never reached mainstream popularity rankings. The name blends traditional roots with a modern feel, offering parents a name that feels both familiar and distinctive. Its Irish-inspired spelling gives it a touch of Celtic flair.
- Madalynn
Origin:
Variation of MadeleineDescription:
Too trendy and too prone to needing to be spelled every time. Just go with the classic (and classy) accepted spellings: Madeleine, Madelyn, or Madeline.
- Payten
Description:
Payten is primarily a feminine name though it can be used for any gender. It originated as a variant spelling of Peyton, which was traditionally an English surname derived from a place name meaning 'Paega's town' or 'Paega's settlement.' The name gained popularity as a first name in the United States during the 1990s and continued rising in the early 2000s. The unique spelling with 'ay' instead of 'ey' gives it a more contemporary feel. Payten carries connotations of strength and distinction. Its rise coincided with the trend toward using surnames as first names and the popularity of unisex names. The name maintains a modern, sporty image while still retaining traditional roots.