Names that Peaked in 1888

Turner is a name that's both preppy and painterly, recalling the exquisite watercolor seascapes of British painter J.M.W. Turner. An occupational name in the Taylor-Carter mold, Turner is a more distinctive choice than many of the usual suspects.

Ever since the enormous German cannon was dubbed by Allied soldiers "Big Bertha" in World War I, this name hasn't worked for a sweet little baby girl. But this was not always so. Hard as it might be to imagine now, Bertha was a Top 100 name until the 1930s, and in the 1880s was the seventh most popular name in the land--the equal of Joseph.

Like Lars, Sven, Niels, and Nels, an unjustly neglected straightforward Scandinavian name. Surname Nilsson or the anglicized Nelson derives from Nils.

Ollie is used less often as a nickname for the mega-popular Olivia or the stylish Olive than Ellie is for Eleanor or Allie for Allison. That may be because Ollie has a much longer use as a nickname for boys.

Ebba, the feminine version of Eberhard and also a form of an old English name, is in the Swedish Top 10 but virtually unknown in the US. However, with the rise of Emma, Ella, Ada, and similar simple-yet-traditional names, Ebba may enjoy more widespread popularity.

Mamie is back. Having finally shorn her Mamie Eisenhower bangs, this insouciant and adorable nickname name is perfect if you want a zestier way to honor a beloved aunt Mary. Meryl Streep's actress daughter, properly named Mary Willa, is called Mamie Gummer. You might think of Mamie as a sister of the stylish Maisie.

The protagonist of Toni Morrison's novel, the simple-yet-sensual Sula relates to the Old Testament Shulamit. Alternatively, it might be a short form of Ursula.

Old-fangled nickname could make dot.com era short form or middle name.

Short and to-the-point, it turns an ancient biblical name into a friendly cowboy.

Godfrey was very popular in the Middle Ages, but today you're more likely to hear it as a surname than a first name. It has a solid, old-man charm, but a couple of possible deal-breakers: the first syllable being God, and no obvious nickname. Goff, maybe? For a different feel, we also like the Italian artist's version Giotto.

The chic Euro spelling of Henry is rising along with the original form.

Too far gone to the girls.

An English family name used a few generations ago as an Anglicization of Moses, but hardly heard since th 1950s.

For some, a name that will evoke the beauty of the national park in the Colorado Rockies.

Elfie is a charming feminine name with Germanic and Scandinavian roots. It originated as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'alf' or 'elf', which in Germanic mythology referred not to tiny creatures but to supernatural beings of great beauty and power. It can also be a nickname for names like Elfrieda or Elizabeth in some cultures. The name evokes qualities of whimsy, magic, and enchantment, with its fairy-tale associations giving it a playful, ethereal character. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Elfie has experienced periodic interest, particularly in European countries. Its brevity and sweet sound appeal to parents seeking something distinctive yet endearing. The name's magical connotations give it a sense of wonder and imagination.

One of the Great Lakes and a city next to it, named after a Native American people. This name swings between being more popular for boys and girls, but is currently rare for both. It could also be short for a, Er- name like Erasmus. Be aware that it sounds like the word "eerie".

Classic Italian name with celestial vibes.

Despite Thornton Wilder, playwright of the perennial Our Town, only a handful of baby boys receive this name each year..

Emit is an uncommon masculine name with multiple origin possibilities. It can be seen as a reverse spelling of the word "time," giving it a creative, modern appeal. Alternatively, some connect it to the Latin word "emittere," meaning "to send forth" or "to emit," suggesting someone who radiates energy or ideas. The name's simplicity and distinctive four-letter structure make it appealing to parents seeking something brief yet meaningful. While Emit remains rare in usage statistics, it fits alongside minimalist modern names gaining attention. The name may occasionally be confused with Emmett, though its single 'm' and 't' spelling creates a more streamlined appearance and slightly different pronunciation.

The double 'n's in this spelling variation of vintage Winifred aesthetically looks closer to the loveable nickname Winnie which is likely the appeal for many parents. Winnifred, along with several other Win names, from vintage revivals Winnie and Winona to modern Winter and Winslow, is on the rise.