Names that Peaked in 1935
- Farrell
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"courageous"Description:
If you're looking for a pleasing namesake that's more modern than Darrell/Darryl, this would make an excellent choice. Farrell is an Anglicized form of the Irish Fergal, and was well used as a first name into the nineteenth century, before it faded to mostly surname use.
- Sherwin
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"swift runner"Description:
You won't win with Sherwin.
- Rosita
Origin:
Spanish, diminutive of RosaMeaning:
"rose"Description:
This spirited Spanish variation of Rosa was familiar in the mid-20th century, but is used more quietly now. Given to around 35 babies in the US each year, it could work as a fresh alternative to Roberta or Rosie.
- Cleta
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"the renowned one"Description:
Cleta was one of the Charities or Graces.
- Arlin
Description:
Arlin is a masculine name with several possible origins, including Old English, German, and Irish roots. In Old English, it may derive from 'earl' or 'nobleman,' suggesting dignity and leadership. The German interpretation connects it to 'eagle ruler' or 'sworn to the eagle,' symbolizing strength and vision. Some sources also link Arlin to the Irish name Árlen, meaning 'pledge.' This versatile name maintains a contemporary sound while carrying traditional meanings. Arlin has remained consistently present but uncommon in usage throughout the years, making it familiar enough to pronounce easily yet distinctive enough to stand out. Its crisp, two-syllable structure gives it a modern appeal despite its historical roots.
- Loris
Origin:
Variation of Laura, English from LatinMeaning:
"from Laurentum or bay laurel"Description:
As Doris is to Dora, Loris is to Laura. It's virtually never used for babies of either sex. That said, it's not a bad name and might make a good honor name for an ancestral Laura or Lawrence.
- Delmer
Origin:
Variation of Delmar, SpanishMeaning:
"of the sea"Description:
Delmer is kind of a smoosh of two dated names, Delmar and Elmer, that does not improve on either. While Elmer is making a return as a Geek Chic name, Delmar was given to only 14 baby boys last year while Delmer is extinct.
- Arland
Description:
Arland is a masculine name with Germanic roots, derived from elements meaning "eagle" (arn) and "land" or "territory." It can be interpreted as "eagle's land" or "land of the eagle." The name has connections to Old Norse heritage and appears occasionally in Scandinavian countries and Scotland. Arland has never been widely popular but maintained a steady, if modest, presence throughout the 20th century in the United States. It carries a strong, nature-inspired quality with overtones of freedom and wilderness. The name has a dignified sound that balances traditional roots with an uncommon quality, making it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell.
- Vernetta
Description:
Vernetta is a feminine given name that appears to be a diminutive form of Verna, combined with the feminine suffix "-etta." Verna derives from the Latin "vernus" meaning "spring" or "of the spring." The "-etta" suffix, common in Italian and other Romance languages, creates a diminutive or endearing form. The name emerged in the United States in the early 20th century, with peak popularity occurring between the 1940s and 1960s. Vernetta follows a pattern similar to names like Henrietta or Loretta, applying a feminine diminutive ending to create a more elaborate form of a simpler name. Though never extremely common, the name has a melodic quality and vintage charm that connects it to mid-century naming conventions.
- Delwin
Description:
Delwin is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning 'people's friend' or 'beloved friend.' It can be viewed as a variation of Delvin or a masculine counterpart to Delwyn. The name enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has since become quite rare. Delwin carries a dignified, somewhat scholarly sound while offering the friendly nickname options of Del or Win. The name combines traditional roots with an uncommon status, making it distinctive without being completely unfamiliar. Delwin might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical grounding that isn't commonly heard today.
- Maxie
Description:
Maxie is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Maximilian, Maxwell, or Max, all deriving from the Latin 'maximus' meaning 'greatest.' With its friendly '-ie' ending, Maxie has a warm, approachable quality compared to its more formal parent names. While traditionally a nickname, Maxie has been used as a given name in its own right, particularly during the early to mid-20th century in the United States. Though more commonly associated with boys, Maxie occasionally appears as a feminine name as well. It carries a vintage charm that may appeal to parents seeking a friendly, unpretentious name with historical roots.
- Carma
Description:
Carma is a feminine name that represents an alternate spelling of Karma, which derives from Sanskrit and refers to the spiritual concept of cause and effect. Some sources also suggest it could be a variant of Carmel, with Hebrew origins meaning 'garden' or 'vineyard.' The name gained modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. Carma carries spiritual connotations while maintaining a gentle, approachable sound. Its four-letter structure gives it a modern brevity, while the meaning connects to profound philosophical traditions. Parents might choose this name for its spiritual significance or simply for its melodic quality and distinctive spelling variation.
- Caryl
Description:
Caryl is a unisex name though more commonly used for females, derived from either the masculine name Carl (meaning 'free man' in Germanic languages) or as a variation of Carol, which has Latin roots meaning 'song' or 'hymn.' With its distinctive spelling, Caryl emerged as a literary name choice in the early 20th century, perhaps influenced by notable writers who bore the name. The name has a refined, intellectual quality and remains uncommon, appealing to those who appreciate understated elegance. Its simple pronunciation paired with the unique spelling gives it a subtle distinctiveness. Though never reaching high popularity rankings, Caryl has maintained a steady presence, particularly in literary and artistic circles.
- Shirleyann
Origin:
Compound name, combining Shirley and AnnMeaning:
"grace of the bright meadow; bright meadow + grace"Description:
Quaint, quirky, and slightly clunky, Shirleyann is a smoosh name with a 30s feel about it. An unexpected vintage choice, a potential honor name, or perhaps for diehard fans of Anne of Green Gables (though maybe Shirleyanne would be better).
- Lynwood
Description:
Lynwood is a distinctive masculine name with English origins, derived from the elements 'linn' meaning 'waterfall' or 'pool' and 'wood' referring to a forest. The name evokes images of a peaceful, natural setting where water meets woodland. While never extremely common, Lynwood saw modest use in the early to mid-20th century in the United States and England. It's often associated with strength and natural beauty, and has been more frequently used as a surname or place name than as a first name. Lynwood has a dignified, somewhat aristocratic feel that appeals to parents seeking a name with traditional English roots and a connection to the natural world.
- Joycelyn
Origin:
Variation of Jocelyn or combination of Joyce + Lyn, Latin and WelshMeaning:
"joyous lake"Description:
The compound name Joycelyn, which combines the names Joyce and Lyn and also is a spin on Jocelyn, was brought to widespread attention via the first African-American female surgeon general, Joycelyn Elders, who served under President Bill Clinton in the 1990s. Although Joyce and Lynn were popular names in the 1930s and 40s, this name is unlikely to resonate now.
- Darold
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Daryl plus Harold equals this mid-century smoosh name.
- Jimmie
Description:
Jimmie is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of James. Deriving from the Hebrew name Jacob (meaning "supplanter"), James became widely popular throughout the English-speaking world, with Jimmie emerging as an affectionate variant with its own distinct character. While often used as a nickname, Jimmie has a history as a given name in its own right, particularly in the United States during the early to mid-20th century. The spelling with an "-ie" ending gives it a friendly, approachable quality compared to the alternative "Jimmy." The name has associations with Americana, country music, and Southern culture, with notable bearers including NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson and country singer Jimmie Rodgers. Though its popularity has declined since its peak in the 1930s-1940s, Jimmie maintains a classic, unpretentious charm that appeals to parents seeking a name with a traditional yet warmly familiar character.
- Ferrell
Description:
Ferrell is a masculine surname-turned-first-name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It derives from the Irish 'Fearghal,' meaning 'man of valor' or 'brave warrior.' As a first name, Ferrell gained some recognition in the United States during the mid-20th century but has always remained relatively uncommon. The name has a strong, distinctive sound with its two syllables and emphasis on the first syllable. Contemporary associations include comedian Will Ferrell, which may influence some parents' perception of the name. Ferrell works well as a given name because it sounds familiar due to its surname usage while still feeling distinctive as a first name. It appeals to parents looking for a name with Celtic heritage and strong meaning without being overly popular.
- Darlyne
Description:
Darlyne is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Darlene, which itself developed as an elaboration of the English word 'darling.' This affectionate term ultimately derives from Old English 'deorling,' meaning 'beloved' or 'dear one.' Darlyne gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1930s-1950s, though the more standard Darlene was always more common. The 'y' spelling gives the name a more distinctive, personalized quality. Darlyne has since declined in usage, making it relatively rare today. The name carries warm connotations of cherished affection with its connection to 'darling.' Its vintage charm may appeal to parents seeking uncommon names with sweet meanings that hearken back to mid-century American naming patterns.