Names that Peaked in 1978
- Cory
Origin:
Variation of Corey or short form of any Cor-beginning nameDescription:
This Corey variation is getting a fresh shot of style juice thanks to young It Girl Cory Kennedy (not to be confused with RFK daughter, filmmaker Rory Kennedy).
- Kristopher
Origin:
Variation of ChristopherDescription:
Not as familiar and easy as Christopher, not as unusual and interesting as Christoph or Krzysztof.
- Jamil
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"beautiful"Description:
Familiar and handsome, Jamil is a name of Arabic origin. Its literal meaning is "beautiful" and while this can refer to physical beauty, as a Quranic name, it more specifically refers to beautiful behavior, such as patience, kindness, and courteousness.
- Anwar
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"brighter, clearer"Description:
Strongly identified with peace-accord-seeking Egyptian president Anwar el-Sadat.
- Delvin
Description:
Delvin is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It likely derives from the Irish place name Delvin (Dealbhna in Irish), a region in County Westmeath, Ireland. The name may ultimately stem from the Gaelic word 'dealbh', meaning 'form' or 'shape'. Delvin has a strong, dignified sound while maintaining a somewhat soft quality through its 'v' consonant. The name gained modest usage in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon. It shares some phonetic similarities with more popular names like Kelvin and Melvin, making it familiar-sounding yet distinctive. Delvin offers parents a name with authentic Celtic origins without being overly common.
- Shanna
Description:
Shanna is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. Most commonly, it's considered an Americanized variation of the Irish name Shannah, meaning 'wise' or a feminine form of Shane, meaning 'God is gracious.' Alternatively, it may derive from the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' Shanna gained considerable popularity in the United States during the 1970s, reaching its peak usage in 1977. The name has a soft, melodic quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce and spell. Often pronounced 'SHAN-uh,' this accessible name offers the nickname option 'Shan.' Though less common for babies today, Shanna retains a classic, unpretentious charm that bridges multiple cultural traditions.
- Adrain
Description:
Adrain is a masculine name that appears to be a spelling variation of Adrian, which derives from the Latin name Hadrianus, meaning 'from Hadria' - an ancient town in northern Italy. This alternative spelling creates a subtle distinction while maintaining the classical roots of the original name. Throughout history, Adrian has been associated with several saints and emperors, including the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The Adrain spelling, though less common, offers a slightly different visual presentation while retaining the same pronunciation. The name conveys strength and sophistication with its classical origins, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth but a slightly distinctive presentation. The subtle spelling variation may also reflect regional pronunciation differences or simply a desire for uniqueness.
- Kristy
Origin:
Diminutive of all variations of KristinaMeaning:
"a Christian"Description:
Kristy (and Kristi and Kristie) are the ultimate kool girl nicknames of the sixties and seventies, not kwite as kute any more.
- Cedrick
Description:
Cedrick is a variant spelling of Cedric, a name created by Sir Walter Scott for his 1819 novel "Ivanhoe." Scott likely derived it from the Saxon name Cerdic, belonging to a 6th-century king. The name conveys nobility and strength, with the 'k' ending adding a distinctive touch to the traditional spelling. Over the centuries, Cedrick has maintained modest popularity, experiencing occasional surges. It carries an air of refinement and classic masculinity while remaining uncommon enough to be distinctive. The name often evokes images of intelligence and dignity, making it a thoughtful choice for parents seeking a name with literary connections and historical resonance.
- Kristi
Description:
Kristi is a feminine name primarily used as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, derived from the Greek word 'Christos,' meaning 'anointed one.' This short, sweet variation gained particular popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The name carries Christian religious connotations while maintaining a contemporary feel. Kristi strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, as it's widely recognized but not overly common. The spelling with 'K' rather than 'C' gives it a slightly Nordic flair, reflecting its popularity in Scandinavian countries. Notable bearers include several athletes and performers, adding to its dynamic, spirited associations.
- Hasan
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"beautiful, handsome"Description:
Hasan is a significant Muslim historical figure — he was the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali and Fatimah. Shia Muslims consider Hasan a martyr — he died after being poisoned by his wife.
- Monika
Description:
Monika is a feminine name primarily of Latin origin, being a variant spelling of Monica. The name derives from the Latin 'moneo' meaning 'to advise' or 'to remind.' Monika is particularly popular in Central and Eastern European countries, including Poland, Germany, Czech Republic, and Hungary, where this spelling is preferred over the more Anglicized 'Monica.' The name gained international recognition through Saint Monica, the persistent and prayerful mother of Saint Augustine. Monika has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and balanced syllables. While the 'Monica' spelling peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1970s, the 'Monika' variant maintains steady usage particularly in European countries and among families honoring their European heritage.
- Chrissy
Origin:
Diminutive of Christina or Christine, Latin and GreekMeaning:
"Christian"Description:
This slightly unusual spelling of the '80s cheerleader name is now associated with two appealing young celebrities: model Chrissy Teigen and This Is Us star Chrissy Metz. Both have Christine on their birth certificate.
- Lakeisha
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Perhaps the best known of the La names that peaked in the 1980s, it stems from the biblical Keziah, plus the gallic La prefix that rose to prominence centuries ago among the Creole people and Free Blacks of New Orleans.
- Krissy
Description:
Krissy is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, ultimately derived from the Greek word 'Christos' meaning 'anointed one.' This affectionate nickname began appearing as an independent given name in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when informal names gained popularity. Krissy conveys a perpetually youthful, friendly quality with its diminutive -y ending. While it peaked several decades ago, it remains recognized as a cheerful, approachable name. Some parents now choose it as a formal name rather than using the longer Christina, appreciating its unpretentious charm. The name maintains connections to the Christian tradition while offering a casual, familiar feel.
- Christel
Description:
Christel is a feminine name with Germanic origins, functioning as a diminutive form of Christina or Christine. Popular throughout Germany, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands, it represents a variation of the name derived from 'Christ.' The name conveys the meaning 'follower of Christ' or 'little Christian one' with its diminutive suffix. Christel experienced modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has remained relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. It offers a distinctive European alternative to the more familiar Christine or Christina while maintaining the same religious connection. The name has a delicate, melodious quality that combines traditional religious significance with a touch of continental European sophistication.
- Kristoffer
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Christopher, Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
This Scandinavian spin on Christopher gives that enduring classic a lighter, more individual twist, though many may see it as simply a kree8iv spelling.
- Qiana
Description:
Qiana is a feminine name that emerged in the United States during the 1970s, inspired by a silky nylon fabric of the same name that was popular during that era. The fabric was created by DuPont in 1968 and became fashionable in women's clothing. The name gained modest popularity as parents were drawn to its exotic sound and stylish associations. Pronounced 'kee-AH-nah' or 'key-AH-nah,' the name has a melodious quality enhanced by its unusual initial 'Q.' While never reaching mainstream popularity, Qiana has maintained consistent usage since its introduction. The name appeals to parents seeking something distinctive with a contemporary feel. Its unusual initial letter gives it a striking appearance, while its pronunciation remains relatively intuitive despite the uncommon spelling.
- Somer
Description:
Somer is a modern unisex name though more commonly used for girls, with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant spelling of Summer, evoking the warmth and vibrancy of the season, or it could derive from an occupational surname referring to someone who carried out summing or calculations. The name has a contemporary, streamlined feel that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. While not among the most popular names, Somer has maintained a steady if modest presence in naming records since the late 20th century. Its simplicity gives it versatility across cultures, and its connection to Summer provides pleasant associations with warmth, growth, and brightness, without being as directly seasonal as the more common spelling.
- Jameel
Description:
Jameel is a masculine name of Arabic origin meaning 'beautiful,' 'handsome,' or 'graceful.' Traditionally spelled جميل in Arabic, the name has been used throughout the Islamic world for centuries. Its positive meaning and melodious sound have contributed to its enduring popularity across the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities worldwide. In Western countries, Jameel began gaining recognition in the late 20th century as cultural diversity in naming practices increased. The name carries an elegant simplicity with its two-syllable structure and smooth pronunciation. Parents might choose Jameel for its meaningful definition, cultural significance, or its balance of being recognizable yet distinctive in many Western contexts.