Endangered Baby Names

Keri is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It can be a variant spelling of Kerry, derived from the Irish county name Ciarraí, meaning "people of Ciar" or "dark-haired people." Alternatively, it may be a diminutive of names like Katherine or Kerith. The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, reaching its peak in 1976. Keri has a brief, bright sound that feels both friendly and professional. Notable bearers include actress Keri Russell and basketball player Keri Sanford. The name has declined in usage since its peak but maintains a contemporary feel while being recognizable. Its simplicity in spelling and pronunciation makes it practical across various cultures.

Dori is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Greek, it's a diminutive of Dorothea or Dorothy, meaning 'gift of God.' In Hebrew, it relates to 'generation' or can be a nickname for Deborah. In Japanese culture, Dori can mean 'bird.' This multicultural versatility adds to its appeal. The name gained recognition through pop culture, including as a character in 'Finding Nemo.' With its short, sweet sound and easy pronunciation across languages, Dori offers a friendly, approachable quality. While never reaching top popularity charts, it maintains consistent usage as parents appreciate its simplicity and cheerful essence. The name balances being recognizable without being overly common.

Wilber is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements "wil" meaning "will" or "desire" and "berht" meaning "bright" or "famous." It's a variation of the more common Wilbur, which gained recognition through Charlotte's Web's lovable pig character. Wilber has historical significance as both a given name and surname throughout English-speaking countries. While experiencing peak popularity in the early 20th century, Wilber has become less common in recent decades, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name carries associations of intelligence and gentle determination, with a friendly, approachable quality. For parents seeking a name with historical roots that remains recognizable without being common, Wilber offers a balance of familiarity and uniqueness.

Kristie is a feminine name primarily used in English-speaking countries as a diminutive or variant of Christine, Christina, or Kristen. Derived from the Latin 'Christiana,' it ultimately traces back to Greek roots meaning 'follower of Christ.' Kristie enjoyed significant popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, reflecting the era's preference for friendly, approachable names ending with the 'ie' sound. The spelling with 'K' rather than 'Ch' gives it a slightly more modern feel than Christie. While its usage has declined since its peak, Kristie maintains an accessible, friendly quality that balances familiarity with relative distinctiveness. The name evokes a cheerful, unpretentious personality and carries nostalgic associations for many.

Gregg is a masculine name that originated as a variant spelling of Greg, which itself is a diminutive form of Gregory. The name Gregory comes from Greek origins meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant.' Gregg gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1960s and 1970s. The double 'g' spelling variation gives the name a slightly more substantial appearance than the single-g version. While traditionally used as a given name, Gregg has also become common as a surname. The name has a friendly, approachable quality and conveys reliability and straightforwardness. Though less frequently given to newborns today than in previous decades, Gregg maintains a classic, unpretentious appeal.