Extinct Names
- Brunette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"woman with brown hair"Description:
Brunette is an unusual feminine name derived from the French word for a woman with brown hair. While more commonly recognized as a descriptive term rather than a given name, it has occasionally been used as a female name throughout history, particularly in French-speaking regions or among families with French heritage.
- Littleton
Description:
Littleton is a masculine name of English origin that began as a geographical surname referring to someone from any of several places named Littleton in England. These place names typically combined 'little' with 'ton' (meaning town or settlement), describing a small township. As a first name, Littleton is extremely rare, maintaining an air of distinction and uniqueness. It carries associations with English heritage and may appeal to parents seeking a sophisticated, uncommon name with historical connections. The name has an aristocratic quality reminiscent of English landed gentry, as several notable families with the Littleton surname have held titles of nobility throughout British history. Despite its reference to something small, the name conveys a sense of dignity and traditional English character.
- Vanita
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
You're so vain, I bet you think this name is about you.
- Pet
Description:
Pet is an unusual feminine name that originated as a diminutive nickname form of names like Patricia or Petra. It derives from the same Latin root 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' While more commonly recognized as a term for a beloved animal companion, Pet as a given name has historical usage particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. It remains extremely rare in modern naming practices. The name can be seen as endearing and affectionate, suggesting someone who is cherished or treasured. Its brevity gives it a simple, distinctive quality, though parents might hesitate due to its stronger association with companion animals.
- Debby
Description:
Debby is a feminine name primarily used as a diminutive form of Deborah, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'bee.' This friendly, approachable nickname gained independent usage particularly during the 1950s and 1960s when it reached its peak popularity. The spelling with a 'y' ending gives it a playful, youthful quality compared to the 'ie' variant (Debbie). Famous bearers include actress Debby Ryan and singer Debby Boone. While less commonly given as a formal name in recent decades, Debby maintains appeal for its unpretentious, warm character. The name evokes the mid-century American cultural landscape and carries connotations of friendliness and approachability. For many, it strikes a pleasant balance between familiar and not overly common.
- Cindi
Description:
Cindi is a feminine name that emerged as a diminutive and variant spelling of Cindy, which itself originated as a nickname for Cynthia. The name ultimately derives from Greek mythology, where Cynthia was an epithet for Artemis, the goddess of the moon, who was born on Mount Cynthus. This simplified spelling variation gained particular popularity during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States when nicknames as formal names became fashionable. The name received additional attention through cultural references like singer Cyndi Lauper (though she uses a different spelling). Cindi has a friendly, unpretentious quality that conveys cheerfulness and approachability. While its peak popularity has passed, the name maintains an enduring charm with its bright sound and retro appeal, evoking nostalgia for mid-century American culture.
- Girtha
Origin:
Variation of Gertha, English from ScandinavianMeaning:
"enclosure, stronghold"Description:
Don't put "girth" in a baby name.
- Miner
Description:
Miner is a masculine occupational name derived from the English language, referring to someone who works in mines extracting coal, ore, or other minerals. As a first name, Miner is uncommon and carries strong working-class connotations, evoking images of hard work, determination, and industrial heritage. The name gained limited use in America during the 19th century when occupational names were occasionally adopted as given names. While rare in contemporary usage, Miner might appeal to families with mining heritage or those seeking a unique, rugged name with clear meaning and historical significance.
- Barber
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"beard"Description:
This name's all-male occupational roots help it break the Barbara bonds, but still not the most inspiring surname choice.
- Wirt
Description:
Wirt is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from ancient words meaning "worthy" or "deserving." It may also have roots as an occupational surname for an innkeeper or host (from Middle High German "wirt"). The name is quite uncommon in modern usage, giving it a distinctive and vintage quality. Wirt gained some recognition through the character Wirt from the animated miniseries "Over the Garden Wall," which introduced it to a new generation. Its short, strong sound and traditional Germanic heritage make it an understated choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth but minimal contemporary usage.
- Irl
Description:
Irl is a compact, masculine name with both Irish and Germanic roots. In Irish contexts, it's believed to be a shortened form of 'Ireland,' potentially conveying patriotic sentiment. Its Germanic origin suggests a connection to the word 'earl,' denoting nobility and leadership. This concise, one-syllable name projects strength and directness with its sturdy consonant combination. Throughout the early 20th century, Irl enjoyed modest usage in the United States, particularly in rural communities, but has since become exceedingly rare. The name's brevity makes it distinctive in an era of longer names, though it sometimes faces pronunciation challenges (typically pronounced like 'earl'). Irl might appeal to parents seeking a succinct name with historical depth that remains unfettered by modern trends or popular associations.
- Chuckie
Description:
Chuckie is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive nickname for Charles or Chuck. While primarily used as a familiar form rather than a formal given name, some parents have chosen it as a standalone name on birth certificates. The name gained recognition through pop culture, most notably with the character Chuckie Finster from the animated series 'Rugrats' and the horror franchise character Chuckie from 'Child's Play.' The nickname has a distinctly youthful, friendly quality with its -ie ending creating an endearing tone. Though not ranking on most popular name charts as a formal name, Chuckie maintains cultural relevance through these media associations. The name carries a casual, approachable charm that contrasts with the more formal Charles.
- Prudy
Origin:
Short form of Prudence, English virtue nameMeaning:
"caution"Description:
Prudy does not improve on Prudence.
- Latonya
Description:
Latonya is a feminine given name that emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century. The name appears to be a modern creation combining the popular prefix 'La-' (meaning 'the' in Romance languages) with a variant of Tonya, which itself is a diminutive of Antonia (feminine form of Anthony, from Latin 'Antonius'). Latonya gained notable popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, reaching its peak usage in the early 1970s. The name follows a naming pattern common in the United States during this period that featured prefixes like La-, De-, and Sha-. Usage data shows Latonya appeared on the Social Security Administration's name charts between the 1960s-1990s but has declined in popularity since. The name has a melodic quality with emphasis typically on the second syllable.
- Welcome
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Warm and open, but way too much teasing potential.