vintage girl names begging to be rediscovered

Barbara is back! Among the fastest-rising names of 2023, Barbara came back from oblivion at the very bottom of the Top 1000, gaining nearly 100 places on the popularity list.

Beatrix has a solid history of its own apart from Beatrice, with that final x adding a playful, animated note to the name's imposing history and stately vibe.

Actually the Spanish name for Bethlehem, which means "house of bread," this name is high on Spain's popularity list and is rising in the US as well. Though this is one of the Spanish names for girls that has not for the most part crossed over to the English-speaking population, that could change thanks to its similarity to the popular Belle or Bella.

Belvia is a feminine name with possible Latin derivation, likely related to 'bellus' meaning 'beautiful' or 'pretty.' It may also connect to names like Belva or represent a variant of Sylvia. This uncommon name saw modest usage in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in southern states, but has since become quite rare. Belvia has a gentle, vintage quality with its flowing sound and 'ia' ending common in feminine names. The name carries connotations of beauty and classical elegance. Some bearers might trace connections to family surnames or regional naming traditions. Its scarcity in contemporary usage makes it distinctive while maintaining a melodic, traditionally feminine character.

Yes, there are baby girls named Benjamin — typically between 10-20 recorded in a given year. These numbers are likely inflated due to data entry error, but you still could encounter a female Benjamin out there.

With the recent arrival of fruit names like Apple and Plum, this more traditional example, symbolic of fertility, might rise in popularity. Photographer Berry Berenson was born Berinthia.