Names by Nickname

Tottie emerged as a diminutive nickname for names like Charlotte or Victoria in Victorian England, eventually evolving into an independent given name. With its playful, affectionate sound, Tottie represents the once-common English practice of creating endearing nicknames ending in -ie or -y. The name peaked in popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Tottie carries a vintage charm that evokes images of the Edwardian era and early 1900s. Today, it might appeal to parents seeking a distinctively retro name with a sweet, cheerful quality. The name's brevity and simple pronunciation give it an accessible, friendly character.

In the Top 25 in the unisex seventies, these days Tracy would more likely be Gracie.

Tressie is a charming feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Theresa or Teresa, which derives from Greek meaning 'harvester' or 'from Therasia,' an island in the Cyclades group. Popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in America, Tressie has a sweet, vintage appeal that connects to the current trend of reviving grandmother-era names. Though it declined in popularity during the mid-20th century, Tressie maintains an endearing quality with its soft sounds and friendly '-ie' ending. The name carries a nostalgic warmth and simplicity that might appeal to parents seeking something uncommon yet familiar. Its Southern American associations give it a gentle, hospitable character that feels both dignified and approachable.

Trilby was used first for a character by French novelist Charles Nodier (1822) and made more famous by writer George du Maurier in an 1894 work. A Trilby hat, which Du Maurier's character wore, is a short-brimmed fedora of the kind recently revived by hipsters. Du Maurier's character Trilby fell under the hypnotic power of Svengali: not the best choice for an independent and self-determining daughter. Still, if you want a unisex name that moves far beyond the usual Taylor and Morgan and has energy and feminine verve, Trilby might well be your girl.

The extra p makes Tripp more of a name and less of a Trip. Usually a nickname of a boy who's a third, but Tripp is sure to get more attention in its own right now as the name of Sarah Palin's daughter Bristol and Levi Johnston's son.

Innocent, sincere, and bright-eyed, and as outdated as its mother name, Gertrude.

Sharp and preppy.

Tully is a relaxed, rarely used Irish surname possibility which might provide an alternative to Tommy, Eli, or Troy. It has a long history of usage and a number of meanings, depending on which root you follow.

As Tyler has begun to recede, a number of parents, including the Wayne Gretzkys, have cut straight to the livelier short form.