Names that Peaked in 2003

In the Old Testament, Jair is a son of Manasseh as well as a judge of the Israelites. Jair is off its 2003 peak but is still hanging on in the Top 1000 and as a simple yet distinctive name with serious history, is worthy of consideration.

Shiny cousin of Samara with an intriguing meaning. Increasingly associated with the charming Samira Wiley, a perennial scene-stealer on "Orange is the New Black" and "The Handmaid's Tale."

Consistently popular Latina gem name; good choice for those who can't shake Pearl's grandmotherly vibe.

Moshe is the original Hebrew form of Moses, also spelled Mosheh. In the past it was changed to names like Morris, Moe and Maurice.

Maci, the name of one of television's Teen Moms, was one of the fastest rising girl names in the U.S. back in 2010. It is now more popular than the department store Macy spelling, but less popular than Macie.

Shreya is an Indian name with several positive meanings--beautiful, fortunate, auspicious, favorable--and ties to the goddess Lakshmi.

From obscure male biblical boy's name to unisex favorite, Jadon/Jaden, in all its variations, has had a meteoric rise in popularity, building on Jade and Jada, plus the trendy en ending.

Variant of Ayana with international roots.

Haylee dropped out of the Top 500 for the first time since 1992 recently, in step with a decline by Hailey (though the alternative Hadley is still near the Top 100). For some, Haylee is one E too many, but it reflects the broader popularity in -lee suffixes.

One high-fashion brand that's actually a legitimate first name, though still linked to the tainted Adolph.

A spiritually significant name used in honor of the Virgin Mary. In Spanish, her title is Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, meaning "Our Lady the Queen of the Angels."

This variation of Hailey and Halley -- one of dozens -- was used by Eminem for his daughter.

Jovany may be easier to understand for English speakers, but the more serious and authentic Jovan or Giovanni would be better choices.

We are seeing the trendy -ee suffix everywhere, including names like Hailey that were perfectly fine before it.