As with anything, names go in and out of fashion. Here is a list of some old fashioned names for boys that used to be extremely popular, but are rarely used these days…
Willie
Once a popular nickname for the classic “William”, the name Willie peaked in popularity in the 1940s. Its charm may have been rooted in its simplicity and the air of friendliness it conveys. In recent years though, Willie has seen a decline but hey, who knows when it might make a comeback?
Ernest
Ernest, a name inspired by the virtue of earnestness, was most popular in the late 19th and early 20th century. Famous figures like Ernest Hemingway have adorned this name. Although its popularity has dwindled, the sentiment behind the name remains timeless.
Clarence
Originating from the Latin “Clarus”, Clarence was a hit in the early 1900s. The name, meaning “clear and bright”, could have drawn its popularity from its optimistic connotation. Today, it’s less common, but still holds a certain nostalgic charm.
Elmer
Historically, the name Elmer was quite popular during the 1900s. It’s an Old English name meaning “noble and famous”. Despite its noble connotation, Elmer has seen a decline in use over the years.
Clifford
Clifford, a name of English origin meaning “ford by a cliff”, saw its heyday in the mid 20th century. It may have gained popularity because of the beloved children’s book character, Clifford the Big Red Dog. Although it’s less common today, it still triggers a sense of nostalgia.
Herbert
Herbert, meaning “illustrious warrior”, was a favorite in the early to mid 20th century. It’s a German name that once held a place of honor in many households. Today, it’s less frequently used but holds strong historical significance. It’s funny how the most popular baby names change so much over the years.
Herman
Herman, a name of German origin meaning “army man”, was popular in the late 19th and early 20th century. Its popularity may have been driven by its strong, masculine connotation. Today, Herman is less common but maintains a classic allure.
Chester
Chester, an English name meaning “fortified camp”, was most popular in the early 20th century. Its strength and stability might have been its appeal. Today, Chester is less common, but its historical resonance endures.
Claude
Claude, a name of French origin meaning “lame”, saw its peak in the early 20th century. Despite its less than flattering meaning, it was a popular choice. Today, it’s less common but remains a beloved vintage name.
Bert
Bert, a short form of names like Albert and Herbert, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its simplicity and brightness may have been attractive features. Today, it’s less common but maintains its charm.
Albert
Albert, a German name meaning “noble and bright”, was a hit in the late 19th and early 20th century. Its noble connotation may have been the key to its popularity. Today, it’s less frequently used but its nobility remains.
Arnold
Arnold, a German name meaning “eagle power”, was popular in the mid 20th century. Its powerful connotation may have been a major draw. Today, it’s less common but the power of the eagle still resonates.
Bertram
Favored in the early 20th century, Bertram is a German name meaning “bright raven”. Its unique meaning and sound may have contributed to its popularity. Today, it’s less common but still holds a unique charm.
Cecil
Cecil, a name of Latin and Welsh origin meaning “blind to one’s own beauty”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Despite its peculiar meaning, it was a popular choice. Today, it’s less common but retains its vintage appeal.
Cornelius
Cornelius, a name of Latin origin meaning “horn”, was a favorite in the late 19th and early 20th century. Its unique connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but maintains a certain uniqueness.
Edmund
Edmund, an English name meaning “prosperity and protection”, was popular in the early 20th century. Its powerful connotation may have been its attraction. Today, it’s less common but its powerful sentiment endures.
Floyd
Floyd, a Welsh name meaning “gray”, saw its heyday in the mid 20th century. Its simple, monochromatic meaning may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but still holds a certain charm.
Gerald
Gerald, a name of English origin meaning “rule of the spear”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its strong and commanding connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less frequently used but the rule of the spear still resonates.
Gilbert
Gilbert, an English name meaning “bright pledge”, was a hit in the early 20th century. Its bright and positive connotation may have been the key to its popularity. Today, it’s less common but its brightness remains.
Horace
Horace, a name of Latin origin meaning “timekeeper”, was popular in the early 20th century. Its unique connotation of time may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but its uniqueness endures.
Irving
Irving, a Scottish name meaning “green water”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its unique, natural connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but the green water still flows.
Lester
Lester, a name of English origin meaning “from the legion’s camp”, was a hit in the early 20th century. Its association with strength and unity may have been the key to its popularity. Today, it’s less frequently used but its strength remains.
Melvin
Melvin, an English name meaning “gentle lord”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its gentle and noble connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but the gentle lord still reigns.
Milton
Favored in the early to mid 20th century, Milton is an English name meaning “mill town”. Its simple, workaday connotation may have contributed to its popularity. Today, it’s less common but its simplicity still holds a unique charm.
Morris
Morris, a name of Latin origin meaning “dark-skinned”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its unique, descriptive connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but its uniqueness remains.
Norman
Norman, an English name meaning “man from the north”, was a hit in the mid 20th century. Its geographical connotation may have been the key to its popularity. Today, it’s less frequently used but the man from the north still endures.
Oswald
Oswald, a name of English origin meaning “divine power”, was popular in the early 20th century. Its divine connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but the divine power still resonates.
Percy
Favored in the early 20th century, Percy is an English name meaning “pierce the valley”. Its adventurous connotation may have contributed to its popularity. Today, it’s less common but still holds a unique charm.
Reginald
Reginald, a name of German origin meaning “counsel power”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its powerful, advisory connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but its power still reigns.
Seymour
Seymour, an English name meaning “marshy land near the sea”, was popular in the early 20th century. Its earthy, natural connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but the marshy land still exists.
Vernon
Vernon, a name of French origin meaning “springlike”, was popular in the early to mid 20th century. Its fresh, natural connotation may have been its appeal. Today, it’s less common but the springlike vibe still blossoms.
Wallace
Finally, we have Wallace, a name of English origin meaning “Welshman”, that was a hit in the early to mid 20th century. Its ethnic connotation may have been the key to its popularity. Today, it’s less frequently used but the Welshman still endures.
Each of these names has a rich history and a unique charm. They may not be as popular now, but their stories and meanings give them enduring appeal. Who knows, maybe they’ll make a comeback in the years to come! If you love names, then check out the wildest town names in the USA, and the best corporate name changes of all time!
