It’s safe to say that the days of speakeasies and jazz might be behind us, more commonly known as the crazy age of the Roaring ’20s. But just because this dazzling decade has come and gone doesn’t mean that the names from that era are extinct!
Vintage names may be old news, but they’re very popular for modern parents nonetheless! And few decades have a fantastic crop of names like the retro monikers of the 1920’s, especially for baby girls. Here are 19 female names popular in the Jazz Age that are making a comeback.
1. Fern
Lovers of all things outdoor will likely be drawn to this name, which is quite literally named after the leafy green plant. Numerology says that people with this name have a deep inner desire for travel and adventure, and want to set their own pace in life without being governed by tradition.
2. Avis
We adore the airy, intelligent sound of this moniker. This name is a French variant of the Germanic Aveza, but Avis has ties to the Latin “avis” that means “bird.” It seems obvious that anyone with this name would be a bonafide free spirit.
3. Millicent
This Old High German title comes from Amalswinth, meaning “work” (amal) and “strength” (swinth). Anyone named Millicent – or Milli for short – might just develop a strong work ethic and a great moral compass.
4. Opal
Yes, like the precious stone! This classic, elegant name feels both modern and present all at once. Opal comes from the Sanskrit upala that means “precious stone” or “jewel” – making this sweet title all the more lustrous for your little girl.
5. Zenobia
This rare name will definitely make your little girl stand out from the crowd. Zenobia honors Greek mythology as the title is thought to mean “life of Zeus.” With a namesake like that, it’s easy to imagine that this child would grow up to be a strong, powerful leader.
6. Marjorie
No matter if you enjoy Margery, or Marjorie, this baby name, pronounced MAHR-jə-ree, is a sophisticated ’20s title that’s becoming very popular again. This name is a variation of the name Margaret, which comes from the Greek Margarītēs, meaning “pearl.”
7. Harriet
As a variant of the French Henri, Harriet means “rule of an enclosure” or “home ruler,” which would indicate a strong willed woman. This classic name can be shortened to Harry or Ettie, which are adorable nicknames!
8. Petra
This feminine form of Peter from the Late Latin Petrus is about as intense as strong names come. Petra finds her staying power in petros that literally means, “rock.”
9. Adele
Says “hello” to your new favorite baby name (sorry, we had to). This name, popularized by the British songstress, comes from the Germanic Adelheid and means, “Of Good Humor” as well as “Of Nobility.” If you’re looking for a beautiful, fun, regal name, this might be your top pick.
10. Delta
This Greek word meaning “the Fourth” would be great for a fourth child but is also just an interesting name choice that would make any little girl stand out from a crowd.
11. Bette
This adorable shorthand for Elizabeth means “God is My Oath,” and is a unique spin on a gorgeously classic name.
12. Althea
From the Greek work “althainein” this name means, “to heal.” We definitely see this name for a kind hearted girl, maybe with a compassionate need to help others.
13. Clarice
Hailing from the Latin clārus that means “bright” or “famous,” Clarice is a sweet option for an upbeat, lovely girl that also knows how to hold her own.
14. Iola
No, not quite “Lola,” this unique counterpart is Greek for “violet” and is really a one-of-a-kind name. We get the sense that anyone with this name would be artistic and not one to follow the crowd.
15. Roma
Roman mythology says that Evander named the Italian capital, Rome, for his daughter, Roma. Needless to say, this graceful Italian baby name has a significant meaning and is a winsome choice that can provoke wanderlust.
16. Virgina
This name was a top baby name choice during the 1920s. Inspired by the Latin Verginius, Virginia means “springlike” and “flourishing” and gives us super adorable nicknames like Ginny and Ginger.
17. Josefina
Super popular in the 1920’s, the name Josefina is actually the one slated to make a serious comeback. The female form of Joseph that comes from the Hebrew Yosef, meaning “may he add” and “God shall add,” Josefina will bring the pizzazz and flavor to your list of baby names.
18. Geneva
This mysterious and fashionable name takes its cue from the gorgeous city in Switzerland, making it the perfect moniker for your adventurous, cosmopolitan daughter.
19. Eloisa
Yes, this name is quirky and adorable, but the name Eloisa has a combative background. Thought to be a variant of Louis, Eloisa is associated with the Old High German Hluodowig that means “famous in war.” She might be upbeat, but we wouldn’t mess with the likes of her.