10 once-popular baby names that have almost vanished in UK

Although vintage baby names have experienced a resurgence in recent years, there are some older names that are not as popular. In fact, 10 names which were once top of the charts have now almost vanished.

According to data from the Top 100 name data and the latest Office for National Statistics release, some of these older names are now hardly used. Experts from For Your Little One have analysed the data and created a list of the top 10 names that have all but disappeared in England and Wales,

Top 10 baby names that have almost vanished

Nigel

In 1974 this was number 55 on the list but now it’s far outside the top 100. A popular boys name for older people decades ago, this name has fallen out of favour. 

Gary

This was a post war staple but is rarely used now. Trends have shifted towards softer sounding names and surname styled first names.  

Keith

This clipped and short boy’s name was number 53 on the list in 1974 but is no longer in fashion.

Barry

Once a favourite in the UK, this name was eclipsed by the similar sounding Harry which surged back into popularity perhaps due to the success of the Harry Potter novels in the early 2000s.

Trevor

In 1974 this was number 76 on the list and now lies outside the top 100. It’s old school charm has faded as parents turn towards shorter and trendier names such as Theo. 

Sharon

This girl’s name was number 17 on the list in the 70s but has since dwindled in popularity.

Karen

This was in the top 10 for girls names in the 70s – however recent years have instilled a new derogatory inference to the name., No one wants to be called ‘a karen’ and so the name has almost died out. 

Tracy / Tracey

Once at number 26 and number 27 respectively, both spellings of this formerly common girls name have both died out of mainstream usage. 

Linda

Initially this name was number 76 but now has been overtaken by more contemporary L-names like Luna and Lyla.

Carol

This was number 84 in 1974 but has since faded. It brings up thoughts of Christmas and you still hear it in December – just not on the modern name lists.