Dale, Bobbie, Ruby, and 37 Other 1940s-Inspired Baby Names You'll Love

From Franklin D. Roosevelt to Thelma and Louise, the 1940s gave us some of the most famous political and social figures — and, in some cases, many of our favorite classic names. For expecting parents seeking a baby name that's timeless but not boring (or popular enough to rank in the top 10 most popular lists year after year), look no further than the decade of film noir, World War II, and swing music.

Keep scrolling for some adorable baby names we'd use today that are inspired by the 1940s.

Boys' Names From the 1940s

  1. Raymond
  2. Franklin
  3. Arthur
  4. Eugene
  5. Dale
  6. Ernest
  7. Marvin
  8. Leroy
  9. Warren
  10. Floyd
  11. Alvin
  12. Clyde
  13. Herman
  14. Dean
  15. Cecil
  16. Glenn
  17. Bernard
  18. Leon
  19. Vernon
  20. Manuel

Girls' Names From the 1940s

  1. Barbara
  2. Joyce
  3. Beverly
  4. Frances
  5. Rita
  6. Sylvia
  7. Dolores
  8. Lillian
  9. Florence
  10. Marion
  11. Virginia
  12. Pauline
  13. Thelma
  14. Gwendolyn
  15. Bobbie
  16. Louise
  17. Ruby
  18. Loretta
  19. Constance
  20. Annette