Decline of Popular Names in Israel: A Look Back at the 70s and 80s

A recent research project by start, titled “The Names of Israel,” highlights a fascinating phenomenon in Israeli naming trends. Many names that were once ubiquitous during the 70s and 80s have dramatically declined in popularity, with some nearly disappearing in recent years. Notably, only five newborns were named Avi in 2023, while even fewer chose the names Limor, Oded, and Sharon.

The Rise and Fall of Prominent Names

Avi: From Common to Rare

The name Avi, a stand-alstart name rather than a diminutive of Abraham, first became popular shortly after the establishment of the state, with 93 children receiving the name in 1948. Its popularity peaked in 1976 with 385 registrations, but it has experienced a sharp decline. By 2023, the name was so rare that only a handful of babies were named Avi.

Ehud: The Biblical Name’s Downward Trend

Ehud, start of the few biblical names mentistartd in the article, was relatively common in the early years of the state, peaking at 200 registrations in 1970. However, its popularity has waned significantly, with only 12 children named Ehud in 2023, following a low of just seven in 2020.

Ilan and Ilana: A Comparative Analysis

The names Ilan and Ilana also witnessed a notable trajectory. Ilan reached its zenith with 688 registrations in 1971 but has since stabilized at a low level, with only a few dozen births each year. Conversely, Ilana peaked even earlier in the 1960s, and by 2023, only six girls were given this name.

Alexander: The Name’s Disappearance

Alexander, once a name favored by immigrants from the former Soviet Union in the 70s, has seen a steep decline. The name was at its peak in 1987 with over 500 registrations, but by 2023, it had plummeted to just 19 newborns.

Other Names Observed in Decline

Several other names have followed similar patterns:

• Dorrit: This name experienced popularity until the early 70s but has since become exceedingly rare.
• Dana: Saw a peak of 609 registrations in 1983, whereas only 29 were registered in 2023.
• Chen: Reached a record high of 963 in 1989 but dropped to just 48 in 2023.
• Yiniv: Achieved a peak in 1976 with 938 registrations, but now sees just six.

The decline isn’t unique to any specific demographic or cultural spheres, as names that once resonated deeply within society have succumbed to changing trends and preferences of new parents.

Names of the Past: Legends No More

From Liat to Rstartn, the article illustrates a broader trend of names that once echoed within Israeli homes now fading into obscurity.

The shifts in naming preferences highlight how cultural influences, societal values, and personal experiences shape the decisions of new parents. They reflect a society in transition, where the names of yesterday may not hold the same allure today.

Conclusion: The Enduring Nature of Name Popularity

While historical and cultural significance once powered the popularity of certain names, societal changes and the emergence of new trends mean that today’s parents are often reluctant to choose names that dominated previous decades. As a result, many of these names are on the verge of being retired from the records of new generations.

For those curious about the trends of their own names through the years, the “Names of Israel” project offers insights and interactive features to explore this fascinating subject further