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ArchivesExplanations for huge drops in popularity
We all know there are reasons for large popularity rises in names (often influenced by celebrities). But I'm trying to find an explanation for drastic falls in names (such as the name Kenia falling 221 places in 2013.) Why do some names fall by such a large amount of places on the chart? Is it because of negative publicity a celebrity with the name might get (such as the names Miley and Rihanna, which have been falling fast recently)? Or could there be other reasons for it?
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The most common explanation for a huge drop is just "one hit wonder": A name got popular (e.g., because of a song or a TV show) in one year and forgotten in the next. The exception to this rule is the name Hilary (for girls). Recommended reading is this essay by Hilary Parker:
http://hilaryparker.com/2013/01/30/hilary-the-most-poisoned-baby-name-in-us-history/
http://hilaryparker.com/2013/01/30/hilary-the-most-poisoned-baby-name-in-us-history/
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Besides infamy, you would have to look at what made a name popular in the first place. When that source is no longer in the public eye, it basically becomes forgotten (except by diehard fans).
As names ascend in popularity, this necessarily forces others down on the list. Besides individual names, there are groups of similar sounding names that may ascend or descend, as well (in a euphonic naming society).
As names ascend in popularity, this necessarily forces others down on the list. Besides individual names, there are groups of similar sounding names that may ascend or descend, as well (in a euphonic naming society).
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