Charles

Charles is a longtime traditional favorite that was in the Top 10 until the 1960s. Lately Charles has been resuscitated by many celeb parents, from Jodie Foster to Russell Crowe, honoring a distinguished history dating back to the emperor Charlemagne -- the original Charles the Great.

Charles has been so well used for so long that it is virtually faceless--it can conjure up anyone from Dickens to Chaplin to Bronson. It has been an elegant royal name--designating both Bonnie Prince Charlie, leader of a 1745 rebellion, and the present Prince of Wales, as well as kings of France, Spain, England, Portugal and Hungary.

Nickname Charlie (and Charley) has taken on a life of its own and is now a popular choice for both sexes. And though Chuck is now virtually gone, Chaz/Chazz is becoming a nickname of choice.

Among the well used international versions of Charles: Carl, Carlo, Carlos, Karel, Xarles, Charlot and Siarl.