Daniel

Daniel is a perennial favorite. Though down from Number 8 to Number 10 this year, Daniel is one of only a handful of male names that sounds both classic and modern, strong yet approachable, and popular but not cliched, with a solid Old Testament pedigree. The only real downside: there are more than 15,000 Daniels named each year, making it a less than distinctive choice.

Daniel was popular in the days of Daniel Webster and Daniel Boone, and its appeal is international, from Ireland to Israel. It was the name of one of the greatest biblical heroes, with the inspiring story of the prophet whose faith protected him when he was thrown into a den of lions, yet does not seem as solemn and weighty as others like Abraham and Ezekiel. And its nicknames--Danny and Dan--make it sound even friendlier, though, as with other classics, many modern parents are opting to use the name in full.