Edward

Unlike perennials William, John and James, Edward is a classic that moves in and out of fashion. This royal Anglo-Saxon standard is now benefiting from the popularity of the hot hero of the vampire sensation Twilight, Edward Cullen, who has given his name a new infusion of sex appeal.

Edward was the name of several Saxon and eight English kings, and is the name of the youngest son of the current queen. It was an early arrival in the New World--there were several Edwards in the Jamestown colony and six on the Mayflower.

Youngish actors Edwards Norton, Burns and Furlong help keep the name's image fresh. Parents today are more likely to prefer nicknames Ted or Ned to the traditional Ed or Eddie--or, just as likely, to use the name in full.