Clancy, one of the original crossover Irish surname names, is as energetic and appealing as ever — full of moxie, more distinctive than Casey, and also one of the less obvious of the red-headed names.

This old short form might be seen as a little dubious by some, though it could make for a fun pet name, honor name, on update on the still-stodgy Roger.

Eamon is one of the traditional Irish names that has not yet emigrated to the US. This Irish name pronounced ay-mon was popularized by early president of the independent republic Eamon de Valera (birth name George), who was born in the United States to an Irish mother and a Cuban father. Eamon definitely has possibilities as a successor to the epidemically popular Aidan/Aiden.

Formerly in style limbo, Edric has recently started to see more use by parents. It could be because it sounds medieval yet accessible - which George R. R. Martin took advantage of for several characters - or because it's an offbeat alternative to the more popular Ed-names.

A slight elaboration on Forrest, with the same woodsy charm.

Ibsen is a literary hero name possibility, after the great Norwegian dramatist, Henrik I. The name Ib is a short form of Jacob, so you might consider Ibsen as an honorific for or a twin of a Jacob.

Macsen may sound like a modern invention, cousin to Jackson and Maxon, but it's a longtime Welsh variation of Maximus with evocative roots in legend. Macsen Wledig is another name for the Roman emperor Magnus Maximus, was played an important role in Welsh history and was further immortalized in a poem celebrating his dream about his lover Elen. Macsen also appears in Arthurian legend.

Meade is a masculine name with English origins, derived from an Old English surname meaning 'meadow' or referring to someone who lived near a meadow. Alternatively, it may have evolved from the occupation of a mead-maker, mead being a fermented honey drink with ancient origins. As a given name, Meade has remained relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality that appeals to parents seeking something traditional yet unique. The name carries a certain aristocratic air, perhaps influenced by historical figures like General George Meade who led Union forces at Gettysburg. Its short, strong sound conveys dignity and clarity, while its connection to meadows suggests natural beauty and openness. Though rare in contemporary use, Meade offers a refined alternative to more popular nature-inspired names.

The final s turns a nature name into a Waspy surname.

Unusual surname occasionally used as a first.

Roarke is a strong masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins, derived from the name Ruarc or O'Ruairc, meaning 'champion' or 'famous ruler.' This powerful name carries connotations of strength, leadership, and heroism. Roarke gained some recognition through fictional characters in literature and television, adding to its appeal as a distinctive yet accessible choice. The name has a bold, commanding sound with its strong 'r' consonants and decisive single syllable. While not among the most common names in popularity rankings, Roarke has maintained steady usage among parents seeking an Irish-influenced name with a contemporary feel and strong character associations.

This early Scottish title -- known to us via Shakespeare's Macbeth -- has recently surfaced as a baby name possibility, familiar sounding through its similarity to names like Zane and Wayne.

A familiar name in the Nordic countries that hasn't yet gained popularity in the English speaking world. But it could, now that Old Norse names like Thor and Odin are on the rise. It derives from Torbjörrn, which seems less likely to translate outside Scandinavia. But if you're looking for Danish names for a baby boy, Torben could be a choice that's both accessible and unusual.