Forgotten Vintage Gems For Modern Baby Boys

Short but substantial Nordic name that travels well -- although it runs the risk of being confused with all the feminine Jen names.

This short form of Jesse has an androgynous, cowperson feel. It's Jess rather than Jesse or Jessie that can be considered among the truly androgynous baby names

Kermit was a Top 500 name until the 1960s, not coincidentally the decade in which Kermit the Frog became well known, proving that it isn't easy being green, even for a name. But we think it's time for some of those appealing Sesame Street names--Kermit, Elmo, Grover--to be taken out of that context and be considered on their own.

Foppish name with a distinguished forebear, French general Marquis de Lafayette, who fought in the American Revolution. It accounts for the L in L. Ron Hubbard. Old-time short form: Fayette or Fate.

In one recent year there were 60 baby girls in the US named Lark....and only eight baby boys. But there's no reason this bird name can't also be masculine, especially given that Robin is making a comeback for boys and Sparrow is a notable starbaby boy (he's Nicole Richie and Joel Madden's son).

For older generations this still summons silent horror star Chaney; for others it's a pleasant if slight nickname name.

As heavy as a marble bust of Beethoven.

Almost as passé as Hyman.

Old-man name, soft as a fraying gray cashmere cardigan, that would be even cuter for a girl.

When ordering a baby name, hold the mayo.

Originally a nickname for someone who loved to sing or whistle, Merle is even less masculine than Meredith.

If you're looking for a presidential first name, keep looking.

Feels akin to Brooks and Rivers, two other boys' names that double as plural nouns. It's been used as a first name for centuries, including by a two time governor of Virginia.