1450+ English Names (with Meanings & Popularity)

Rugged and straightforward brand-new name, though you might not like the idea of branding your son.

A dated fifties surname name that led to the nickname SAndy.

Brooke variation – or is the other way around? – that makes it more a nature name, less an eighties-style androgynous name.

Set apart from other once-male-only surnames because of its peaceful element. This is one of the newest and trendiest names that mean peace.

In 2014, six little girls in the US were given the name Starlit. Starlit has a sweeter meaning than the similar Starlet, and a better ring than Starlight.

The Brits say BARK-lee, but we pronounce it the same as the name of the California college: either way it's quite pretentious and of another era.

Cooper would be a more engaging C-starting occupational choice.

See TRICIA.

A rare place name and surname, with possible potential as an alternative to Jaxon. Famous wearers of the surname include biologist brothers Charles Edward and Walter Faxon, and composer Nancy Plummer Faxon.

Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.

See TERRY.

Haitian-born rap superstar and humanitarian Wyclef ("Fugees") Jean has lent this name a powerful musical beat.

Stuffy presidential choice: consider Hayes instead.

This British river name sounds sleek and strong but perhaps a bit too energetic.

One of the bird names that's more appropriate for a boy, though it works for a girl too.

Hip new middle-name choice, conjuring up the gothic tales of Edgar Allan, and current single-named pop singer Poe. As a first name, it's radically underused, given last year in the US to only five baby boys and no baby girls.

One of the more imposing and intriguing of the combo names.

Just the kind of old-fashioned nickname coming back into style.

Many virtue names have long been in style or have seen a resurgence in recent years. Happy, however joyous, seems unlikely to join this trend. This could be because it doesn't have a solid history of being popularly used (in comparison to Joy or Hope) and because it's such a familiarly used word in day to day life (unlike Verity or Felicity).

Double whammy: the expression "Seward's folly" and inevitable sewer jokes.