This choice feels more familiar than other hall-related English surnames, thanks to designer Halston, the single-named disco-era society playmate of Liza and Elton.

Herbie is a diminutive form of Herbert, a Germanic name combining 'hari' (army) and 'berht' (bright), meaning 'bright warrior' or 'illustrious soldier.' Popularized in the mid-20th century, Herbie gained notable recognition through jazz musician Herbie Hancock and the fictional Volkswagen Beetle in Disney's 'The Love Bug' films. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with a vintage charm that evokes mid-century Americana. Though its popularity has declined since its peak in the 1950s and 60s, Herbie retains nostalgic appeal as a nickname. It exemplifies the trend of shortened, affectionate forms that became independently used given names in their own right.

Once upon a time, in the 1930s, Huey (yes, just Huey) was a Top 250 name. Could the 100-Year Rule bring it back?

The "To Be or Not to Be" jokes, via Shakespeare's tortured prince, will get old by Month Two.

Smart and sharp but with a touch of heart and charm, Hartley is a surname style name that could work as an alternative to Harley, Harvey, Artie, or Harry. Quietly used as a masculine name throughout the 20th century, the arrival of two celebrity-baby girl Hartleys in 2010 has meant the name has been used as a predominantly feminine one in recent years. However, since 2020, Hartley has doubled in use for boys too, and was give to a modest 30 in 2023. .

Feels as if it's missing a syllable.

Hamza was the legendary uncle of the Prophet Muhammad, hero of The Hamzanama, the Story of Hamza.

Unless it runs in your family, or Alexander Hamilton is your particular hero, you might consider something less imposing -- and without the teasable nickname Ham. Scottish curler Hamilton McMillan Jr pulls it off though, with nickname Hammy.

With Brooklyn, Trenton, and Camden on the rise, Harlem is one to watch out for. It has lingered down the lower end of the US Top 1000 since 2018 but has been trending upwards. It's already been picked by one celebrity, and it certainly has a stronger historical and cultural identity -- and it could work as an alternative to Harvey or Harley.

All varieties of Hob are antiquated nicknames for Robert, though this one has the "Calvin and Hobbes" cartoon association too. It may also be linked to philosopher Thomas Hobbes, giving it a more refined feel.

Though the mythological Hero was female, this name might prove too big a responsibility for a little guy to shoulder.

Huntley was best known as Brinkley's fellow news anchor back in the 60s and 70s, while in the UK, it might still be linked to a high profile murder case. Nevertheless, this surname style choice feels tough, trendy, preppy, and outdoorsy at the same time and may fit in with the likes of Hunter, Wesley, and Bentley.

Hardy is a spirited and durable un-Germanic German surname that is starting to be used in this country.

Trippy variation on Hayes, popular enough to have been given to 135 baby boys in the US last year.

Thunderous name with Native American origins.

Possible middle name for devotees of detective Sherlock...or the actress Katie.

No matter how much you love the novels of Papa H., don't saddle your son with this unwieldy appellation.

Familiar via Harry, but much more worldly.

Herb is a masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' Primarily used in English-speaking countries, Herb peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that reflects its association with everyday herbs and plants, despite its martial etymological origins. Herb gained cultural recognition through notable bearers like American bandleader Herb Alpert and basketball player Herb Williams. While rarely given as a formal name to newborns today, it retains a warm, vintage charm that evokes the mid-century era. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it an accessible, down-to-earth character.

A viable choice that may be growing on your family tree. Hartman Turnbow was a part of Mississippi's "First Fourteen", the first group of African Americans who attempted to register to vote in the state.