Most parents looking for an ancient Roman name would probably prefer something less generic, like, say, MAGNUS or CLAUDIUS.

Dalmatius is a masculine name with ancient Roman origins, derived from the geographical region of Dalmatia along the Adriatic coast of present-day Croatia.

Balbo is more commonly seen as an Italian surname, but in the times of Milo, Otto, and Arlo, what's to stop parents from choosing this unusual name for their child. For aviation buffs comes the added interest of the term signifying the mass fly-by at the end of an airshow.

Ancient Italian martyr's name that's a rarity here and now.

Elvio is a barely-ever-used name that might just be a hidden gem. From the Latin family name Elvius, international bearers of the name include several footballers and the Paraguayan poet Elvio Romero. Parents today might see it as an alternative to more better-known Italianate names like Enzo and Elio.

Cute as a nickname, slight as a first.

Clementius is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'clemens' meaning 'merciful' or 'gentle.' It represents a rare, more elaborate form of the more common Clement, adding a distinctly Roman or classical flair with its '-ius' ending. This name has never been widespread in modern times but connects to historical usage, particularly within religious contexts, as several early popes and saints bore variations of the name. Clementius carries an air of classical gravitas and scholarly dignity. Those bearing this uncommon name might appreciate its distinctive character and rich etymological heritage. The name suggests qualities of compassion and kindness, along with connections to classical education and tradition.

Most things Jul-related – from the month of July to popular modern names Julia and Julian – originate with Roman emperor Julius Caesar, and the month name July is no exception. Fifteen girls and seven boys were named July in 2013, putting this month name into the class of gender neutral names.

Grandmas will remember the old TV detective show; playmates won't. This is a name that has many variations in different cultures, from Columbus to Columba to Colum to Colm.

Once a birth order name, now might work as a cool x-ending nickname. But be warned that it sounds very close to an unfortunate slang term.

This softer version of Adolf is sadly still off-limits due to the connotations with Hitler.

Marino is an Italian first and surname with distinct crossover possibilities, having pleasant seaside undertones, and is far more unusual in the U.S. than sister Marina.

Pacific is an adventurous kind of place-name, with the added bonus of the association with peace.

A potential hero name: Crispus Attucks, an African and Native American man, was the first colonist to die for independence in the Boston Massacre.

Phar-phetched.

A saint and surname often heard in Italy.

Dashing and highly unusual variation does the feminine original one better by sounding both more modern and more usable. Or you can spell it Monaco and call it a place name.

This Late Roman name is little-used in modern times, though the feminine forms Feline and Felina are popular in Europe. While some relate it to the happy-go-lucky Felix, it actually has a cat-like meaning. St. Felinus is a legendary third-century martyr.

Rarely heard in modern times, it was used by Norman Mailer for the hero of his book The Deer Park.