Dog Names That Mean Protector

Sanders is one of the S-ending surnames gaining traction as a first name for boys in the US. It jumped nearly 2000 points in popularity this year.

Distinctive-sounding Scandinavian name. with deep roots. Short form is the attractive Jari.

The initial X is pronounced like a Z. Confusing? Potentially. But there are enough Alexandras and Xanders through the Western World these days that this spelling wouldn't seem outlandish.

Sleek modern short form of a classic Scandinavian name.

If you want to go waaaaay beyond William, consider this Welsh form, which can also be spelled Gwilym, Gwilim, or Gwillym.

Another appealing member of the Alexandrian clan.

Eastman is a solid, old-style Atlantic seaboard surname. But as a first name, we think Easton works better.

Removing one letter from the somewhat intimidating Alexios gives you Alexio, a charming and more accessible variation.

Lighter Latin version of Anselm.

Yiddish form of Alexander.

With Yale and Brown in the mainstream, why not this upscale college name and surname as well.

Short form of Bronisława, usually spelt Bronia in Poland.

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

The range of occupational baby names is ever expanding, and Ranger is a recent addition to the list. It feels both natural—reminiscent of park rangers—and western and rugged, as in the Lone Ranger. If you're making a choice between Ranger and Danger, we suggest the less aggressive former. Plus, this one gives you the option of nicknames Rae, Rayne, and Rainey too, and ties to various sports teams and Dungeons and Dragons. Currently given to more than 100 boys in each recent year, it has yet to chart for girls, but this could change in the future.

Name of one of the three main Hindu gods.

Tenzan is a variation of Tenzin, a name with special significance for Buddhists, being the first name of the Dalai Lama.

Richmond is a place-name — it's the capital of Virginia, US, and a town in London, UK — that makes a fresh way to honor an ancestral Richard.

This spin on the "Alex" prefix was the 88th most popular girl name in Scotland in 1900.