Proper Bostonian.

Brought into the spotlight by actor Mykelti Williamson, who was given it by his half-Blackfoot Indian grandfather

Biblical name -- he was an ancestor of Abraham's -- rarely used today but registered on the U.S. popularity list at the end of the 19th century. With the rise of other obscure Old Testament names, just might have a shot at revival.

One of the many names with a strong "er" sound, like Bertram and Ernest, that was huge in the 1920s and is languishing in style limbo now. One famous bearer is the physicist Erwin Schrödinger, as in Schrödinger's cat.

Frequently found in all three forms: Sadik, Sadiki, and Sadiq.

Deriving from the Sanskrit Mithra, Mitra is the Hindu god of the sun and of friendship. This transcription is unisex in Hindi, while in Persian, it is the feminine form.

An ancient name belonging to several medieval English clergymen, also spelt Leofwin or Leobwin.

When Matthew McConaughey and wife Camila Alves chose the old English surname and place name Livingston for their third child, they elevated it from half of a Stanley & Livingston joke to a modern possibility. Kind of. The only other well-known bearer of the name in the contemporary world is singer Livingston Taylor, brother of James, who is called Liv. Given that little Livingston McConaughey's older brother is named Levi, that uplifting nickname may be too close, though his parents apparently like its sound. An original choice.

Connolly, an alternate spelling of Connelly, could make a livelier and less common substitute for Connor.

Pal is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hungarian, it's equivalent to Paul, derived from Latin 'Paulus' meaning 'small' or 'humble.' In South Asian cultures, particularly India, Pal means 'protector' or 'caretaker.' The name also functions as a nickname for Paul or similar names in many Western countries. Short and straightforward, Pal is instantly recognizable and easy to pronounce across languages. While not currently ranking among popular baby names in most Western countries, it maintains steady usage in Hungary and parts of South Asia. The word's friendly associations in English (as in 'friend' or 'buddy') gives the name a warm, approachable quality. Its multicultural nature makes it appealing for families seeking a simple name with international versatility.

Sounds elven in every sense of the word.

Alvin, Melvin, Norvin -- most vin names, except maybe Kevin and Gavin -- are not vinners.

A pretty and delicate cousin of Anna is often heard in Scotland and is also currently popular in France. In the US it was brought to public attention by child actress Anissa Jones, who played Buffy on the popular TV show Family Affair, which debuted in 1966, bringing her name onto the charts the following year. Born Mary Anissa, her middle/stage name reflected her Lebanese heritage.

The fact that this is pronounced sah-FEE-yah would cause Western ears to hear it as Sophia.

One "bald" name we can get behind, thanks to pioneering African-American author James Baldwin – though the name is now also associated with the Baldwin brothers, particularly Alec.

Spelling a bit elaborate and confusing.

Oprah's almost mononymic first name is too closely tied to her personality (and brand) for us to recommend it as a baby name in good faith. Her surname, however, is definitely name-worthy. Winfrey works as a modern update to Whitney, with the added bonus of being associated with one of the most influential women of our time.

Might make a worthy masculine spin on either of the uber popular Emma or Emily.

This name's popularity peaked in the 1930s in the mid 600s - but we think it is time for a reconsideration. Arvin feels more modern than similar names like Marvin and Alvin. It also boasts a beautiful meaning and defies easy shortening (which is an asset to many parents who choose a name because they want it to be used!).

The surname of enterprising journalist Nellie Bly and poet Robert Bly makes a simple, modern, and upbeat sounding choice for either a boy or a girl.