Relaxed western place-name that still has some masculine punch, but be warned: this whole posse of similarly trendy names, like Sierra and Dakota, will soon ride toward the sunset.

Bridges is one of the new last names as first names ending in S that are so fashionable right now, joining Brooks, Wells, and Banks.

Sounds a bit like a nickname in a Dickens novel, but this short form was used in New England a few centuries ago, back when names like Micajah were popular. Both short and long forms are now ripe for revival.

Sharp and preppy.

Calm, straightforward, patrician sounding: Pace is one new-style name that's well-grounded.

Modern way to honor an ancestral Hugh.

Retro nickname for Charles that has the potential for revival, a la Hal, Ike, and Gus.

Cowboyish occupational name that's one of the hottest choices below the Top 1000, increasing in rank more than 5000 places since the year 2000. Roper may not be a unique choice much longer.

You don't need to choose the longer form of this unusual name to arrive at Cabe, brother of Gabe and Abe. This earthy, unusual, friendly nickname-name was given to a handful of boys last year and can make an intriguing choice. But be warned: It will forever be mistaken, at least at first hearing, for the more familiar Gabe.

Santana was most recently heard on a female character on hit television show Glee. Nonetheless, this name ranks higher for boys, which can be credited to Grammy Award-winning musician Carlos Santana.

The jazziest nickname for Charles.

Tillman is a strong masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from the occupational surname meaning 'farmer' or literally 'one who works the land' (from Middle High German 'til' meaning field and 'man' meaning person). This name reflects agricultural heritage and a connection to the earth, embodying values of hard work and perseverance. Historically common in Germanic countries and later among American settlers, Tillman carries a rustic charm and steady reliability in its sound. While never reaching top popularity charts, it has maintained consistent usage, particularly in the American South. Parents might choose Tillman for its solid, traditional feel and subtle nod to farming ancestry, appreciating its distinctive quality without being too unusual.

Soft and mellifluous nature-surname name, situated miles away from the dated Marshall.

While still rare, this compound name for boys jumped nearly 3000 places in rank last year, perhaps thanks to its cowboy-core vibe and its bad boy image.

Frisco is a frisky, roguish semi-place-name (San Francisco natives never call it that) that could make a lively, unusual o-ending choice.

Cowboy swagger via the non-cowboy flick "The Guns of Navarone," chosen by Priscilla Presley.

This cowboy-ish surname has an equine connection — Larimer originally denoted someone who made and sold spur bits, along with other hardware needed for riding horses.

This US state name has been rising slowly but steadily for girls over the last 30 years, but à la Dakota, it could easily be a male name too.

Grange is an uncommon masculine name with English origins, derived from an Old French word meaning 'granary' or 'farm.' Initially a surname or place name describing someone who lived near or worked at a granary, Grange has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage. The name carries rustic, earthy connotations, evoking images of pastoral landscapes and agricultural heritage. It has a strong, single-syllable structure that gives it a certain solidity and straightforwardness. While rare as a first name, Grange offers a distinctive option for parents seeking something unique with historical roots. The name's connection to farming and land management gives it a grounded quality that resonates with values of productivity, sustainability, and connection to the earth.