College Baby Names

Kenyon is a very engaging British surname name, the middle y giving it a kind of southwestern canyonesque undertone.

Barnard is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from the elements 'bern' meaning 'bear' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong,' thus translating to 'brave as a bear' or 'strong bear.' While less common than its variant Bernard, Barnard has historical usage particularly in English-speaking countries. The name appears in medieval records and continues as both a given name and surname. Barnard College in New York (named after Frederick Barnard) has helped maintain recognition of the name. Though never reaching tremendous popularity as a first name, Barnard conveys qualities of strength and courage. It peaked in usage during the early 20th century and carries a dignified, somewhat scholarly connotation in contemporary contexts.

Can be used as a middle name to honor Dad or Grandpa David.

Carleton has a great meaning behind it, and should really have more popularity than it has found to date. You can shorten it to Carl or keep it upscale and formal in the longer form. Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Carlton Fisk lends the name some sporty credentials, while American artist Carleton Wiggins confirms this name's Victorian earnestness.

Lesley as a masculine name derives from Scottish habitational surname origins, combining elements meaning "garden of holly" or "holly meadow." Though now more commonly used for girls in the United States, Lesley has a long tradition as a boy's name in Scotland and England. The masculine usage remains more prevalent in the UK, while Americans often prefer the spelling "Leslie" for boys.

While it may sound a little dated, Lamar is a name that has never been outside the US Top 1000, but it is in danger of falling off the list.

In British slang, a "prat" is an idiot -- enough said.

This Macallister variation is strongly associted with Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Unless it's your alma mater, it might be wise to stick with the original.