Donelson is a masculine name with Scottish and English origins, historically used as a surname meaning 'son of Donald.' Donald itself derives from the Gaelic elements 'dubh' meaning 'dark' and 'val' meaning 'ruler,' so Donelson essentially means 'son of the dark ruler.' The name carries a distinguished, traditional quality with its classic 'son' suffix pattern common in Scandinavian and Scottish naming traditions. As a given name, Donelson remains quite rare, making it a distinctive choice. It may appeal to families with Scottish heritage or those looking to honor an ancestor named Donald while using a less common variation. The name also has historical significance in American place names, including Donelson, Tennessee.

Stevenson is a masculine name that originated as a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Steven' or 'son of Stephen.' The root name Stephen derives from the Greek 'Stephanos,' meaning 'crown' or 'garland,' symbolizing honor and achievement. While primarily known as a family name, Stevenson has occasionally been used as a first name, offering a distinguished and somewhat formal alternative to the more common Steven or Stephen. The name carries literary associations through renowned author Robert Louis Stevenson. As a given name, Stevenson projects confidence and intellectual depth, while acknowledging familial heritage. Its relative rarity as a first name makes it distinctive, though it maintains familiar roots that connect it to the widely recognized Stephen family of names.

Dowson is a masculine name that originated as an English surname, derived from a patronymic meaning 'son of Dow' (with Dow being a medieval diminutive of names like David). As a first name, Dowson is quite uncommon, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options with traditional roots. The name has a strong, dignified quality with its two-syllable structure and solid consonant sounds. Dowson shares similarities with more common surname-turned-first-names like Dawson and Downey, but maintains its own unique character. The name conveys a sense of heritage and stability, fitting well with contemporary trends favoring surnames as first names while remaining relatively undiscovered. For families looking to honor ancestors with the surname or seeking something both traditional and unusual, Dowson offers an intriguing option.

Stylish surname way to go if you want to name a girl after a James, and is more substantial than the passé Jamie; it was chosen for their daughter by Chynna Phillips and Billy Baldwin.