lesliemarion's list "My Top  Male Names" of 20 great name ideas: Gershwin - Ichabod!

My Top  Male Names

The adopted surname of iconic songwriting brothers George and Ira (born Gershovitz) might make a nice musical middle name.

Gershwin

Sometimes heard as a first name in Scotland, particularly among the Campbell clan. 

Gillespie

This appealing Italian name is associated with the great Florentine painter and architect Giotto di Bondone, a major force in the Italian Renaissance.

Giotto

William Gladstone was one of the most consequential British politicians of the 19th century, serving four separate terms as Prime Minister between 1868 and 1894. Most of the various towns, parks and so forth around the world are named after him.

Gladstone

An undiscovered place-name with an appealing o-sound ending. 

Glasgow

A surname style choice with a gentle yet rugged feel. 

Glenwood

Gordy is a masculine name typically functioning as a diminutive of Gordon, which derives from a Scottish surname meaning 'spacious fort' or 'round hill fort.' The name carries a friendly, approachable quality with its -y ending, giving it a perpetually youthful feel. Gordy gained some recognition through association with Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, and occasionally appears as an independent given name rather than just a nickname. Popular primarily in English-speaking countries, especially Scotland, England, and parts of the United States, Gordy has never been among the most common names but maintains steady, modest usage. The name conveys warmth, informality, and a certain unpretentious charm.

Gordy

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.

Grange

Grayling is an uncommon masculine name with English origins, derived from nature. The name refers to the grayling, a type of freshwater fish found in clear streams and known for its distinctive dorsal fin and silvery-gray coloration. As a given name, Grayling belongs to the category of modern nature-inspired names, similar to River, Brook, or Trout. The suffix "-ling" historically denotes something small or young, adding a gentle quality to the name. Grayling has never achieved widespread popularity as a first name, making it a truly distinctive choice. It appeals to parents seeking an uncommon nature name with a subtle sophistication and connection to wilderness and flowing waters.

Grayling

If you find Grover too fusty and furry, this is a much cooler-sounding alternative. 

Grove

The Welsh version of William is almost unheard-of across, but it's fairly straightforward and could make a good heritage choice or alternative honor name.

Gwilym

Garland

Glendale

If you want to honor your grandfather Hal but can't work up much enthusiasm for his full name Harold, consider the more stylish (if a bit pretentious) capital of Nova Scotia. 

Halifax

In Cool Names, we cite this as an "Artist Name," for twentieth-century abstract painter Grace Hartigan, though for you it may just be an upbeat Irish surname. 

Hartigan

Herb is a masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' Primarily used in English-speaking countries, Herb peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that reflects its association with everyday herbs and plants, despite its martial etymological origins. Herb gained cultural recognition through notable bearers like American bandleader Herb Alpert and basketball player Herb Williams. While rarely given as a formal name to newborns today, it retains a warm, vintage charm that evokes the mid-century era. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it an accessible, down-to-earth character.

Herb

Possible middle name for devotees of detective Sherlock...or the actress Katie.

Holmes

Harvest

Hebrides

Ichabod, an eccentric Old Testament name, is forever tied to the character of Ichabod Crane -- and worse, the teasing possibilities of "icky bod."  Even its original meaning is a negative.  Skip Ichabod, as if you were ever tempted.