Ultimate Old Fashioned, Classic Names
- Claus
Origin:
Scandinavian and German variation of NicolasDescription:
A very Christmas-y Christmas baby name, that may avoid the Santa image by instead adopting the alternative spelling Klaus.
- Bertram
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"bright raven"Description:
Last in fashion in the 1930s, Bertram might once have been firmly in the best left in the past category, but with sweet nickname Bertie and the cool option of Bram, Bertram might just be one to reconsider. Fitting in with other clunky vintage options like Chester, Sidney, Abram, Ebenenzer, and Wilfred, Bertram is a literary option, appearing as the full first name of P.G. Wodehouse's inimitable Bertie Wooster and on a character in Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well.
- Griffith
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"strong lord"Description:
A classic Welsh name, softer than Griffin and friendlier to spell than Gruffudd - that hasn't had as much love as it deserves elsewhere. Namesakes range from medieval kings to the philanthropist Griffith J. Griffith, who left land to the city of Los Angeles. It's great in full, but Griff is cool too.
- Sigmund
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"victorious protection"Description:
The connection to Freud is a strong one, but this German name has a strong and interesting sound and great nickname potential: Ziggy, Iggy, Sim, Sid...
- Hyrum
Description:
Hyrum is a distinctive masculine name with Mormon heritage, most famously associated with Hyrum Smith, the older brother of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The name is a variant of Hiram, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'exalted brother' or 'my brother is exalted.' Due to the significant role Hyrum Smith played in early Mormon history, the name has maintained steady popularity among Latter-day Saint communities, particularly in Utah and Idaho. Outside these communities, it remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. Hyrum combines historical gravitas with biblical connections, making it meaningful for families valuing religious heritage while seeking a name that stands apart from more common biblical choices.
- Barnabus
Description:
Barnabus is a variant spelling of Barnabas, a name of Aramaic origin meaning 'son of consolation' or 'son of encouragement.' The name appears in the Christian New Testament, belonging to an early Christian disciple known for his missionary work with Paul. This biblical connection has made the name enduring across centuries, particularly in religious communities. The variation with 'u' instead of 'a' in the final syllable emerged through spelling evolution over time. Barnabus carries connotations of kindness, generosity, and supportive nature, reflecting the character of its biblical namesake. Despite its ancient roots, the name has never been extremely common, maintaining a dignified, scholarly air while avoiding overuse. It offers a substantial historical option with a distinctive sound.
- Brigham
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"little village near the bridge"Description:
A distinguished sounding place and surname borne by religious leader Brigham Young, second president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Barton
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"from the barley settlement"Description:
More user-friendly, though less substantial, than Bartholomew.
- Dilbert
Description:
Dilbert is a masculine name of Germanic origin, combining elements meaning 'brilliant' and 'bright.' While historically a legitimate given name, it gained significant cultural recognition through Scott Adams' comic strip featuring the office worker Dilbert, which has influenced modern perceptions of the name. Before this association, Dilbert was simply an uncommon variation of names like Delbert or Gilbert. The name has a distinctive, somewhat quirky quality that sets it apart from more conventional options. Despite its authentic origins and pleasant meaning, the comic strip connection may give the name humorous or nerdy associations for many people. Dilbert offers the friendly nicknames Dil or Bert.
- Blythe
- Hester