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Ultimate Old Fashioned, Classic Names

  1. Abraham

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"

    • Description:

      Abraham is among the most classic baby names that's still widely-used today, popular for its references to both the Bible and American history. The Biblical Abraham was the first of the Old Testament patriarchs and is considered the founding father of the Jewish people. He was originally named Abram, until, according to Genesis, he was told, "No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations."
  2. Abram

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"

    • Description:

      Abram was Abraham's original name in the Bible; it's more user-friendly but with a bit less gravitas. And it does offer that cool nickname Bram, as well as the friendly Abe. After some early American usage, in 1936 Abram completely disappeared for nearly forty years, until its return in the 1970s.
  3. Albert

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "noble, bright"

    • Description:

      Albert has acquired a new gloss as one of the top royal baby boy names, a considerable upgrade from its serious, studious image (think Einstein, Schweitzer).
  4. Alexander

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "defending men"

    • Description:

      Alexander has been in a Top 25 boys' name in the US for 30 years now. But namers are still attracted to its imposing historic pedigree.
  5. Alfred

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "wise counselor; elf counsel"

    • Description:

      Alfred is up off his recliner! If you're looking for a path to Fred, you can go directly to Frederick or take the long way around with the so-out-it's-in-again Alfred. Alfred is quite popular in several European countries, especially England and Wales, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
  6. Alvin

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "noble friend, friend of the elves"

    • Description:

      Alvin has a sturdy, no-frills sound that belies its somewhat whimsical meaning. Interesting potential namesakes include British rocker Alvin Stardust, and US footballer Alvin Williams, and African-American dance legend (and activist) Alvin Ailey.
  7. Amos

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "carried by God"

    • Description:

      Amos is a robust biblical name that's being discovered by a new generation of parents in a major way.
  8. Angus

    • Origin:

      Anglicized form of Aonghus, Aonghas, Gaelic

    • Meaning:

      "one strength"

    • Description:

      Angus is a traditional yet stylish choice in the UK, especially in Scotland. And it's a cool choice for US parents too, particularly those whose roots go back to Glasgow. The ancient Celtic form Oenghus has important historical overtones in Scotland, and the Gaelic form Aonghas is associated with two distinguished modern poets. In Irish folklore, Angus Og is a chieftain-lord who used his magical powers for the pleasure and prosperity of mankind--and in Irish myth, Aonghus was the god of love and youth.
  9. Archibald

    • Origin:

      Scottish from German

    • Meaning:

      "truly brave"

    • Description:

      The short form Archie is so open and friendly --and very trendy in the British Isles--that some parents are now beginning to consider the formerly fusty Archibald as well. SNL comedians Amy Poehler and Will Arnett are one couple who made this breakthrough choice.
  10. Arlie

    • Description:

      Arlie is a unisex name of Old English origin, though traditionally more common for males. It derives from the English surname that referred to someone who lived in a clearing among alders (a type of tree). Alternatively, it may be a diminutive of the Germanic name Arnold, meaning 'eagle power.' Popular during the early 1900s in America, Arlie saw modest usage before declining through the mid-century. The name has experienced a small revival in recent decades as parents seek vintage names with a friendly, approachable quality. With its short, crisp sound and rural associations, Arlie projects a down-to-earth, unpretentious character. The name's folksy charm and simplicity have contributed to its continued, if limited, use in contemporary naming, particularly in rural communities.
  11. Arlo

    • Origin:

      Irish or English

    • Meaning:

      "between two hills"

    • Description:

      Quirky cool Arlo is now well and truly back. Last year it broke into the US Top 200 boy names and consistently ranks among the most popular boy names on Nameberry.
  12. Arnold

    • Origin:

      English from German

    • Meaning:

      "ruler, strong as an eagle"

    • Description:

      Strange as it may now seem, the venerable St. Arnold was a Greek by birth, a musician who became a member of the court of Charlemagne. The name is said to have been introduced into Britain by the Normans in the form Arnaud.
  13. Arthur

    • Origin:

      Celtic

    • Meaning:

      " bear"

    • Description:

      Arthur, once the shining head of the Knights of the Round Table, is, after decades of neglect, now being polished up and restored by stylish parents, inspired perhaps by the new generation of royals. Arthur has led the list of possible names for the young British princes, chosen as a middle name for Prince Louis, son of William and Catherine, Prince and Princess of Wales.
  14. Augustus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "great, magnificent"

    • Description:

      Parents are beginning to look at imposing, somewhat fusty-sounding names like this one with fresh eyes: they definitely make a strong statement.
  15. 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.

  16. Barnaby

    • Origin:

      English variation of Barnabas, Aramaic

    • Meaning:

      "son of consolation"

    • Description:

      Barnaby, a genial and energetic name with an Irish-sounding three-syllable lilt, is an ancient appellation that manages to be both unusual and highly attractive and deserves to be used more than it is. A sweet-spot name that's a real winner.
  17. Barney

    • Origin:

      Variation of Barnabas

    • Meaning:

      "son of comfort"

    • Description:

      The name Barney is hot among hip Londoners and it has been above the Top 500 in the UK since 2012. You can see why - it's got a friendly happy sound and a lovely meaning and is more easily worn than Barnabas. However, Barney is a more difficult sell in America, due to Barney the Dinosaur and Barney Gumble, the loveable lout from The Simpsons. In the positive column for Barney are jazz clarinetist Barney Bigard and guitarist Barney Kessel. For those who love the name but can't get past the dinosaur, may we suggest the related names Bernard or Barnaby?
  18. Bartholomew

    • Origin:

      Aramaic

    • Meaning:

      "son of the furrow"

    • Description:

      Bartholomew is an apostle's name that's been out of favor for centuries but might appeal again to the parent in search of an old but rare choice. The challenge could be to avoid the Simpson-ish nickname. That character, by the way, has the full name of Bartholomew JoJo Simpson, and creator Matt Groening came up with Bart as an--uh oh--anagram for brat. Two old alternate nicknames are Barty and Tolly.
  19. Barton

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "from the barley settlement"

    • Description:

      More user-friendly, though less substantial, than Bartholomew.
  20. Benedict

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "blessed"

    • Description:

      Parents who like Ben and Benjamin but find those forms too popular sometimes consider Benedict as a more distinctive choice. Unlike the Old Testament Benjamin, Benedict is the name of the saint who formed the Benedictine Order and of fifteen popes,including a recent one.
  21. Bernard

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "strong, brave as a bear"

    • Description:

      Bernard is obviously a saint's name, but how did it get to the big, benevolent dog? The eleventh century monk, patron saint of mountain climbers, who lived in the Alps, was famed for setting up safe houses for pilgrims on their way to Rome over the treacherous St. Bernard Pass, and the canine breed, also used to rescue people in treacherous conditions, was named for him.
  22. Bertram

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "bright raven"

    • Description:

      Old Norman name last current in the 1930s, and firmly in our 'so far out it will always be out' category – despite its appearance as a Hogwarts student in Harry Potter. This is the full first name of P.G. Wodehouse's inimitable Bertie Wooster.
  23. Boris

    • Origin:

      Slavic

    • Meaning:

      "to fight"

    • Description:

      Boris is one of the old Russian names being revived by chic Europeans; it hasn't quite made a comeback yet in the U.S., but it does have potential.
  24. Brigham

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  25. Bruce

    • Origin:

      Scottish and English from French

    • Meaning:

      "from the brushwood thicket"

    • Description:

      Bruce is a Norman place name made famous by the Scottish king Robert the Bruce, who won Scotland's independence from England in the fourteenth century. It's perennially popular in Scotland, but has been rarely used here for a generation -- though the impact of Bruces Lee, Springsteen, Dern and Willis, as well as Batman's Bruce Wayne -- still lingers. At one time Bruce was so widespread in Australia, it became a nickname for any Ozzie man. An interesting alternative is Brix, the Normandy place name where the Bruce family originated.
  26. Blythe
    • Casper

      • Origin:

        Dutch form of Jasper, Persian

      • Meaning:

        "bringer of treasure"

      • Description:

        This ancient name, also spelled Caspar, is finally shedding its ghostly image and moving into the 21st century. Popular in the Netherlands and Scandinavia, where it's sometimes shortened to Cas, Casper could ride the style coattails of cousin Jasper.
    • Cecil

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "blind"

      • Description:

        Once a powerful Roman clan name, Cecil has lost much of its potency over the years, though it retains a strong presence in the sports and jazz worlds. Past bearers include film giant Cecil B. DeMille, poet Cecil Day Lewis, father of Daniel, and photographer Cecil Beaton. Fictional Cecils appear in Oscar Wilde's play, Lady Windemere's Fan, E. M. Foster's A Room With a View and the film Lee Daniel's The Butler.
    • Cedric

      • Origin:

        Celtic

      • Meaning:

        "bounty"

      • Description:

        Cedric was invented by Sir Walter Scott for the noble character of the hero's father in Ivanhoe, presumed to be an altered form of the Saxon name Cerdic. The name was later also given to Little Lord Fauntleroy, the long-haired, velvet-suited, and lace-collared boy hero of the Frances Hodgson Burnett book, who became an unwitting symbol of the pampered mama's boy.
    • Charles

      • Origin:

        French from German

      • Meaning:

        "free man"

      • Description:

        Charles derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning "man" or "free man", and is a royal name in multiple European countries. A famous early bearer is Charlemagne, King of the Franks and Lombards and then Roman Emperor in the 8th-9th centuries.
    • Clarence

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "bright"

      • Description:

        The name of the guardian angel in It's a Wonderful Life is rarely heard the rest of the year because of its studious, near-nerdy image, but this could change in the current naming climate.
    • Clark

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "scribe, secretary, cleric, scholar, clerk"

      • Description:

        Clark seemed to have been Gone with the Wind, but parents looking for a short, strong boy's name are now beginning to appreciate its cool combination of Gable charm with Superman power.
    • Claude

      • Origin:

        French from Latin

      • Meaning:

        "lame; enclosure"

      • Description:

        Claude is a soft-spoken French name that conjures up the pastel colors of Monet and harmonies of Debussy. In France, it is used for girls as well, in fact in the Tracy Chevalier novel Lady and the Unicorn, the protagonist is a female Claude.
    • Claus

      • Origin:

        Scandinavian and German variation of Nicolas

      • Description:

        A very Christmas-y Christmas baby name, that may avoid the Santa image by instead adopting the alternative spelling Klaus.
    • Collin

      • Origin:

        Variation of Colin and Collins

      • Description:

        Thanks to its dashing British image and c-initialed two-syllable sound, Colin/Collin has enjoyed a long run of popularity.
    • Conan

      • Origin:

        Irish

      • Meaning:

        "little wolf"

      • Description:

        The fierce image of the Barbarian made a complete turnaround thanks to amiable talk show host O'Brien, making Conan one of the newly desirable Irish choices, a perfect alternative to Conor/Connor.
    • Conrad

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "brave counsel"

      • Description:

        Conrad has a somewhat intellectual masculine image, a solid name that has been consistently on the popularity lists, especially well used in the 1920s and 30s, and given a pop of rock energy by the Elvis-like character of Conrad Birdie in Bye, Bye, Birdie--("We love you Conrad, oh yes we do!").
    • Constantine

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "steadfast"

      • Description:

        This Roman Emperor's name has long been considered too grand for an American boy. But in this era of children named Augustine and Atticus, it just may be prime for an unlikely comeback.
    • Cornelius

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "horn"

      • Description:

        Cornelius, the New Testament name of a third century Pope and saint, is one of those venerable Latin names on the edge of consideration, despite the corny nickname alert.
    • Dennis

      • Origin:

        French from Greek, vernacular form of Dionysius

      • Meaning:

        "god of Nysa"

      • Description:

        Although it has come to sound Irish, Dennis is one of the most widely-used French names (St. Denis is the patron saint of France) and harks back even further to Dionysius, the Greek god of wine and debauchery. It was introduced to England by the Normans.
    • Dexter

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "dyer, right-handed"

      • Description:

        The jazzy, ultra-cool Dexter, like most names with an "x," has a lot of energy and dynamism.
    • Diggory

      • Origin:

        French

      • Meaning:

        "Lost one"

      • Description:

        This buoyant name has the same bouncy rhythm as Rafferty and Barnaby, but is virtually unused. It has plenty of literary cred, too: characters in The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and Thomas Hardy’s The Return of the Native have all borne the name.
    • 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.
    • Donald

      • Origin:

        Scottish

      • Meaning:

        "proud chief"

      • Description:

        Donald has been used for centuries in Scotland, where the Macdonald clan is one of the most ancient and where there have been six early Scottish kings by that name. Donald was a Top 20 name throughout most of the early twentieth century.
    • Dorian

      • Origin:

        Greek, name of a tribe

      • Description:

        The Dorians were an ancient Greek tribe, one of the three major pre-Spartan tribes. It literally means "of Doris," a Greek district, or "of Doros," referring to the son of Helen of Sparta. Dorian derives from the Greek doron, meaning "gift," along with related names such as Dorothy and Dora.
    • Douglas

      • Origin:

        Scottish

      • Meaning:

        "black water"

      • Description:

        Douglas, and more particularly its nickname, Doug, had a real romantic swagger in the 1950s and 1960s dating back to swashbuckling Douglas Fairbanks, but today is more likely to conjure up your mom's prom date. Originally a Celtic river name, it became attached to a powerful Scottish clan, renowned for their strength and courage. In its earliest incarnation, Douglas was used equally for girls and boys.
    • Edgar

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "wealthy spearman"

      • Description:

        Edgar is an Old English name historically associated with the tenth century English king known as Edgar the Peaceful. There was also a King Edgar of Scotland.
    • Edmund

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "fortunate protector"

      • Description:

        The sophisticated Edmund and its nearly-identical French twin Edmond are coming out of mothballs now that Edward, inspired by Twilight, is once again a hot name.
    • Edward

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "wealthy guardian"

      • Description:

        Unlike perennials William, John and James, Edward is a classic that moves in and out of fashion. This royal Anglo-Saxon standard has benefited in recent years from the popularity of the hot hero of the vampire sensation Twilight — Edward Cullen — who has given his name a new infusion of cool.
    • Edwin

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "wealthy friend"

      • Description:

        Some might be surprised to learn that Edwin has been a consistent presence on the popular names list since statistics have become available.
    • Eldon

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "sacred hill"

      • Description:

        Popular in the 1920s, Eldon is a retro name that's waiting to be rediscovered. It has a similar placename/surname appeal to current Top 1000 names Alden and Holden. Several towns in the US and UK bear the name.
    • Eli

      • Origin:

        Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "ascended, uplifted, high"

      • Description:

        With its sharp, succinct sounds and cool, laidback style, Eli is a popular choice among parents today. Compact and punchy, it is a Biblical name with plenty of charm.
    • Elias

      • Origin:

        Greek variation of Elijah, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Yahweh is God"

      • Description:

        Strong, charismatic, and sleek, Elias has followed in the footsteps of Elijah and Eli to become a popular choice among parents today.
    • Elliot

      • Origin:

        Anglicization of Elijah or Elias

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah is God"

      • Description:

        Elliot (which boasts several spellings depending upon how many 'l's or 't's you want to use) is a winner -- it has the ideal quality of being neither too common nor weirdly unique. Elliot had a style boost back in the early 1980s via the young hero of the movie E.T. , who was named Elliott. Since then there have been Elliots on Law & Order: SVU and Mad Men.
    • Ephraim

      • Origin:

        Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "fruitful, fertile, productive"

      • Description:

        Ephraim is an Old Testament name we would place high on the list of neglected Biblical possibilities, solid but not solemn.
    • Eric

      • Origin:

        Old Norse

      • Meaning:

        "eternal ruler"

      • Description:

        Eric is derived from the Old Norse name Eiríkr, from the components ei, meaning "ever," and ríkr, "rule." It was adopted by English speakers in the mid-nineteenth century, who were already familiar with the exploits of the tenth century Viking navigator and discoverer of Greenland, Eric the Red. Erik is an alternate spelling and the preferred form of the name across much of Europe.
    • Ernest

      • Origin:

        English from German

      • Meaning:

        "serious, resolute"

      • Description:

        Ernest is one of those sober, so-far-out-they're-beginning-to-be-reconsidered Great Uncle names. Ernest recently received a big style boost when Britain's Princess Eugenie chose it for her second son.
    • Eugene

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "wellborn, noble"

      • Description:

        Eugene is a classic that has rather lost its way. On the one hand, it's a grandpa, even great-grandpa name that hasn't been one of the cool kids recently—or to quote Jim Carrey, who bears this name in the middle spot, "You can never get too cool with a name like Eugene." The hero of Disney's Tangled felt the same way, when he changed his birth name of Eugene to the more romantic Flynn.
    • Eustace

      • Origin:

        English from Greek

      • Meaning:

        "stable"

      • Description:

        Eustace was originally popularized by St. Eustace, who was born a Norman nobleman and is said to have been converted to Christianity by seeing a crucifix between the antlers of the deer he was hunting. It was introduced to England by the Normans, and can be found in medieval legend. In literature the name appears in the person of Eustace Clarence Scrubb in C. S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia.
        The image of Eustace today is as sedate and stuffy as the monocled Eustace Tilly character on The New Yorker magazine covers. Its diminutive Stacy became a unisex hit.
    • Evander

      • Origin:

        Scottish; Greek

      • Meaning:

        "bow warrior; strong man"

      • Description:

        Evander is a name that could build on the popularity of shorter form Evan, and could work and play well with schoolmates like Zander and Xander.
    • Everett

      • Origin:

        English variation of the German Eberhard

      • Meaning:

        "brave as a wild boar"

      • Description:

        Everett is a preppy but outdoorsy name, with wintery New England vibes. In the last decade, it’s had a leap in popularity, perhaps because of its similarity to trendy girls’ names like Ava and Scarlett, or perhaps because it offers a fresh alternative to 90’s style Evan and Brett.
    • Ezekiel

      • Origin:

        Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "God strengthens"

      • Description:

        Ezekiel used to be reduced to its nickname Zeke, but modern parents now embrace it in full for its power and dignity. Along with biblical brethren Asher and Ezra, Ezekiel is rising steadily up the popularity charts and is poised to take over for fading first wave Old Testament choices such as Zachary.
    • Ezra

      • Origin:

        Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "help"

      • Description:

        Ezra has a lot going for it: the strength of its heroic Biblical legacy, its quirky sound, and its fresh but familiar feel. Ezra is now at its highest point ever, but its intuitive streamlined spelling and deep roots could make it a worth successor to Elijah in the Top 10 -- or even to Liam or Noah at Number 1.
    • Felix

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "happy, fortunate"

      • Description:

        Felix is one of those ancient but nontraditional names for boys that have come into favor over the past few decades, a favorite of parents who want a masculine name with history and heft that breaks ranks with the standard Franks and Freds. Felix is also an international darling, ranking in the Top 100 in several European and English-speaking countries.
    • Finley

      • Origin:

        Irish and Scottish

      • Meaning:

        "fair-haired hero"

      • Description:

        Finley has been used for both sexes for enough years to become one of the most popular unisex names. Given nearly equally to boys and girls, Finley appeals to contemporary parents as a truly gender neutral choice.

    • Francis

      • Origin:

        Latin

      • Meaning:

        "Frenchman or free man"

      • Description:

        Since this was the name chosen by the current Roman Catholic pope, Francis has come into the spotlight.
    • Frank

      • Origin:

        Diminutive of Francis or Franklin

      • Meaning:

        "Frenchman or free man"

      • Description:

        A Top 10 name from the 1880s until the 1920s, Frank has been falling for decades but last year reversed course for the first time in a century, edging up the popularity list a few notches. And Frank still has a certain warm, friendly real-guy grandpa flavor that could come back into style, like other such choices as Jake and Jack.
    • Franklin

      • Origin:

        English

      • Meaning:

        "free landholder"

      • Description:

        A doubly Presidential name, via Pierce and Roosevelt, Franklin was given an initial boost via the fame of Benjamin Franklin. It also has a literary tie to the main character of the Wilkie Collins classic The Moonstone.
    • Fred

      • Origin:

        Diminutive of Frederick or Alfred, German or English

      • Meaning:

        "peaceful ruler or wise counselor"

      • Description:

        Where have all the Freds gone? We haven't seen many since the days of Flintstone and Munster. But it could be time for a comeback--if you think more of the sophistication of Fred Astaire, and of other nice guy names like Jack and Charlie and Sam.
    • Frederick

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "peaceful ruler"

      • Description:

        Frederick, and friendlier nickname Fred, seemed almost to have disappeared, leaving just the memory of Freds past such as Astaire, Mr. Rogers and Flintstone. But today's parents are beginning to recognize it as a strong classic and one of the top royal baby boy names.
    • Gabriel

      • Origin:

        Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "God is my strength"

      • Description:

        Gabriel has become a biblical favorite, an angelic choice that's lighter and less patriarchal than some of his Old Testament brethren. Derived from the Hebrew name Gavri’el, Gabriel is taken from the elements gever, meaning "strong," and ’el, in reference to God.
    • George

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "farmer"

      • Description:

        Iconoclasts though we may be, we like Fred, we like Frank, and we like George, which was among the Top 10 from 1830 to 1950, when the number of little Georges started to decline. Solid, strong, royal and saintly, yet friendly and unpretentious, we think that George is in prime position for a comeback, especially since it was chosen by Britain's royal couple.
    • Gerald

      • Origin:

        English and Irish from German

      • Meaning:

        "ruler with the spear"

      • Description:

        Both a saint's name and a presidential one via Gerald Ford—who was born Leslie—Gerald is a quintessential 1930s-40s name, when it ranked as high as Number 19. Hence all those nice middle-aged and senior Jerrys we've known and loved. Gerald has always been popular in Ireland, accounting for the prevalence of Fitzgeralds there. Though not considered stylish, Gerald remains on the popularity charts. Cousin Gerard has a similar profile, Geraldo is the well-used Spanish version, and Geraldine is the most promising of the family, in line to follow the path of Josephine to imminent revival.
    • Gerard

      • Origin:

        English and Irish from German

      • Meaning:

        "spear strength"

      • Description:

        Gerard is currently in style limbo, after reaching peak popularity in the 1950s. With its strong meaning and gentle sound, it may be back in a generation or two. But for now, a boy called Gerard will likely be the only one in his class...unless you live in Catalonia, where it was recently in the Top 10.
    • Giles

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "young goat"

      • Description:

        One of those names that most Americans find just too too tea-sippingly British to consider; its meaning has led to occasional use for Capricorn boys.
    • Gordon

      • Origin:

        Scottish

      • Meaning:

        "great hill"

      • Description:

        As this long-term Age of Jordans, both male and female, begins to wind down, the neglected Scottish favorite Gordon, with its more distinguished history, could come back as a distinctive alternative. Gordon is one of the most classic authentically Scottish names for boys.
    • Gregory

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "vigilant, a watchman"

      • Description:

        The Greek name of sixteen popes and fifteen saints, the gregarious Gregory became big in the United States with the emergence of admirable actor Gregory Peck (born Eldred) in the late 1940s. From 1950 to 1973, it was in the Top 30, with nickname Greg becoming a Cool Dude name.
    • Griffith

      • Origin:

        Welsh

      • Meaning:

        "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.
    • Henry

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "estate ruler"

      • Description:

        Henry is back. The classic Henry climbed back onto the Top 10 in the US in 2021 for the first time in over a century, and now stands at Number 8.
    • Herbert

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "bright army"

      • Description:

        Names ending in bert have long been in limbo, but with the return of Albert, maybe there's hope for Herbert. who could share the Bertie nickname. Herbert is a name that's been used by English speakers since medieval times, and was in the Top 25 in the US in the late 1920s, around the time of the presidency of Herbert Hoover, but there's been no sight of Herbert in the 21st century. Some Herberts, including novelists H. G. Wells and H. E. Bates, have preferred to go by their initials.
    • Horace

      • Origin:

        Latin clan name

      • Meaning:

        "timekeeper"

      • Description:

        The ancient name Horace sounds fustily fuddy-duddy, and yet, with the resurrection of Homer, and the new interest in old Roman names...who knows.
    • Horatio

      • Origin:

        English variation of Latin Horatius

      • Meaning:

        "hour, time"

      • Description:

        Like Horace, Horatio is a variation on the Latin Horatius, but its Shakespearean and optimistic Horatio Alger pedigree makes it an attractive up-and-comer, especially with its cool final o. A modern reference is the charismatic TV character Horatio Caine played by David Caruso in CSI: Miami.
    • Hubert

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "bright, shining intellect"

      • Description:

        A name that sounds so old-fashioned some parents out there might conceivably find it quirky enough for a comeback, along with other one-time fuddie-duddies like Oscar and Homer.
    • Humphrey

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "peaceful warrior"

      • Description:

        Humphrey is an old name that might have faded completely were it not for that Bogie flair. A royal name in Britain, where it's used somewhat more frequently, Humphrey might just have some life beyond Bogart here, especially with the recent interest in the names of Golden Age Hollywood stars. His first name was the maiden name of his mother, Maud Humphrey, a well-known illustrator who used baby H. as a model.
    • 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.
    • Hester
      • Idris

        • Origin:

          Welsh; Arabic

        • Meaning:

          "lord; studious"

        • Description:

          A name that crosses cultures, Idris was virtually unknown before the emergence of the charismatic Idris Elba, first on The Wire and then depicting Nelson Mandela in the acclaimed film.
      • Ira

        • Origin:

          Hebrew, Sanskrit

        • Meaning:

          "watchful one; wind"

        • Description:

          Succinct and sharp, Ira is one of the shortest Old Testament names, belonging to one of King David's thirty 'mighty warriors.' It was widely used in the US from the 1880s to the early 1930s (it was Number 57 on the Social Security list in 1881), but fell off completely in 1993, only to return in 2016. Currently, it is in the latter half of the US Top 1000, given to around 260 boys each year.
      • Ivan

        • Origin:

          Russian variation of John

        • Meaning:

          "God is gracious"

        • Description:

          Though some might find it a bit heavy-booted, Ivan is one of the few Russian boys' names to become fully accepted into the American naming pool.
      • Jasper

        • Origin:

          Persian

        • Meaning:

          "bringer of treasure"

        • Description:

          Jasper originated as a variation of the Latin Gaspar, which ultimately derived from the Persian word ganzabara, meaning "bringer of treasure." As a given name, Jasper’s etymology is unrelated to that of the gemstone, which comes from a Semitic word meaning "speckled stone." Jasper is the usual English form for one of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Christ according to medieval tradition and appears in the Bible as a reference to the stone itself in Revelations 4:3.
      • Jeffrey

        • Origin:

          Spelling variation of Geoffrey

        • Meaning:

          "pledge of peace"

        • Description:

          The mostly Americanized version of Geoffrey was a trendy mid-century hit, with nickname Jeff the epitome of cool. Jeffrey entered the pop list in 1934 and was a Top 20 name from the mid-fifties to 1978.
      • Jeremiah

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "appointed by God"

        • Description:

          Jeremiah is a solid Old Testament prophet name that has gradually taken the place of the now dated Jeremy, Gerard and Gerald, joining other currently popular biblical 'iah' names like Josiah and Isaiah. In the Bible Jeremiah is a famous prophet whose story is recorded in the book named after him.
      • Jeremy

        • Origin:

          English form of Jeremiah

        • Meaning:

          "appointed by God"

        • Description:

          This one-time trendy form of Jeremiah hovered just outside the Top 25 throughout the 1970s and 80s.
      • Joaquin

        • Origin:

          Spanish variation of Joachim

        • Meaning:

          "God will judge"

        • Description:

          Actor Joaquin Phoenix (brother of River, Rain, Liberty and Summer) highlighted this one, then Kelly Ripa began talking about younger son Joaquin on her daily TV show, and presto—it's now one of the hottest and most appealing multicultural baby boy names.
      • John

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "God is gracious"

        • Description:

          John reigned as the most popular of all boys' Christian names for 400 years, from the time the first Crusaders carried it back to Britain until the 1950s. Then American baby namers finally seemed to tire of this straight-arrow, almost anonymous John Doe of names, replacing it with fancier forms like Jonathan and the imported Sean and Ian.
      • Josiah

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "God supports, heals"

        • Description:

          Josiah—a biblical name with lots of quaint, old-fashioned charm—makes a much fresher sounding alternative to either Joseph or Joshua, combining the best of both. Josiah is among the several Biblical boys' names that have been on the rise this decade.
      • Jude

        • Origin:

          Latin diminutive of Judah, Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "praised"

        • Description:

          Jude is a modern star, maintaining a steady level of popularity -- but not TOO much popularity, in the US at least. Thank Jude Law and the great Lennon-McCartney song "Hey Jude", double-handedly responsible for propelling Jude up the charts.
      • Jules

        • Origin:

          French form of Latin Julius

        • Meaning:

          "youthful; soft, downy"

        • Description:

          Though Jules hasn't been on the US popularity list in fifty years, it is a current hit in its native France—where it's currently in the Top 10—and we can definitely see it making a comeback here, being far more romantic than, say, Jim.
      • Julian

        • Origin:

          English from Latin, variation of Julius

        • Meaning:

          "youthful, downy-bearded, or sky father"

        • Description:

          Cool and charming, with plenty of flair and sophistication, Julian manages to strike the balance between being a sensible classic and contemporary choice. Appealingly international, it is no wonder Julian is a rising star.
      • Julius

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "youthful, downy-bearded"

        • Description:

          Immortal through its association with the ancient Caesar (it was his clan name), Julius may still lag behind Julian, but is definitely starting to make a comeback, and in fact feels more cutting edge, in line with the current trend for Latin -us endings.
      • Keith

        • Origin:

          Scottish

        • Meaning:

          "wood"

        • Description:

          Strong but gentle, Keith is one of the Scottish surnames that, along with Douglas, Craig and Bruce, were considered the epitome of cool in the 1960s and early 1970s, when it was a Top 40 choice.
      • Kenneth

        • Origin:

          Scottish and Irish

        • Meaning:

          "born of fire, handsome"

        • Description:

          Kenneth may have lost much of its luster now, but Kenneth has had its moments of glory. The first king of Scotland was Kenneth, and Sir Kenneth, a Christian crusader, was the hero of the Sir Walter Scott novel The Talisman.
      • Kent

        • Origin:

          English surname and place-name

        • Meaning:

          "edge"

        • Description:

          Kent is a no-nonsense, brief, brisk one-syllable name, almost as curt as Kurt.
      • Kevin

        • Origin:

          Irish

        • Meaning:

          "handsome"

        • Description:

          Kevin came to the US with the large wave of Irish Immigrants after World War I, hitting the US Top 1000 list for the first time in 1921 and never leaving.
      • Klaus

        • Origin:

          German variation of Claus, diminutive of Nicolas

        • Description:

          Two drawbacks: some unpleasant World War II associations, and the Santa clause.
      • Lawrence

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "from Laurentium or bay laurel"

        • Description:

          Lawrence has survived from Roman times, when Laurentium was a city noted for its laurel trees (the laurel is a symbol of wisdom and achievement). It was in the Top 50 from the 1890s through the 1950s and the Top 100 for decades longer, always among the most popular boys' names starting with L, but Lawrence is now used less for babies than Landon or Lorenzo.
      • Leroy

        • Origin:

          French

        • Meaning:

          "the king"

        • Description:

          Leroy's heyday was in the early twentieth century, when it was in the US Top 100 until 1949. As a result, it's now more frequently seen as a father or grandfather name. Nevertheless, it remains in the latter end of the US Top 1000, perhaps passed down from father to son, or similar enough to popular Levi that it still appeals.
      • Lincoln

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "town by the pool"

        • Description:

          Lincoln cracked the Top 50 for boys' names for the first time in 2016, more than 150 years after the death of its most famous bearer. This is especially remarkable because, as crazy as it seems now, Lincoln was deeply out of fashion as recently as the late 90s, consistently hovering near the bottom of the Top 1000.
      • Lucian

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "light"

        • Description:

          Lucian is a sleeker, more sophisticated version of Lucius that is climbing in tandem with other Lu-starting names.
      • Lucius

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "light"

        • Description:

          Lucius is an old Roman clan name that has lots of religious and literary resonance, yet is still vital today. It was the name of three popes, appears in several Shakespeare plays, and, like all the names beginning with 'luc' relates to the Latin word for light.It was one of a limited number of forenames used in ancient Rome, and because of its meaning was often given to boys born at dawn.
      • Lyle

        • Origin:

          Scottish and English from French

        • Meaning:

          "someone who lives on an island"

        • Description:

          Straightforward single-syllable name, though children named Lyle may get tired of hearing "Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile". Lyle was at the height of fashion in the 1920s, which makes him due for a comeback right about now. The double L certainly gives it a fashionable sound.
      • Malcolm

        • Origin:

          Scottish

        • Meaning:

          "devotee of St. Colomba"

        • Description:

          Malcolm is a warm and welcoming Scottish appellation (originally Mael-Colium) that fits into that golden circle of names that are distinctive but not at all odd. A royal name in Scotland, Malcolm is also a hero name for many via radical civil rights activist Malcolm X.
      • Marvin

        • Origin:

          Welsh, variant of Mervyn

        • Meaning:

          "sea hill"

        • Description:

          Marvin has been neglected for so long that it's hard to believe that it has windswept Welsh roots. It also has some strong namesakes going for it -- singer Marvin Gaye, composer Marvin Hamlisch and boxer Marvin Hagler. It's the real name of both Neil Simon and Meatloaf. And let's not forget mention Marvin Gardens on Monopoly.
      • Maurice

        • Origin:

          English and French from Latin

        • Meaning:

          "dark-skinned"

        • Description:

          In the USA, Maurice was in the Top 200 for most of the 20th century; since 1990, however, it has been on a slow and steady decline. This name has the potential for some old-school cute nicknames such as Mo as well as the more trendy Reece.
      • Miles

        • Origin:

          English form of Milo, Latin and Old German,"soldier or merciful"

        • Meaning:

          "soldier or merciful"

        • Description:

          Miles, which has a permanent veneer of cool thanks to jazz great Miles Davis, is a confident and polished boys' name that's an American classic. Always ranking in the US Top 1000, it's been drifting up the charts for the past half century and now ranks at its highest point ever, in the Top 50.
      • Monroe

        • Origin:

          Scottish

        • Meaning:

          "mouth of the Roe river"

        • Description:

          Monroe is a presidential surname which feels fresher than Jackson, Lincoln and Taylor. Marilyn Monroe is a famous female namesake, but her smart Scottish surname feels equally usable for either sex. Plus, we think old man nickname Moe would sound both cool and adorable on a baby boy today!
      • Montgomery

        • Origin:

          Norman

        • Meaning:

          "man power"

        • Description:

          This image of this distinguished Anglo-Scottish surname, drawn from the French place name of the ancient castle of Saint Foi de Montgomery, is rapidly shifting from fusty and formal to cool. And dashing short form Monty (or Monte) nudges it to cute.
      • Morris

        • Origin:

          English variation of Maurice

        • Meaning:

          "dark-skinned"

        • Description:

          Morris is as quiet and comfortable as a Morris chair, and has the same vintage feel. Once a Top 100 name in the early 1900s, Morris fell completely off the roster in 1995, probably due to lingering fallout from his identification with Morris the cat's ("the world's most finicky cat") 9 Lives cat food commercials.
      • Nathaniel

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "gift of God"

        • Description:

          Nathaniel was derived from the Hebrew name Netan’el, meaning "gift of God," composed of the elements natan, meaning "to give," and ’el, in reference to God. The name is featured several times in the Old and New Testaments, typically spelled Nathanael. In the New Testament, Nathanael is also known by his other name, Bartholomew.
      • Nelson

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "son of Neil"

        • Description:

          Nelson is a rather stiff and dated surname name that is sometimes used to honor distinguished South African activist Nelson Mandela, as Celine Dion did for one of her twin boys. Other notable associations are with the British Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller, novelist Nelson Algren and movie operetta star Nelson Eddy. It was also the given name of "Rabbit" Angstrom, protagonist of John Updike's series of novels.
      • Nigel

        • Origin:

          Irish

        • Meaning:

          "dark, black-haired"

        • Description:

          A name that Yanks might see as overly British, but combined with the right surname, it does have a measure of Sherlock Holmesian dash via Nigel Bruce, who played the original Dr. Watson to Basil Rathbone's Sherlock Holmes.
      • Noel

        • Origin:

          French

        • Meaning:

          "Christmas"

        • Description:

          Noel is British, fey, and sophisticated, connoting wit and creativity, much like namesake Noel Coward. Noel has also been a character on Felicity and Pretty Little Liars. Thanks to their association with Christmas, Noel and Noelle make ideal names for December babies and names for Christmas babies.
      • Nolan

        • Origin:

          Irish

        • Meaning:

          "champion"

        • Description:

          The friendly and sporty feeling Nolan blends some of the best qualities of other popular boy names. With the gentle but energetic sounds of Noah, a hint of the classic Nicholas, and the cool, surname-style vibe of Greyson or Colton, it makes for a familiar and grounded choice.
      • Norbert

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "bright or renowned north"

        • Description:

          A medieval German saint's name which remained popular in Germany until the middle of the 20th century. It is still in relatively wide use in other European countries, including Poland and Hungary. With other Bert names – like Robert and Albert and even Gilbert – appealing to lovers of strong, traditional boy names with a slightly clunky charm, Norbert could be one of those so-out-it's-in choices that everyone knows, but almost no one is using.
      • Norman

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "northerner, Norseman"

        • Description:

          Norman, perhaps because it sounds so much like the word 'normal', conjures up the image of a normal-looking guy with a normal kind of job-- not necessarily an image many modern parents seek for their sons. But though it's been off the national popularity list for several years, Norman is Number 694 on Nameberry. It was a Top 100 name for more than half a century, hitting a high in 1931 at Number 36, but today it's nowhere near one of the most popular boy names starting with N.
      • Oliver

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "olive tree or elf army"

        • Description:

          Oliver is an international star, ranking near the top of the charts in the US and throughout the English-speaking world, along with a host of European and Latin American countries, from Norway to Chile, Slovenia to Switzerland.
      • Oscar

        • Origin:

          English or Irish

        • Meaning:

          "God spear, or deer-lover or champion warrior"

        • Description:

          Oscar is one of the most stylish Old Man Names of our era. While it's softened slightly in popularity over the past 20 years, that may be considered a very good thing.
      • Otis

        • Origin:

          Variation of Otto, German

        • Meaning:

          "wealthy"

        • Description:

          Otis has real appeal for parents attracted to its catchy O initial and combination of strength and spunk. The appealing hero of the British TV show Sex Education has done much to propel Otis into the forefront of cool names.
      • Otto

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "wealthy"

        • Description:

          Otto is cool again. Long a quintessential Old Man Name, Otto has been promoted to trending darling of adventurous baby namers.
      • Patrick

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "noble, patrician"

        • Description:

          Patrick, long tied to a hyper-Irish image, is enjoying something of a renaissance as a stylish classic, as it has long been considered in England. Along with such choices as Charles and George, Patrick has escaped overuse in recent decades.
      • Percival

        • Origin:

          French

        • Meaning:

          "one who pierces the valley"

        • Description:

          There are several Percivals scattered through the Harry Potter series, which might help transform the old-fangled, fussy image it has accrued. Actually, the original Percival was the one perfectly pure Knight of the Round Table, a worthy hero. The name was invented in the twelfth century by a poet named Chretien de Troyes, for his ideal knight in the poem Percevale, a Knight of King Arthur.
      • Percy

        • Origin:

          French surname from place name Perci-en-Auge

        • Description:

          Percy is an adorable old name that is finally shedding its pampered Little Lord Fauntleroy image in this new era of boys with soft yet traditionally male names like Jasper and Elijah. Originating as an aristocratic Norman name, Percy became fairly widespread in England--and to some extent in the US--as an offshoot of the fame of the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.
      • Perry

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "dweller near a pear tree"

        • Description:

          It's a long time now since this casual but suave name was linked to velvet-throated, cardigan-sweatered singer Perry (born Pierino, son of Pietro) Como's day... and this could be the moment for a reassessment. Other Perry associations are designer Ellis and the fictional Perry Mason and Perry White. There is also the option of taking the long way round to Perry via the more substantial Peregrine or Percival.
      • Peter

        • Origin:

          Greek

        • Meaning:

          "rock, stone"

        • Description:

          Peter is derived from the Greek Petros, meaning "rock" or "stone." One of the most important figures in the Christian hagiography is Saint Peter, keeper of the Gates of Heaven. Born Simon bar Jonah, he was given the nickname Peter by Jesus, to signify that he would be the rock on which Christ would build Christianity. Centuries later, there was Peter the Great, the czar who developed Russia as a major European power.
      • Philip

        • Origin:

          Greek

        • Meaning:

          "lover of horses"

        • Description:

          Philip, the name of one of the 12 apostles, is still favored by parents in search of a solid boys' classic that is less neutral than Robert or John and more distinctive than Daniel or Matthew and has many historic, royal ties.
      • Phineas

        • Origin:

          English, Egyptian

        • Meaning:

          "the Nubian"

        • Description:

          Phineas is the English variation of Phinehas, a Hebrew name likely derived from the Egyptian name Pa-nehasi. Pa-nehasi, meaning "the Nubian" can also be translated as "the bronze-colored one." The Egyptians distinguished themselves from their Nubian neighbors through differences in skin tone.
      • Pierce

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "son of Piers"

        • Description:

          Actor Pierce Brosnan brings a strong helping of charm to this name. Pierce was actually a popular name long before Mr. Brosnan came along, from 1880 to the end of the 1930s.
      • Quentin

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "fifth"

        • Description:

          Quentin, an offbeat name with lots of character, relates to the Latin for the number five and is by far the subtlest and most usable of the Latin birth-order names, masculine as well as stylish and distinctive. It was borne by a third-century saint and came to England with the Normans.
      • Quin

        • Description:

          Quin is a concise, gender-neutral name with multiple origins. Most commonly, it's considered a shortened form of Quincy, Quinton, or Quintus, all deriving from the Latin 'quintus' meaning 'fifth.' It can also be an anglicized version of the Irish name Conn or Cuinn, meaning 'wisdom' or 'intelligence.' For boys, Quin presents a strong, straightforward option with a modern feel despite its ancient roots. The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents gravitate toward brief, gender-flexible names. Quin's simplicity gives it cross-cultural appeal and easy pronunciation. The distinctive initial 'Q' adds character while the overall name remains unfussy and clean. It works well independently or as a nickname for longer Q-names, offering versatility that appeals to contemporary naming preferences.
      • Quinton

        • Origin:

          English or Latin

        • Meaning:

          "queen's manor; fith"

        • Description:

          Quinton is among several attractive Q-beginning, n-ending two-syllable names for boys, that also includes Quentin (the most popular iteration) and Quenton. They only suffer from their similarity and possible spelling confusion, ala girls' names Kristin, Kirsten and sisters.
      • Ralph

        • Origin:

          English from German

        • Meaning:

          "wolf-counsel"

        • Description:

          Ralph has two diametrically different images: there's the suave Ralph Fiennes-type Brit (often pronounced Rafe), and then there's the Jackie Gleason blue-collar, bowling blowhard Ralph Kramden bus driver. It's all in the eye of the beholder, though its hip factor did rise when it was chosen for his son by cool U.K. actor Matthew Macfadyen.
      • Randall

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "shield-wolf"

        • Description:

          Medieval name without much of a future.
      • Randolph

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "shield-wolf"

        • Description:

          Randolph is a timeworn classic that had its last hurrah in the 1940s, when Randolph (born George) Scott was starring in westerns, but then was probably done in by its tricky nickname Randy (which, strangely enough, was itself a Top 50 name in the fifties and sixties).
      • Raymond

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "wise protector"

        • Description:

          Now that the show has gone into reruns, does anybody still love Raymond? Though it's been long dormant, some parents, including Jack Nicholson, are finding its cool name component, largely through the nickname Ray.
      • Remus

        • Origin:

          Latin, meaning unknown

        • Description:

          Remus is one of the legendary twins who, with brother Romulus, founded Rome. An unusual yet classic name for the extremely adventurous who can put aside the stereotyped image of Uncle Remus. Though because of that "ream" first syllable, we prefer Romulus.
      • Richard

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "dominant ruler"

        • Description:

          A classic old Norman name popular for a thousand years and favored for kings (Richard Nixon was named for Richard the Lionhearted), as well as the hoi polloi (as in every Tom, Dick and Harry), Richard was the sixth most popular US boys’ name in 1925, and was still Number 8 in 1950, but is now much less popular.
      • Robert

        • Origin:

          English from German

        • Meaning:

          "bright fame"

        • Description:

          Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains in the Top 100 for baby boys as a family favorite.
      • Rodney

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "island near the clearing"

        • Description:

          Rodney peaked at Number 33 in 1965 and has been on a steady decline ever since. As its popularity history indicates, this name is more fitting for someone born in the mid-twentieth century instead of the twenty-first century. It's likely this name will continue trending downward for another generation or two before it has its chance to turn back around.
      • Ronald

        • Origin:

          Norse

        • Meaning:

          "ruler's counselor"

        • Description:

          To many people, Ronald is off playing shuffleboard with Donald, though others aren't swayed by its old man image. In the Top 10 in the late 1930s through the mid-1940s, the name later came to be strongly associated with President Reagan, along with his nicknames, Ron and Ronnie—as well as with the McDonald franchise mascot. A more youthful bearer is the likable character Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter series. In the early days of Hollywood, Ronald Colman was a dashing matinee idol.
      • Rufus

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "red-head"

        • Description:

          Rufus is a rumpled, redheaded (it was the nickname for red-haired King William) ancient Roman name popular with saints and singers (e.g. Rufus Wainwright); now, Rufus is on the cutting edge of cool.
      • Rupert

        • Origin:

          German variation of Robert

        • Meaning:

          "bright fame"

        • Description:

          Rupert is a charming-yet-manly name long more popular in Britain (where it's attached to a beloved cartoon bear) than in the U.S. Yet we can see Rupert as a more stylish, modern way to honor an ancestral Robert.
      • Russell

        • Origin:

          French

        • Meaning:

          "redhead, fox-colored"

        • Description:

          One of many R- boys’ names that started as a nickname for a redhead, Russell had a measure of popularity from the early twentieth century through the 1950s. But it's now lost much of its color -- except for a few dynamic bearers, actors Russell Crowe and Russell Brand and sports stars Russell Westbrook and Russell Wilson.
      • Saul

        • Origin:

          Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "prayed for"

        • Description:

          Jewish parents in particular may be drawn to this quiet, composed name of the first king of Israel and the name of Saint Paul before his conversion. In modern times, it has been associated with Nobel Prize-winning novelist Saul Bellow. Its meaning makes it appropriate for a long-awaited child.

          Saul is a character in a John Dryden poem, and heard in the Handel oratorio, "Saul."

      • Sebastian

        • Origin:

          Latin from Greek

        • Meaning:

          "person from ancient city of Sebastia"

        • Description:

          Sebastian is an ancient martyr's name turned literary, and Little Mermaid hero—think Sebastian the Crab—that's more popular than ever, as a classic-yet-unconventional compatriot for fellow British favorites T Theodore and Oliver.
      • Sigmund

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "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...
      • Silas

        • Origin:

          Aramaic, Latin, Greek

        • Meaning:

          "of the forest; or prayed for"

        • Description:

          Sleek and smart, with a hint of mystique about it, Silas is a recent addition to the US Top 100. Both mythological and Biblical in origin, Silas joins the ranks of Isaiah, Atlas, Elias, and Sebastian: polished and contemporary feeling names with plenty of history.
      • Stanley

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "near the stony clearing"

        • Description:

          Although Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire personified brute force, most Stanleys have been portrayed as meek milquetoasts. It could be a Sydney-like girls' choice.-Bette Davis once played a character named Stanley, and it was the name of President Obama's mother (named for her father)--or possibly could be revived down the line a la Walter and Arthur.
      • Timothy

        • Origin:

          Greek

        • Meaning:

          "honoring God"

        • Description:

          A second-tier classic, the New Testament Timothy moves in and out of fashion more than John and James. But though it peaked in the 1960s, many modern parents still appreciate its familiarity and lively rhythm. And the short form Tim feels eternally boyish.
      • Tobias

        • Origin:

          Greek from Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "God is good"

        • Description:

          Tobias is one of a number of s-ending boys' names that are riding a wave of popularity. With its Old Testament-Dickensian feel, it's a name with a distinguished pedigree.
      • Ulysses

        • Origin:

          Latin variation of Odysseus, Greek

        • Meaning:

          "wrathful"

        • Description:

          Ulysses is one of the few U boys' names anyone knows -- with heavy links to the Homeric hero, eighteenth president Grant, and the James Joyce novel -- all of which makes it both distinguished and kind of weighty for a modern boy. Ulysses was on the US popularity list well into the twenty-first century; it's off now, but Number 684 on Nameberry.
      • Vaughn

        • Origin:

          Welsh

        • Meaning:

          "small"

        • Description:

          Vaughn, also commonly spelled Vaughan, has been used quietly over the years, reaching a peak of Number 349 in 1949. It is now in the process of rediscovery, being seen as a good Sean alternative or an updated way to honor an ancestral Paul (which also means small).
      • Vernon

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "place of alders"

        • Description:

          Once aristocratic British surname yet to be revived. Vince Vaughn recently gave his son the same double initials as his own when he named him Vernon Vaughn.
      • Victor

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "conqueror"

        • Description:

          Victor is one of the earliest Christian names, borne (as Vittorio) by several saints and popes, symbolizing Christ's victory over death. It has been quietly in the Top 200 since 1880, but just recently has taken on a cool edge by fashionable parents in London and seems ripe for a similar reevaluation here too.
      • Vincent

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "conquering"

        • Description:

          Vincent is a name with a complex image. After being quietly used for centuries, it is suddenly seeming stylish, along wih other V names. Even the nickname Vince has been given a reprieve via actor Vince Vaughn and country singer Vince Gill. Vin Diesel was born with the more prosaic name Mark Vincent.
      • Wilfred

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "desires peace"

        • Description:

          Wilfred is one of those Old Man Names that still sounds fusty in the US but is fashionable in the UK. It comes with readymade short forms Will or Fred and might make an adventurous alternative to the ubiquitous William. The central character of Walter Scott's Ivanhoe is the knight Wilfred of Ivanhoe. Wilfred Owens was a well-known British poet.
      • William

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "resolute protection"

        • Description:

          William is one of the most enduring of classic names for boys. It's also among the most popular boys' names, as American parents see it as being ideally conservative yet contemporary, and hands-down the most popular baby name beginning with W of all time.
      • Willis

        • Origin:

          Diminutive of William, German

        • Meaning:

          "resolute protection"

        • Description:

          A common surname that was popular as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th century, Willis dropped off the US Top 1000 back in the early 90s, just as alternative William diminutive, Liam, began to skyrocket.
      • Wilson

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "son of Will"

        • Description:

          Wilson is a substantive presidential choice far less prevalent than Taylor or Tyler, and with the advantage of being a new route to friendly nickname Will. We see Wilson growing in popularity as an alternative to William; and as a patronymic, it would make a conceivable (if possibly confusing) choice for a son of William.
      • Winston

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "wine's town"

        • Description:

          Long associated with the Churchill family and common in the West Indies, the distinguished Winston has tended to be neglected here. The exception was during the World War II period, when Winston Churchill was a towering figure and his name reached Number 234. It's now enjoying something of a renaissance.
      • Woodrow

        • Origin:

          English

        • Meaning:

          "row of houses by a wood"

        • Description:

          Aside from President Wilson (born Thomas), most Woodrows, including Herman, Guthrie, and Harrelson, have chosen to be known as Woody, which says it all.
      • Yves

        • Origin:

          French

        • Meaning:

          "yew wood"

        • Description:

          On paper, with its stylish ties to fashion legend Yves Saint-Laurent (born Henri), Yves looks great, but the pronunciation--EVE-- could lead to gender confusion. German variation Ivo might be cooler and clear up the issue.