Prime example of the aggressive word names that are an off-the-grid branch of the new macho names. Makes Cannon, Maverick, and Ranger feel almost soft and sensitive by comparison.

Name with connotations both mystical and tragic, newly popular in Europe. For English speakers, though, this name might be ruined by its homonym ruin.

Cedar is, like Ash, Oak, Pine and Ebony, one of the new tree/wood names that parents are starting to consider; this one is particularly aromatic with a similar feel to more classic options like Cedric, Edgar, Reed, and Sawyer.

When Australian actress Rachel Griffiths chose this highly unusual name for her son, many assumed it was a bizarre invention, but noted Australian poet and writer of Waltzing Matilda, Banjo Patterson, is known by this name. Sprightly and musical, it could blend in with Bruno, Benjamin and Joey.

Like Silver, a shimmering metallic color name, that may lean too dazzling for some, but more grounded for others, thanks to its similarity of Alden, Auden, Elden and Gordon. Given to 100 babies in a recent year, Golden is currently a gender neutral choice.

With Levi in vogue and country names on trend, Denim could fit in among the Waylons, Walkers, Coltons, and Rhetts. As a boys name, it brings to mind the qualities of the fabric: hardworking, cool and versatile. Singer Toni Braxton chose this name for her son in 2001, and parents have been using it for boys and girls ever since.

Wayman is primarily a surname that transitioned to use as a first name. It likely derives from the Middle English occupational term 'wayman,' referring to a traveler, wagon driver, or someone who worked on or maintained roads (from 'way' meaning road and 'man'). As a given name, Wayman has been documented in American records since at least the late 19th century, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. The name saw modest usage throughout the 20th century, particularly in the first half. Its transition from surname to given name follows a pattern common in American naming traditions, similar to names like Taylor or Cooper. Wayman has an old-fashioned, dignified quality typical of surname-derived given names, offering a connection to occupational heritage and tradition.

Dune is a name of several layers. It's a modern nature name, like Ocean, Bay and Reef, although rarer, conjuring up images of breezy sand dunes on summer beach days.

You can call your daughter Sugar, but it's probably best to keep it as a term of endearment. For sweet names, you try Dulcie, Honey, Mitsu, Amai, Sherine, Melita, Eulalia, or Melina, but Sugar does work as a generic nickname.

New, fast, cool, and chosen by director Robert Rodriguez, whose other sons are Rebel, Rocket, and Rogue, all somewhat risky options.

Hyman was commonly used by first-generation Jewish immigrants to Anglicize Chaim, but similarities to terms like heinie and hymen have taken it out of the realm of modern possibility. The original Chaim would be preferable to Hyman.

When actress Shannyn Sossamon dubbed her newborn Audio Science, it sent out some definite shock waves. We don't recommend Audio or Video for even the most intrepid baby namer.

Zsa Zsa is a zippy Hungarian nickname name, sometimes used independently, linked for decades with the Hungarian-born actress Zsa Zsa Gabor--who was born Sari.

Szczepan is a masculine Polish name equivalent to the English Stephen. Derived from the Greek name Stephanos meaning "crown" or "garland," it has deep historical roots in Poland. The distinctive combination of consonants in Szczepan showcases the characteristic Polish orthography, with "szcz" creating a sound unfamiliar to many English speakers. Despite its challenging appearance to non-Polish readers, the name has a melodious pronunciation in its native context. Szczepan has strong connections to Polish cultural heritage and Catholic tradition, as Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr. While common in Poland, it remains rare internationally, making it a strong marker of Polish identity for those who bear it abroad.

An admirable meaning, with roots in a Germanic word meaning wisdom, but we fear it will never be detached from the hobbit hero of The Lord of the Rings.

Royal names are on the rise. Along with names such as King, Prince, and Royal, why not Palace? Why not indeed.

One of the aggressive new boys' names, ala Tracker and Heller, that have become fashionable among parents who are courting trouble.

Clearence is a variant spelling of the more common name Clarence, which derives from Latin and means 'bright' or 'clear.' This alternative spelling appears to be a contemporary adaptation that emerged as parents sought to personalize traditional names. The original name Clarence has Anglo-Norman origins and was introduced to England during the Norman Conquest. While Clearence maintains the same pronunciation as Clarence, the modified spelling gives it a slightly more modern feel. Though not as widely used as the traditional spelling, Clearence offers families a way to honor the classic name while adding a distinctive touch. The name carries connotations of clarity, transparency, and brightness.

Mandolin may seem like an outlandish choice for a name, but since BANJO has been used as a baby name, all the instruments in the band seem to be auditioning for a place on birth certificates. This one comes with a real name nickname, MANDY.