The Canterbury Tales

Absalon is a distinctive masculine name of Hebrew origin, being a variation of Absalom, which means 'father of peace.' In the Bible, Absalom was the third son of King David, known for his striking beauty and tragic rebellion against his father. The Absalon variant has been particularly popular in Scandinavian countries, especially Denmark, where it gained prominence through the historical figure Absalon (1128-1201), a warrior bishop and statesman who is considered a founding father of Copenhagen. The name carries historical weight and biblical significance while remaining uncommon in English-speaking countries. Absalon projects strength and classical dignity with its ancient roots and distinctive sound pattern.

In its three most popular spellings -- Alan along with Allen and Allan -- this midcentury favorite has tended to skew older. It was a Top 100 name from 1938 to 1971, peaking at Number 40 in 1951. Alan has had leading roles on recent TV, in shows like Two and a Half Men, 24 and Boston Legal.

Alison has been long popular in Scotland and widely used here since the fifties. This more feminine medieval elaboration of Alice had long surpassed the original in popularity, but now sounds a tad dated in the U.S., with Alice having leapfrogged back over Alison, Allison, Alicia and other variations.

Alisoun is a medieval feminine name, representing an early variant of the modern name Alison. Derived from the Norman French diminutive of Alice (Aalis), itself coming from the Germanic name Adalheidis meaning 'noble type,' Alisoun was relatively common in medieval England and Scotland. Geoffrey Chaucer notably used this spelling for a character in 'The Miller's Tale' within his Canterbury Tales (late 14th century), giving literary recognition to the name. Alisoun gradually evolved into the more recognizable Alison by the early modern period. This medieval spelling captures the authentic pronunciation and orthography of its time, when English spelling wasn't yet standardized. While extremely rare today in its original form, Alisoun offers a distinctive historical alternative to the more common Alison, connecting directly to medieval English heritage and literature.

Since Aurelius was given the supermodel seal of approval by Elle Macpherson, it has joined Augustus as an ancient Roman name that feels usable today. Slightly mystical and magical, Aurelius is grounded by its similarity to rising stars Aurora, Aurelia, and Atticus, and its golden aura is certainly appealing. 

Extremely amiable, open-sounding surname that's gradually being taken over by the girls.

The name of a princess from Greek myth.

A variant of the surname Cannon, or an English word name with several possible meanings. A canon is a clergyman, as well as a rule or law – especially within religious doctrine. In the arts, canon is also the name of the whole oeuvre or work of a particular writer or creator.

Cecilia is a lovely classic name deservedly enjoying a new turn in the sun. Always among the Top 500 girls' names in the US, Cecilia is now at its highest point ever.

Claudius is one of the most user-friendly of the ancient Roman names – even though it's associated with the villainous character in Shakespeare's Hamlet. But as with feminine form Claudia, the "lame" meaning may stymie the rise of Claudius. Some etymologists theorize that the name may relate to the word for enclosure or clause, an alternate meaning that may appeal to a child with a form of this otherwise-appealing name.

Constance is one of the more subtle of the virtue baby names, but still has quite a prim and proper image. One impediment to its revival has been the decidedly dated nickname Connie, though modern parents might well opt for using the strong and dignified name in full.

Damian has sidestepped its demonic horror movie overtones, leaving a basically friendly and charming Irish image. A well-used upper-class name in England, it is growing in popularity here.

This name for the sweetbriar shrub is a bit too reminiscent of eggplant.