Obscure Male Names

In HBO's Game of Thrones, Bronn is an amoral mercenary raised to the knighthood through his connection to the regnant Lannister family. The homophony with "brawn" probably isn't an accident -- he's a top-tier swordsman -- and may be a turnoff to some parents. Brock and, to stay in Westeros, Bran are probably more user-friendly.

Rare and distinctive name with intimations of antiquity, also a Shakespearean character.

Leathery, masculine image, complete with user-friendly short form.

Swashbuckling name worthy of a hero in a romance novel. Deveraux or Devereaux is drawn from the town of Evreux in France and combined with the prefix de- denoting it likely referred to a noble of that area.

Donan is a masculine name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic connections. It likely derives from the Gaelic elements 'donn' meaning brown or noble, possibly functioning as a diminutive form. The name may also connect to Saint Donnan, a 7th-century Irish missionary who was martyred on the Isle of Eigg in Scotland. The island of Eilean Donan in Scotland, site of the famous castle, shares linguistic roots with this name. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Donan has maintained quiet usage in Celtic regions and diaspora communities. The name provides a strong consonant structure with a traditional feel, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and Celtic heritage. Donan offers a distinctive alternative to more common Celtic-origin names.

This appealing Hebrew name is heard in Israel, and would fit in well with all the popular El-starting names for boys, such as Elliot and Ellery. It was given to just five American boys in 2015. Also worth considering is the pretty female version, Eliora.

This name of the courteous Knight of the Round Table, the nephew of King Arthur, has long been superseded by its Scottish form, Gavin.

A rugged Welsh name, reminiscent of Griffin, Gerard, and Gideon, Gethin is a familiar choice in the UK when it ranks in the Top 1000. Notable bearers include Game of Thrones actor Gethin Anthony, rugby player Gethin Jenkins, and TV presenter, Gethin Jones.

Grantley is a distinguished masculine name originating from English surname traditions. Derived from Old English elements meaning 'grant's clearing' or 'grant's meadow,' it refers to a woodland area associated with someone named Grant. The name carries aristocratic associations through historical figures like Grantley Berkeley, a 19th-century British politician and sportsman. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Grantley has maintained consistent if minimal usage, particularly in England and among families with British heritage. The name conveys strength and refinement with its strong consonants and formal ending. Parents choosing Grantley are often drawn to its distinguished sound, subtle nature connection, and the accessibility of friendly nicknames like Grant. It represents an uncommon yet recognized option for those seeking traditional English naming patterns.