Can Linus lose its metaphorical security blanket and move from the Peanuts page onto the birth certificate? We think it has enough charm and other positive elements going for it for the answer to be yes.

The single T version of Matias is, like Mateo, the Spanish variation of the Hebrew Biblical Matthias or Matthew, while the double T version as in Mattias and Matteo is usually Italian.

An Old World name that might have a chance to rise again with other ancient and worldly forms. Be sure to say yo-HAHN-es.

Luka is one of the coolest names in recent years, following suit of its cousin Luca which is now a Top 50 name. Luka is on its way up the charts and may crack the Top 100 in the very near future. Luka has a lot going for it — it is following the tails of Lucas and Luke which have been enjoying significant popularity for years. It also boasts the very current "-ah" ending sound that feels fresher than ever for boy names, from Noah to Ezra to Judah. The "k" in the middle gives an extra edge as well. This spelling is the traditional form of Luke in various Eastern European countries.

Could Simeon be the next Gideon? Parents seeking a less simple form of Simon might consider this biblical appellation that was chosen by Wynton Marsalis for his son. Simon is actually the Greek substitute for Simeon.

A compact yet impactful name, Taavi is an international variation of the Biblical classic David, notably used in Estonia and Finland. Estonian prime minister Taavi Rõivas was one bearer of the name.

With Norse (and pseudo-Norse) names such as Thor, Odin and Magnus growing in popularity, this one, which refers to warriors destined for Valhalla on account of their bravery, might have some appeal outside Scandinavia. Its slightly Eeyore-ish sound is balanced out by connections to some major historical figures, including a Norwegian prime minister.

The chic Euro spelling of Henry is rising along with the original form.

Really offbeat, upbeat multi-cultural name with light sound and meaning. Valo might make a more unique spin on Milo.

Though you might have been a fan of tennis star Chris Evert, stick with EVERETT, which everyone will think you're saying anyway.

Esaias is a masculine name of ancient origin, representing the Greek form of Isaiah (Hebrew Yesha'yahu), meaning 'God is salvation' or 'Yahweh is salvation.' This classical variation was used in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. While less common than Isaiah in English-speaking countries, Esaias maintains popularity in certain European regions, particularly in Greece and among communities with strong Orthodox Christian traditions. The name carries the gravitas of its biblical connection—Isaiah being one of the major prophets in the Old Testament—while offering a distinctive alternative to more common biblical names. Its elegant pronunciation and meaningful heritage continue to attract parents seeking a name with historical depth.

Ossian, or Osian, from the Old Irish name Oisin, was the son of Finn in Irish legend that was transformed into a Scottish hero in the Ossianic poems of James Macpherson in the eighteenth century--which also popularlized Oscar, Fingal, Selma and Malvina.

Creative gem perfect for an architect's son, in tribute to modern Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen.

Matteus is a masculine name that represents a variation of Matthew, which derives from the Hebrew name Matityahu, meaning 'gift of God' or 'gift from God.' This form of the name is particularly common in Scandinavian countries, parts of Eastern Europe, and Brazil. Matteus carries the same biblical significance as Matthew, who was one of Jesus's twelve apostles and author of the first Gospel in the New Testament. The name combines traditional religious meaning with an international flair. While less common in English-speaking countries than the standard Matthew, Matteus has gained popularity among parents seeking a distinctive yet recognizable name with strong historical and spiritual connections.

The Finnish word for "victory" is a rare name even throughout the Nordic country, but with its on-trend V sound it could make a striking choice.

A Maori name derived from a type of tree native to New Zealand's North Island.

Reko is a Finnish nickname for the Swedish name Greger, which shares roots with Gregory. Reijo is another form seen in Nordic countries.

Well used throughout The Netherlands, Germany, Norway, and Denmark, Lasse is a variation of Laurence, typically used as a nickname for the related Lars. While English speakers may be tempted to say "lass" or "lassie", the correct pronunciation would LA-suh in Denmark, LAHS-seh in Norway and Finland, and LA-seh in Sweden and Germany.

Variation of Christian.

Eetu is a perennial favorite in Finland, but is rarely if ever used in the States - probably because of the unfamiliar (to most people) spelling and pronunciation.