Boy names from vintage baby name book

Ichabod

Hebrew

"the glory is gone"

Ichabod, an eccentric Old Testament name, is forever tied to the character of Ichabod Crane -- and worse, the teasing possibilities of "icky bod." Even its original meaning is a negative. Skip…

Ives

English variation of Yves

"yew wood"

Smooth and sleek one-syllable name, sometimes suggested for Sagittarius boys.

Jeconiah

Hebrew

"God will establish"

Intriguing alternative to Jedediah.

Jenkin

Flemish

"little John"

Possible (and offbeat) middle name twist when honoring a familial John.

Jermyn

Jermyn is a masculine name with English origins, evolved from the Germanic name Germain, meaning 'brother' or relating to Germania (Germany). It first appeared as a surname, often associated with…

Jervis

Jervis is a masculine name with Germanic origins, being a variant form of Jarvis. The name ultimately derives from elements meaning "spear" and "warrior." Historically, it was more common as a…

Kester

Scottish form of Christopher

"one who carries Christ"

Nearly unknown outside the British Isles, this old Scottish variation has a sleek surname feel that can make an excellent update of the flagging Christopher.

Lear

Literary name

The name and story of Shakespeare’s King Lear is based on that of Leir — a legendary king of the Britons, who supposedly reigned around the 8th century BC. According to 12th-century historian,…