Arkady is a rhythmic Russian saint's name from the Greek meaning "from Arcadia." As a literary name, it belongs to a genteel character in Turgenev's Fathers and Sons and a much less benign one in Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment, and is also a key figure in Gorky Park by Martin Cruz Smith.

Farren is a masculine name with Celtic and Irish origins, though it's used for both genders in some regions. Derived from the Irish surname Ó Fearáin, it means 'adventurous,' 'wanderer,' or sometimes 'from the land of the ferns.' The name has a nature-inspired quality that connects to the earth and wilderness. In Ireland, it's traditionally associated with strength and independence. Farren has never been extremely common but maintains steady usage, appealing to parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage that isn't overused. Its strong consonants balanced with the softer ending create a pleasing rhythmic quality. The name carries a sense of exploration and resilience while remaining approachable and easy to pronounce.

Sheridan is one surname-name that hasn't come into style for either gender, though it was lightly used for boys around the turn of the 20th century and girls 100 years later. The name does have an attractive sound and an appealing meaning.

To the American ear, Jordi seems like a nickname for Jordan, which means this popular name from Catalonia could certainly cross cultures.

Brantley is one of several English surnames that was new to the tops in 2009. A possible-probable inspiration is the country rock singer Brantley Gilbert.

Frey is the handsome Norse fertility god, a worthy namesake. Frey remains rare in the US even as the similar Freya picks up in popularity.

An interesting and attractive multicultural choice, Tor packs a lot in to three letters. It may be used as a modern form of Þórr (Thor) , the name of the Norse thunder god or as a short form of Victor/Viktor and Hector, giving it the meaning "conqueror, victor" or "holding fast".

As a Hebrew name, it means "turtle-dove" and is a favorite choice for babies born in spring, when turtledoves arrive, especially as a middle, while as an English word name, it may refer to a rocky peak or hill, as in the Glastonbury Tor.

An Irish last-name-first-name that could make a child feel distinctive, while still having the regular guy nickname of Quinn. Christine Taylor and Ben Stiller spelled their son's name Quinlin.

Way out.

Slate, Stone and Steel are on the rise, so why not Shale?

The o ending and the positive meaning in many languages makes this a winner, and with the feminine Vera making a surprise return, and the new love for the letter 'V', this becomes a name that has definite possibilities.

One of the surname names used more in the last century, à la Milton and Morton.

This name, once considered overly powerful due to the superhuman strength of the biblical figure, is now an option for parents in search of an unusual route to Sam. But you really don't need that p: Samson will do.

A kindly, virtue-adjacent name, it appears in Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, borne by the peacemaker friend who persuades Romeo to go to the party where he meets Juliet. Alas. A bold choice but with familiar nicknames Ben, Lio, and Bo.

Merc has been introduced to the American public by the network executive character on Showtime's Episodes, and is a contemporary-sounding short form of the Roman god and planet name Mercury. Mercury, from the Latin for trade or wages, was the god of tradesmen and travelers and is the fast-moving first planet in our solar system.

Fiore is a masculine name with Italian origins, literally meaning 'flower' in Italian. This lyrical name carries artistic and natural connotations, reflecting beauty and growth. Though traditionally more common in Italy and other Italian-speaking regions, Fiore has gained some international recognition as parents increasingly seek names with cultural depth and melodic quality. The name has a gentle yet dignified presence, balancing masculine strength with aesthetic elegance. While not widely popular in English-speaking countries, it represents a growing trend toward borrowing poetic names from other languages. For those with Italian heritage or an appreciation for Italian culture, Fiore offers a distinctive option that honors these connections while remaining accessible.

Variously spelled Covy and Covey, this is a surname derived from the first name Cobthach. Like cousins Coby and Cody, it has an energetic nickname feel.

Dapper-sounding choice with old American roots (Dabney Cosby was a 19th century Virginian architect who worked with Thomas Jefferson on some of that state's most iconic buildings). Dabney Montgomery was Martin Luther King Jr's bodyguard, giving this name yet more American history depth. Dab is a sweet nickname option for this name.

Zollie is a vintage masculine name that likely originated as a diminutive form of Solomon, from the Hebrew 'shalom' meaning 'peace.' It may also be connected to names like Zoltan or Zoltán of Hungarian origin. Popular in the early 20th century, particularly in the southern United States, Zollie has the characteristic charm of old-fashioned nicknames that became given names in their own right. The name's zippy 'Z' beginning gives it energy and distinction. Though its usage declined after the 1930s, Zollie retains appeal for parents drawn to vintage revivals and distinctive sounds. The name combines an antique sensibility with a playful, friendly quality that works well across age groups.