Kipper is an uncommon masculine name with Germanic and English origins. Traditionally, it refers to someone who cures fish (particularly herring) by splitting, salting, and smoking—a kipper being a type of preserved fish. As a personal name, it may have evolved from a nickname or occupational surname. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its bouncy consonants and informal feel. In children's literature, Kipper is known as the name of a popular dog character created by Mick Inkpen. While rare as a given name, Kipper has a playful, unpretentious charm that might appeal to parents seeking something distinctive and cheerful. It suggests someone with a down-to-earth, practical nature and perhaps a bit of whimsy.

Yes, the poet Joyce Kilmer ("Trees") was a man, the very last male named Joyce. And even for women, it's been in limbo for several generations.

Taye, also used as a short form of Taylor, began to stand on its own with the emergence of actor Taye (born Scott) Diggs. 

Grue is an uncommon masculine name with Norse and Scottish origins. In Norwegian, 'grue' refers to dread or horror, while in Scottish dialect, it can mean 'to shudder' or 'to feel uneasy.' The name also appears in some place names in Scotland and Norway. As a personal name, Grue is exceedingly rare, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly unique. The name has literary connections as well, appearing in various works of fiction and fantasy. Its short, strong sound gives it a bold quality despite its rarity. Grue may appeal to parents with Scandinavian heritage or those attracted to names with mysterious or evocative meanings.

Marciano is a masculine name with Latin and Italian origins, derived from Marcus or Mars, the Roman god of war. The name literally means 'belonging to Mars' or 'of Mars,' carrying connotations of strength, vigor, and masculine energy. Popular in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, Marciano combines classical roots with a melodious quality typical of Romance languages. The name gained international recognition through Rocky Marciano, the undefeated heavyweight boxing champion of the 1950s. While maintaining strong traditional roots, the name has a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more common derivatives of Marcus. Marciano offers families a name with historical depth, cultural richness, and a strong masculine presence while still having a certain musical flow to its pronunciation.

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.

Nice sound, but double meaning -- shady glen or shady character.

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.

Ferrando is a masculine name of Spanish and Italian origin, representing a variant of Ferdinand, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'journey' and 'brave.' This name carries the weight of European royal history, as Ferdinand was the name of several Spanish and Holy Roman Empire monarchs. Ferrando offers a melodious, romantic alternative to the more formal Ferdinand, with its flowing rhythm and open ending. Uncommon in the United States, it maintains popularity in Spanish and Italian-speaking regions. The name conveys strength, nobility, and a cosmopolitan sensibility, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and international flair. Its distinctive sound makes it memorable without being difficult to pronounce.

Confessional memoirist Augusten Burroughs is the first literary notable to bear one of this family of names since the confessional saint.

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.

A surname-style spin on the classic Matthew, notably born by Victorian journalist and reform advocate Henry Mayhew, writer of London Labour and the London Poor.