Preppy Boys Names, 2

Newman

English

"newcomer"

Family name best used in the middle, especially since it was seen as the portly postman in Seinfeld.

Parrish

English surname

"from Paris"

Parrish is unrelated — but often said to be related — to the English word "parish". Instead, the surname arose as a designator for one who lived in Paris.

Quenton

Quenton is a masculine name representing an alternative spelling of Quentin, which derives from the Latin name Quintinus, meaning 'fifth.' Originally referring to a child born fifth in birth order,…

Ralph

English from German

"wolf-counsel"

Ralph has two diametrically different images: there's the suave Ralph Fiennes-type Brit (often pronounced Rafe), and then there's the Jackie Gleason blue-collar, bowling blowhard Ralph Kramden bus…

Rupert

German variation of Robert

"bright fame"

Rupert is a charming-yet-manly name long more popular in Britain (where it's attached to a beloved cartoon bear) than in the U.S. Yet we can see Rupert as a more stylish, modern way to honor an…

Roan

Spelling variation of Rowan, Irish, Frisian, English word name

"little redhead; rowan tree; raven; animal with a coat of two interspersed colors"

This sleek, warm-hued spelling spin on Rowan was chosen by Sharon Stone for one of her three sons back in the 2000s and it has since risen in popularity in the US. While it remains a long way behind…

Stewart

Scottish

"steward"

This ancient royal Scottish name and its equally-correct spelling French variation Stuart had a brief vogue in midcentury America--it was Number 286 in 1955--dropped off the list completely in the…

Sampson

Hebrew

"sun"

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:…

Torrence

Scottish habitational surname

"from the hillocks"

Spelling variation Torrance is split fairly evenly between girls and boys, while Torrence is almost entirely male.

Thatcher

English occupational name

"roof thatcher"

Thatcher is an open and friendly freckle-faced surname, fresher sounding than Tyler or Taylor, that dates back to the days of thatched-roof cottages. It is catching on with modern parents—it reached…

Valor

Word name

"courage and bravery"

This modern virtue name gives a nod to ancient chivalry and could also work as an updated form of the classic Victor. A bold choice, but one that an increasing number of parents have been making in…

Wendell

German, English

"wanderer; to travel, to proceed"

This name has hardly been used since Wendell Willkie ran for president in 1940, and it may not quite be ready for revival yet. Still, clunky grandpa names like Lionel, Douglas, Benedict, Carl, and…