Long associated with the Churchill family and common in the West Indies, the distinguished Winston is back in style having been slightly neglected in the US after its brief flash of popularity during World War II. Familiar in England and Wales, recent years have seen in re-enter the Top 500 in the States.

A solid classic with plenty of history, Thomas strikes the balance between strength and gentleness. A favorite in the UK, a staple in France, and Australia, and never absent from the US Top 100, Thomas feels like a safe bet and a name that fits into any era.

As flinty and steely as Mr. Eastwood.

Ben, the diminutive of Benjamin or Benedict, can easily stand on its own as a simple, strong, nice-guy choice, though it's somewhat attenuated. Ben is this generation's Bob or Bill.

Alby is a diminutive form of Albert or Albin, friendly and approachable. It can also be spelled Albie.

The ultimate dad name.

Rarely used on its own and irrevocably tied to former House Speaker Gingrich -- who was christened Newton.

So far out it's almost ready to be let back in.