A beaming, friendly Irish last-name-first-name waiting to be discovered, though anyone into American history might associate it with John C. Calhoun, a 19th century statesman who defended slavery. There are however plenty of places called Calhoun which might lessen that association.

Old-time nickname that's following in the fashionable footsteps of cronies Jake and Sam. Abe feels both fresher and cuter -- which is maybe the same thing? -- than those choices right now. You can also get to Abe via Abel, which may prove a friendlier formal name than the gray-bearded Abraham.

Stuffy presidential choice: consider Hayes instead.

An uncommon surname name with that energetic -er ending. Might appeal especially to baseball fans.

Biblical names are expanding (literally) as some parents move on from Isaiah and Elijah to more elaborate choices with simple short forms like Jed and Zeb.

Arlan is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Germanic elements 'arn' (eagle) and 'land,' suggesting 'eagle land.' Alternatively, it could be a variation of Harlan, meaning 'rocky land' or 'from the hare's land.' In some contexts, it represents an Anglicized form of the Irish name Ó hArrachtáin. Arlan gained modest popularity in America during the mid-20th century but remained relatively uncommon. The name experienced a small resurgence in recent years as parents seek vintage names with strong sounds. Arlan combines a traditional feel with uncommon status, appealing to those wanting distinctive yet accessible names. Its short, strong phonetics and natural imagery associations give it a rugged yet refined character.

Mama's boy.