Male Historic Names:

Randle is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from the elements 'rand' meaning 'rim of a shield' and 'wolf' meaning 'wolf.' It's a variant of Randall or Randolph, with a slightly softer ending that gives it a distinctive character. Historically used in England since the Norman Conquest, Randle has medieval roots but a timeless quality. The name peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but has never been extremely common, maintaining a steady, understated presence. Randle evokes images of strength and protection through its etymological connection to shields and warriors. Its traditional sound carries a certain dignity while remaining approachable. The name offers classic nickname options like Ran or Randy, giving it versatility. Randle appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth that isn't overused.

An old name still occasionally heard in the U.K., but still and perhaps forever a foreigner in the U.S. Can be spelled Ranulf.

Raoul, with its unique three-vowel middle, rolls off the tongue in an appealing way. Raoul is one of the French names that sounds infinitely more romantic and attractive than the somewhat harsh English version Ralph.

Now that the show has gone into reruns, does anybody still love Raymond? Though it's been long dormant, some parents, including Jack Nicholson, are finding its cool name component, largely through the nickname Ray.

Raynald is a masculine name with Germanic origins, a variant of Reynold or Reginald. It combines the Germanic elements 'ragin' meaning 'counsel' or 'decision' and 'wald' meaning 'rule' or 'power,' creating a meaning of 'powerful ruler' or 'wise decision-maker.' This noble name was carried by various medieval European nobles and crusaders, including Raynald of Châtillon, a controversial figure during the Crusades. The name fell from common usage in modern times but retains an aristocratic, vintage charm. The spelling variation with 'ay' rather than 'ey' gives it a slightly distinctive quality while maintaining its historical roots. For parents drawn to names with medieval character and strong meanings, Raynald offers historical depth without being as common as similar names like Ronald or Raymond.

Rees is a Welsh masculine name derived from the Welsh word 'rhys,' meaning 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor.' This concise, strong name has deep Celtic roots and has been borne by several Welsh princes and nobility throughout history. While traditionally a surname, Rees has gained popularity as a first name in Wales and beyond. The single-syllable structure gives it a modern, streamlined quality despite its ancient origins. Rees offers a distinctive alternative to the more common spelling Rhys, while maintaining the same powerful meaning and Welsh heritage. Its simplicity, meaningful etymology, and cultural significance make it appealing to parents seeking a name with substance and brevity.

Now seen as the chap in the smoking jacket in a 1930s drawing-room comedy, Reginald has actually been on the US popularity list every year since 1880.

Attractive if phonetically confusing; also pronounced exactly the same as the Renault car.

There's Rhys and there's Reese (now more popular for girls) and there's Reece, and we particularly like the traditional Welsh spelling, which entered the list in 2004, possibly influenced by Jonathan Rhys Meyers, of The Tudors, and Welsh-born actor Rhys Ifans.

Rice is really stretching the nature name boundary to its outer edges. But you may want to take it that far.

A classic old Norman name popular for a thousand years and favored for kings (Richard Nixon was named for Richard the Lionhearted), as well as the hoi polloi (as in every Tom, Dick and Harry), Richard was the sixth most popular US boys’ name in 1925, and was still Number 8 in 1950, but is now much less popular.

Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains in the Top 100 for baby boys as a family favorite.

In the World War II era, Roger had nothing but the most positive associations, actually used by military personnel to mean 'Received and understood'--or A-OK, and though it is now on extended furlough, it does have a long and distinguished history. Introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066, Roger soon became very popular there, with nicknames Hodge and Dodge, and had a long run later in the U.S, remaining in the Top 100 for 55 years.

Roland is a chivalrous old name made famous by the supposedly eight-foot-tall romantic hero and nephew of Charlemagne, celebrated in medieval poetry and song. It is more widely heard in the US now in its Spanish form, Rolando. You might want to consider rollicking short form Rollo, either on its own or as an abbreviation of Roland. Orlando is the graceful Italian form.

Rollo is a livelier, roly-poly, o-ending version of Roland.

Rowland is more usually the surname spelling of Roland, as in Kelly Rowland.

Sure, he'd probably get a certain amount of red-nosed teasing around the holiday, but a boy named Rudolph could probably take it. Besides, he's got other, more distinguished namesakes -- the great ballet dancer Nureyev, silent screen Lothario Valentino and 9-11 Mayor Giuliani.

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 ancestral Robert.

Russian form of Roderick given to a small number of American boys each year.