Names That Mean Hero

Heron fits in with the modern nature names that are so stylish at the moment, but it also has history as the name of a Greek inventor and Egyptian saint. Both were male, but Heron's image as a word name makes it accessible for girls as well.

The double 'e' gives this Celtic surname a genial sound. It derives from an old Irish name — Suibhne (SHEEV-ne) that was borne by several early saints and kings, including, unfortunately, one known as Mad Sweeney who spent his life living in trees and composing nature poetry. Another possible drawback is the association with Sweeney Todd, the bloodthirsty butcher of Sondheim stage-musical fame.

Legend joins cousins Story, Saga and Fable in the baby name pantheon of narrative words. Unlike Story and Fable, however, Legend comes with additional weight, being used for fame ("living legend") and to denote a person who is fantastic "what a legend"). Who can live up to that?

A common Irish surname that's seldom heard as a first name, but has an appealing meaning.

Erinna was an ancient poetess from the island of Telos near Rhodes. Only fragments of her poems remain, which were reproduced in Bergk's Poetae Lyrici Graeci (published in 1900).

Greek name featured in the New Testament.

Sikh name with two appealing meanings, derived from the Sanskrit vīra, meaning "brave, heroic".

Makes hot name Finley kind of Phyllis-like -- which is not a good thing.

Halen is a surname-name that will appeal to Van Halen fans, or simply those looking for an unusual yet simple surname name.

Masculine in an outmoded, unappealing way.

Casworon was derived from the Celtic elements cad, meaning "battle," and kawaro, hero. Caz is an enviably cool nickname.

A spelling spin on presidential surname McKinley.

Feminine form of Herod.

Friendly-sounding name with big "Sweeney Todd" downside.