UK Baby Names

Cadell is a surname that is unlikely to win many supporters, except perhaps from parents looking for an alternative to Caden. But while Cadell is more distinctive, that L ending is weaker and less appealing than Caden's strong N.

An old English redhead name -- one of the few that doesn't begin with the letter r -- with references both to a famous French knight and a magical horse.

This is a both fresher and cooler spin on David.

Inventive way to honor a redheaded ancestor, though most people would mispronounce it reeding, making it sound to some kids like a school assignment: Redding is a preferable spelling.

The 6th century Irish saint Mirin emigrated to Scotland and now is the patron saint of both the Glasgow suburb of Paisley and the game of football. Mirren is one modern spelling; the Cornish Merryn, best known as the name of the seacoast town St. Merryn, is also related. The name is usually used for girls.

Brusque and charmless, two things you don't want your son to be.

Rocking out on the porch with buddies Hubert, Norbert, and Osbert.

Time was, even C-starting Catherines who called themselves Kate spelled it with a K, but Cate Blanchett changed all. Cate is now as acceptable as (but not as well used as) Kate. Cait might be short for Caitlin.

Since this is a word that pertains to cowardice, not the most appealing choice. Raven, Arven, and Haven might be more positive options for those drawn to the name by its sound.

Not time yet for Thyme.

Peabody is a quintessentially Waspy surname that your child won't thank you for -- either the pea part or the body part, or the meaning part.

The name of the famous British man of letters might just appeal to some English majors as a more interesting alternative to Zachary. An appropriate playmate for Russell Crowe's boy Tennyson.

Way out.

This old-time name for a sofa would not be comfortable as a baby name.

Sounds as if it should have a Sir before it or a shire following it.

An old-man name that sounds cute when used for a little girl, and is starting to seem cool again for boys too.

The Anglophile Howard.