UK Baby Names

The mute, horn-honking Marx Brother's real name was Adolph -- so Harpo represented a huge step up. Also, it's Oprah's production company (her name spelled backward).

One of the most distinguished names in literature could become a hero name in a family of poetry-lovers -- or be seen as a trendy new occupational name.

Tay is occasionally used on its own, or as a nickname for the now fading Taylor.

Frost is a name parents are beginning to warm to, appreciating its icy simplicity and connection with the venerable poet Robert. Frost, along with Winter, Snow, and January, are also perfect names for winter babies.

Has diverse links to a Groucho Marx character, a bouncing ball, and late performance artist Spalding Gray.

Fleet is one of the uncountable number of new word name possibilities, and a particularly cool choice at that. Connoting speed, Fleet beats Rush any day. Might be short for Fleetwood, but we prefer it on its own.

This dignified Old English surname was brought into the modern consciousness by author Armistead Maupin, who wrote the San Francisco stories Tales of the City. There was also a Civil War general named Lewis Armistead.

With the first two syllables pronounced Georgie, it has a stylish Masterpiece Theatre air.

A fresher alternative to Dalton.

Strong, friendly surname choice, à la Bailey.

Projects the sleek and playful image of the aquatic mammal, plus that of the striking British-born Brazilian/Nigerian/Afro-Caribbean singer (born Sealhenry).

Pistol is one of the new names that entered the lexicon in the US in 2013, when it was given to nine babies of each gender. Call it an equal-opportunity badass baby name with an unfortunately violent image.

A more unusual, if slightly snooty, masculine Bailey alternative.

You won't win with Sherwin.

Unusual and unappealing.

Chelsea with dyslexia.

One of several trendy boys' names now being adopted for girls with feminized spellings.

Only if it's a family name, and even then, better in the middle.

Noted bearers of this surname include a metaphysical poet, a Nobel Prize winner, and a baseball Hall of Famer, so there's plenty of hero-name inspiration.