UK Boy Names

This old short form might be seen as a little dubious by some, though it could make for a fun pet name or an update on Roger.

A surname name, most popularly associated with actor Heston, has a blue-blooded ring to it. Charlton is also a more unusual pathway to evergreen nickname Charlie.

This name of a busy British port city -- as well as of several places in America -- has a brisk and bustling air. It will now--and for years to come--be identified as a (female) Sarah Palin name.

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.

A bit too cunning.

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.

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.

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

With its slightly cocky feel, this well-used surname is not often heard as a first.

This is a both fresher and cooler spin on David.

With the fashion for all names Rom, this strong surname with ties to Old Master painter George has new possibilities. Obviously, it now has more political associations than artistic.

For 007 fans, a great middle name choice -- or even a first.

Possible Hayden alternative.

This can be a cool and unusual way to honor your family Robert, conjuring up memories of Robinson Crusoe and Swiss Family Robinson, as well as narrative poet Robinson Jeffers, born John Robinson, who shared his mother's middle name.

Heard in a sixties spy movie, The Quiller Memorandum, this uncommon occupational name has an offbeat charm.

Huntley was best known as Brinkley's news partner several decades ago. With the new genre of girls' names that are unusual surnames ending with the lee sound -- think Mosley, Yardley -- Huntley or Huntlea or Huntleigh might rise for girls.

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.

Underused literary name (as in the poet John) with a -den ending that's very much in style.

What child wouldn't like a name that was a synonym for cool?