Dog Names That Mean Protector

One of the romantic names favored by British pastoral poets, more appealing in its longer form, Araminta.

One of the least known of the Ken names, though could make an intriguing namesake for an outdated Kenneth.

An ancient saint's name belonging to an 8th century English missionary. Variants include Walpurga and Walpurgis.

Another appealing member of the Alexandrian clan.

Sanders is one of the S-ending surnames gaining traction as a first name for boys in the US. It jumped nearly 2000 points in popularity this year.

Lighter Latin version of Anselm.

Sometimes heard in Scotland, where its heyday was in the times of Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott, here we would prefer the Germanic version, Wilhelmina, brought into the spotlight by the conniving character on "Ugly Betty."

Tenzan is a variation of Tenzin, a name with special significance for Buddhists, being the first name of the Dalai Lama.

Possible Hayden alternative.

With Yale and Brown in the mainstream, why not this upscale college name and surname as well.

The range of occupational baby names is ever expanding, and Ranger is a recent addition to the list. It feels both natural—reminiscent of park rangers—and western and rugged, as in the Lone Ranger. If you're making a choice between Ranger and Danger, we suggest the less aggressive former. Plus, this one gives you the option of nicknames Rae, Rayne, and Rainey too, and ties to various sports teams and Dungeons and Dragons. Currently given to more than 100 boys in each recent year, it has yet to chart for girls, but this could change in the future.

Variation of Alexander.

The initial X is pronounced like a Z. Confusing? Potentially. But there are enough Alexandras and Xanders through the Western World these days that this spelling wouldn't seem outlandish.

Yiddish form of Alexander.

Eastman is a solid, old-style Atlantic seaboard surname. But as a first name, we think Easton works better.

This spin on the "Alex" prefix was the 88th most popular girl name in Scotland in 1900.

Removing one letter from the somewhat intimidating Alexios gives you Alexio, a charming and more accessible variation.

Double whammy: the expression "Seward's folly" and inevitable sewer jokes.