Vintage Nicknames for Boys

A heck of a lot cooler than Larry.

Diehard World War II buffs may be interested in this name as a reference to American combat medic Desmond Doss, the first conscientious objector to be awarded the metal of honor. But it carries a host of negative connotations in the U.K., especially in Scotland, related to laziness and the shirking of work.

Sixties-style short form that sounds cool again -- though the unscrupulous Pete on "Mad Men" is not a character to emulate.

The Biblical Simon has been rediscovered and this appealing short form, an alternative to Sam, might be a way to make your Simon even more special.

A nickname that sounds like a nickname.

In the 18th century, Tiah was seen as a nickname for the biblical name Azariah. Nowadays it's used a variation of the feminine names Thea and Tia.

Along with Shem and Japheth, a son of Noah with a name that's almost never used -- for more obvious reasons than those of his brothers.

Appealing short form of the stuffy Cleveland, occasionally used on its own.

Adds some dash and substance to Lon.

Actor Rhames's imaginative shortening of the prosaic Irving, giving it new life and energy.

Bartholomew is one vintage name with Biblical antecedents that hasn't risen again in the modern world, perhaps because short form Bart, as in Simpson, would be too difficult for a contemporary boy to bear. But antique nickname Bat might work better. Might.

A bit too cunning.

Back in the day, Con was a nickname for Cornelius and Conrad. Today it feels like a pet form of Connor.

Retro nickname for Charles that has the potential for revival, a la Hal, Ike, and Gus.

Welsh for "lion", or a nickname for Llewelyn. Could make a cooler substitute for the blander Lou.

The cute short form gained prominence when it was used for young Prince William of England.

As seen on SNL, Pat is the ultimate androgynous name. Stick with long form Patrick, and make sure everyone calls him Patrick.

A thoroughly old-school nickname for Ambrose — one that lightens up the serious full form.