Steampunk Names

This 1950s Welsh bird name sounds less dated than our fifties Robin.

Bartleby (that's his last name) the Scrivener is a famous Herman Melville character whose surprisingly powerful refrain was, "I would prefer not to." Or, in the immortal words of any two-year-old: No.

If Abigail's too popular and Tabitha is too...."Bewitched."

Haitian writer Edwidge Danticat highlighted this sophisticated, chignon-wearing choice for literate parents.

Parthenia may be a bit unwieldy, but does conjure up majestic images of the Parthenon.

Cleora is a now-extinct name (there were no babies named Cleora recorded in the U.S. in 2012) that achieved some standing in the early 20th century thanks to the craze for all things Egypt-related. A range of Cleopatra diminutives, including Cleo, Cleora, Cleona, and Cleola, made the Top 1000 then as the ancient tombs were opened in Egypt.

More unusual than Tessa, this would make an interesting, meaningful and attractive choice for a third child.

An ancient name belonging to "the most beautiful of all women" in Germanic mythology, whose tragic story features in many northern European legends. The daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun, her jealous husband had her murdered after she was accused of infidelity, and was then himself killed by Swanhild's brothers.

Possible middle name for devotees of detective Sherlock...or the actress Katie.

Swinging London songbird Petula Clark claims that this name was her father's invention; in any case it hasn't seen much copycat usage.

Theodoric feels prehistoric, though with short form Theo one of the hottest names around, this old German names for boys may soon feel new again.

First century queen who led her Brittonic Iceni tribe in revolution against the Romans occupying England. Also found as Boudica, Boadicea (as in bodacious) and in Welsh as Buddug, the historic namesake was defeated and committed suicide, but is still celebrated in England as intelligent and brave. One ancient name that, while unheard these days, could be revived along with such choices as Atticus and Cassius.

Most ella names are hot, but this is one that won't catch fire because of the disagreeable connotations of prunes.

Associated with the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates (often spelled Sokratis) is quite common in traditional Greek families, but for others, we think Plato (the name of his pupil) might be easier to handle for those wanting a philosopher-inspired choice.

Classy-sounding surname name usually bypassed in favor of the simpler Landon.

Shakespeare used Volumnia as the name of Coriolanus' mother in his tragedy Coriolanus.