Foreign Names That Sound Cool (boys)

This international variation of popular Jeremiah freshens up the Old Testament name. Popular in Czechia and Puerto Rico, Jeremias entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2016 but has remained near the latter end of the list.

Two drawbacks: some unpleasant World War II associations, and the Santa clause.

Lars is a perfect candidate for a cross-cultural passport: it has been heard often enough here to sound familiar and friendly, yet retains the charisma of a charming foreigner.

The related Lucas and Luke are both hugely popular boy names in the US and internationally, and now Luca has joined them on boys' popularity lists around the world.

Marcel, despite distinguished namesakes including Proust and Duchamp, suffers from a terminal headwaiter image in this country. But along with its sister name Marcella and French variation (and Jolie-Pitt pick) Marcheline, Marcel may be on the brink of a style renaissance.

Remus is one of the legendary twins who, with brother Romulus, founded Rome. An unusual yet classic name for the extremely adventurous who can put aside the stereotyped image of Uncle Remus. Though because of that "ream" first syllable, we prefer Romulus.

The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.