Old-fashioned baby names are all the rage right now with names like Theodore, Eveyln, and Henry in the top ten names in 2023.
But, if you’re looking for an old-fashioned name that’s not quite as common, check out these ideas from our readers.
The appeal of old-fashioned names.
Another way to describe “old-fashioned” is “classic.” Many of these names have been used intermittently for centuries, so they’ll never completely seem obsolete.
On the other hand, some older names are rare enough that they stand out for their uniqueness.
Here are some old-fashioned boy’s names not on the top ten lists.
Want the perfect classic name but don’t want a popular choice? Our readers have some great options.
“Cecil and Elroy were my grandfather’s names,” said Brian Cook. Everett and Emil were two other ideas mentioned by a couple of commenters.
Old-fashioned names often have familial ties.
If you want to name your child, or even pet, after a family member, you can look to your grandparents or great-grandparents for inspiration. Often, names on your family tree are interesting and beautiful, not to mention a great way to honor your family.
Many readers brought up their grandfather’s names.
Many of us have fond memories and close connections to our grandparents, so it’s no wonder many people brought up their grandfathers.
As Jenn Dundee said, “Not his first name, but I always thought if I were to have a boy, I’d name him Truitt – my Grandpa’s middle name. And from what I understand, he hated his middle name. I happen to love it.”
Vintage names can be gender-neutral.
Amanda Cornett’s grandparents had names that were both unique and gender neutral.“My maternal grandfather’s name was Elbert my paternal grandfather’s name was Gentry.”
Both of those names work well for any child, regardless of gender.
Here’s a list of some common favorite-name contenders.
While there were many uncommon names, there were also some that many people mentioned.
A short list of some top-favorite vintage boys’ names includes William, Fred, Clarence, and Raymond.
A few names were a bit less…popular.
While some names mentioned would do well today, others seem outdated or odd. For example, someone mentioned a grandparent named Bunyon. Unfortunately, a kid with that name today would likely hear jokes about feet too often.
Many people mentioned names shared by former presidents.
If you want a classic name, looking at former presidents is a good place to start, regardless of how you feel about the actual people themselves.
Many readers brought up names like James, Donald, John, George, and Thomas.
Other names had literary connections.
Embed from Getty ImagesDo you love to read or want to use a name that invokes a well-loved character? Atticus is a unique option that most people know because of the character in To Kill a Mockingbird, who is known for justice and integrity.
Or connections to well-known movie stars.
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Are you a fan of westerns? Many people mentioned Clint, which calls to mind Clint Eastwood. A couple of people also brought up the name, Wayne, such as John Wayne.
Classic grandpa names will always be beloved.
Was your grandpa named Roger? Clyde? Walter? Gordon? These are some tried and true grandpa-sounding names. They were also mentioned a time or two. What was your grandpa’s name?
Still need some great name ideas? Here you go!
Slade, Francis, Quentin, Norman, Louis, Clive, Charles, Stanley, Vincent, Oscar, Edgard, and Willard.
Phew! That’s a lot of names. All of them are mentioned by our wonderful readers!
What are your favorite old-fashioned names?
Do you have a family name you love? We’d love to hear more about your favorite old-fashioned, classic names, whether they are for boys, girls, or gender-neutral. You all have so many great ideas!
