Origin/meaning: Latin, English, “From the forest”
Serious and sophisticated, this name is a sleeker vintage alternative to choices such as Samuel and Sidney. It carries an enduring literary association in Silas Marner, the novel by George Eliot.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #602
2010: #222
Origin/meaning: English, form of “Adelaide”
This charmer makes a winning, vintage alternative to Madeline, and modern parents are loving it. Less dowdy-sounding than other old-fashioned picks, Adeline is sweet and sprightly, and comes equipped with the cute nickname options Addy or Addie.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #805
2010: #322
Origin/meaning: Latin, short for “Maximillian, Maxwell”
This nickname, popular at a time when Sam and Mack were also common choices for boys, can stand on its own, no question. Affable yet confident, it’s a stylish choice for parents fond of short, one-syllable names.
Popularity in the last decade:
2000: #164
2010: #98
