Back in Time Today
Old is becoming new again in the world of baby naming. Parents are increasingly looking to the past for inspiration, seeking names with character, history, and a touch of nostalgia. The following classic names are making impressive comebacks for 2025, as modern families embrace these timeless choices that feel both familiar and fresh.
1. Evelyn
Grandmother’s favorite is now playground royalty! Originally a surname derived from ‘Aveline,’ Evelyn rose to fame in the early 1900s before fading mid-century.
Today’s parents adore its vintage elegance and versatile nickname options like Evie, Eve, or Lynn. The name strikes that perfect balance between classic and contemporary, formal yet friendly.
Evelyn’s literary connections (including author Evelyn Waugh) add intellectual appeal, while its gentle rhythm makes it flow effortlessly with almost any surname.
2. Henry
Royal heritage meets modern playground cool in this timeless choice. Henry’s impressive lineage includes eight English kings and countless historical figures, giving it gravitas few names can match.
The friendly nickname Hank adds approachable charm, while the full name commands respect. Parents appreciate Henry’s classic sound that never feels stuffy or dated.
Despite centuries of use, Henry maintains a fresh, vibrant energy – equally fitting for a rambunctious toddler or future CEO. Its steady presence in the top 100 names for generations proves its staying power.
3. Hazel
Nature-inspired with a dash of vintage glamour! Hazel conjures images of warm autumn days and the golden-brown eyes it’s named after. Popular during the early 1900s, it’s returned with newfound appeal.
The name strikes a delightful balance – distinctive without being strange, vintage without feeling dated. Its connection to the natural world resonates with eco-conscious parents seeking grounded names.
Celebrity choices (Julia Roberts, Emily Blunt) have boosted Hazel’s profile, while its appearance in beloved stories like The Fault in Our Stars adds literary depth.
4. Arthur
Legendary and lordly, Arthur carries the weight of Camelot on its distinguished shoulders. This name seamlessly bridges medieval majesty with modern masculinity, offering gravitas without pretension.
The nickname Art or Artie softens its formal edge, making it versatile for all stages of life. Parents love its literary credentials – from King Arthur to Arthur Weasley – providing both heroic and relatable associations.
After decades in naming hibernation, Arthur’s comeback reflects our collective desire for names with substance and story. Its Celtic roots meaning ‘bear’ add a subtle strength to its appeal.
5. Clara
Crystalline and captivating, Clara sparkles with understated elegance. Its Latin roots meaning ‘bright’ or ‘clear’ perfectly capture its transparent beauty – simple yet sophisticated.
Clara’s historical moment came during the Victorian era, but today’s parents appreciate its uncluttered sound in a world of elaborate names. Ballet enthusiasts recognize it from The Nutcracker, while classic film buffs remember silent film star Clara Bow.
The name carries a quiet confidence, neither trendy nor tired. Clara works equally well for a spirited toddler or accomplished adult, aging gracefully through every life stage.
6. Theodore
Presidential pizzazz meets cuddly teddy bear charm! Theodore expertly balances dignified formality with playful accessibility through its beloved nickname Teddy.
The name’s impressive historical credentials include presidents (Roosevelt) and literary giants (Dreiser), giving it intellectual weight. Its Greek origins meaning ‘gift from God’ add spiritual significance for many families.
Modern parents appreciate Theodore’s classic vibe that somehow feels fresh again. The rise of nickname-friendly formal names has propelled this distinguished choice back into nurseries nationwide, offering gravitas on birth certificates and playground-friendly options for daily use.
7. Mabel
Sweet yet substantial, Mabel packs vintage charm into just two bouncy syllables. After nearly vanishing mid-century, this Victorian favorite has reemerged with fresh appeal for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon.
Pop culture has embraced Mabel through characters in Gravity Falls and Only Murders in the Building, introducing the name to new generations. Its Latin roots meaning ‘lovable’ perfectly capture its endearing quality.
Mabel manages to be simultaneously old-fashioned and contemporary – a neat trick that makes it appealing to style-conscious parents. The nickname Mae offers a sleek modern option when desired.
8. Walter
Strong, steady, and suddenly stylish again! Walter’s Germanic roots meaning ‘ruler of the army’ hint at its commanding presence, while its familiar sound keeps it approachable.
Once a boardroom staple, Walter disappeared from playgrounds for decades before finding new life. Pop culture references from Breaking Bad to The Big Lebowski have reintroduced Walter to contemporary parents, giving it complex character.
The nickname Walt offers a friendly, vintage-cool alternative. Walter’s three distinct syllables create a rhythmic name that stands out in today’s sea of single-syllable boy names, making it both traditional and refreshingly distinctive.
9. Eleanor
Regal yet relatable, Eleanor bridges medieval majesty and modern minimalism. This name has graced queens, first ladies, and literary heroines while maintaining its timeless appeal.
Parents love Eleanor’s nickname versatility – Ellie, Ella, Nora, or Nell – offering options to suit any personality. Its Greek origins meaning ‘light’ give it an uplifting quality, while its historical associations with Eleanor Roosevelt add feminist strength.
Eleanor’s elegant rhythm creates a musical quality that flows beautifully. Despite centuries of use, it never feels dated – instead, it carries the patina of history while remaining perpetually fresh and sophisticated.
10. Silas
Biblical depth meets woodland wonder in this distinctive choice. Silas combines ancient gravitas with contemporary nature vibes, making it uniquely positioned for modern appeal.
Literary connections abound – from George Eliot’s Silas Marner to the mysterious albino in The Da Vinci Code. The name’s Latin origins connecting to forests give it an earthy, grounded quality parents increasingly seek.
After centuries of relative obscurity, Silas has emerged as a favorite for families wanting something recognized but not overused. Its gentle sibilance creates a soothing sound, while its history provides substantial character.
11. Beatrice
Literary royalty with a honeyed sound! Beatrice brings Shakespearean sophistication and Italian romance to the modern nursery. Dante immortalized it as his muse, while Shakespeare gave it sparkling wit in Much Ado About Nothing.
The cheerful nickname Bea (pronounced “bee”) adds approachable charm to this elegant choice. Its Latin meaning – “she who brings happiness” – offers a joyful aspiration for any daughter.
After decades in naming hibernation, Beatrice has reemerged as the perfect balance between distinctive and recognizable. Its vintage appeal satisfies parents seeking something classic yet uncommon.
12. Oscar
Golden statue glamour meets literary brilliance in this snappy choice! Oscar balances sophistication with a touch of whimsy – serious enough for a judge, playful enough for a preschooler.
Irish origins give it Celtic charm, while associations with Oscar Wilde add literary flair and a dash of rebellious spirit. The Academy Awards connection brings a sprinkle of Hollywood glamour to this venerable name.
After decades of underuse, Oscar has returned with contemporary appeal. Its crisp, clear sound and short length make it refreshingly straightforward in an era of elaborate names, while still carrying substantial character and history.
13. Violet
Botanical beauty with Victorian roots and modern appeal! Violet bridges eras effortlessly – a flower name that’s both delicate and surprisingly sturdy.
Popular during the early 1900s, Violet faded mid-century before blooming again for today’s parents. Its vibrant purple associations give it colorful character, while its appearance in literature from Shakespeare to Wonka adds cultural depth.
Violet’s gentle sound belies its surprising versatility – fitting equally well for a spirited child or accomplished adult. The subtle nature connection satisfies parents seeking names with organic roots without being overly trendy.
14. Felix
Lucky by definition and jaunty by nature! Felix bounces with optimistic energy while maintaining classical roots that stretch back to ancient Rome.
Literary cats and cartoon characters have kept this name familiar, while its Latin meaning – “happy” or “fortunate” – gives it an auspicious quality parents love. Felix manages the rare feat of sounding simultaneously distinguished and playful.
European families never abandoned Felix, but American parents rediscovered its charm recently. Its x-ending creates a contemporary sound despite its ancient origins, making it feel fresh yet established – the perfect combination for today’s naming sensibilities.
15. Harriet
Revolutionary spirit in a prim Victorian package! Harriet combines feminine strength with historical significance, honoring trailblazers like Tubman and Beecher Stowe.
The spunky nickname Hattie adds vintage playfulness to this substantial choice. After nearly disappearing from birth certificates by the 1970s, Harriet’s comeback reflects our renewed appreciation for names with substance and story.
Its Germanic origins meaning “home ruler” hint at domestic authority – fitting for a name that feels both commanding and comfortable. Harriet offers the perfect antidote to frilly, insubstantial girls’ names, providing historical weight and feminist credentials.
16. Jasper
Gemstone brilliance with a rugged edge! Jasper combines earthy mineral associations with a dash of old-world sophistication, creating a name that feels both organic and refined.
Long popular in England, Jasper brings international flair to American nurseries. Its Persian origins meaning “treasurer” add exotic appeal, while its appearance in the Bible gives it spiritual significance for some families.
The jasper stone’s varied colors – from reddish-brown to green – mirror this name’s versatility. Jasper works equally well for nature-loving families and those seeking something traditional yet uncommon, striking that perfect balance between familiar and fresh.
17. Ada
Brilliantly brief yet packed with pioneering spirit! Ada honors computing foremother Ada Lovelace while delivering vintage charm in just three letters.
Victorian elegance meets STEM inspiration in this compact choice. After a century of declining use, Ada has surged back thanks to parents seeking short, strong names with substantial stories behind them.
Its Germanic origins meaning “noble” hint at its dignified nature. Ada proves that feminine names can be simultaneously delicate and powerful – flowing gracefully while honoring one of history’s most brilliant mathematical minds.
18. Otis
Soul legend meets small-town charm in this distinctive choice! Otis radiates vintage cool while remaining refreshingly uncommon on modern playgrounds.
Music lovers appreciate the connection to R&B icon Otis Redding, giving it artistic credibility. Its Germanic origins meaning “wealth” hint at prosperity, while its appearance in literature and film (from Mayberry to Sex Education) keeps it culturally relevant.
After decades of obscurity, Otis has reemerged as the perfect alternative to overused vintage revivals. Its gentle strength and slight quirkiness appeal to parents seeking something with character and history without being pretentious.
19. Florence
Italian elegance meets British rock-and-roll in this revitalized classic! Florence conjures images of Renaissance beauty while honoring nursing pioneer Nightingale.
The cheerful nickname Flo adds approachable charm to this substantial choice. Its Latin roots meaning “flourishing” offer a hopeful aspiration for any daughter, while singer Florence Welch gives it contemporary cool factor.
After fading mid-century, Florence has returned for parents seeking names with both history and artistic flair. The Italian city connection adds travel romance, while its appearance in literature and film keeps it culturally relevant across generations.
20. Calvin
Theologian gravitas meets fashion-forward flair! Calvin bridges scholarly tradition and modern style with remarkable ease.
Religious families appreciate its connection to Protestant reformer John Calvin, while fashion-conscious parents might reference Calvin Klein. The friendly nickname Cal softens its slightly formal edge, making it versatile for all stages of life.
After peaking mid-century, Calvin has maintained steady presence without overuse. Its Latin origins suggest “bald” – an ironic meaning for a name with such substance and style. Calvin offers the perfect balance of seriousness and approachability.
21. Edith
Medieval majesty with artistic edge! Edith combines ancient Anglo-Saxon roots with bohemian associations through cultural icons like Edith Piaf and Wharton.
The sprightly nickname Edie adds contemporary charm to this substantial choice. After nearly disappearing from birth certificates by the 1980s, Edith has returned for parents seeking authentic vintage names with genuine historical credentials.
Its Old English origins meaning “prosperous in war” hint at strength beneath its delicate sound. Edith manages to be simultaneously dignified and artistic – perfect for families who value both tradition and creative expression.
22. Hugo
Continental flair with literary depth! Hugo packs intellectual punch into just two snappy syllables, sounding simultaneously distinguished and playful.
Literary connections to Victor Hugo give it cultural gravitas, while its international use makes it globally appealing. Unlike many vintage revivals, Hugo never completely disappeared – maintaining steady use in Europe while remaining refreshingly uncommon in America.
Its Germanic origins meaning “mind” or “intellect” hint at its thoughtful nature. Hugo offers the perfect alternative for parents who find Henry too popular but want something equally classic with a dash of European sophistication.
23. Pearl
Ocean treasure with Roaring Twenties glamour! Pearl shimmers with natural elegance while carrying Jazz Age associations of sophistication and style.
Unlike fabricated gemstone names, Pearl’s organic origins give it authentic vintage credentials. Popular during the early 1900s, it nearly vanished before being rediscovered by parents seeking genuine antique names with natural connections.
Its obvious connection to the lustrous sea gem gives it straightforward meaning, while literary appearances from The Scarlet Letter to Finding Nemo keep it culturally relevant. Pearl’s single syllable creates a name that’s simultaneously substantial and streamlined.
24. Leon
Fierce yet friendly, Leon roars with quiet confidence! This name bridges ancient strength and modern cool with remarkable ease.
Popular across Europe for generations, Leon offers international appeal while remaining refreshingly uncommon in America. Its Greek origins meaning “lion” give it an impressive animal association – powerful without being aggressive.
Musicians like Leon Bridges have given it contemporary credibility, while its appearance in literature and film keeps it culturally relevant. Leon provides the perfect alternative for parents considering Leonardo or Leo but wanting something slightly less expected.
25. Matilda
Bookish charm with unexpected warrior roots! Matilda delights with its literary connection to Roald Dahl’s brilliant heroine while hiding surprising strength in its meaning – “mighty in battle.”
The playful nicknames Tilly, Tillie, or Mattie add approachable options to this substantial choice. After nearly disappearing from American birth certificates, Matilda has returned for parents seeking names with character, history, and a touch of whimsy.
Its Germanic origins and use across Europe give it international appeal. Matilda effortlessly balances feminine grace with inherent strength – a winning combination for modern parents.
26. Clyde
Notorious yet natty, Clyde carries the perfect blend of danger and dapper style! This name conjures images of both Bonnie and Clyde’s rebellious spirit and classic American masculinity.
Scottish origins give it Celtic heritage, while its single syllable creates a strong, straightforward sound. After decades in naming obscurity, Clyde has reemerged as the perfect alternative to overused vintage revivals like Henry and Theodore.
Riverine connections (the River Clyde in Scotland) add natural elements to this distinctly human name. Clyde manages to feel simultaneously old-fashioned and fresh – a neat trick that makes it appealing to style-conscious parents.
27. Agnes
Saintly yet suddenly stylish! Agnes combines religious heritage with unexpected hipster appeal, transforming from grandmotherly to groundbreaking in a single generation.
Greek origins meaning “pure” give it spiritual significance, while its appearance in literature and film keeps it culturally relevant. The adorable nickname Aggie adds approachable charm to this substantial choice.
After decades of decline, Agnes has been rediscovered by parents seeking authentic vintage names with genuine historical credentials. Its slightly unusual sound stands out in today’s naming landscape while still being immediately recognizable – the perfect balance for modern parents.
28. Rufus
Rockstar cool meets ancient Roman gravitas! Rufus combines classical credentials with contemporary edge, creating a name that’s simultaneously substantial and stylish.
Its Latin meaning – “red-haired” – gives it descriptive charm regardless of hair color. Musicians like Rufus Wainwright have kept it culturally relevant, while its ancient roots provide historical depth.
After centuries of use in England, Rufus nearly vanished before being rediscovered by parents seeking distinctive vintage names. The friendly nickname Rue offers an alternative option. Rufus strikes the perfect balance between unusual and established – recognized without being overused.
29. Esther
Biblical heroine meets celestial beauty! Esther combines religious significance with a subtle connection to the stars through its Persian origins.
This name tells the story of courage in the Old Testament while maintaining a gentle, feminine sound. After decades of declining use, Esther has returned for parents seeking names with substance, history, and spiritual meaning.
The nickname Essie adds playful charm to this dignified choice. Esther manages to feel simultaneously ancient and timeless – a name that has never been trendy but always recognized, giving it a rare stability in the ever-changing landscape of naming fashions.
30. Myrtle
Botanical whimsy with mythological roots! Myrtle brings unexpected charm through its connection to the evergreen Mediterranean shrub sacred to the goddess Venus.
Popular during the Victorian era through the 1920s, Myrtle nearly disappeared before being rediscovered by botanical name enthusiasts. Harry Potter fans recognize it as Moaning Myrtle, giving it quirky literary credentials.
Its nature connection satisfies parents seeking green-inspired names beyond the obvious choices. Myrtle exemplifies the ultimate vintage revival – a name so thoroughly out of fashion that it suddenly feels fresh and distinctive again.