If you truly want your baby boy to be ahead of the game, it all starts with his name. A modern name will give him an edge — in the most adorable way possible, of course — and ensure he's a little trendsetter before he's even out of diapers.
Old-fashioned names are cute, but if you're looking for something fresh and unique, check out our list.
More: Adorable Baby Boy Nicknames Are Like Two Names for the Price of One
Last names as first names
Using a traditional last name, like Smith, for a first name is so on trend. Names that sound traditional as a last name bring on new life when used as a first. Pay attention and you'll be surprised how many last names would make cool and modern sounding first names. Here are some examples:
- Smith
- Cullen
- Emerson
- London
- Reese
- Kennedy
- Lincoln
- Washington
- Bailey
- Campbell
- Kendall
- Harley
- Jefferson
- Damon
- Grant
Cute (yet totally cool) baby boy names
We love the following baby boy names, because they are cute — yet totally cool with a bit of an edge. Many of these names are easy to spell and pronounce, yet are not at the top of the baby name lists, so they aren't overused.
Boy names with X & Z
Once the ignored or forgotten letters of the alphabet, X and Z have emerged as the "cool kids" when it comes to baby boy names. Not only are there many modern boy names with the letters X or Z, but you can also make a traditional name more modern by adding these letters, such as changing Jack to Jax. Many celebrities have gotten in on this trend, including Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt (sons Maddox, Pax and Knox) and Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz (son Bronx).
Here are our top picks for modern boy names with the letters X or Z:
Boy names ahead of their time
The Social Security Administration has determined that the modern boy names Brantley, Iker, Maximiliano, Zaiden and Kamden have all made big jumps up the baby name lists. Want more boy names ahead of their time? These are nowhere near the top of popular baby name lists, but we predict will be in the future.
- Javon
- Brooks
- Kaso
- Pierce
- Porter
- Kolton
- River
- Mekhi
- Karson
- Solomon
- Walker
- Reed
- Davis
- Justice
- August
- Gunner
- Jett
- Rocco
More: 35 'Weird' Celebrity Baby Names People Love to Hate
What is your favorite modern baby name?
Before you go, check out our slideshow below.
Originally published September 2011. Updated March 2017.