Intellectual parents often gravitate toward names with literary or scholarly associations, and Dryden satisfies this preference while maintaining broad appeal. The name has a crisp, clean sound that suggests clarity of thought and purpose. It's sophisticated without being pretentious, unique without being bizarre. This name works particularly well for families who value education, literature, and cultural refinement. Dryden has the advantage of being uncommon enough to be distinctive while still being easy to pronounce and spell. It carries an air of distinction that could serve your son well in academic and professional pursuits, suggesting someone who thinks deeply and communicates effectively.