Animal Names for Boys

  1. Boise
    • Description:

      Boise as a masculine name takes inspiration from the city of Boise, Idaho, which itself derives from the French word "boisé" meaning "wooded." This place name has occasionally been adopted as a personal name, particularly in the United States where geographic names often inspire parents. As a first name, Boise carries a strong connection to the American West and evokes natural imagery of forests and mountain landscapes. The name has a short, clear pronunciation (BOY-see) and a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common names. Extremely rare as a given name, Boise might appeal to parents with a connection to the Idaho capital city or those seeking an uncommon name with an outdoorsy, place-based association and simple spelling.

  2. Aceson
    • Description:

      Aceson is a modern masculine name that appears to be a contemporary creation combining the elements "Ace" (signifying excellence or the highest rank) and the popular suffix "-son" (meaning "son of"). The name has emerged primarily in the 21st century United States as parents increasingly seek unique names with positive connotations. Aceson conveys qualities of achievement, capability, and distinction while maintaining a familiar naming structure. The name might also appeal to parents who appreciate the nickname Ace but desire a more formal option for official documents. Though still relatively uncommon, Aceson follows the trend of newly-created names with aspirational meanings that suggest success and exceptional ability. Its clean pronunciation and spelling make it accessible despite its novelty.
  3. Forrester
    • Origin:

      Surname name
    • Meaning:

      "woodsman"
    • Description:

      A slight elaboration on Forrest, with the same woodsy charm.
  4. Alma
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "soul"
    • Description:

      A rising vintage sweetheart for girls and a fresh new possibility for boys, following the likes of Nova. As a feminine name, it first became fashionable in England following the Battle of Alma – named for the Russian river – during the Crimean War. As a masculine name, it has been predominantly used among Mormons, owing to its appearance in the Book of Mormon. A name with a variety of different roots, it is usually linked to anima, the Latin for "soul", and has the same meaning in modern Spanish, Portuguese and Italian, however, it may also mean "young woman" in Hebrew and "apple" in Kazakh.
  5. Fedya
    • Description:

      Fedya is a masculine name of Russian origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Fyodor (the Russian equivalent of Theodore). The name Fyodor derives from Greek roots meaning 'gift of God,' giving Fedya the same meaningful heritage. As a diminutive, Fedya carries a warm, affectionate quality in Russian culture. Outside Russia and Eastern European communities, the name remains quite uncommon, giving it an exotic appeal for parents seeking something with international flair. Literature enthusiasts might recognize the name from Russian classics, including Dostoevsky's works. Fedya offers a distinctive yet approachable option for parents interested in Slavic names or seeking an uncommon name with rich cultural roots.

  6. Finty
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Fintan, Irish
    • Meaning:

      "white fire, white bull"
    • Description:

      A retro nickname for the ancient Irish saint's name Fintan, still heard on occasion in Ireland and the UK. English actress Finty Williams is the most notable bearer.
  7. Durie
    • Origin:

      Scottish surname
    • Meaning:

      "small or black stream"
    • Description:

      An unusual and appealing Scottish family name that would work as well for a girl as a boy.
  8. Fedde
    • Origin:

      Frisian
    • Meaning:

      "peace"
    • Description:

      Fedde, a Top 100 boys' name in The Netherlands, is a Frisian short form for names beginning with Frid, which means "peace." As with many names popular in contemporary Holland, this short form stands on its own.
  9. Dow
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "dark-haired"
    • Description:

      Compact, to-the-point surname name. Bear in mind the stock-market association - it may be a bit much with the last name Jones.
  10. Diogenes
    • Origin:

      Greek philosopher
    • Description:

      Philosopher who advocated the simple life. A classical choice that's almost unused as a baby name.
  11. Jacobi
    • Description:

      Jacobi is a masculine name derived from Jacob, which has Hebrew origins meaning "supplanter" or "holder of the heel." This form represents a Latin genitive case of Jacobus, essentially meaning "of Jacob" or "son of Jacob." Particularly used in Germanic and Jewish naming traditions, Jacobi carries scholarly and religious significance. While less common than Jacob or Jakob, Jacobi has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek distinctive variations on traditional names. The name projects intelligence and sophistication while maintaining connection to the biblical patriarch Jacob. Jacobi appeals to families looking for names with substantial historical roots but contemporary feel, offering familiar sounds in a less common package.
  12. Dixon
    • Origin:

      Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Dick"
    • Description:

      A relatively common surname, Dixon would be an inventive way to honor an ancestral Richard or Dick, the X form a lot livelier than the Dickson spelling, just as Dix is a more modern short form than Dick; it would be right at home alongside Dax and Jax.
  13. Flin
    • Description:

      Flin is an uncommon masculine name with several possible origins. It may be a shortened form of Flynn, which has Irish Gaelic roots meaning 'son of the red-haired one,' or it could be a variant spelling of Flinn. The name has a concise, energetic quality with its single syllable and crisp consonant ending. Flin projects a modern, dynamic image while maintaining a connection to traditional surnames-turned-first-names. It remains relatively rare as a given name, adding to its distinctive appeal. The name's brevity makes it refreshingly straightforward while still feeling contemporary and distinctive. In popular culture, it has occasionally appeared as a character name, contributing to its adventurous, spirited associations.
  14. Gruffudd
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "strong lord"
    • Description:

      The original Welsh spelling of Griffith, and a common name among medieval Welsh royalty. Gruffudd (or Gruffydd) ap Llywelyn was an 11th-century Welsh ruler who fought the English.
  15. Huon
    • Origin:

      Tasmanian tree name
    • Meaning:

      "huon river pine"
    • Description:

      A name gaining recognition in Australia, based on the huon pine tree which grows in Tasmania. Boatbuilders especially love this rare wood, which floats well, is resistant to rot, and has a strong pine-y scent.
  16. Eldrick
    • Description:

      Eldrick is a masculine name of Old English origin, composed of elements meaning 'old' or 'wise' and 'ruler' or 'power.' Though relatively uncommon, the name gained significant recognition through golf legend Tiger Woods, whose birth name is Eldrick Tont Woods. The name carries connotations of wisdom, experience, and leadership—qualities associated with elders and traditional authority figures. Eldrick has a distinguished, somewhat formal sound that balances old-world dignity with uniqueness. Despite its historical roots, it remains relatively rare in contemporary usage, making it an uncommon choice that still feels accessible. Parents who choose this name might appreciate its traditional English heritage, its distinctive quality, or its subtle connection to contemporary sports history through Woods' remarkable career.
  17. Flavio
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish variation of Flavius, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "yellow, blond"
    • Description:

      Flavio is derived from Flavius, a surname used in Ancient Rome. These family names, or cognomens, were given to distinguish branches of the clan and were chosen based on a characteristic of an important bearer. In this case, the Flavius family patriarch was likely blond-haired.
  18. Huw
    • Description:

      Huw is a traditional Welsh masculine name, representing the Welsh form of Hugh. Derived from the Germanic element "hug" meaning "heart," "mind," or "spirit," Huw carries connotations of intelligence and soulfulness. Despite its brevity, the name has a rich history in Wales, where it has been used since medieval times. The distinctive Welsh spelling with the 'w' instead of the more common 'gh' ending reflects Welsh phonetics and gives the name its authentic character. While primarily found in Wales and among Welsh diaspora communities, Huw has gained some recognition beyond these regions due to notable bearers including Welsh actors and musicians. The name combines simplicity with cultural depth, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctively Celtic name with straightforward pronunciation.

  19. Gyan
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "filled with knowledge"
    • Description:

      Almost unknown in the western world, Gyan comes from a Sanskrit word for knowledge. It may appeal to parents looking for a name influenced by eastern philosophy, like Bodhi or Zen.
  20. Gavriel
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is my strength"
    • Description:

      An Israeli place-name as well as being the Hebrew form of Gabriel.