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Animal Names for Boys

  1. Dorman

    • Description:

      Dorman is a masculine name of English origin that began as a surname before occasionally being adopted as a first name. The surname Dorman likely derived from the Old English 'deor' (animal, beast) and 'mann' (man, person), possibly referring to a gamekeeper or hunter. Alternatively, it may have evolved from 'door-man,' describing someone who served as a gatekeeper or porter. As a first name, Dorman has never achieved widespread popularity but saw some limited use in the early to mid-20th century in the United States. The name has a solid, traditional quality with a hint of vintage appeal, fitting into the category of surname-inspired first names that project strength and reliability.
  2. Bowyn

    • Origin:

      Welsh

    • Meaning:

      "son of Owen"

    • Description:

      A respelling of Bowen that gives the option of cozy nickname Wyn as well as Bo.
  3. Dwaine

    • Description:

      Dwaine is a masculine variation of the name Duane, which has Irish and Gaelic origins. It derives from the Old Irish name Dubhán, meaning 'dark' or 'black-haired.' Dwaine emerged as an alternative spelling in the mid-20th century when distinctive name variations became more popular. While less common than Duane or Dwayne, Dwaine maintains the same strong, concise quality that made these names popular during the 1940s-1960s. The name saw modest popularity in English-speaking countries but has declined in use since the 1990s. Dwaine conveys a rugged, straightforward character with a touch of Celtic heritage.
  4. Barnum

    • Origin:

      English contraction of "baron's home"

    • Meaning:

      "baron's home"

    • Description:

      Inevitable circus association.
  5. Abb

    • Description:

      Abb is a rare masculine name of Old English origin, derived from a diminutive form of 'Abbott.' The name literally refers to 'father' or 'abbot,' designating the head of a monastery. Historically, it may have been used as a nickname for someone who worked in an abbey or had characteristics associated with an abbot. Abb has maintained an extremely low profile throughout modern naming history, making it an uncommon choice that carries religious and historical resonance. The simplicity of this short, one-syllable name gives it a distinctive quality in today's naming landscape, though it remains largely unused compared to other abbreviated masculine names.
  6. Attell

    • Origin:

      Surname name

    • Description:

      Brought to national attention by Amy Schumer, who used it as a middle name for her son Gene. Attell is the surname of her frequent collaborator, comedian Dave Attell. Several months later, she realized her son's full name sounded like genital and changed it to Gene David.
  7. Jachin

    • Origin:

      Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "he establishes"

    • Description:

      A son of Simeon in the Old Testament whose name is largely unknown in modern times -- though that may change as parents look for a substitute for the overused Jacob and Jadon.
  8. Gandalf

    • Origin:

      Norse

    • Meaning:

      "wand elf"

    • Description:

      Gandalf is most famously the name of the powerful wizard in Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The name is drawn from Old Norse mythology.
  9. Garion

    • Origin:

      Modern literary name

    • Description:

      One of the more wearable fantasy names, the original Garion was the lead character in teh Belgariad novels by David Eddings. Since then, a small number of parents have used the name, and it has real potential as an update to Gary.
  10. Audamar

    • Origin:

      Germanic

    • Meaning:

      "famous wealth"

    • Description:

      An audacious sounding ancient name belonging to an 8th-century Swiss saint, an abbot of Saint Gall.
  11. Ferdie

    • Description:

      Ferdie is a diminutive form of Ferdinand, a Germanic name meaning 'brave journey' or 'ready for peace.' This charming nickname has been used as an independent given name throughout the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Ferdie carries a friendly, approachable quality that balances the more formal Ferdinand. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Ferdie has maintained consistent usage among families seeking a distinctive yet familiar masculine name. The name often evokes a sense of warmth and congeniality, with notable bearers including athletes and characters in literature. Its vintage sound has seen occasional resurgence as parents rediscover traditional nickname forms as standalone options.
  12. Blayze

    • Description:

      Blayze is a modern masculine name that represents a creative spelling variation of 'blaze.' Derived from the English word referring to a bright flame or fire, Blayze evokes imagery of intensity, energy, and brilliance. This contemporary name gained modest recognition in the early 2000s as part of the trend toward names with unusual spellings and powerful meanings. The distinctive 'y' spelling gives the name a unique visual appeal while maintaining its strong phonetic impact. Blayze carries connotations of passion, determination, and dynamic energy, making it appealing to parents seeking a bold, modern choice for their sons. Though still relatively uncommon, the name has gradually increased in usage, particularly in the United States, attracting parents drawn to its combination of familiar sound and unconventional spelling.

  13. Hartford

    • Origin:

      English surname

    • Meaning:

      "deer ford"

    • Description:

      British habitational surname that calls to mind the Connecticut capital
  14. Fineas

    • Description:

      Fineas is a distinctive masculine name that represents a variant of the more common Phineas. With roots in Hebrew, the name means "oracle" and is associated with biblical heritage. Though relatively uncommon in contemporary usage, Fineas offers parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive option with historical gravitas. The name carries a dignified quality while maintaining a friendly, approachable sound. In popular culture, the name might evoke connections to characters like Phineas Finn from Anthony Trollope's novels or the animated character Phineas Flynn. While not among the top-ranked names in most countries, Fineas continues to appeal to parents drawn to names with both historical depth and a slight unconventional edge.

  15. Gordie

    • Description:

      Gordie is a masculine diminutive of Gordon, a name with Scottish origins derived from a place name meaning 'great hill' or 'spacious fort.' Gordie gained particular recognition in North America through famous hockey player Gordie Howe, giving the name strong sporting associations. The nickname has a friendly, approachable quality that balances the more formal Gordon. Popular in Scotland and Canada, Gordie conveys a down-to-earth charm and unpretentious strength. While traditionally a nickname, Gordie has increasingly been used as a given name in its own right, offering a warm, familiar sound that works well for a child while still being suitable for adulthood. The name carries connotations of reliability and friendliness.

  16. Diderot

    • Description:

      Diderot is a rare masculine name most famously associated with Denis Diderot, the influential 18th-century French philosopher and chief editor of the Encyclopédie, a pioneering work of the Enlightenment. The name has French origins and is extremely uncommon as a first name. Those who choose Diderot for their children likely have an appreciation for intellectual history or French culture. The name carries strong connotations of intellectualism, philosophy, and cultural sophistication. Its distinctive sound makes it immediately recognizable to those familiar with European intellectual history, while its rarity ensures uniqueness. The pronunciation (typically DEE-duh-roh) may present challenges in non-French speaking regions.
  17. Jaimie

    • Description:

      Jaimie as a masculine name is a variation of Jamie, which originated as a diminutive form of James. The name James comes from the Hebrew name Jacob, meaning 'supplanter' or 'one who follows.' This particular spelling with the extra 'i' adds a distinctive touch to the traditional Jamie while maintaining its friendly, approachable character. While Jamie/Jaimie is used for both genders, for boys it has Scottish roots where it began as a nickname before becoming a given name in its own right. Though less common than the spelling Jamie, masculine Jaimie has maintained steady if modest usage, appealing to parents who appreciate its friendly sound and relaxed vibe while wanting a slight variation from the more common spelling.

  18. Arjen

    • Origin:

      Dutch variation of Arian, or Adrian

    • Meaning:

      "noble, honorable; man of Adria"

    • Description:

      Arjen is a Dutch name, sometimes viewed as a contracted form of Adrian, or as a variation of Ariën. Ariën itself is an alternative spelling of the Indo-Iranian Aryan and Arian, and was likely inspired by French Adrien; whichever root you take then, the name is associated with the meanings "man of Adria" and "noble, honorable".
  19. Arnesto

    • Description:

      Arnesto is a masculine name that appears to be a variation of Ernest or Ernesto. The name ultimately derives from the Germanic element 'ernst,' meaning 'serious' or 'determined.' This variant spelling combines elements of the English Ernest and the Spanish/Italian Ernesto, creating a cross-cultural hybrid. While not widely used, Arnesto has found occasional usage particularly in Hispanic and Latino communities. The name carries the strong, dignified qualities associated with Ernest/Ernesto while offering a slightly different phonetic pattern. Arnesto provides a distinctive alternative that maintains the traditional name's essence of seriousness and resolve while presenting a unique orthographic identity.
  20. Beppe

    • Description:

      Beppe is a masculine Italian name that functions as a familiar diminutive of Giuseppe, the Italian form of Joseph. This affectionate nickname originated in Italy, particularly common in northern regions. The name Joseph derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Beppe maintains a warm, approachable quality while honoring Italian heritage and tradition. Outside of Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, though Italian diaspora communities may use it. In modern Italy, Beppe continues to be used as both a nickname and occasionally as a given name in its own right. The name carries cultural significance, with notable bearers including Italian writers, politicians, and athletes. Its short, distinctive sound makes it memorable across cultural boundaries.