Animal Names for Boys

  1. Hyatt
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "lofty gate"
    • Description:

      Best known as a hotel company, but shares some of the cool sounds of Wyatt.
  2. Ah
    • Description:

      Ah is an extremely rare masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Chinese, it functions as a prefix expressing familiarity or affection when added to names or kinship terms. In Arabic contexts, it may be related to names like Ahmed or Abdullah. As a standalone name, Ah has appeared sporadically in various cultures but remains exceptionally uncommon. The brevity of this two-letter name gives it a minimalist quality that contrasts with longer naming traditions. In some East Asian cultures, particularly Chinese, Ah might be used as an informal or nickname rather than a formal given name. The simplicity of Ah presents both challenges (potential confusion with an exclamation) and advantages (universally easy to pronounce and remember) as a given name.

  3. Giannino
    • Description:

      Giannino is a masculine Italian name that functions as an affectionate diminutive of Gianni, which itself is a short form of Giovanni (Italian for John). With roots in Hebrew meaning 'God is gracious,' Giannino carries a warm, endearing quality in Italian culture. The '-ino' suffix adds a sense of smallness or endearment, similar to 'little John' or 'dear John.' Popular primarily within Italian families and communities, Giannino maintains a strong cultural connection while offering a distinctive alternative to more common variants. The name conveys warmth, familial affection, and Italian heritage. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Giannino appeals to parents seeking a name with authentic Italian charm and historical significance.
  4. Esten
    • Description:

      Esten is a masculine name with Scandinavian and Old English origins. It may be derived from the Old Norse name Eysteinn, combining elements meaning 'island' and 'stone,' symbolizing strength and steadfastness. This short, strong-sounding name has a crisp modern feel despite its ancient roots. Esten remains uncommon in contemporary usage, making it a distinctive choice that stands out while still being relatively straightforward to spell and pronounce. The name's brevity gives it a certain punch and memorability. It carries connotations of resilience and natural elements, which may appeal to parents seeking a name with subtle connections to nature and enduring qualities. Esten works well across various personality types with its balance of strength and simplicity.
  5. Hakim
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "wise"
    • Description:

      An Arabic name with Islamic significance, al-Hakim is one of the 99 names for Allah. The name may also be spelled as Hakeem, a rising choice in England and Wales.
  6. Jaco
    • Origin:

      Portuguese variation of Jacob
    • Description:

      Intriguing twist on Jacob, but may be too strongly associated with Michael Jackson.
  7. Cheng
    • Description:

      Cheng is a masculine name of Chinese origin that carries significant meaning in Chinese culture. As a surname, it's extremely common, but as a given name, it conveys positive qualities. The meaning varies depending on the specific Chinese character used, but it often represents concepts like 'success,' 'accomplishment,' 'sincerity,' or 'completion.' Cheng is pronounced with a rising tone in Mandarin Chinese and is relatively easy for English speakers to pronounce. While traditional in Chinese communities worldwide, it has gained some recognition in Western countries through increased cultural exchange and globalization. The name's simplicity, positive connotations, and cultural significance make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with authentic Chinese heritage.
  8. Ahron
    • Description:

      Ahron is a masculine name that represents an alternative spelling of Aaron, one of the oldest continuously used names in history. With Hebrew origins, it belongs to the biblical Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first High Priest of the Israelites. The meaning remains debated, possibly signifying 'mountain of strength,' 'exalted one,' or 'bearer of martyrs.' This spelling variation with 'h' reflects the Hebrew pronunciation more closely than the common Aaron. Particularly popular in Jewish communities, Ahron maintains the name's religious significance while offering a distinctive spelling. The name balances ancient heritage with contemporary appeal, providing a subtly unique option that still connects to a well-established naming tradition.
  9. Arbel
    • Origin:

      Hebrew place name
    • Description:

      In Israel, Mount Arbel is a mountain in the lower Galilee. Jewish parents have adopted it as a name for their sons and daughters for the mountain's historic and religious significance.
  10. Alaw
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "tune"
    • Description:

      Short and sweet, this is the Welsh equivalent of Melody. It's currently in steady use for girls in Wales.

  11. Eithan
    • Origin:

      Variation of Ethan, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "strong, firm"
    • Description:

      If you can't decide between Ethan or the original Hebrew form, Eitan, you may arrive at Eithan.
  12. Birkir
    • Origin:

      Icelandic
    • Meaning:

      "birch"
    • Description:

      An Icelandic nature name derived from the word for birch tree, birki. It currently ranks in Iceland's Top 25 for boys.
  13. Atom
    • Origin:

      English word name, Greek, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "the smallest particle of an element; to cut"
  14. Akim
    • Origin:

      Russian form of Hebrew JEHOIAKIM
    • Meaning:

      "God will establish"
    • Description:

      This strong and commanding Russian name is pronounced ah-KEEM.
  15. Bric
    • Description:

      Bric is an uncommon masculine name with possible origins as a shortened form of names like Brice or Bricker. It may also derive from a surname or place name, particularly in Celtic regions. The name has a strong, concise quality with its single syllable and crisp ending consonant. While not widely used in mainstream naming trends, Bric has appeal for parents seeking a distinctive, short name with a modern feel. The name's rarity gives it a unique quality, though this also means it lacks established traditional associations that more common names carry. Bric may appeal to parents drawn to brief, punchy names with a contemporary edge.
  16. Adem
    • Description:

      Adem is a masculine name with rich historical and cultural significance. It is the Turkish, Albanian, and Bosnian form of Adam, which comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'man' or 'earth.' In Islamic tradition, Adem refers to the first prophet and man created by God, equivalent to Adam in Judeo-Christian traditions. The name carries connotations of primordial humanity and connection to the earth. While common in Turkey, Bosnia, Albania, and other parts of the Balkans and Middle East, Adem is less frequently used in Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Its simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible across cultures, while maintaining its strong cultural identity and religious significance.
  17. Finnbarr
    • Description:

      Finnbarr is a masculine name with deep Irish roots, derived from the Gaelic 'Fionnbharr' meaning 'fair-haired' or 'fair-headed.' This ancient name was borne by several Irish saints, most notably St. Finnbarr (also known as Bairre or Barre), the patron saint of Cork, Ireland who lived in the 6th century. While less common than the shortened form Finn, Finnbarr offers a direct connection to Irish heritage and mythology. The name carries a distinctive, traditional quality that speaks to Celtic history and culture. In modern usage, Finnbarr remains relatively rare, making it appealing for parents seeking an authentic Irish name that stands out. With the rising popularity of Irish names and shorter forms like Finn, Finnbarr offers a more complete alternative with historical depth and a strong, masculine sound.

  18. Dashel
    • Origin:

      Variation of Dashiell
    • Description:

      Variation of Dashiell.
  19. Edrick
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "wealthy, fortunate ruler"
    • Description:

      An Old English name that went out of style in the 11th century, but has been brought back into style, perhaps by Edrick Lee, the Australian Rugby player. Given to 84 boys in 2023, Edrick is sometimes used as a smoosh name of Edward and Patrick or Edward and Frederick, and its spelling variant, Edric, has been used by George R.R. Martin in his A Song of Fire and Ice series.
  20. Coleridge
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "ridge where charcoal is burnt"
    • Description:

      Name of a poet, this will be one for consideration by literary parents. The name fits well with the current trend towards surnames as given names, but beware the three syllable pronunciation, which may be a trap for the poetically disinclined.