Animal Names for Boys

  1. Delvin
    • Description:

      Delvin is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It likely derives from the Irish place name Delvin (Dealbhna in Irish), a region in County Westmeath, Ireland. The name may ultimately stem from the Gaelic word 'dealbh', meaning 'form' or 'shape'. Delvin has a strong, dignified sound while maintaining a somewhat soft quality through its 'v' consonant. The name gained modest usage in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon. It shares some phonetic similarities with more popular names like Kelvin and Melvin, making it familiar-sounding yet distinctive. Delvin offers parents a name with authentic Celtic origins without being overly common.

  2. Dandelion
    • Origin:

      Flower name, from French
    • Meaning:

      "lion's tooth"
    • Description:

      The bright yellow weed lends itself to a creative baby name, although we don't recommend the nickname Dandy.
  3. Alcuin
    • Origin:

      Germanic
    • Meaning:

      "sanctuary friend"
    • Description:

      An Old French and English name thought to derive from the Germanic elements alah "sanctuary" and win "friend". Variant forms include Alcwin and Alawin.
  4. Cleave
    • Description:

      Cleave is a masculine name with English origins, derived from an Old English word that interestingly has two contradictory meanings: 'to split apart' and 'to stick together.' This duality gives the name a unique conceptual depth. As a first name, Cleave is quite rare, more commonly recognized as a surname throughout English-speaking regions. It has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and crisp consonants. The name possesses a certain rugged quality that evokes imagery of strength and decisiveness. In modern usage, Cleave might appeal to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with Anglo-Saxon roots. Its uncommon nature offers individuality, while its familiar sound pattern (similar to names like Clive) prevents it from feeling too unusual.

  5. Alimayu
    • Origin:

      Ethiopian
    • Meaning:

      "in honor of God"
    • Description:

      Wesley Snipes chose this distinctive East African name for his son.
  6. Gerhart
    • Description:

      Gerhart is a strong Germanic masculine name with ancient roots. Derived from the Germanic elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'hard' meaning 'brave, hardy, or strong,' Gerhart literally translates to 'strong with the spear' or 'brave spear-warrior.' This powerful name has been used throughout German-speaking regions of Europe since medieval times and represents qualities of courage and military prowess that were highly valued in Germanic societies. While more common in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Gerhart remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name has several spelling variations including Gerhard, Gearhart, and Gerhardt. Its traditional nature and distinctive sound appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and clear masculine associations.

  7. Jahlani
    • Description:

      Jahlani is a masculine name with multicultural origins, drawing influence from African and Hawaiian naming traditions. In Hawaiian contexts, it may relate to elements meaning 'heaven' or 'sky,' while in African usage it often carries connotations of strength and power. The name gained some visibility in the early 2000s, particularly in the United States among communities seeking distinctive names with cultural resonance. Jahlani has a melodic quality with its alternating consonants and vowels, making it both distinctive and easy to pronounce. While not among the most common names, it represents the trend toward unique names with cultural significance and positive meanings relating to natural elements or admirable qualities.
  8. Elveryn
    • Description:

      Elveryn is an uncommon masculine name with possible roots in Old English or Norse traditions. It may be related to elements like 'elf' (supernatural being) and 'wine' (friend) or represent a creative variation of names like Alvin, Elvin, or Elvern. The name carries a mystical, fantasy-like quality that evokes images of ancient forests and Norse mythology. Extremely rare in contemporary usage, Elveryn appeals to parents seeking unique names with an ethereal, otherworldly character. Its distinctive sound combines traditional masculine naming patterns with a touch of the mystical, making it memorable and unlike mainstream alternatives. The name projects strength with a hint of mystery.
  9. Arvind
    • Description:

      Arvind is a masculine name with Sanskrit origins, derived from the word 'aravinda' meaning 'lotus.' In Hindu tradition, the lotus flower holds deep spiritual significance as a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and divine birth. The name is particularly popular in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. Arvind gained international recognition partly through notable bearers like Indian physicist Arvind Gupta and entrepreneur Arvind Krishna. The name carries connotations of beauty, wisdom, and spiritual growth. While traditional in origin, Arvind has a contemporary feel that translates well across cultures. Its distinctive sound and positive associations have helped maintain its steady popularity in South Asian communities and beyond.
  10. Ivair
    • Description:

      Ivair is a masculine name with possible Brazilian Portuguese origins, derived from Germanic elements meaning 'archer' or 'bow warrior.' It may also have Scandinavian connections, potentially related to names like Ivar or Ívarr. Uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ivair has maintained some popularity in Brazil and Portuguese-speaking communities. The name conveys strength and precision while offering a distinctive alternative to more common names. Its short, modern sound combined with historical roots makes Ivair appealing to parents seeking a masculine name that balances uniqueness with meaningful heritage.
  11. Jaevon
    • Description:

      Jaevon appears to be a contemporary masculine name that likely developed as a variant spelling of names such as Jevon, Javon, or Devon. The prefix 'Jae-' is found in various modern names and may be a creative adaptation of 'Jay' or the 'J' initial that became popular in masculine names during the late 20th century. The '-von' or '-von' suffix could relate to similar name endings found in names of various origins, including Gaelic (Devon) or French influences. The distinctive spelling with 'ae' exemplifies modern naming trends that incorporate unique orthographic elements to create individual identity while maintaining familiar phonetics. Usage data suggests Jaevon emerged primarily in the United States during the 1980s-2000s, representing the broader trend of creative name adaptations that combine familiar sounds with distinctive spellings. The name remains relatively uncommon, giving it a sense of individuality within contemporary naming patterns.
  12. Amzi
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "strong"
    • Description:

      The name of several minor Biblical characters, Amzi seems streamlined and modern and has the potential to catch on. Meaning "strong", it may appeal to parents who enjoy Azariah, Aziel, and Amias. "AM-tsee" is the traditional pronunciation, though "-zee" and "-zie" have also been used.
  13. Aaprahami
    • Origin:

      Finnish variation of Abraham, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"
    • Description:

      Aaprahami is unlikely to catch on in the US. Nickname Hami is more usable.
  14. Hermann
    • Description:

      Hermann is a masculine name of Germanic origin meaning 'army man' or 'warrior,' derived from the elements 'heri' (army) and 'mann' (man). This powerful name has deep historical roots, most notably associated with Hermann (or Arminius), the Germanic chieftain who defeated Roman legions in the Battle of Teutoburg Forest in 9 CE. Popular throughout Germany, Switzerland, and Scandinavia, the name has been borne by notable figures such as author Hermann Hesse and physicist Hermann von Helmholtz. While its usage has declined in recent decades, it maintains a classic, strong character. In English-speaking countries, the simplified spelling 'Herman' is more common, though the double 'n' version preserves its authentic Germanic heritage.
  15. Currin
    • Description:

      Currin is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins, likely derived from the surname Ó Cuirín, meaning 'descendant of Curín' (a diminutive of 'cur' meaning 'hero' or 'champion'). It may also relate to the Irish place name Currin. As a first name, Currin remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking distinctive names with Celtic heritage. The name carries a strong, concise sound that's easy to pronounce while still being distinctive. It fits well with contemporary naming trends favoring surname-inspired first names and shorter masculine names with historical connections. The name projects strength and individuality while maintaining its cultural roots, making it an appealing choice for parents who value both tradition and uniqueness.

  16. Brandan
    • Description:

      Brandan is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic roots, serving as a variant spelling of the more common Brandon or Brendan. It derives from the Gaelic name Breandán, which means 'prince' or 'brave'. The original name can be traced back to St. Brendan the Navigator, a 6th-century Irish monk famous for his legendary voyage across the Atlantic. Brandan offers a slightly distinctive spelling while maintaining the strong, reliable character of the traditional forms. The name gained moderate popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, though this specific spelling has always been less common than Brandon or Brendan, giving it a touch of uniqueness.
  17. Deonn
    • Description:

      Deonn is an uncommon masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of Deon, which derives from the Greek name Dion, meaning "of Zeus" or "of heaven." Alternatively, it could be a creative spelling of Deion or a surname adapted for first-name use. The double 'n' ending gives this brief name a distinctive quality and strong visual presence. Deonn remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, appealing to parents seeking unique names with ancient resonance and simple pronunciation. The name's brevity combined with its interesting letter pattern creates a memorable impression. Those named Deonn often appreciate the name's uncommon nature and the subtle connection to classical mythology or divine concepts.
  18. Ammiras
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "commander"
    • Description:

      Related to Amir and Amira, an antiquated name that holds some modern appeal.
  19. Courtland
    • Origin:

      Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "short land"
    • Description:

      Courtland, with its added U, is an English form of the Dutch habitational surname Cortlandt. Cortlandt was a village near modern-day Wijk bij Duurstede, Netherlands. Its name was derived from the Dutch elements cort, meaning "short" or "narrow," and landt, "land."
  20. Alfonzus
    • Description:

      Alfonzus is a masculine name that appears to be a variant or elaboration of Alfonso or Alphonse. These names derive from the Germanic elements 'adal' meaning 'noble' and 'funs' meaning 'ready' or 'eager,' thus conveying the meaning 'noble and ready' or 'eager for battle.' The unique spelling with 'z' gives the name a distinctive quality while maintaining its classical roots. Alfonzus is extremely rare, unlike its more common variants Alfonso and Alphonse which have been used throughout European history, particularly in Spain, Italy, and France. The name carries an air of nobility and classical dignity, evoking images of medieval knights and aristocracy while the unusual spelling adds a contemporary twist to this historically rich name.