Animal Names for Boys
- Efrem
Origin:
Russian variation of EphraimDescription:
Phonetic spelling brought to light by actor Efrem Zimbalist Jr.
- Brigham
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"little village near the bridge"Description:
A distinguished sounding place and surname borne by religious leader Brigham Young, second president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Emmit
Description:
Emmit is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Emmett, which originated as an English surname derived from the feminine given name Emma, with Germanic roots meaning "universal" or "whole." This spelling variation maintains the strong, straightforward character of the original while offering a slightly streamlined form. Emmit gained modest popularity in the United States during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, though it remains less common than the traditional Emmett spelling. The name carries a warm, approachable quality with its soft consonants and clear pronunciation. Many parents are drawn to Emmit for its combination of traditional appeal and contemporary feel, making it a versatile choice that works well across different ages and personalities.
- Dougray
Origin:
French surnameDescription:
Scottish actor Dougray (born Stephen) Scott made us aware of this name when he took on his French grandmother's surname as his stage name.
- Hershey
Origin:
Diminutive of Hershel, German and YiddishMeaning:
"deer"Description:
Hershey is best-known in the US as a brand of chocolate, named after the company's founder, Milton Hershey. Hershey and its many variations, including Hersh and Hershkovitz, is most commonly a surname that may be either German or Jewish.
- Bolan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little poet"Description:
An Irish surname name with a combination of boldness and élan. Some might connect it to the founder of the group T. Rex -- Marc Bolan.
- Amaro
Origin:
Portuguese, Spanish, GalicianMeaning:
"noble fame, or bitter"Description:
A saint who is especially popular in Galicia and Asturias in Spain, who is said to have sailed across the Atlantic to paradise. His name may derive from Germanic Adelmar, possibly influenced by Latin amarus "bitter".
- Etan
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"strong, firm"Description:
This Hebrew form of Ethan is commonly heard in Israel. Other forms are Eitan and Eytan
- Ayansh
Description:
Ayansh is a modern masculine name of Indian origin that has been growing in popularity in recent years. The name carries beautiful meanings, often interpreted as 'first ray of light' or 'part of God' in Sanskrit derivatives. Some sources connect it to Lord Ganesha in Hindu tradition, symbolizing new beginnings, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles. Ayansh offers parents a name that sounds contemporary while maintaining cultural significance. It features a pleasing rhythmic quality with its two syllables and soft ending. The name has been climbing birth name charts, particularly in Indian communities worldwide, as parents seek unique yet accessible names with positive connotations. Ayansh represents brightness, divine connection, and auspicious beginnings.
- Gregg
Description:
Gregg is a masculine name that originated as a variant spelling of Greg, which itself is a diminutive form of Gregory. The name Gregory comes from Greek origins meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant.' Gregg gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1960s and 1970s. The double 'g' spelling variation gives the name a slightly more substantial appearance than the single-g version. While traditionally used as a given name, Gregg has also become common as a surname. The name has a friendly, approachable quality and conveys reliability and straightforwardness. Though less frequently given to newborns today than in previous decades, Gregg maintains a classic, unpretentious appeal.
- Eneko
Origin:
BasqueMeaning:
"my little one"Description:
Despite Eneko's very sweet meaning, it packs a lot of historical punch. Eneko Aritza was the first Basque king of Pamplona. It is somewhat related to the more well known Inigo.
- Arlow
Description:
Arlow is a modern masculine name that has recently gained popularity in English-speaking countries. It likely evolved as a variant of Arlo, which itself has Old English and Irish origins possibly meaning 'fortified hill' or derived from the Irish place name Aherlow. The added 'w' gives Arlow a slightly softer sound while maintaining its short, punchy character. This name fits perfectly with the trend toward short, vintage-inspired boys' names with a gentle yet masculine quality. Arlow began appearing more frequently on birth certificates in the 2010s, particularly appealing to parents seeking something distinctive but not outlandish. The name conveys a laid-back, artistic vibe while still feeling substantial. Its rising popularity aligns with similar names like Harlow, Marlow, and Winslow.
- Calahan
Description:
Calahan is a masculine name of Irish origin, representing a variant spelling of Callahan or Callaghan. It derives from the Gaelic 'Ó Ceallacháin,' meaning 'descendant of Ceallachán,' a personal name stemming from 'ceallach,' meaning 'strife' or 'contention.' The surname Callahan was transformed into a given name following the common pattern of Irish surnames becoming first names in American naming traditions. Calahan offers a strong, distinctly Irish identity while its alternative spelling gives it a contemporary touch. While less common than Callahan, this variant maintains the same robust, traditional feel with its three-syllable rhythm. The name evokes images of Irish heritage and carries a certain dignified strength.
- Bane
Description:
Bane is a strong masculine name with multiple origins. In English, it traditionally means 'cause of distress or death,' deriving from Old English 'bana' meaning 'killer' or 'slayer.' In Slavic languages, particularly Serbian, Bane serves as a nickname for names like Branislav, with positive connotations. The name gained popularity following its use for the villain character in the Batman series, particularly in 'The Dark Knight Rises' film. Bane projects strength and intensity, making it appeal to parents seeking a brief, powerful name with an edge. Despite its sometimes negative English connotations, its simplicity and boldness continue to attract interest.
- Cadoc
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"battle"Description:
St Cadoc was an early Welsh churchman, who gave his name to several villages in Wales, and according to his Life knew King Arthur. Less popular than other C__C names like Cormac and Cedric, Cadoc would be an almost unique, but easy-to-pronouce choice.
- Crittenden
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"Guddhere's woodland pasture"Description:
Crittenden is a habitational surname denoting ancestors from the village of Crittenden in Kent, England. It is derived from the Old English name Guddhere, a cognate of Gunnar, ing, designating the possessive, and denn, "woodland pasture."
- Alioth
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"fat tail of the sheep"Description:
The brightest star in Ursa Major, this is one of the major navigational stars used by ships.
- Darran
Description:
Darran is a masculine name of Celtic origin, considered a variant of Darren. Its roots lie in the Gaelic word 'doire' or 'daur' meaning 'oak tree' or 'great', symbolizing strength and stability. The name emerged in popularity during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon compared to its more familiar variant. In Welsh contexts, Darran might also connect to Darren Mountain in South Wales. The spelling variation gives the classic name a distinctive touch while maintaining its approachable pronunciation. Darran typically experiences modest usage in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and Ireland, appealing to parents who appreciate names with Celtic heritage and natural symbolism while seeking something slightly less conventional than Darren.
- Hillary
Description:
Hillary as a masculine name has ancient Roman origins, derived from the Latin 'Hilarius' meaning 'cheerful' or 'merry.' Long before it gained popularity as a feminine name, Hillary was traditionally used for boys, particularly in English-speaking countries. Notable male bearers include Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to climb Mount Everest, and various historical figures across British history. The name experienced a gender shift in the late 20th century, becoming more commonly associated with girls, particularly in the United States. Despite this change, Hillary maintains its distinguished history as a male name in many parts of the world. For parents interested in names with classical roots and historical significance, masculine Hillary offers a distinguished choice with positive connotations of joy and achievement.
- Ilari
Origin:
Finnish form of Hilarius, Roman, LatinMeaning:
"cheerful"Description:
Light and cheerful as its meaning but with plenty of substance, Ilari is the Finnish form of Hilarius and Hillary. Used as a masculine name in Finland, it is used, albeit quietly, as a unisex option elsewhere.
