Animal Names for Boys

Carlos Santiago combines two distinguished Hispanic names with deep historical roots. Carlos, the Spanish equivalent of Charles, derives from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'manly,' and has been borne by numerous Spanish and Latin American leaders and royalty throughout history. Santiago, meaning 'Saint James' in Spanish, honors the apostle who became the patron saint of Spain. As a compound name, Carlos Santiago carries strong cultural connections to Spanish and Latin American heritage, projecting dignity, strength, and religious significance. This name combination is particularly popular in Puerto Rico, Mexico, and other Spanish-speaking regions, where compound masculine names are traditional. The name evokes a sense of cultural pride and heritage while offering the versatility of potential nicknames like Carlos, Santiago, or Santi. Its rhythmic flow and historical resonance make it both distinguished and approachable.

Gray-bearded name heard primarily in Sweden and Germany.

A lovely Manx name with an even lovelier meaning.

A saint’s name, Anglicized from Adomnán or Ádhamhnán, which may derive either from Ádhamh (Adam) or from Gaelic adomnae "great fear". St Eunan was a 7th century abbot of Iona best known for his "Law of Innocents", which protected women, children and non-combatants.

Brayden meets Jalen to make Braylen, another entry in this trendy group of names.

Son of Zeus known for musical abilities, an edgy choice for music-minded families.

Mythological name with a fabulous meaning. Sure it's weighty, but so is Aphrodite; Andy is an easy nickname choice to make this name more wearable in the classroom.

The mute, horn-honking Marx Brother's real name was Adolph -- so Harpo represented a huge step up. Also, it's Oprah's production company (her name spelled backward).

Cecilio is derived from Caecilius, an Ancient Roman surname that was likely originally bestowed upon someone who was blind.

Ibo is short but striking. Another, unrelated but equally appealing name is Ivo.

Both Christian and Cristian rank in the US Top 500 names for boys, and while the classic "Ch" spelling is used more than four times as often, Cristian is still given to more than 1000 boys each year, and is often used in the Hispanic community.

This name of the patron saint of Naples would make an apt choice for a New Year's baby, or one with Neapolitan roots.

The name of a historic Irish leader, Gannon has a solid, yet spirited feel. It was one of the fastest-rising names of 2014, but that trend didn't continue. One pop culture influence was the name of Teen Mom 3 son Gannon Dewayne McKee.

When used in English-speaking countries — it's heard occasionally in the UK — it's more often spelled Alaric, however, across Scandinavia and Europe, Alarik might be prefer.

Cyprien is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Latin name Cyprianus, meaning 'from Cyprus.' The name connects to the ancient Mediterranean island of Cyprus, which was sacred to Aphrodite in Greek mythology. Cyprien has a long history of use in France and French-speaking regions, with notable peaks during early Christian periods due to the veneration of Saint Cyprian, a 3rd-century bishop and martyr. While well-established in French culture, the name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries. Cyprien carries an elegant, sophisticated quality characteristic of French names. It offers a distinctive alternative to more common names while maintaining historical roots and cultural significance. The name balances classic heritage with a slightly exotic quality, appealing to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon.

A combination of Cyrus and Tyler, or any similar names. It may also be a variation of the surname Seiler, which means "rope maker."

With Azariah and Azriel in the Top 1000, and Ezra, Josiah, and Isaiah in the Top 100, it makes sense that this lesser known Hebrew choice is being revived in the US. Most likely deriving from Uzziah or Azaziah, Azaiah, it was a fast rising choice in 2024 when it rose more than 350 places, entering the Top 1000 for the first time.

Though you might have been a fan of tennis star Chris Evert, stick with EVERETT, which everyone will think you're saying anyway.

Once a staple of the 1920s, like Leroy and Elwood, Elroy is languishing in style limbo now. One feature that might make it worth a second glance is its royal meaning, for those looking for a vintage twist on names like Royal and Reign. If you're in search of unique vintage baby names, this may be one for your list.

Appealing Daniel diminutive, similar to other Russian names like Vanya and Ilya.