the ultimate list of boy names
- João
Origin:
Portuguese variation of JohnMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
A Portuguese classic. Many members of the Portuguese royal family were named João, and today it’s associated with a number of Portuguese and Brazilian footballers.
- Gaspar
Origin:
Spanish variation of Casper, Dutch form of Jasper, PersianMeaning:
"bringer of treasure"Description:
The name of one of the Three Wise Men from the East is heard in several European countries, but rarely in the US. Last year about 50 baby boys were named Gaspar in the US vs. about 200 named Casper, still haunted for some by the cartoon ghost. Root name Jasper is by far the most popular of the group.
- Eero
Origin:
Finnish variation of EricMeaning:
"eternal ruler"Description:
Creative gem perfect for an architect's son, in tribute to modern Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen.
- Benas
Description:
Benas is a Lithuanian masculine name that functions as the Lithuanian form of Benjamin. The name Benjamin has Hebrew origins meaning "son of the right hand" or "son of the south," implying favor or good fortune. In Lithuania, Benas has moderate popularity and is appreciated for its brevity and strong sound. The name features prominently in Lithuanian culture and has grown in usage since Lithuania's independence. Outside of Lithuania and Baltic communities, Benas remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality in international settings. Its simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible across cultural boundaries despite its specific ethnic origins.
- Nikodem
Origin:
Polish variation of Nicodemus, GreekMeaning:
"victory of the people"Description:
A slightly more approachable take on Nicodemus that boasts the very-cool nickname Niko.
- Teive
Description:
Teive is an uncommon masculine name with obscure origins, possibly deriving from Portuguese or Sephardic Jewish heritage. It may be related to the surname Teive found in Portuguese-speaking regions or could be a variation of Steve or Stephen. The name has a distinctive brevity and modern sound despite potential historical roots. Teive combines uniqueness with straightforward pronunciation, making it accessible despite its rarity. With just two syllables and a balanced blend of consonants and vowels, Teive offers simplicity while remaining distinctive. The name carries a contemporary feel with potential ancient connections, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name that still sounds familiar enough to be easily pronounced.
- Tommaso
Origin:
Italian variation of Thomas, AramaicMeaning:
"twin"Description:
Tommaso is the handsome Italian version of the classic Thomas, still leading directly to short forms Tommy or Tom.
- Bautista
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"baptist"Description:
Spanish form of the French name Baptiste, usually given in honor of St John the Baptist.
- Bayram
Origin:
TurkishMeaning:
"festival"Description:
Though Bayram is not well known in the US, it's a name that easily crosses cultures because it sounds exactly like the English name Byram, a variation of Byron. Bayram is the Turkish word for "holiday" or "festival". Like Felix and Asher, Bayram is a name with a happy, uplifting meaning. It was in Turkey's Top 100 until 2003.
- Markas
Description:
Markas is a masculine name with multiple cultural connections, primarily serving as a Lithuanian and Baltic variant of Marcus or Mark. The name ultimately derives from the Latin 'Marcus,' which is thought to be related to Mars, the Roman god of war, suggesting meanings like 'warlike' or 'dedicated to Mars.' In Lithuanian culture, Markas maintains its traditional spelling while adapting to local pronunciation patterns. The name has seen moderate usage in Baltic countries and among diaspora communities. Beyond the Baltic region, this spelling variant has occasionally appeared in other European countries. Markas combines the familiar roots of the classic Mark with a distinctive spelling that gives it a slightly more uncommon and international feel.
- Kehinde
Origin:
YorubaMeaning:
"second-born of twins or one who falls behind"Description:
This African name, which derives from the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria, is used for both girls and boys -- but in the US, its most notable bearer is (male) artist Kehinde Wiley. Wiley, who paints brown- and black-skinned people in the style of European Old Masters, was born in Los Angeles of an African-American mother and a Yoruba father and was also a twin, thus his name. An attractive and creative choice for either gender.
- Afonso
Description:
Afonso is a masculine Portuguese and Galician form of the name Alfonso, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'noble' and 'ready' or 'eager.' This name carries significant historical weight in Portugal and Spain, having been borne by numerous kings and nobles throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Afonso has remained consistently popular in Portugal and Brazilian communities, representing a strong connection to cultural heritage. The name has a dignified sound while maintaining approachability. Its distinctive spelling with a single 'l' marks it as specifically Portuguese rather than Spanish. Afonso projects qualities of leadership, dignity, and classical masculinity while still feeling relevant in modern contexts. Its rich historical associations give the name substance and character.
- Adomas
Origin:
Lithuanian, from HebrewMeaning:
"son of the red earth"Description:
A handsome Lithuanian form of Adam.
- Olivér
Origin:
Hungarian variation of Oliver, LatinMeaning:
"olive tree"
- Matviy
Origin:
Ukrainian form of Matthew, from HebrewMeaning:
"gift of God"
- Naviyd
Origin:
Persian, variation of NaveedMeaning:
"good news"Description:
Usher put this spin on an attractive and popular Iranian name when he chose it for his son.
- Jokūbas
Description:
Jokūbas is the Lithuanian form of Jacob, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning "supplanter" or "holder of the heel," referring to the Biblical story where Jacob was born holding his twin brother's heel. This Lithuanian variation maintains the name's biblical roots while adapting it to Lithuanian phonology and spelling conventions, with the distinctive long ū sound. In Lithuania, Jokūbas has been used for centuries, remaining popular through the country's complex history. The name experienced renewed popularity after Lithuania regained independence in 1990, as many families embraced traditional Lithuanian names. Jokūbas carries the weight of both religious significance and cultural heritage, making it appealing to Lithuanian families seeking to connect their children to their linguistic and cultural roots while using a name that has international recognition in its various forms.
- Harimau
Description:
Harimau is a masculine name derived from the Malay and Indonesian word for 'tiger.' In these cultures, the tiger symbolizes power, strength, and courage—attributes traditionally associated with masculinity. While uncommon as a personal name globally, Harimau connects the bearer to Southeast Asian heritage and the cultural significance of tigers in that region. As nature-inspired names continue to gain popularity worldwide, Harimau offers parents seeking distinctive options a name with both literal meaning and symbolic power. The name's exotic quality and powerful animal association make it stand out while maintaining a melodic, approachable pronunciation.
- Abush
Origin:
Yiddish diminutive of AbrahamMeaning:
"Father of multitudes"Description:
Whether you're looking for an unexpected nickname for the imposing Abraham or a fresh spin on the Biblical classic, this highly unusual variation might appeal to namers with a sense of adventure.
- Aoi
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"hollyhock; blue"