Animal Names for Boys

Common Japanese name rising for both sexes in the US.

Aiko

Name of a great Indian Mogul king, a Matt Groening cartoon character, and many Indian restaurants. 

Akbar

Alaster is a masculine name of Scottish origin, representing a variant of Alasdair or Alastair, which themselves derive from Alexander. The name ultimately traces back to Greek roots meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This less common spelling preserves the traditional Scottish pronunciation while giving the name a slightly distinctive written form. Alaster carries the noble associations of its related names, evoking images of Scottish highlands and clan heritage. Though never extremely popular, it has maintained consistent if limited usage among those with Scottish connections or those appreciating its combination of strength and sophistication. The name offers the friendly nickname options of Al or Ally while maintaining its distinguished full form.

Alaster

Aleph came into the spotlight when chosen by Israel-born Natalie Portman for her son. Alef is a more common spelling of these related <a href"https://nameberry.com/baby-names/158/hebrew-names">Hebrew baby names</a>.
<br/><br/>In the Kabbalah, Aleph/Alef relates to the origin of the universe. The letter Aleph is also the subject of a midrash, a Jewish folktale, which praises its humility in not demanding to start the Bible. (In Hebrew, the Bible begins with the second letter of the alphabet, Bet.) As a reward, Aleph is allowed to start the Ten Commandments.

Aleph

Alvis, sometimes spelled Alviss, is a dwarf in Norse mythology who claims to know everything and names all the features of the natural world to show off to Thor, whose daughter Alvis wants to marry. But he gets so caught up in showing off his knowledge that the sun comes up and turns him to stone.

Alvis

This Welsh river name has possibilities as a place name and nature name that is rare and uncommon.

Alwyn

A masculine name from the Old Testament, but would likely be confused for Amy.

Amiris is a masculine name with multiple possible origins, blending elements from different cultural traditions. It may be related to the Latin 'amirus' meaning 'wonderful' or 'admirable,' or connected to Arabic origins where 'amir' means 'prince' or 'commander,' with the suffix adding a unique distinction. The name could also draw inspiration from the Hebrew 'amir' meaning 'treetop' or 'promise.' Amiris is quite rare in most Western naming traditions, giving it an exotic and distinctive quality. The name has a melodic flow with its three syllables and soft consonants, creating a name that sounds both strong and refined. For parents seeking a truly uncommon name with multicultural resonance and positive connotations of leadership or wonder, Amiris represents an intriguing option.

Amiris

Amonte

Amori

Angello is a masculine name with Latin and Italian origins. It's a variation of Angelo, derived from the Latin word 'angelus' meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' The doubled 'l' gives it a distinctive spelling while maintaining the melodic quality of the original name. Angello carries connotations of spirituality, protection, and divine qualities across many cultures. The name has moderate popularity in Spanish and Italian-speaking communities but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive yet recognizable choice. In recent years, it has gained some recognition through Swedish DJ and producer Steve Angello. The name typically evokes images of kindness, goodness, and spiritual strength.

Angello

A not uncommon name in India that's become associated, in the West, with famed sculptor Anish Kapoor, who won the prestigious Turner Prize in 1991. It's also the name of (among others) a Nepali-Russian chess prodigy and a character on HBO anthology series <I>Room 104</i>. 

Anish

Anyelo is a masculine name that originated as a variation of Angelo, which has Italian and Latin roots meaning 'messenger' or 'angel.' Particularly popular in Spanish-speaking countries like the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and parts of South America, Anyelo offers a distinctive spelling while maintaining the angelic association. The name gained moderate popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries among Latin American communities. Parents might choose Anyelo for its melodic sound, spiritual connotations, and the balance it strikes between uniqueness and recognizability.

Anyelo

This Welsh name, also used in France, is the name of a 6th century saint who went to Brittany and established abbeys. Armel has a pleasant and familiar sound, making it easily used outside of Wales and France.

Armel

Arshiv

Artemus

Commonly associated with the Japanese beverage company Asahi, which produces a beer by the same name.

Asahi

Asce

One of the fastest-rising <a href="https://nameberry.com/boys-names">boys names</a>of 2017, perhaps due to its proximity to Asahd, the name of DJ Khaled's newborn son.

Ashad

This Ashley-like surname name actually made the US Top 1000 around the turn of the 20th century. Used very quietly today in equal numbers -- about a dozen each -- for boys and girls. Ashby is a major thoroughfare in Berkeley, California.