Animal Names for Boys

A close relative of Dax that's on the rise: It was one of the fastest-growing boys' names of 2017.

Damarius appears to be a modern masculine given name that emerged primarily in the late 20th century. The name may be a variation of Demetrius, which has ancient Greek origins meaning 'follower of Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). Alternatively, it could be a creative combination of the common prefix 'Da-' with 'Marius,' an ancient Roman family name. The spelling variant with the '-ius' ending gives the name a classical feel, reflecting a trend in contemporary naming that draws on historical elements while creating something distinctive. Usage records show Damarius appearing with increased frequency beginning in the 1980s and 1990s. While never among the most common names, it represents the modern trend toward melodic masculine names with multiple syllables and classical-sounding endings.

Damarius

Danyal is a masculine name of Arabic and Persian origin, serving as a variant of Daniel. In Islamic tradition, Danyal refers to the prophet Daniel mentioned in religious texts. The name carries the powerful meaning of 'God is my judge' or 'judgment of God.' Danyal is widely used throughout Muslim communities in the Middle East, South Asia, and beyond, appreciated for its religious significance and melodic quality. The name combines spiritual depth with a contemporary sound, making it increasingly popular among families seeking names with both cultural roots and modern appeal. With its three syllables and flowing pronunciation, Danyal offers a distinctive yet accessible option that travels well across different cultures while maintaining its meaningful heritage.

Danyal

Darron is a masculine name that likely developed as a variation of Darren or Darin, which themselves may have originated from the Irish surname Ó Dairin. The name has also been associated with the Greek name Doros, meaning 'gift.' Darron gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, though it has always remained less common than its variant Darren. The name has a strong, modern sound while maintaining a traditional feel. The double 'r' gives it a distinctive look in writing, while phonetically it carries a certain strength. Today, Darron offers parents a somewhat uncommon choice that still sounds familiar and accessible within English-speaking countries.

Darron

The Coca-Cola Company created the name Dasani for its brand-new bottled water in 1999. Dasani was chosen because "the name is relaxing and suggests pureness and replenishment," according to consumer testing, though it has been linked to the Latin sanus meaning "healthy".
 
Dasani has consistently been used as a baby name for both girls and boys since 1999, although the numbers are typically higher for girls. The name was most popular in 2001 when it was given to over 150 babies, while more recently, it was given to just 13 girls and 8 boys.

Dasani

Davide is the Italian form of David, a masculine name with Hebrew origins meaning 'beloved' or 'favorite one.' This variant maintains the biblical connection to King David while adding a distinctly Italian flair with its three-syllable pronunciation (dah-VEE-deh). Particularly popular in Italy and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland, Davide has a rich history dating back centuries. The name carries the same prestigious biblical legacy as David but with a more melodic Mediterranean sound. While less common in English-speaking countries, Davide has gained some international recognition through Italian cultural exports, including arts, fashion, and sports. The name conveys strength, creativity, and leadership—qualities associated with the biblical figure.

Davide

Davien is a modern masculine name that appears to be a creative variation of David, which has Hebrew origins meaning "beloved." This contemporary spelling adds a distinctive flair to the traditional name while maintaining its recognizable roots. Davien emerged in American naming patterns during the late 20th century as parents increasingly sought unique spellings of familiar names. While not among the most popular names, Davien has maintained a steady presence in naming records since the 1990s. The name offers the stability and heritage of David with a modern twist, appealing to parents who want a name that stands out slightly while still having traditional underpinnings.

Davien

Cheerful but laidback, surname-style Delaney is derived from the Old Irish name Dubhshláine and has become a familiar choice for girls in recent decades. Nevertheless, it has also been used for boys since the early 1900s and was equally - though rarely - given to both, right up until the 1990s. 
 
Since then, it has been given to around 15 boys each year, with notable bearers including musician Delaney Bramlett, actor Delaney Williams, and singer Delaney Davidson. With last names as first names on trend and <a href="the-softer-side-of-boys-names">soft names for boys</a> climbing the charts, Delaney could work well - and feel fresher - on a boy.

Delaney

Delbert

Denzell appears to be a variant spelling of the surname Denzel, which originated as an English surname derived from a place name in Cornwall combining the Cornish elements 'din' (fort) and 'hal' (moor). As a given name, it gained significant popularity following the rise to fame of American actor Denzel Washington in the 1980s and 1990s. The doubled 'l' spelling (Denzell) represents a common phonetic variation that emerged as the name gained usage as a first name. This pattern of surnames becoming given names, often with modified spellings, is common in modern naming practices. Usage data shows a notable increase in babies named Denzell/Denzel during the height of Washington's fame, demonstrating the significant influence of celebrities on naming trends. While less common today than in the 1990s, the name continues to be used, appreciated for its strong consonant sounds and cultural associations with talent and success.

Denzell

Deshun developed as a modern creation combining the popular prefix 'De-' with 'shun,' possibly derived from older names or words. Some interpret it as meaning 'of sunshine' or 'from the sun,' though it doesn't have a single established etymology. 

Deshun gained some recognition during the 1980s and 1990s. The name has a confident sound that contributes to its appeal, though its usage has remained relatively modest in recent decades.

Deshun

Dontay appears to be a variant spelling of Dante or Donte, names ultimately deriving from the shortened form of the medieval Italian name Durante, famously borne by poet Dante Alighieri. The spelling with 'ay' ending likely represents a phonetic adaptation that emerged in the United States. Usage records show Dontay appearing with increased frequency beginning in the 1970s-1980s, primarily in the United States. The name follows a pattern of creative respelling of classical names that occurred during this period. While not among the most common names, Dontay has maintained steady usage across diverse communities in the United States. The variation maintains the strong sound of the original while offering a distinctive spelling that sets it apart from the more traditional Dante.

Dontay

Eisa is a variation of Isa, Essa, Eesa, or Issa, the Arabic form of Jesus. As a feminine name, it comes from Norse mythology and means "glowing embers." 

Eisa

Elhadji is a masculine name with roots in West African and Islamic traditions. It derives from 'Al-Hajj' in Arabic, a title of respect given to Muslims who have completed the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. The name is particularly common in Senegal, Mali, Niger, and other West African nations with significant Muslim populations. Elhadji conveys deep religious significance and respect within communities where it's used. While uncommon in Western countries, it maintains consistent usage in its regions of origin. The name carries connotations of spiritual devotion, accomplishment, wisdom, and respected status. Pronunciation typically follows as el-HAH-jee, though regional variations exist throughout West Africa.

Elhadji

Ericson, also spelled Erickson and Erikson (and with -sen endings too), is a Nordic surname that makes a strong choice.  Ericson may continue the trend Harrison, Jefferson and Jackson started.

Ericson

Eston is a masculine name with English origins, primarily derived from Old English elements meaning 'east town' or 'eastern settlement.' It began as a surname indicating someone who came from a place called Eston before transitioning to use as a given name. Eston has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has seen occasional usage in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It has a strong, traditional sound while still feeling somewhat unique in modern contexts. Eston conveys a sense of stability and geographic connection.

Eston

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

Evert

Eyan is a modern masculine name that has gained some popularity in recent years. It likely developed as a variation of names like Evan, Ian, or Ryan, combining familiar sounds into a fresh form. With Celtic and Hebrew influences potentially in its background, Eyan may relate to Evan (Welsh for 'young warrior') or Ian (Scottish form of John, meaning 'God is gracious'). The name offers a contemporary feel while maintaining a simple pronunciation and spelling. Eyan has a clean, minimalist quality appealing to parents seeking something relatively uncommon but not overly exotic. Its rise aligns with trends favoring short, two-syllable names with smooth sounds for boys.

Eyan

Fabien is a masculine name of French origin, serving as the French variant of the Latin name Fabianus, which derives from 'Fabius,' an ancient Roman family name. The name ultimately stems from 'faba,' meaning 'bean grower.' Fabien carries an air of sophistication and continental charm, popular throughout French-speaking regions and increasingly recognized internationally. In France, it saw significant popularity during the 1960s-1980s. The name suggests qualities of creativity, elegance, and intelligence. While less common in English-speaking countries, Fabien has gained some recognition through notable bearers, including French athletes and artists, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with European flair.

Fabien

Fenton is the kind of surname name that's starting to sound almost like a normal first name these days.  While it made a brief appearance on the Top 1000 in the late 1800s, today it's distinctive but in step with the times.  And Fen as a nickname is undeniably cute -- a Ben of the future.