Animal Names for Boys

Anatolios is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing the fuller, more traditional form of the more common Anatoly or Anatoliy. The name derives from the Greek word "anatole," meaning "sunrise" or "east," literally referring to "one from the east" or "dawn." Historically, the name was associated with the geographic region of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), which was named for its eastern position relative to Greece. Anatolios was the name of several early Christian saints and church figures, contributing to its use throughout Orthodox Christian communities. While the shortened forms Anatoly or Anatoliy are more common in Russia and Eastern European countries, the full Anatolios maintains stronger usage in Greece and among traditional Greek communities. The name conveys associations with new beginnings, illumination, and classical heritage, while remaining quite rare in Western countries.

Anatolios

This extravagant name of a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher could make for a bold alternative to Alexander.

Anaximander

Ancel is a distinguished masculine name with French origins, derived from 'Anselm', which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'god' (ans) and 'helmet' or 'protection' (helm). The name carries connotations of divine protection and noble character. Historically, Ancel has maintained modest usage in France and among French-speaking populations. It gained some recognition through notable bearers like Ancel Keys, the American physiologist who studied the Mediterranean diet. While never achieving widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Ancel has persisted as a distinctive alternative to more common names, appealing to parents seeking a name with French elegance and historical depth without being overly familiar.

Ancel

Ancell is a masculine name of Old French and English origin. It developed as a diminutive form of Anselm, which combines Germanic elements meaning 'god' (ans) and 'helmet' or 'protection' (helm). The name thus carries the noble meaning of 'divine protection' or 'protected by God.' Ancell was more common in medieval England but has become quite rare in modern times. It has an aristocratic, somewhat antiquated feel that might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive historical name. Its unusual quality and positive meaning give it a certain charm, while its short, crisp sound makes it accessible despite its rarity.

Ancell

Ancil is a rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Anselm, a Germanic name meaning 'God's helmet' or 'divine protection,' or from Ancell, a diminutive of Anselm. Alternatively, it could connect to Latin 'ancilla' meaning 'servant' or be a variant of Ancelot, a French diminutive of Ancel. Popular briefly in the early 20th century in America, Ancil has since become quite uncommon. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft consonants and crisp ending. Notable bearers include American folk artist Ancil Goodman and baseball player Ancil Hoffman. With its short, distinctive sound and historical roots, Ancil offers a rare alternative to more common short masculine names.

Ancil

Andirs is an unusual masculine name that may be a variant spelling of Anders, which is the Scandinavian form of Andrew, meaning 'strong,' 'manly,' or 'brave.' This distinctive spelling makes it exceedingly rare across most naming databases. The name has Nordic resonance but with its unique orthography, it stands apart from more common variants. Parents choosing Andirs for their son likely appreciate its strength and masculine qualities while desiring something less conventional than Andrew or Anders. The name's rarity means bearers would rarely encounter others sharing their name, providing a sense of individuality and uniqueness in social and professional settings.

Andirs

Andon is a masculine name with Bulgarian, Macedonian, and Greek origins. It derives from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "man" or "warrior." In Bulgarian traditions, it's associated with Saint Anthony, rendered as Anton or Andon in Slavic languages. The name has been used throughout the Balkan region for centuries, often appearing in historical records and literature. While not extremely common internationally, Andon remains in use in Eastern European communities and diaspora populations. It offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Anthony or Andrew while maintaining similar roots. The name typically conveys strength and masculinity in its cultural contexts.

Andon

Andone is a masculine name with Basque origins, found primarily in the Basque region spanning northern Spain and southwestern France. In Basque tradition, the name may be related to 'andi' meaning 'great' or 'big.' It's a relatively uncommon name even within Basque communities, giving it a distinctive quality. Andone has a melodic sound with its three syllables and ending vowel, characteristic of many Basque names which often differ significantly from other European naming traditions. While not widely used internationally, it offers a unique cultural connection to Basque heritage. Some bearers of this name may be found in diaspora communities where Basque culture has been preserved.

Andone

Andoni is the Basque version of Anthony, no longer a common choice in Spain.

Andoni

Andonios is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing a traditional variation of Antonios (the Greek form of Anthony). The name derives from the Roman family name Antonius, which may have meant 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy.' Primarily found in Greek communities, Andonios carries cultural significance while maintaining the dignified essence of its more common variants. The name has historical depth, connecting to both ancient Roman lineage and Greek heritage. While not widely used outside of Greek communities, Andonios offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Anthony or Antonio. It carries connotations of strength, dignity, and cultural tradition, making it a meaningful choice for families with Greek heritage.

Andonios

András is the form of Andrew used in Hungary, where it is a Top 50 boy name.
 
Without the accent, Andras is a demon name in Christian demonology, where he holds the title Grand Marquis of Hell.

Andras

András

Andray is a masculine name with diverse multicultural origins. It can be viewed as a variant spelling of Andrei, the Russian form of Andrew, which derives from the Greek name Andreas meaning 'manly' or 'brave.' The spelling variation gives the traditional name a contemporary feel while maintaining its strong essence. In some cultures, Andray may also be considered a creative blend of Andre and Ray, combining different naming traditions. The name has gained some recognition in basketball circles through players like Andray Blatche. While not among the most common names, Andray offers parents a distinctive option that feels both familiar and unique, with its recognizable roots but modern presentation.

Andray

The Slovene form of Andrew, currently falling in popularity in its home country.

Andraž

André is a masculine name of French and Portuguese origin, derived from the Greek name Andreas, meaning 'manly' or 'brave.' It's the French form of Andrew, which comes from the Greek word 'andros' meaning 'man.' The accent over the 'e' gives the name its distinctive pronunciation (ahn-DRAY) and continental flair. André has been consistently popular across various European countries, particularly in France, Portugal, Brazil, and other French and Portuguese-speaking regions. The name carries an air of sophistication and artistic sensibility, perhaps influenced by notable bearers like composer André Previn and tennis player André Agassi. In the United States, André saw increased usage during the 1970s-1990s and continues to be appreciated for its classic yet cosmopolitan quality.

André

Andrellton isn't the name of a real place, but has the theoretical meaning "Andrell's town". Andrell is a variation of Andrew used for both sexes from the late 1960s onward — primarily among African Americans and Latin Americans.
 
Curaçaoan baseball player Andrelton Simmons is the most famous person with his name. Keke Palmer used the double-L spelling as the middle name for her son Leodis.

Andrellton

Famously borne by Curaçaoan baseball player Andrelton Simmons. Keke Palmer used the Andrellton spelling as her son Leodis's middle name.
 
Andrelton is not the name of any real place, but if it was, it would mean "Andrel's town".

Andrelton

Andrés

Andrin

Andrius is the Lithuanian variant of Andrew, derived from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "manly" or "brave." This masculine name carries strong historical and cultural significance throughout Lithuania and other Baltic regions. Andrius maintains the dignified quality of its root name while offering a distinctive European flair with its unique ending. The name has been borne by various Lithuanian athletes, artists, and public figures, enhancing its cultural resonance. While very common in Lithuania, where it ranks among the most popular male names, Andrius remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic yet accessible quality for international use. Its straightforward pronunciation and spelling make it travel well across cultural boundaries.