Animal Names for Boys

Carrol is a unisex name with Irish and Germanic origins, though it's more commonly used for males in contemporary times. Derived from the Gaelic name 'Cearbhal' meaning 'fierce in battle,' it also has connections to the Germanic name 'Karl' meaning 'free man.' In medieval times, the name crossed into English usage, sometimes spelled Carroll or Carol. It gained particular prominence in Irish-American communities. Carrol peaked in popularity in the early 20th century and has since become less common, giving it a vintage appeal. The name carries associations with music due to its connection with Christmas carols, as well as literary connections through Lewis Carroll. Its balanced combination of strength and melodic quality makes it a distinguished yet distinctive choice.

Carrol

This name was consistently in the boys' Top 200 until WW2. It's a name with so many dimensions to it: the hyper-masculine meaning, the surname-as-firstname trendiness, and the softer sound and connotation since homophone Carol was favoured in the 1940s and '50s for daughters. We think it's time for a resurgence of Carrolls amongst the boys.

Carroll

Carrson is a modern variant spelling of Carson, which originated as an English surname derived from the Scottish-Gaelic name 'MacCarson,' meaning 'son of Carr.' The name Carr itself has roots meaning 'dweller near a marsh' or 'rocky area.' The double 'r' spelling gives Carrson a distinctive contemporary flair while maintaining the strong, masculine sound of the original. In the United States, this spelling variation emerged as parents sought unique alternatives to more common names while preserving familiar sounds. Though less common than Carson, Carrson has gained some popularity in recent decades as part of the trend toward creative spellings of traditional names.

Carrson

Carsan is a modern masculine name that appears to be a variation of Carson, which originated as an English and Scottish surname meaning 'son of Carr' or 'son of the marsh-dweller.' With its strong consonants and balanced two-syllable structure, Carsan has a contemporary feel while maintaining connections to traditional naming patterns. The slight spelling variation from the more common Carson gives it a distinctive quality while remaining intuitive to pronounce. While not historically common, Carsan has gained some popularity in recent decades alongside similar-sounding names like Carson and Carter. The name conveys a sense of strength and reliability, appealing to parents seeking a modern name with a masculine edge that isn't overly common.

Carsan

As 2000s hit Carson begins to loose speed in recent years, Carsie feels fresh as ever. This diminutive name would work well for boys or girls.

Carsie

Carston is a strong masculine name with Germanic and English origins, likely derived from the surname Carson with an added 't' or from variations of Christian names containing 'car' elements meaning 'free man.' This dignified name combines traditional roots with contemporary appeal, striking a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness. Carston emerged in popularity during the late 20th century alongside the trend for surname-inspired first names. Though not among the most common names, it maintains steady usage in English-speaking countries. Carston conveys strength and reliability, with its crisp consonants suggesting a forthright, trustworthy character. The name works well across ages, from boyhood through adulthood.

Carston

Not a great idea to associate your newborn with drug lords.

Cartel

An Irish form of Caractacus or Caradoc, borne by two Irish saints.

Carthach

Caryl is a unisex name that functions primarily as a masculine name in this context. It derives from the Welsh name 'Caryl,' which relates to 'beloved' or 'dear one,' though it can also be considered a variant of Charles, meaning 'free man.' As a male name, Caryl has remained relatively uncommon but has persisted throughout the 20th century, particularly in Welsh-speaking regions and among families with Welsh heritage. The name has a gentle yet distinguished quality that balances traditional masculinity with a touch of poetic sensitivity. Caryl's dual-gender nature has made it an intriguing choice for parents looking for a name with literary associations and Welsh cultural connections.

Caryl

Caryll is a gender-neutral name though historically more common for males, with English and Celtic origins. It developed as a variant spelling of Carol or Carroll, which derived from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'strong man.' In Irish usage, it comes from the surname Ó Cearbhaill, meaning 'descendant of Cearbhall,' a personal name related to 'fierce in battle.' The distinctive 'y' spelling gives Caryll a literary and somewhat aristocratic quality. The name gained some recognition through British author Caryll Houselander. Relatively uncommon in modern usage, Caryll maintains an old-world charm with its classical roots yet unusual spelling. Its gender flexibility makes it versatile while its rarity offers uniqueness without seeming invented or trendy.

Caryll

This short-but-strong name is popular for boys in The Netherlands.  While Cass is usually a female name in the U.S., it feels just as right for boys.

Casar is a masculine name that may derive from several origins. It could be a variant spelling of Caesar, the ancient Roman family name associated with Julius Caesar and later becoming a title for emperors. In Spanish usage, Cásar (with an accent) appears as a variation. The name carries connotations of leadership and authority from its historical connections. Alternatively, in some cultures, it might relate to Arabic 'Qasar' meanings. As a given name, Casar remains uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name combines historical gravitas with a slightly modernized spelling that softens the imperial associations of Caesar while retaining its strength. Parents might choose it for its cross-cultural appeal and historical resonance while appreciating its relative uniqueness compared to more common classical names.

Casar

Casca was a Roman cognomen — a proto-surname — that derived from a word meaning "old." It was seen in Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar, and more recently, in The Hunger Games.

Casca

This upbeat and unusual Cornish name boasts the funky nickname Caz.

Casek

Casian is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. In Romanian tradition, it derives from the Latin name Cassianus, meaning 'empty' or 'vain,' but has evolved beyond these original connotations. The name is associated with Saint Cassian of Imola, a Christian martyr and teacher. In other cultural contexts, it may be linked to the Latin 'cassis' meaning 'helmet,' suggesting protection or strength. Casian has gained moderate popularity in Romania and nearby countries, while remaining relatively uncommon elsewhere. The name has a contemporary sound while maintaining historical connections, making it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible. With its soft consonants and balanced syllables, Casian offers a melodic quality that works well across multiple languages.

Casian

Casidy as a masculine name represents a gender crossover from what was traditionally more common as a feminine name. It derives from the Irish surname Cassidy, which comes from the Gaelic "Ó Caiside" meaning "descendent of Caiside." The name has a modern, approachable quality while maintaining Irish heritage connections. Unlike the more common spelling Cassidy, this variant with a single 's' creates a subtle distinction. Though less frequently used for boys than girls, Casidy fits well with contemporary trends of surname-inspired first names and the increasing fluidity of gendered naming conventions. The name carries connotations of Irish culture and history while offering a friendly, accessible sound that works well in modern contexts.

Casidy

Casimer is a masculine name of Polish origin, representing an Anglicized variant of Kazimierz (Casimir). The name derives from Slavic elements meaning 'destroyer of peace' or 'announcer of peace,' though the latter interpretation is more commonly embraced. It gained prominence through several Polish kings and saints named Casimir, particularly St. Casimir, patron saint of Poland and Lithuania. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Casimer enjoyed modest usage in Polish-American communities throughout the 20th century. The name carries an air of aristocratic heritage and Eastern European character. Its traditional roots appeal to parents seeking names with historical depth and cultural significance. Casimer offers its bearers a distinguished name with royal connections while remaining distinctive in most contemporary settings.

Casimer

Casius is a masculine name with ancient Roman connections, likely derived from Latin roots. It may be related to the more common Cassius, which comes from an old Roman family name of uncertain meaning, though some sources suggest connections to 'hollow' or 'empty.' Casius could also connect to Mons Casius, the Latin name for several mountains in the ancient Mediterranean world. The name has a strong, classical sound that evokes images of Roman strength and dignity. While rare in modern usage, Casius offers an intriguing alternative to more popular classical names like Cassius or Marcus. Its distinctive spelling gives it a slightly softer pronunciation while maintaining its masculine essence. Parents drawn to ancient history and looking for a name with historical depth but modern usability might find Casius particularly appealing. The name remains uncommon on birth registries throughout Western countries.

Casius

Casparo is a masculine name with Mediterranean roots, serving as an Italian and Spanish variation of Caspar or Gaspar. The original name traces back to the Three Wise Men of biblical tradition, with ancient Persian origins meaning "treasurer" or "bringer treasure." 

Casparo carries a romantic, slightly exotic quality with its flowing vowel ending, characteristic of Southern European naming patterns. While relatively uncommon even in its countries of origin, the name possesses an artistic, sophisticated air that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet historically grounded. The connection to the Magi gives Casparo religious significance, while its musical quality and international character make it attractive across cultural boundaries.

Casparo

A clan name in Ursula Le Guin's Annals of the Western Shore combining sounds that are currently very fashionable. It's not beyond the realms of possibility that it could make it into baby name territory.