Animal Names for Boys

Alaska's Denali National Park is the home of the highest mountain in the US, officially renamed Denali in 2014, endowing the name with a lofty feel. There were 20 boys and 55 girls given the name in 2014.

Denali

This Turkish name meaning "friend" should be very useable outside Turkey, given that it is pronounced just as it is spelled. Famous men named Emre include Emre Can, a chess grandmaster, and Emre Sahin, the director.

Emre

Stately Gaius (pronounced GUY-us) was in the name of many ancient Romans, including Julius Caesar. Little-used before the year 2000, it now feels like a fresh possibility in the revival of Latin boys' names like Atticus and Cassius. Caius and derivatives like Caio come from the same root, and in ancient Roman times Caius was probably pronounced as Gaius. You could also see Gaius as a male version of the earth-goddess name Gaia.

Gaius

In the US, this spelling is less common than mid-century favorite Jeffrey, and it has faded from popularity faster. This more British spelling is the usual form for historical figures like Geoffrey Chaucer and the Welsh historian Geoffrey of Monmouth, and as such it may feel more rooted and enduring.

Geoffrey

Hayzen is a modern masculine name that has emerged in recent years as part of the trend toward unique, contemporary names with a strong sound. Likely a variation or combination inspired by popular names like Hayden and names ending in "-zen" (reflecting the calm concept from Zen Buddhism), Hayzen has a distinctly 21st-century feel. The name has no clear traditional etymology but resonates with parents seeking something distinctive for their sons. Its rise aligns with the increasing preference for names that sound familiar yet stand out. While still relatively uncommon, Hayzen has been gaining modest traction, particularly in the United States, among parents drawn to its contemporary sound and the appealing combination of strength (Hay-) and tranquility (-zen).

Hayzen

Biblical name -- he was an ancestor of Abraham's -- rarely used today but registered on the U.S. popularity list at the end of the 19th century.  With the rise of other obscure Old Testament names, just might have a shot at revival.

Heber

Henrique is the Portuguese and Spanish form of Henry, a name with Germanic origins meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household.' This variation maintains the regal heritage of the original while adding a distinctive Latin flair through its pronunciation (en-REE-kay). Popular throughout Portugal, Brazil, and Spanish-speaking countries, Henrique conveys strength and nobility while sounding melodic and warm. The name has a long history of use among European royalty, carrying connotations of leadership and dignity. While less common in English-speaking countries, it has gained recognition through cultural exchange and global connectivity. Henrique offers parents a sophisticated international option with accessible nickname possibilities like Enrique, Ricky, or Rique.

Henrique

An Indian boy's name with a strong meaning, Himmat also entered the England and Wales Top 1000 in 2023 and again in 2025. Appearing in a 1996 Hindi spy movie, some of its more recent popularity could be owing to cricketer Himmat Singh.

Himmat

Horacio is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Horatius, a masculine name of Latin origin derived from the Roman clan name Horatius, whose meaning remains uncertain. Made famous by the Roman poet Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus), the name carries literary and intellectual associations. Horacio has been consistently popular in Spanish-speaking countries and Brazil, appreciated for its classical roots and distinguished sound. The name conveys a sense of cultural sophistication and historical depth. Notable bearers include Argentine writer Horacio Quiroga and numerous politicians and artists throughout Latin America, helping maintain the name's prestigious reputation.

Horacio

Husayn is a masculine name of Arabic origin, representing a variant transliteration of Hussein or Hossein. The name derives from the Arabic word 'hasan' meaning 'good' or 'handsome,' often interpreted as 'little beauty' or 'little handsome one.' It holds profound significance in Islamic history as the name of Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Husayn ibn Ali, a revered figure particularly in Shia Islam. The name is widely used throughout the Muslim world, with various spelling variations depending on regional transliteration practices. In Western countries, the name has become more familiar as global migration increases cultural exchange. Parents choosing this name often value its religious significance, cultural heritage, and positive meaning. Despite various spelling forms, the name maintains its distinctive character and important cultural associations across different societies.

Husayn

Isabel, Theodore, and Isadora are back: could it now be time for a more widespread revival of Isidore? Yet to see any big moves up the charts, Isidore was given to more than 30 boys in a recent year: twice the number it was given to a decade ago.

 A common ancient Greek name belonging to several saints--including Saint Isidore the Ploughman, patron saint of Madrid and the great encyclopedist St. Isidore of Seville, whose work formed the basis of much medieval knowledge, it also appears in 19th century novel Villette by Charlotte Brontë, applied to a character to conceal his true, homely identity.
 
Historically common among Jewish communities, though Isaac, Isaiah, and Israel are now preferred, Isidore may make a rare yet approachable choice. Friendly nickname Izzy could be cool, while Dory and Sid are other options.

Isidore

Place-name of a settlement in Galilee in Israel. 

Abir

Aedan is a masculine name of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, meaning 'little fire' or 'fiery one.' This ancient Celtic name has historical significance as it was borne by several Irish saints and kings, including St. Aedan of Ferns. The modern spelling variants include Aidan, Aiden, and Ayden, which have gained considerable popularity in English-speaking countries since the late 20th century. While the traditional Aedan spelling is less common, it offers authenticity and a direct connection to Celtic heritage. The name evokes qualities of passion, warmth, and spirited energy. Its rise in popularity corresponds with growing interest in Celtic names and culture across the Western world.

Aedan

The popularity of legendary names, such as Legend, Legendary, and Legacy, has led to the creation of new names in this genre — meet Alegend (and ALegend and A'Legend). Phrases as names are slowly filtering into the mainstream, with choices like AKing, MyLove, and AMillion garnering more and more use each year.

Alegend

Amay is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Indian contexts, it can derive from Sanskrit, meaning 'immortal' or 'without limits,' conveying a sense of boundlessness or eternal qualities. In some Western usage, it may be considered a modern variant of names like Amery or Emery, or as a shortened form of Amadeus. The name has gained modest popularity in recent years as parents seek distinctive yet approachable names with international appeal. Amay's brevity and melodic quality make it both memorable and easy to pronounce across various languages. The name carries a contemporary feel while still connecting to deeper linguistic roots. Its rarity gives bearers a sense of individuality while remaining accessible.

Amay

Andry

One of Dumas' swashbuckling Three Musketeers, now better known as a men's cologne. 

Aramis

A rare and rather lovely Biblical option belonging to several minor characters in the Old Testament.

Asaph

Ashten is a modern variation of the name Ashton, which originated as an English surname derived from place names meaning 'ash tree town.' This masculine form maintains the nature-inspired roots while offering a slightly different spelling. The variant spelling with 'e' instead of 'o' gives the name a contemporary feel while preserving its classic English heritage. Though less common than Ashton, Ashten has gained some usage in recent decades as parents seek distinctive yet familiar-sounding names for boys. The name carries connotations of strength and durability, qualities associated with the ash tree in traditional symbolism. Ashten also benefits from the trendy appeal of names ending with '-en' sounds in modern naming practices.