Unique Names that Start With G

A possible hero name inspired by notables from Spanish poet/playwright Federico Garcia Lorca to writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez to the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia. 

Garcia

Occasionally used in the African-American community to honor Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey, known as "Emperor of the Kingdom of Africa," though his first name is more frequently chosen. Another possible namesake is baseball player Steve Garvey. Garvey sounds more modern than Harvey. 
 
Variations include Garrvey, Garrvie, Garvie, and Garvy.

Garvey

Gervais is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Germanic elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'wis' meaning 'wise,' together translating to 'skilled with the spear.' The name was borne by several early Christian saints, including a 2nd-century martyr who became one of the patron saints of Milan. 

Gervais has been continuously used in France since medieval times, though it remains relatively uncommon. In English-speaking countries, it may be recognized from the comedian Ricky Gervais, though the pronunciation often differs (French: zhair-VAY, English often: ger-VAYS). The name carries an air of sophistication and European elegance, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and international character.

Gervais

This venerable name was introduced to England by the Normans after the conquest of 1066 and was relatively common during the Middle Ages. Saint Gervase, a Christian martyr from Milan, has lent the name religious significance. 

Though never extremely popular in modern times, Gervase maintains an air of classical elegance and scholarly refinement. The name experienced brief revivals among families interested in historical names, particularly in Britain. Gervase offers a distinctive alternative to more common traditional names, providing both historical depth and a sophisticated sound that works well in contemporary settings.

Gervase

Could catch on in tandem with the newfound popularity of Griffin and Griffith. 

Gifford

A popular first name in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, giving rise to surnames Gifford et al.  Could enjoy a comeback thanks to trendy Griffin.

Giffard

Like Bethany and Shiloh, a meaningful biblical place-name. 

Gilead

An undiscovered place-name with an appealing o-sound ending. 

Glasgow

Very popular in Wales; this could make a nice middle name in honor of a Grandpa Glenn. 

Glyn

Not a traditional biblical choice, but the Philistine giant isn't a bad character as such, just a champion fighter who lost to the underdog. He has given his name to everything from insect species to roller coasters. In a time when we're seeing more biblical names with chequered associations — Leviathan and Cain spring to mind — Goliath may appeal to some.

Goliath

This Old Welsh name associated with blacksmiths has never caught on, but it has the right two-syllable occupational feel to qualify for revival. Gower Champion was a successful midcentury dancer, choreographer and director on the Broadway stage, in films and on TV.


Gower

There's a whole quarry of rocky names parents are now considering: Slate, Flint, etc. , but this one is particularly hard-edged and problematic. 

Granite

If you find Grover too fusty and furry, this is a much cooler-sounding alternative. 

Grove

An everyday name in France, a charismatic possibility elsewhere, Guillaume is a French form of the classic Germanic William. It's heyday was back in the 1980s and 90s, when it ranked in the French Top 10 and the Belgium and Quebec Top 20, though more recent years have seen it drop from the popularity charts. 

Guillaume

Gulliver is an obscure Gaelic surname known almost solely through its literary Travels until actor Gary Oldman used it for his son, instantly transforming it into a lively option. British actors Damian Lewis, of Homeland, and Helen McCrory also have a son named Gulliver.

Gulliver

A (male) character in Toni Morrison's great Song of Solomon, but also plays for a girl.

Guitar

Toni Morrison, a master of character naming, coined this one for the best friend of hero Milkman Dead in Song of Solomon. Definitely a cool choice, with a twang.

Gardener is surely one of the most pleasant and evocative of the occupational options, calling up images of green grass and budding blooms. The name can also be spelled without the first 'e', as in Gardner (born George Cadogan Gardner) McCay, a hunky TV heartthrob of the 1950s and 60s. Gardner is a much more common surname spelling, associated with screen legend Ava, mystery writer Erle Stanley and art collector and patron Isabella Stewart, founder of Boston's Gardner Museum.

Gardener

Another intriguing and virtually unused Spanish nature name to add to the books.

Gaviota

A surname style choice with a gentle yet rugged feel. 

Glenwood

unique names that start with the letter G, including Garcia, Garvey, Gervais, Gervase, Gifford, Giffard, Gilead, Glasgow, Glyn, Goliath, Gower, Granite, Grove, Guillaume, Gulliver, Guitar, Guitar, Gardener, Gaviota, and Glenwood. (Page 8)

Unique Names that Start With G

Browse by letter