Cat Names That Mean Adventurous

Cortes is a surname of Spanish origin that has been adopted as a masculine given name. It derives from the Old Spanish word 'cortés' meaning 'courteous' or 'polite.' The name gained historical significance through Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire. As a first name, Cortes is relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. Parents might choose this name for its strong historical connections, sophisticated sound, or to honor Spanish heritage. The name carries connotations of boldness, leadership, and determination, reflecting the explorer's legacy, though its usage remains rare in contemporary naming practices.

Variation of Pharamond.

This Dutch name derives from the old Germanic name, Farahild. It is quite common in the Netherlands.

With Journey becoming increasingly popular, it's no surprise that this alternative spelling is not far behind. However, you may be surprised to learn that in recent years, the Journee spelling has actually passed the original spelling in popularity — Journee is currently in the Top 200. This word name may be appealing to parents attracted to the idea of a spiritual -- or even an actual -- voyage.

Love the popular Noah but want to make it more distinctive? You can vary it to Noam, and going all the way to Noaz takes it from distinctive to unique.

Schoolchildren will recognize this name via Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.

An attractive North Carolina unisex place name, Raleigh's soft sound is particularly appropriate for a girl.

A bold new word name that conjures up images of peg-legs and eyepatches. It was brought to national attention by pop musician Billie Eilish, whose full name is Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell.

In the US this is likely to conjure zebras, lions and elephants on the Serengeti, but its original meaning "journey" broadens its wearability. Safari is a name common in Africa for babies born while their parents were on a journey.

A worldly and attractive choice for a child of any background. Two early New World explorers were Hernandos — de Soto and Cortés.

North's image and gender status was irrevocably changed when Kim Kardashian and Kanye West announced it as the name of their newborn daughter. But why not? West is firmly established as a name, Easton is coming up strong, and North has a nice solid sound as well -- certainly as appropriate for either gender. South, though, not so much.

A new, rising word name for boys that has the advantage of sharing sounds with more common names like Bryson and Braydon. And the disadvantage of getting confused with them.

This outdoorsy occupational name is edgier than Tracker, but has potential. The word Trekker or Trekkie can also refer to fans of the Star Trek franchise.

The Spanish travelling or Romani community are called Gitanos, and Gitana is the feminine word. The term evolved from the Old Spanish word egiptano "Egyptian".

The name of a monk who is the patron saint of blacksmiths -- not a twentieth-century occupation or baby name.

Dinand is popular in the Netherlands thanks to a local singing sensation. Dinand is one of many Dutch short forms that come from the middle or end of a name -- think Bas for Sebastian or Hans from Johannes -- rather than from the beginning as is more usual in the U.S. and UK, though we're catching on.

Old man's name just conceivable for a girl--makes a new spin on Wendy.

Interesting and energetic international form of Ferdinand.

An English surname and occasional first name deriving from the same root as Baldwin, "bold or brave friend".