Uncommon Boy Names
- Gustav
Origin:
TeutonicMeaning:
"staff of the Goths"Description:
Gray-bearded name heard primarily in Sweden and Germany.
- Ahmed
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"greatly praised"Description:
This variation of Ahmad is one of the most popular Arabic names among Muslim families the world over and is now the most used spelling in the USA. It shares the same root as other popular Arabic names, including Muhammad and Hamid.
- Lowie
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"famous warrior"Description:
It originated as a nickname for Lodewijk, but now Lowie is more popular as-is, even ranking in the Top 100 in Belgium.
- Hamza
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"lion or strong"Description:
Hamza was the legendary uncle of the Prophet Muhammad, hero of The Hamzanama, the Story of Hamza.
- Stijn
Origin:
Dutch short formDescription:
As you may surmise from its origins as a short form for Constantijn and Augustijn, Stijn rhymes with nine and fine, though most English-speakers wouldn't guess that. A popular name in the Netherlands that's obscure elsewhere, for reasons undoubtedly connected to its spelling and pronunciation issues.
- Ole
Description:
Ole is a masculine name with strong Scandinavian roots, functioning as the Danish and Norwegian form of Olaf. Derived from the Old Norse name Óláfr, comprised of 'anu' meaning 'ancestor' and 'leifr' meaning 'heir' or 'descendant.' Traditionally pronounced 'OH-leh' in Scandinavian countries, the name has gained different pronunciations in other regions. Ole has maintained steady popularity in Norway, Denmark, and parts of northern Germany, while in the United States it has historically been associated with Scandinavian-American communities, particularly in the Upper Midwest. The name carries connotations of heritage and tradition while remaining simple and accessible. Ole's compact form gives it a friendly, approachable quality while still honoring Nordic naming traditions and cultural connections.
- Hannes
Origin:
German, Dutch, Scandinavian variation of JohannesMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Johannes never caught on in the US, but popular European short form Hannes may be more accessible.
- Wilmer
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"determined fame"Description:
The visibility of actor Wilmer (That 70s Show) Valderrama has highlighted this name, but it's not likely to spread because of its similarity to the feminine (and dated) Wilma.
- Pepijn
Origin:
Dutch form of PepinMeaning:
"awe-inspiring"Description:
Pepijn, with its emphasis on the second syllable pronounced with a long i to rhyme with pine, is in the Dutch Top 100. Clipped, energetic-sounding nickname names such as Pep and Pip are stylish in The Netherlands. Could that translate to the English speaking world? Stay tuned.
- Sigurd
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"guardian of victory"Description:
This old Norse name is still used in contemporary Scandinavia. An ancient hero's name, Sigurd got a modern boost from a heroic figure in television's The Vikings.
- Thibault
Origin:
French from GermanMeaning:
"courageous people"Description:
Pronounced TEE-bow, this version, which is also a very common surname in France, has a lot more charm than the name it derives from — Theobald. A variant spelling is Thibaut.
- Bence
Origin:
Hungarian variation of Vincent, LatinMeaning:
"conquering"Description:
Bence has been the most popular boy name in Hungary for over a decade — it’s held the top spot since 2003, the year Hungary began releasing its baby name data. Bence is the Hungarian translation of Vincent and is also occasionally used as a nickname for Benedek.
- Hassan
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"handsome"Description:
Hassan is among the more familiar Arabic choices, and also one with an attractive meaning. It has appeared in the US Top 1000 every year since 1971.
- Olav
Description:
Olav is a masculine Scandinavian name, particularly popular in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. It derives from the Old Norse name Óláfr, composed of the elements 'ancestor' and 'heir' or 'descendant,' essentially meaning 'ancestor's descendant.' This name has deep historical significance in Scandinavia, having been borne by several Norwegian kings, including Saint Olav (Olav II), who helped Christianize Norway in the 11th century. While traditional in Nordic countries, Olav remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. The name carries connotations of strength, heritage, and leadership. Alternative spellings include Olaf, Olof, and Olave, with Olav being the modern Norwegian form.
- Andrei
Origin:
Russian form of AndrewMeaning:
"manly"Description:
Russian, Belarusian, Romanian and Bulgarian form of Andrew
- Eino
Description:
Eino is a masculine Finnish name derived from Germanic elements, ultimately a Finnish form of names containing 'ain' meaning 'one' or 'alone.' Popular in Finland and among Finnish-American communities, Eino carries cultural significance as a traditional Nordic name. It rose to prominence in Finland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influenced by Finnish nationalist movements. The name is characterized by its distinctive sound and straightforward pronunciation (AY-no). While uncommon outside Finnish communities, Eino represents Finnish cultural heritage and has maintained steady usage in Finland. The name may appeal to parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name with Scandinavian roots and a strong cultural identity.
- Ilyas
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"Yahweh is God"Description:
Common Arabic version of Elijah. The Ilyes spelling is a Top 100 name in France.
- Jannik
Origin:
Dutch and German variation of JohnMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Popular form of John in Germany. Just remember to pronounce it YAHN-nik, which most English-speakers won't. Jannick is another spelling.
- Imre
Origin:
Hungarian, from GermanMeaning:
"strength"Description:
Commonly heard in its native country, and might get a boost here too, now that Alanis Morrissette has used it for her son Ever's middle name.
- Maxime
Origin:
French variation of MaximusDescription:
Common in France, but could be confused with the feminine Maxine here.