S-ending Surnames

  1. Adams
    • Description:

      Adams originated as a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Adam,' derived from the Hebrew name Adam ('man' or 'earth'). As a given name, Adams represents a modern trend of using surnames as first names, projecting strength and tradition. While primarily masculine, it sometimes appears as a middle name for both genders. In the United States, Adams carries historical significance through founding father John Adams and his son John Quincy Adams, both presidents. The name has never been highly common as a first name but has steady, modest usage. It appeals to parents seeking a distinguished, intellectual-sounding name with historical resonance. Adams possesses a dignified, refined quality while maintaining simplicity and clear pronunciation.

  2. Aldis
    • Description:

      Aldis is a masculine name with Norse and Latvian origins. In Norse tradition, it combines elements meaning "old" and "goddess" or "spirit," while in Latvia it's considered a variation of Aldus. The name has historical usage throughout Scandinavia and the Baltic countries, though it remains relatively uncommon globally. In the United States, awareness of the name has increased somewhat through actor Aldis Hodge. The name carries a distinctive, strong sound with its crisp ending, giving it a contemporary feel despite its ancient roots. Aldis offers the increasingly sought combination of being recognizable yet uncommon. Its Norse connections may appeal to parents interested in names with Viking heritage, while its brevity and strong consonants give it a modern, masculine edge.

  3. Abrams
    • Acklies
      • Airds
        • Akers
          • Aldys
            • Ames
              • Banks
                • Origin:

                  English surname
                • Meaning:

                  "one who lives on the hillside or riverbank"
                • Description:

                  Banks is a topographical surname that refers not to those places where people keep their money but to riverbanks or hillsides, and specifically the people who live and work on them. A name with two very different connotations then, Banks manages to sound smart, preppy, and upwardly-mobile, with a touch of rugged, outdoorsy charm too.
              • Barnes
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "someone who lives or works near the barn"
                • Description:

                  This is a solid surname choice for people looking for a change from Cooper, Parker and Carson. Australian parents will probably instantly associate this name with famous rock legend Jimmy Barnes, but this has an even older pedigree as a namesake - Barnes Wallis was a UK aviator and inventor, most remembered for designing the Dambuster bomb (a bomb that bounces across water to reach its target) and working on supersonic flight in the 1940s and 50s.
              • Barns
                • Description:

                  Barns is a masculine name with origins as an English occupational surname, referring to someone who worked at or lived near a barn structure. The name carries rustic, pastoral associations connecting to agricultural heritage and countryside simplicity. As a given name, Barns is exceptionally uncommon, making it a truly distinctive choice. The name evokes imagery of rural landscapes and traditional farm life, giving it a certain earthy, grounded quality. While surnames transitioning to first names has become a popular naming trend, Barns remains on the periphery of this movement. For parents drawn to uncommon names with straightforward pronunciation and spelling, yet rich in imagery and cultural connection, Barns offers a unique option that balances individuality with an established linguistic history.

              • Bates
                • Origin:

                  English diminutive of Bartholomew
                • Description:

                  Bates is a fresh version of Bartholomew, and feels more wearable than Bart. Bates could be considered a patriotic choice for American parents - Katharine Lee Bates was an author and professor best known for penning the words to "America the Beautiful".
              • Briggs
                • Origin:

                  English variation of Bridges
                • Description:

                  Having only entered the US Top 1000 in 2012, Briggs is yet another ends-in-s surname name for boys currently on the rise, along the lines of Brooks and Hayes.
              • Brooks
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "of the brook"
                • Description:

                  A nature name, a word name, and a surname name, Brooks has plenty of cool factor. It gives off cowboy vibes and a sporty feel, while also maintaining a smart, collected image.
              • Burns
                • Origin:

                  Scottish and English
                • Meaning:

                  "from the burnt house"
                • Description:

                  The final s turns this name into a manservant.
              • Baines
                • Baylies
                  • Byres
                    • Chalmers
                      • Description:

                        Chalmers is a distinguished masculine name of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Scottish word 'chaumer,' meaning 'chamber' or 'room.' Historically, it was an occupational surname for someone who worked in the royal chambers or was a chamberlain. As a first name, Chalmers projects dignity, intelligence, and a scholarly quality, perhaps influenced by the prestigious Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden. The name carries a refined, traditional sensibility with subtle sophistication. While never extremely common as a first name, it has maintained consistent, if modest, usage particularly in families with Scottish heritage. Chalmers brings to mind accomplished professionals and academics, offering a distinguished alternative to more common traditional names.

                    • Collins
                      • Origin:

                        Surname derived from Nicholas or Colin
                      • Description:

                        Though Collins makes the Top 1000 for girls, it sounds strong and handsome for boys too, kind of like the newly-stylish Brooks. The final s updates it from the 80s-ish Colin or the Twilightish Cullen. Might make an innovative honorific for a grandpa Nick.