Different Kind of Boys' Names

Vassily is a masculine name of Russian origin, representing a Slavic form of Basil, which comes from the Greek name Basileios meaning 'royal' or 'kingly.' This distinguished name has deep historical roots in Eastern European and Russian culture, particularly associated with Russian aristocracy and Orthodox tradition. Notable bearers include the famous painter Vassily Kandinsky and numerous Russian historical figures. The name has varying spellings including Vasily, Vasiliy, and Vasili. While maintaining strong popularity in Russia and Eastern European countries, Vassily remains relatively uncommon in Western countries, giving it an exotic, sophisticated quality. The name carries connotations of strength, dignity, and cultural richness.

Vihaan comes from a Sanskrit word denoting the dawn, but has the symbolic meaning of the beginning of a new age, making Vihaan a wonderful choice for the first baby in a family's next generation.

A happy combination of several desirable genres: it's a word name, it has a foreign accent, and it has a highly virtuous meaning. And few other parents will be bold enough to choose it.

The American child given this name of four kings of Denmark, not to mention one so similar to that of the Harry Potter archvillain Lord Voldemort, might have to pay a large emotional import tax.

With its rugged, country charm and confident sounds, Waylon is among the wave of Old Western names that parents are choosing.

This weapon name, linked to arms manufacturer Smith and Wesson, entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2016.

Xen and Zen, both pronounced the same way, are two hip new spiritual word names from Buddhist practice. Among the celebrity set, Corey Feldman has a Zen and Tisha Campbell Martin's son is Xen.

Ximenez is a masculine name of Spanish origin, representing a patronymic surname that has occasionally transferred into use as a first name. Derived from the medieval Basque name Ximeno (a variant of Simon), it ultimately connects to the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'he has heard.' The distinctive 'X' beginning gives the name a strong, exotic quality in English-speaking contexts. Historically important in Spanish culture, the name appears in notable family lineages throughout Iberian history. While rare as a first name globally, it maintains usage among families with Spanish or Latin American heritage seeking to honor ancestral connections. Ximenez carries an air of distinction and heritage, offering a bridge between surname traditions and unique personal naming.

Ivy League choice many will mistake for the Israeli favorite Yael, which has a different root and meaning.

Yelisei is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the biblical name Elisha, which means 'God is my salvation' or 'God is help' in Hebrew. In Russian tradition, it's spelled Елисей (Yelisey), with Yelisei being a transliteration variant. The name carries deep historical and religious significance, being connected to the prophet Elisha in the Old Testament. While common in Russia and other Slavic countries, Yelisei remains rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic quality outside its cultural origins. The name's four syllables create a melodic, flowing sound. Yelisei combines spiritual heritage with a distinctive sound that feels both traditional in its Slavic context and refreshingly unusual elsewhere.

Common Russian name familiarized here via cosmonaut Yury Gagarin and a character in Dr. Zhivago, but we don't see it ever gaining permanent resident status.

In the Bible, Joram and "all his chariots" pass over Zair.

Western novelist Zane (born Pearl!) Grey made this name famous. Now, it's in tune with the style of our times, retaining that appealing cowboy image.

Zebedee is an adorable and unusual New Testament name--which may sound like but is not a contradiction in terms. Unlike some of the longer biblical Z-names, Zebedee has a more lighthearted usability, with its gleeful ee-ending. And Zeb makes a fabulous nickname.

An Old Testament name with a Puritan feel and post-Zachary possibilities--one of several routes to the cool nickname Zeb.

It's a place in the Bible but also relates to the name Zebulon.

Updates the tired Derek or Eric.

One of the most unusual of the "iah" names, it comes with the appealing and usable nickname Zev.

Zevulon is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, serving as a variant of Zebulun (or Zevulun), who was the tenth son of Jacob in the Bible. The name derives from the Hebrew word 'zeved' meaning 'gift' or 'dowry,' essentially conveying 'honored gift.' In biblical context, Zebulun became one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This more elaborate spelling variation maintains the name's strong biblical heritage while offering a slightly distinctive form. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Zevulon holds significance in Jewish communities, particularly among more traditional or Orthodox families. The name carries historical gravitas and religious significance, appealing to parents seeking names with deep spiritual roots. Potential nicknames include Zev, which independently means 'wolf' in Hebrew, adding another layer of meaning.