Different Kind of Boys' Names

Name from legend that might be an interesting Jason alternative.

Classical and Shakespearean name that may appeal if you like your names long, flowing and multicultural.

Desiderius is a masculine name with ancient Roman origins, derived from Latin 'desiderium' meaning 'longing' or 'desire.' This classical name was borne by several historical figures, including Saint Desiderius, a 7th-century bishop and martyr, and Desiderius Erasmus, the renowned Renaissance humanist scholar. Despite its distinguished history, the name remains quite rare in modern usage, particularly in English-speaking countries. Desiderius has a scholarly, distinguished quality with its Latin derivation and historical associations. The name offers formal elegance while also providing the friendly nickname options like Desi. Parents might choose it for its intellectual heritage, unique character, and connection to classical learning.

Destry rides again, this time as a Western flavored baby name. Derived from the French surname Destrier, from an Anglo-Norman word meaning "warhorse", this rugged name was popularized by the 1930 novel Destry Rides Again by Max Brand, subsequently adapted for the big screen.

Dimitri is a Slavic variation of the Russian Dmitriy, a name that comes from the Greek Demetrius. Demetrius was derived from Demeter, the name of the Greek goddess of fertility and farming. Among the possible spelling variations are Dmitri, Dmitrii, Dmitriy, and Dmitry.

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.

A variation of Greek Dionysius, itself derived from the name of the god of wine, revelry, and dance, Dion gives a nod to mythology while also having historical ties to a student of Plato, to a Greek mathematician and to 1st century writer and historian.

As a contemporary name, it came into popular use in the late 1950s and remained in the Top 1000 until 2006. It has dipped in and out of the charts since then, and is still given to a not insignificant 200 boys each year.

Dmitrik is a masculine name with Slavic origins, likely a diminutive form of Dmitri (or Dmitry), which itself derives from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning 'devoted to Demeter' (the goddess of agriculture). This variation adds a distinctive ending that gives the name a more intimate, affectionate quality while maintaining its strong Slavic identity. Popular primarily in Eastern European countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, Dmitrik remains quite rare in Western nations. The name carries connotations of strength and cultural heritage, often associated with Slavic historical figures and literature. For parents with Eastern European connections seeking something traditional yet not overly common, Dmitrik offers an intriguing option with rich cultural resonances.

Benevolent name found in Israel in several forms, including Doran and Doroni.

Durant's meaning signifies staying power, a good quality to impart to your child. Notables with the surname Durant include Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Will and Ariel Durant, most famous for their eleven-volume The Story of Civilization, and William Crappo Durant, co-founder of General Motors and Chevrolet.

This Biblical name was rising dramatically for boys, but has plateaued in recent years. Although it's more popular for girls, it's a delightful unisex choice. Eden is one of the Top 100 Boy Names in France.

Elam is the name of no fewer than eight Old Testament figures. The most notable was a grandson of Noah whose followers were dubbed the Elamites. Elam is commonly used in Amish communities today.

Little-used name borne by several biblical figures including a king. It would make an unexpected way to get the nickname Eli - or Kim.

Strong, charismatic, and sleek, Elias has followed in the footsteps of Elijah and Eli to become a popular choice among parents today.

This Latinate name would have no problem fitting into an American classroom. It has made frequent appearances in the US Top 1000 over the last several decades. Borne by several Spanish saints, it boasts both a rhythmic sound and popular o-ending.

The boys' name Elon is best known today as the name of Elon Musk, eccentric billionaire founder of Tesla and SpaceX. With Canadian singer Grimes, Elon Musk has a son with an even more unusual name, X Æ A-12.

A name popular both in France (where it's Number 405) and within the Cajun population, it's more substantial than Eric, and occurs twice in the Harry Potter series.