Boy Favorites

Common in Holland, the appealing Willem (as in de Kooning and Dafoe) makes William fresh and distinctive.

Though it was used by the Puritans in the sixteenth century, the founding of the modern Jewish state in 1948 transformed Israel from a traditional favorite into an icon of Judaism.

Luc is the sleeker Gallic cousin of Luke, and if you want to know the difference between their pronunciations, just watch Kevin Kline's hilarious description in the film French Kiss. Peter Gabriel and Sean Patrick Thomas picked this version for their sons.

Caedmon is a masculine name of Anglo-Saxon origin with deep historical roots. It gained prominence through Caedmon, a 7th-century English poet considered the earliest known English poet whose name is recorded. According to the Venerable Bede's historical accounts, Caedmon was an illiterate herdsman who received divine inspiration to compose religious poetry. The name likely derives from Celtic elements meaning "wise warrior" or "battle wisdom." Though rare in modern usage, Caedmon has seen modest revival among parents seeking unique names with historical significance. It appeals to those drawn to medieval English heritage, literature, and names with scholarly associations. The name carries connotations of creativity, wisdom, and inspired eloquence.

A surname name with an occupational background, but although it derives from the German language it is not used as a first name there as it has pejorative connotations – sometimes used as slag for an uneducated person. In the US, a prominent association is the character Jack Bauer from 24.

Devereaux is familiar to many English speakers as a surname but not as a first. It's a habitational name related to the town of Evreux in France, with the prefix de- denoting it likely referred to a noble of that area.

Maksim is a masculine name of Slavic origin, representing the Eastern European form of Maximus, derived from Latin meaning 'greatest' or 'largest.' Particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other Slavic countries, Maksim carries connotations of greatness, achievement, and leadership. The name has historic connections to several saints and notable figures throughout Eastern European history. In recent decades, Maksim has gained some international recognition as cultural boundaries blur, though it retains its strong Slavic identity. The spelling with a 'k' rather than an 'x' reflects the Cyrillic alphabet's representation of the sound, giving the name an authentic Eastern European character while remaining accessible to English speakers.

Derived from the name Caradog, the handsome ancient Celtic name was worn by one of the Knights of the Round Table, as well as a semi-legendary Welsh King. Possibly a cognate of Cedric and Carys, Caradoc is ultimately derived from the Brythonic name Caratācos meaning "loved", itself originating from the Celtic karu.

Gallagher is, like so many of its genre, friendly, open, and optimistic. Some might associate it with the fraternal members of the band Oasis, Noel and Liam Gallagher.

Knight (as opposed to Night) is a name clad in shiny armor. This high-ranking word name was introduced by singers Kelis and Nas. Knight might join brothers King, Royal, and Noble in a new definition of royal baby names.

Sometimes heard as a first name in Scotland, particularly among the Campbell clan.

This unusual name, which is jauntier than Chris when used as a diminutive of Christopher, is associated with the Bulgarian installation artist of that name, responsible for wrapping many public institutions and known especially for The Gates of Central Park and Running Fence. Christo is his full given name.