The Best Rare Names of WWII - Boys
- Alvar
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"elf warrior"Description:
This name woould be hard to picture in a contemporary kindergarten, though it does have some cultural cred via Finnish architect and furniture designer Alvar Aalto. Aalto would actually make a more interesting choice.
- Amadeo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"lover of God"Description:
Amadeo and Amedeo are both valid Italian forms of the Roman Amadeus, most famous as the middle name of the composer Mozart as well as the title of a movie about him. Mozart's name was actually the Greek Theophilus, but he transformed it to the Latin version. Amadeo is also used in Spain, where it was the name of a 19th century king who was born in Italy.
- Amado
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"lover"Description:
A romantic choice, this appealing Spanish name for boys is both accessible and distinctive.
- Amador
Description:
Amador is a masculine name of Spanish and Portuguese origin meaning 'lover' or 'one who loves.' Derived from the Latin 'amator,' it carries strong romantic and passionate connotations. The name has historical significance in several Spanish-speaking regions, including being the name of counties in California and New Mexico. Amador has a dignified, melodious quality with its balanced syllables and strong ending. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it maintains consistent use in Hispanic communities. The name projects warmth, devotion, and emotional depth, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with clear positive meaning and distinctive cultural roots.
- Amatus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"beloved"Description:
Amatus is an ancient Roman name in the "Ama" family of names whose meanings relate to love -- they range from Amy to Amity to Amias to Amoret and Amatus.
- Ambrose
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"immortal"Description:
Gentle but grandiose and beloved by British novelists including Evelyn Waugh and P. G. Wodehouse, Ambrose was a fast rising name in 2022. Entering the UK Top 1000 for the first time and proving popular among Nameberry users, its elegance, softness, and vintage style means it fits in with popular Theodore, Sebastian, and Jeremiah.
- Amerigo
Description:
Amerigo is a masculine Italian name best known through the explorer Amerigo Vespucci, for whom the Americas were named. Derived from Germanic elements, likely 'Amalric' or 'Emmerich,' combining words meaning 'work,' 'power,' or 'ruler' with 'rich' or 'mighty.' This gives Amerigo the impressive meaning of 'work-ruler' or 'powerful leader.' The name has remained consistently used in Italy but is quite rare elsewhere. It carries a strong historical resonance due to its connection with the naming of two continents. The rhythmic four-syllable pronunciation (ah-meh-REE-go) has a melodious Italian flair. For parents seeking a name with historical significance, continental connections, and Italian heritage, Amerigo offers a distinguished option with built-in geographical and historical importance.
- Amiel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is with my people"Description:
Amiel is a biblical name with lots of connections to those with a creative spirit, including director Jon Amiel, French pop singer Thierry Amiel, and medieval troubadour Gaubert Amiel. Ami (which means friend in French) is an obvious (and beautiful) nickname option.
- Ammon
Origin:
Variation of Amman, German occupational name, Greek, Ancient EgyptianMeaning:
"administrator; the hidden one"Description:
Ammon is connected to two religions in the US and is used exclusively between the two of them. Prior to the 1960s, Ammon was considered a solely Amish name. In the Amish community, Ammon is bestowed in honor of Jacob Amman, whom the Amish sect is named after.
- Anastacio
Description:
Anastacio is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek 'anastasis' meaning 'resurrection.' It's the Spanish and Portuguese form of Anastasius, which was borne by several early saints and popes. The name carries connotations of rebirth and renewal in Christian tradition. Though less common in English-speaking countries, Anastacio maintains popularity in Latin American communities and Spanish-speaking regions. It offers distinctive nickname options like 'Tacho' or 'Stacio.' The name combines historical gravitas with a melodic quality, featuring five syllables that create a rhythmic, distinguished sound.
- Anatolio
Description:
Anatolio is a masculine name with Greek roots, derived from 'anatole,' meaning 'sunrise' or 'east.' It's the Italian or Spanish form of Anatolius, which originally referred to someone from Anatolia, an ancient region corresponding to much of modern Turkey. The name carries connotations of new beginnings and illumination, symbolized by the rising sun. Historically used in Mediterranean countries, Anatolio remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic appeal. Its melodic four-syllable structure and classical heritage make it attractive to parents seeking a distinguished name with historical depth and positive symbolism.
- Andreas
Origin:
Original New Testament Greek variation of AndrewMeaning:
"strong and manly"Description:
Andreas is a beautiful name, with the patina of an Old Master painting, one that could make a dashing namesake for an Uncle Andrew.
- Ansel
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"with divine protection"Description:
Ansel, primarily associated with the great western photographer Ansel Adams, famed for his magnificent photographs of the Yosemite Valley, could make a creative artist-hero choice. For Adams it was a family name – he was named after his uncle, Ansel Easton. And, in turn, Adams was the namesake of young heartthrob Ansel Elgort, son of a photographer.
- Anson
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"son of Anne"Description:
Anson has always been rare, though you might think of actor Anson Williams, best known for playing Potsie Weber on 1970s sitcom Happy Days. As a direct result of the show's popularity, Anson charted in the US Top 1000 from 1976 to 1981.
- Anton
Origin:
German, Russian, and Scandinavian variation of AnthonyDescription:
Cultured and cultivated in an old-style, Old World way, Anton is popular across Europe. It may be associated with the classic Russian playwright Anton Chekhov and also with ballroom dancer Anton Du Beke.
- Antony
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"priceless"Description:
Variation of Anthony, and more true to the original Latin spelling. The Roman statesman Marcus Antonius is usually known as Mark Antony in English.
- Arch
Origin:
Diminutive of Archibald, TeutonicMeaning:
"truly brave"Description:
Arch can be used as a nickname for Archibald or a stand-alone word name — perhaps for the child of an architect.
- Archibald
Origin:
Scottish from GermanMeaning:
"truly brave"Description:
The short form Archie is so open and friendly --and very trendy in the British Isles--that some parents are now beginning to consider the formerly fusty Archibald as well. SNL comedians Amy Poehler and Will Arnett are one couple who made this breakthrough choice.
- Ardell
Description:
Ardell is a gender-neutral name that has historically been more common for males in the United States. It likely developed as a variant of Ardel or Ardal, which have roots in Gaelic meaning 'high valor' or could be connected to place names. Some linguistic scholars suggest connections to Old English elements meaning 'eagle valley.' The name experienced modest popularity in America during the early to mid-20th century but has since become quite uncommon. Ardell carries a vintage quality that aligns with the revival of other names from this era. Its soft sound combined with strong meaning gives it a gentle yet dignified character. The name may also call to mind the well-known false eyelash brand, though this commercial association is relatively recent compared to the name's history.
- Arden
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"valley of the eagle; high"Description:
Arden is a gender-neutral name that's sleek and stylish but always seems to bob just below the surface of popularity, despite ticking all the boxes with its fashionable two-syllable, N-ending shape and its awesome nature-inspired meanings. In the 2021 US statistics, 41 percent of the babies named Arden were boys to 59 percent girls.