Josie's Collection of Lovely Boys Names
- 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.
- Augustine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"great, magnificent"Description:
Augustine is more substantial (and saintly) than August, less pretentious than Augustus, and, along with its nickname Gus, is definitely a viable choice.
- Aurelio
Origin:
Italian; Spanish, variation of AureliusMeaning:
"the golden one"Description:
Aurelio is an energetic Italian name rarely heard in the US, with an attractive aura. As the female version Aurelia gains greater notice, we expect to hear more from Aurelio too. In fact, Aurelio has recently entered the Top 1000 in the US in 2022. Next to follow might be latinate versions Aurelius and Aurelian.
- Androche
- Bernie
Origin:
Diminutive of Bernard, EnglishMeaning:
"strong; brave as a bear"Description:
It's been shown that notable political figures often impact the use of their names, and the same can — sort of — be said about Bernie Sanders. His name increased in use by 47% between 2015 and 2016 (albeit, to a peak of only 21 baby boys given the name). By 2017, Bernie has decreased in usage by almost 60%.
- Concord
Origin:
Word nameMeaning:
"harmony, peaceful coexistence"Description:
With its ties to tranquil Walden Pond, and harmonious meaning, this could be a modern virtue name. It may also make people think of Concorde, the supersonic airliner plane, retired back in 2003.
- Constanzo
Description:
Constanzo is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin name Constantius, which means 'constant' or 'steadfast.' It shares roots with the more common Constantine, which was borne by several Byzantine emperors and an early Christian saint. Constanzo represents strength of character and unwavering dedication. While popular in Italy and among Italian-American families, it remains relatively uncommon in broader English-speaking countries. The name carries a dignified, traditional quality with its strong consonants and classic Italian ending. For families with Italian heritage, Constanzo offers a way to honor cultural roots while providing a distinctive name that embodies admirable qualities of persistence and reliability.
- Emmanuel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
Emmanuel--spelled with one or two 'm's'-- was popular with early Jewish immigrants, until overused nickname Manny caused it to fade. Now, this important biblical name is being revived in its full glory.
- Espérance
- Frances
- Julio
Origin:
Spanish variation of JuliusMeaning:
"youthful: downy-bearded; sky father"Description:
What with Paul Simon's classic lyric about Julio down by the schoolyard and several distinguished bearers, this livelier Spanish version of Julius is completely familiar to the non-Hispanic community and would make a great choice for a bicultural family. Popular in Brazil, it also ranks in the US Top 600 and given to more than 500 boys each year. NFL Atlanta Falcons star Julio Jones bears this name.
- Jean-Antoine
- Jean-Charles
- Lancelot
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"servant"Description:
In Arthurian legend, Lancelot was one of the most dashing of the Knights of the Round Table who eventually had an affair with Queen Guinevere: it makes for a romantic story-- but perhaps overly romantic-- name.
- Lucien
Origin:
French form of LucianMeaning:
"light"Description:
Sophisticated Gallic version of Lucian, Lucien may appeal to parents attracted to this meaning over that of Lucas and Luke, which have a different root, and also looking for a more unusual choice.
- Luis
Origin:
Spanish variation of LouisMeaning:
"renowned warrior"Description:
Luis has long been one of the most popular Hispanic names in America — it was in the Top 100 every year from 1980 to 2014, though it's dropped a bit in popularity. It's familiar, yet would add a worldly touch to a basic surname.
- Mordecai
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"follower of Marduk"Description:
Mordecai, although it has a noble heritage, has never caught on in this country, because of its rather weighty image. Nevertheless, with parents searching for rarer Biblical names that work as alternatives to Malachi and Matthew, Mordecai has seen increased interest in recent years and was given to 74 boys in the US in 2024.
- Myriel
- Napoléon
Description:
Napoléon is a masculine name of Italian origin, most famously associated with the French emperor Napoléon Bonaparte. The name likely derives from the Italian name Napoleone, which connects to 'Naples' or possibly 'new city.' Before Bonaparte's rise to power, the name was obscure, but afterward, it gained significant recognition worldwide. The name carries powerful historical associations with leadership, ambition, and military genius, though also with controversial historical legacy. Most common in French-speaking regions and countries with strong French cultural influences, Napoléon has never become widely popular as a given name due to its strong identification with the historical figure. It represents one of the most recognizable examples of a name whose usage is predominantly defined by a single historical personality.
- Novelo
Description:
Novelo is a rare masculine name with possible Latin or Spanish origins, deriving from 'novus' meaning 'new' or 'novel.' It may have evolved as a surname before transitioning to first name usage. In Spanish-speaking regions, it could be associated with storytelling traditions, as 'novela' refers to a novel or story. Novelo projects a creative, distinctive quality, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with literary undertones. The name remains extremely rare in most English-speaking countries, making it a truly distinctive choice that carries an air of originality and artistic flair while maintaining a pleasant, melodic sound.