Western and vintage boy names

  1. Andrew
    • Colt
      • Darin
        • Elk
          • Hawk
            • Ace
              • Origin:

                Latin
              • Meaning:

                "one, unity"
              • Description:

                No longer tied to the hapless Ace Ventura, this jaunty, high-flying nickname name is starting to take flight among celebrity and other parents, with its countless positive references to doing well in tests and poker games, on the tennis court and golf course, and in the air.
            • Alexander
              • Origin:

                Greek
              • Meaning:

                "defending men"
              • Description:

                Alexander has been in a Top 25 boys' name in the US for 30 years now. But namers are still attracted to its imposing historic pedigree.
            • Ben
              • Origin:

                Hebrew
              • Meaning:

                "son of"
              • Description:

                Ben, the diminutive of Benjamin or Benedict, can easily stand on its own as a simple, strong, nice-guy choice, though it's somewhat attenuated. Ben is this generation's Bob or Bill.
            • Blake
              • Origin:

                English
              • Meaning:

                "fair-haired, dark"
              • Description:

                Blake -- an early unisex option -- dropped out of the Top 100 in 2017 for the first time since 1988, but remains a sophisticated choice. And yes, both conflicting meanings of Blake are accurate. It originated as a surname in England derived from a nickname. Much of its masculine image was influenced by the wealthy, silver-haired character Blake Carrington in the massively popular 80s TV series Dynasty. Rosie O'Donnell has a son named Blake.
            • Blue
              • Origin:

                Color name
              • Description:

                Among the coolest of the cool color names, particularly popular with celebs as a unisex middle name.
            • Brae
              • Origin:

                Scottish
              • Meaning:

                "slope of a hill"
              • Description:

                A Scottish word name and a short form of Brayden, Brae has a gentle but solid feel to it. However, a 'bray' is also the sound a donkey makes.
            • Brock
              • Origin:

                English
              • Meaning:

                "badger"
              • Description:

                Brock is a rock solid name, with a touch of preppy sophistication. It ranked solidly in the 200s-300s from 1975 until 2014, but has since tumbled a bit.
            • Callum
              • Origin:

                Scottish form of Columba, Latin
              • Meaning:

                "dove"
              • Description:

                Callum, a charming Scottish name high on the list in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, is rising through the ranks in the US now too. And it comes complete with the easy nickname Cal.
            • Chance
              • Origin:

                French variation of Chauncey
              • Description:

                Once a cavalier Mississippi gambler type name, Chance has entered the mainstream since being endorsed by such celebrity dads as Larry King and Paul Hogan. Chance the Rapper has also boosted the name's popularity.
            • Cirrus
              • Origin:

                Latin
              • Description:

                Cirrus is a type of cloud formation characterized by thin, wispy strands (from the Latin cirrus "tendril; ringlet"). British cloudspotter Gavin Pretor-Pinney gave his eldest daughter the middle name Cirrus.
            • Clay
              • Origin:

                English word name; diminutive of Clayton
              • Description:

                Clay is a rich, earthy one-syllable name with a southern-inflected handsome-rogue image, featured on soap operas and reality TV. Its longer forms are Clayton and Clayborne.
            • Cobalt
              • Origin:

                Color and nature name
              • Description:

                Even among the range of blue names on the current baby naming palette -- Blue itself, Azure, Cerulean, Teal, Aqua, Cyan, Indigo -- Cobalt remains the most unusual, not to mention the most masculine.
            • Cody
              • Origin:

                English
              • Meaning:

                "helpful, pillow"
              • Description:

                In the early 1990s, Cody was in the Top 25 most popular boys' names in the USA; but it has been in decline since then. It retains a greater degree of popularity in the UK, however. Cody might be short for Dakota but despite its nickname feeling, it's a name of its own.
            • Colter
              • Origin:

                English
              • Meaning:

                "colt herder"
              • Description:

                A variation on the popular Colton, Colter has been climbing up the US charts since 2010. Given to around 1000 boys each year, it is now in the Top 500, and ticks the boxes for being a cool occupational name with rugged, Wild West vibes, and for giving the familiar nickname Col, or the alternative, Colt.
            • Dale
              • Origin:

                English
              • Meaning:

                "valley"
              • Description:

                A light and breezy nature name that's currently in style limbo, despite its pleasant meaning.
            • Damond
              • Description:

                Damond is a masculine name that originated as a variation of Desmond or Diamond. The name Desmond comes from Irish elements meaning 'man of the world' or from a place name in Munster, Ireland. As Diamond-inspired, it relates to the precious gemstone, symbolizing strength and unbreakable qualities. Damond emerged primarily in the United States during the latter half of the 20th century as parents sought distinctive variations of traditional names. While less common than Desmond, Damond has maintained a steady if modest presence in American naming patterns. The name balances a contemporary feel with traditional roots and carries connotations of resilience, value, and distinctiveness.

            • Eagle
              • Origin:

                Nature name
              • Meaning:

                "eagle, a bird"
              • Description:

                Solemn but soaring name with patriotic symbolism.
            • Eathan
              • Description:

                Eathan represents a modern spelling variation of the traditional Hebrew name Ethan, which means 'strong', 'firm', or 'enduring'. This alternate spelling emerged during the trend toward distinctive name spellings in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. While maintaining the same pronunciation as the more common Ethan, the additional 'a' gives the name a slightly more elaborate appearance. Ethan itself has been consistently popular in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States where it regularly appears in top name rankings. The Eathan variant, however, remains significantly less common, offering families a way to use a well-recognized name while adding a touch of uniqueness. Like its traditional counterpart, Eathan conveys qualities of reliability and steadfastness.

            • Erick
              • Origin:

                Spelling variation of Eric, Old Norse
              • Meaning:

                "eternal ruler"
              • Description:

                While Eric - or Erik - may feel more 'classic' and familiar, Erick has ranked consistently in US Top 1000 since 1945. It rose up the charts during Eric's heyday in the 70s, but peaked in 2007 as Eric fell. The name has received less attention in recent years, but is nevertheless still given to 1100 boys.
            • Edger
              • Faron
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "handsome servant"
                • Description:

                  Faron, a soft and gentle name, has a diverse group of references. There was the medieval Saint Faron, Bishop of Meaux (who has given his name to a cheese); Faron Young, a colorful midcentury country singer known as The Hillbilly Heartthrob, and a character from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
              • Finch
                • Origin:

                  English word and nature name
                • Meaning:

                  "to swindle"
                • Description:

                  It feels like Finch should be a modern bird name that's as popular as Wren or Lark, but that's not the case - so it's one to consider if you're looking for a nature name that's familiar but rare.
              • Finley
                • Origin:

                  Irish and Scottish
                • Meaning:

                  "fair-haired hero"
                • Description:

                  Finley has been used for both sexes for enough years to become one of the most popular unisex names. Given nearly equally to boys and girls, Finley appeals to contemporary parents as a truly gender neutral choice.

              • Finn
                • Origin:

                  Irish
                • Meaning:

                  "fair or white"
                • Description:

                  Finn is a name with enormous energy and charm, that of the greatest hero of Irish mythology, Finn MacCool (aka Fionn mac Cuumhaill), an intrepid warrior with mystical supernatural powers, noted as well for his wisdom and generosity.
              • Flint
                • Origin:

                  English
                • Meaning:

                  "born near outcrop of flint"
                • Description:

                  Flint is one of the new macho names on the rise today, part old-school tough guy, part rebel. You won't find a tougher, steelier-sounding name; it's part of a genre on the rise along with cousins Slate, Stone and Steel.
              • Garret
                • Origin:

                  Irish variation of Gerard
                • Meaning:

                  "spear strength"
                • Description:

                  After being one of the hot upscale surnames of the nineties, Garrett has left the Top 100 and this streamlined spelling is dawdling near the bottom of the Top 1000.
              • Gilliad
                • Gillian
                  • Harrison
                    • Origin:

                      English
                    • Meaning:

                      "son of Harry"
                    • Description:

                      Harrison, a name made viable by Harrison Ford, is increasingly popular with parents who want an H name that's more formal than Harry or Hank but doesn't veer into the stiff Huntington-Harrington territory.
                  • Hollis
                    • Origin:

                      English
                    • Meaning:

                      "near the holly bushes"
                    • Description:

                      Hollis is a rugged, gentle and quietly used name, given to over 200 boys and 150 girls each year in the US. In 2023, it became one of the newest entries to the US Top 1000, where it fits in with the surnames-as-first-names trend, and other familiar choices like Ellis, Silas, and Holden.
                  • Huck
                    • Origin:

                      Diminutive of Huckleberry, word name
                    • Description:

                      Though forever tied to Huck, short for Huckleberry, Finn, this is an undeniably cute short form that may have some life as part of the hipster taste for names like Duke and Bix.
                  • Huckleberry
                    • Origin:

                      Word name and literary name
                    • Description:

                      Everybody knows Huckleberry Finn, the Mark Twain character named, Twain said, for the 19th century slang term for "humble." A few modern parents have put it on a birth certificate, including "Man Vs. Wild" star Bear Grylls, who, like many parents, will call the boy the much more manageable Huck. It was also the name of a child on TV's West Wing,
                  • James
                    • Origin:

                      English variation of Jacob, Hebrew
                    • Meaning:

                      "supplanter"
                    • Description:

                      James is one of the classic Anglo-Saxon names, a stalwart through the ages that is more popular—and yes, stylish—than ever today. It recently came out Number 1 in a poll of America's favorite boys' baby names, and is the most common male name, counting people of all ages, in the US.
                  • Jex
                    • Origin:

                      English surname derived from Jacques
                    • Description:

                      Decidedly offbeat name that combines jauntiness with that uber-cool X, and would certainly set your son up for life outside the mainstream.
                  • Justice
                    • Origin:

                      English word name
                    • Meaning:

                      "the quality of being just, impartial, or fair"
                    • Description:

                      Justice, one of the rare virtue names for boys, entered the popularity ranks in 1992, and has remained on the list ever since. Parents' search for names implying virtue has led to a mini-revival of this long-neglected name in both its German homonymic form, Justus, and as the word itself. Steven Seagal was ahead of the curve when he used it back in 1976.
                  • Kent
                    • Origin:

                      English surname and place-name
                    • Meaning:

                      "edge"
                    • Description:

                      Kent is a no-nonsense, brief, brisk one-syllable name, almost as curt as Kurt.
                  • Kirt
                    • Description:

                      Kirt is a masculine name primarily found in English-speaking countries, representing a variation of the more common Kurt or Curt. These names originated from the German Conrad, meaning "brave counsel" or "bold advisor." This simplified, streamlined spelling emerged in America during the mid-20th century, reflecting a preference for straightforward, strong-sounding masculine names. Kirt peaked in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s but has since become quite uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality today. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds convey a sense of strength and decisiveness. Despite its rarity, Kirt remains recognizable and easy to pronounce, making it an understated choice that carries traditional masculine qualities without being overly common.

                  • Korin
                    • Description:

                      Korin is a versatile masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Japanese, it can derive from 'ko' (light) combined with 'rin' (dignified), while in Hungarian it relates to the word for 'quince.' The name also exists as a variation of Corin, which has Latin roots meaning 'spear' or connections to the Greek 'Korinna' meaning 'maiden.' With its crisp sound and short, modern feel, Korin appeals to contemporary parents seeking a name that works internationally. Though relatively uncommon in most Western countries, the name has seen modest usage across different cultures. Its simplicity, distinctive spelling, and cross-cultural versatility make Korin an appealing choice for parents looking for something unique yet accessible.
                  • Lake
                    • Origin:

                      Nature name
                    • Description:

                      Evocative modern unisex choice brought into the spotlight by actress Lake Bell.
                  • Lane
                    • Origin:

                      English
                    • Meaning:

                      "a small roadway or path"
                    • Description:

                      Lane is a recent hit name, that could be used for either gender, but is much more popular for boys. It's a surname that projects the pleasant picture of narrow, tree-lined country roads.
                  • Levi
                    • Origin:

                      Hebrew
                    • Meaning:

                      "joined, attached"
                    • Description:

                      Levi, lighter and more energetic than most biblical names, with its up vowel ending, combines Old Testament gravitas with the casual flair associated with Levi Strauss jeans.
                  • Lionel
                    • Origin:

                      Latin
                    • Meaning:

                      "young lion"
                    • Description:

                      Lionel is one leonine name that hasn't taken off as cousins Leo and Leonardo have, though it did reenter the Top 1000 in 2010 after several years away; it was at its highest point in the 1920s and 1930s.
                  • Major
                    • Origin:

                      Latin
                    • Meaning:

                      "greater; or, a military rank"
                    • Description:

                      This bold choice soared in popularity from 2008 to 2013, and now seems to have plateaued. But watch out—the character Major Major Major Major in the classic absurdist novel Catch-22 had a terrible time.
                  • Marsh
                    • Origin:

                      English nature name
                    • Description:

                      Soft and mellifluous nature-surname name, situated miles away from the dated Marshall.
                  • Marshal
                    • Description:

                      Marshal is a masculine name that originated as an occupational surname derived from the Old French 'mareschal,' referring to a person who cared for horses or a high-ranking military officer. The name carried significant prestige, as a Marshal was often a nobleman responsible for military affairs or household management in medieval courts. As a first name, Marshal emerged later, embodying qualities of leadership, authority, and service. While less common than the spelling variant 'Marshall,' Marshal maintains a strong, dignified quality. The name has never reached tremendous popularity but has maintained consistent usage, particularly in English-speaking countries, appealing to parents who appreciate its connotations of honor, discipline, and leadership.

                  • Milo
                    • Origin:

                      Latin and Old German
                    • Meaning:

                      "soldier or merciful"
                    • Description:

                      Milo is most commonly considered to be Germanic name derived from the Latin word miles, meaning "soldier." However, there is evidence to suggest it also may have independently spawned from the Slavic root milu, meaning "merciful." Milo predates brother name Miles, a variation that evolved when the name immigrated to the British Isles in the Middle Ages. Mylo is an alternate spelling.
                  • Moor
                    • Description:

                      Moor is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon and geographical origins. Historically, it referred to a person who lived near or came from moorlands – open, uncultivated upland areas. The name also has connections to the historical term 'Moor,' which was used to describe people of North African, particularly Berber and Arab, descent. As a given name, Moor is exceptionally rare, more commonly encountered as a surname. It has a strong, concise sound with nature-based connotations of wildness and freedom. The simplicity of the name gives it a distinctive quality, though its various historical and geographical associations may influence how it's perceived across different cultures.
                  • Myles
                    • Origin:

                      Spelling variation of Miles, English form of Latin and Old German
                    • Meaning:

                      "soldier and merciful"
                    • Description:

                      This alternate spelling of Miles has its fans, among them Myles-parents Eddie Murphy and Lars Ulrich. Pro basketball player Myles Turner uses this spelling. The Myles spelling is also associated with Pilgrim Myles Standish and so can make one of the classic Thanksgiving baby names.
                  • Nash
                    • Origin:

                      English
                    • Meaning:

                      "by the ash tree"
                    • Description:

                      Nash is an English surname whose sound puts it right in step with currently trendy names like Cash, Dash and Ash. It first came to prominence via TV character Nash Bridges, portrayed by Don Johnson in the late nineties, and also via mathematician John Nash, played by Russell Crowe in the acclaimed film A Beautiful Mind.
                  • Noon
                    • Origin:

                      Word name
                    • Description:

                      Cool middle name possibility.
                  • Odin
                    • Origin:

                      Variation of Óðinn, Old Norse
                    • Meaning:

                      "god of frenzy; poetic fury"
                    • Description:

                      Odin is the name of the supreme Norse god of art, culture, wisdom, and law — who was handsome, charming, and eloquent into the bargain. The name projects a good measure of strength and power and has excellent assimilation potential.
                  • Paladin
                    • Origin:

                      French
                    • Meaning:

                      "of the palace"
                    • Description:

                      This title of honor given to Charlemagne's twelve best knights would be prized as a name by most sword-loving little boys.
                  • Pike
                    • Origin:

                      American animal name
                    • Meaning:

                      "pike, a fish"
                    • Description:

                      The field of nature names is constantly expanding to include all species of flowers and trees and animals and birds and even fish. In addition to its appeal for anglers, Pike recalls Zebulon Pike, the explorer who discovered and gave his name to Pike's Peak.
                  • Ransom
                    • Origin:

                      English
                    • Meaning:

                      "shield's son"
                    • Description:

                      Ransom may be rakish and handsome, but it carries an unavoidable association with holding someone for ransom. But that kind of bad boy image might be exactly what attracts you to Ransom in the first place.
                  • Ray
                    • Origin:

                      Diminutive of Raymond, word name, English
                    • Meaning:

                      "wise protector; beam of light"
                    • Description:

                      Simple, short, and cool, Ray gives off retro vibes thanks to its 20th century popularity, and its links to jazzy Ray Charles and Ray-Ban sunglasses. A popular middle name for boys, it is well established as a given name too.
                  • Roman
                    • Origin:

                      Latin
                    • Meaning:

                      "citizen of Rome"
                    • Description:

                      Roman is an ancient name trending in a major way. A surprise hit name of recent years, Roman now ranks in the Top 100 not only in the US but throughout the English-speaking world, and is rising in other European countries as well.
                  • Rory
                    • Origin:

                      Irish
                    • Meaning:

                      "red king"
                    • Description:

                      This spirited Gaelic classic, which became popular in Ireland via the illustrious twelfth century king Rory O'Connor, makes a highly energetic choice, now used for either sex. Rory's gender split is still trending boyward; it's one of the coolest boys' names starting with R.
                  • Ryder
                    • Origin:

                      British surname
                    • Meaning:

                      "cavalryman, messenger"
                    • Description:

                      Ryder, one of the current favorite er-ending boys’ names, has been in the spotlight since Kate Hudson and her rocker husband Chris Robinson chose it for their son in 2004. Very popular in several provinces of Canada, Ryder was chosen by John Leguzamo for his son and adorns Boy Meets World star Ryder Strong.
                  • Ryker
                    • Origin:

                      German
                    • Meaning:

                      "rich"
                    • Description:

                      As a stylish name, Ryker has three big things going for it: its Ry beginning (as in Riley, Ryder, and Rylan), its two-syllable rhythm, and its er ending. A nice surprise for many is it's "rich" meaning. While this may not be a factor beyond New York City, there is an infamous prison there called Riker's Island. Ryker is one of the trendiest German names for boys in the US.
                  • Satch
                    • Description:

                      Satch is a rare masculine name that likely originated as a nickname, possibly derived from names like Satchel or as a diminutive for Sacha/Sasha. It gained some recognition through the jazz musician Louis Armstrong, who was nicknamed 'Satchmo,' short for 'Satchelmouth.' As a standalone name, Satch has a punchy, distinctive quality with its brief, single-syllable structure. Its rarity makes it an uncommon choice for parents seeking something truly unique with a slightly vintage, jazzy connotation. The name carries associations with mid-20th century American culture, particularly jazz and baseball (recalling player Satchel Paige). While unconventional as a formal name, Satch offers a friendly, approachable quality combined with a certain coolness factor not found in more traditional names.

                  • Shane
                    • Origin:

                      Anglicized variation of Sean
                    • Meaning:

                      "God is gracious"
                    • Description:

                      Shane ambled into the picture via the 1953 movie, adding a cowboy twist to its Irish essence. A variation of Sean with a hint of Shay and Zane, it is a popular choice in Ireland.
                  • Silas
                    • Origin:

                      Aramaic, Latin, Greek
                    • Meaning:

                      "of the forest; or prayed for"
                    • Description:

                      Sleek and smart, with a hint of mystique about it, Silas is a recent addition to the US Top 100. Both mythological and Biblical in origin, Silas joins the ranks of Isaiah, Atlas, Elias, and Sebastian: polished and contemporary feeling names with plenty of history.
                  • Stag
                    • Theodor
                      • Description:

                        Theodor is a classic masculine name of Greek origin meaning "gift of God," derived from the elements "theos" (God) and "doron" (gift). This spelling variant is particularly popular in Germanic and Scandinavian countries, including Germany, Austria, Norway, and Sweden. While the Theodore spelling is more common in English-speaking regions, Theodor has gained appreciation for its sophisticated European flair. The name has been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history, including composer Theodor Adorno, writer Theodor Herzl, and children's author Theodor Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss). Theodor offers parents a timeless yet distinguished name option with appealing nickname possibilities including Theo, Ted, and Teddy.
                    • Titan
                      • Origin:

                        Greek
                      • Meaning:

                        "defender"
                      • Description:

                        This name comes from Greek mythology, where the Titans were a band of immortal, powerful giants.
                    • Trace
                      • Origin:

                        Diminutive of Tracy, word name
                      • Meaning:

                        "of Thracia; to discover or track down; to copy"
                      • Description:

                        Undoubtedly inspired by country singer Trace Adkins, Trace is part update on 20th century fave Tracy, and part modern word name. Derived from Tracy, it originated as a Roman name meaning "of Thracia" or as a short form of Teresa; as a word name, it's got something slightly arty about it, but outdoorsy too, along the lines of Hunter, Chase, and Wilder.
                    • Travis
                      • Origin:

                        French occupational name
                      • Meaning:

                        "tollgate-keeper"
                      • Description:

                        Has a laid-back rural feel some would associate with country singer Travis Tritt; Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon chose it for their son. Travis Scott, born Jacques Webster Jr., a popular rap artist, is another famous Travis.
                    • Tybalt
                      • Origin:

                        Medieval form of Theobald
                      • Meaning:

                        "from bold people"
                      • Description:

                        Similar in sound to the French "Thibault", which is far more popular, Tybalt is best known as the bloodlustful and brawling cousin of Juliet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Perhaps this connotation has kept parents from using Tybalt. However, given the recent fad for all things Theo, Tybalt might offer a familiar yet unusual option for parents who like the meaning but want to swim against the current. Cute nicknames Ty and Tibby might also appeal.
                    • Terrace
                      • Valor
                        • Origin:

                          Word name
                        • Meaning:

                          "courage and bravery"
                        • Description:

                          This modern virtue name gives a nod to ancient chivalry and could also work as an updated form of the classic Victor. A bold choice, but one that an increasing number of parents have been making in the last decade.
                      • Virgil
                        • Origin:

                          Latin
                        • Meaning:

                          "staff bearer"
                        • Description:

                          The name of the greatest Roman poet and an early Irish saint who believed the earth was round, Virgil is heard most notably today as the name of designer Virgil Abloh of Off-White.
                      • Wade
                        • Origin:

                          English
                        • Meaning:

                          "at the river crossing"
                        • Description:

                          Wade has never been outside the US Top 1000 for boys - there's a reason for that. It has a clean spelling, fresh sound and is neither too trendy (unlike Kade or Cade) or too old-school (like Richard or Albert). We think Wade is a winning name.