Boys Names A Through E

Brychan is a masculine name of Welsh origin with deep historical roots. It derives from the name of a legendary 5th-century Welsh king, Brychan Brycheiniog, who reportedly had numerous children who became saints in the early Celtic church. The name is connected to the region of Brecknockshire (Brycheiniog in Welsh) in Wales. Brychan has remained relatively uncommon outside of Wales, making it a distinctive choice with authentic Celtic heritage. The pronunciation (BRIK-an) may present some challenges for non-Welsh speakers, but its strong historical connections and unique sound make it appealing for parents seeking a name with genuine Welsh character and royal associations.

Mama's boy.

For centuries, this name had a romantic, windswept image due to its strong connection to the poet Lord Byron, who inspired its use as a first name. It is one of those surprise names that's appeared on the Top 1000 every year since 1880.

Strong and modern, Cade shot up the popularity lists around the millennium—it was as high as Number 201 in 2001. Now, it has declined in popularity slightly, but nevertheless remains in the US Top 300, given to around 1200 babies each year. Combined with all the baby Kades, Cadens, Kaidens and Kaydens however, it might feel even more popular that it actually is.

Caden is a key member of the rhyming contingent that includes Aiden, Jayden, Kayden, Brayden et al. It may derive from the Celtic Cadan or Irish Cathán, both from the same root meaning "battle". It is also possible it comes from Cade, meaning "round" or "barrel".

Cadmus is the name of the serpent-slaying hero of Greek mythology who also founded the city of Thebes and is credited with inventing the alphabet. Its ancient feel might appeal to modern parents — especially since Cadmus Peverell is a human Harry Potter character, one of the three original owners of the Deathly Hallows.

An ancient Welsh name belonging to an early modern king and saint, among others. The Irish cognate, Cathal, is more widely known.

In Roman mythology, Caelus was the god of the sky prior to Jupiter. It's one of the few names that's virtually one-of-a-kind yet fits in with current stylish choices such as Caius and Callum (neither of which Caelus is etymologically related to).

Caesar, the name of the greatest Roman of them all, is rarely used outside Latino families, where the Cesar spelling is preferred —as in activist Chavez and Dog Whisperer Millan. Its original meaning is debated — either "long-haired", "blue-gray" (as in eyes), or "cut" (because Julius Caesar was supposedly born by cesarian section) — it came to be the title to denote all Roman emperors and it is from the name Caesar that many other European royal titles are derived, including Kaiser and Tsar.

Cagney is one of the spunkiest Irish surnames around, and could make a lively and fresher successor to the tired Casey.