Boys Names A Through E

An ancient Roman forename, particularly associated with the Claudian dynasty, whose origins are lost in the mists of time. Some Roman names have become newly popular recently, but this one has not made it to the modern baby name charts.

An evocative ancient word that's used as a first name in the New Testament, among other places. It's also the name of an eagle-shaped constellation.

In Israel, Mount Arbel is a mountain in the lower Galilee. Jewish parents have adopted it as a name for their sons and daughters for the mountain's historic and religious significance.

Arch can be used as a nickname for Archibald or a stand-alone word name — perhaps for the child of an architect.

Archer is an Anglo-Saxon surname that feels more modern than most because of its on-target occupational and Hunger Games associations. And it's a nice way to bypass the clunky Archibald to get to the cool nickname Archie.

Archey is a masculine name that likely originated as a variant spelling of Archie, which itself began as a diminutive of Archibald. Archibald combines Germanic elements meaning 'genuine' and 'bold'. This alternative spelling gives the familiar nickname a slightly different visual quality while maintaining its friendly, approachable sound. While Archie has experienced popularity waves, particularly in the UK, the Archey variant remains uncommon. The name carries connotations of vintage charm combined with a contemporary feel, as many traditional nickname-names have experienced revivals. The spelling variation might appeal to parents seeking a slightly distinctive twist on the increasingly popular Archie, especially following the high-profile use of the name for the British royal baby.

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.

Archie made global news as the surprise first name of the newborn royal baby, son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex aka Harry and Meghan. Archie has now officially transcended Archie Bunker and Riverdale's Archie to take the, um, throne as the quintessential retro nickname name.

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.

In mythology, a creature with a hundred eyes, making it a better name for a camera than a baby.

Ari, the short form of Ariel (or any other Ari- beginning name, such as Aristotle) stands up better as a boys’ name than its progenitor does. It is also short for Aristotle, as in Onassis, and is a prominent character on TV's Entourage -- the uberagent Ari Gold.

Despite its distinguished pedigree and popularity in Israel, Disney's Little Mermaid cartoonized Ariel in the US, at least in some people's minds. But it was used for a male character in Shakespeare's The Tempest centuries ago.

The name of a divine immortal talking horse in Greek mythology – son of the gods Poseidon and Demeter. The name Arion was also borne by a Greek singer and poet, inventor of the dithyramb.

Modern Greek form of Arion

Aristeo is a masculine name with Greek origins, derived from 'aristos' meaning 'best' or 'excellent.' It shares roots with the name Aristotle and connects to ancient Greek traditions of honor and excellence. In modern usage, Aristeo is most commonly found in Italian, Spanish, and Latin American communities. The name carries an air of classical dignity and intellectual heritage, evoking connections to classical philosophy and literature. While not among the most popular names globally, it maintains steady usage particularly in Mediterranean and Latin cultures. Parents might choose Aristeo for its distinguished sound, classical heritage, and the positive aspirational quality embedded in its meaning of excellence and superiority.

A dramatic name which – fittingly – belonged to an Ancient Greek playwright, known as the father of comedy.

The great philosopher's name is commonly used in Greek families, and is one that could work for daring, philosophical American ones. With user friendly nicknames such as Ari, Aris, Artie, and Ris, Aristotle is a ambitious choice, associated with morality, ethics, literature, and psychology.

Similar in sound to Harley, Marley, Arlo, and Ari, this surname-style name was a fast rising choice in the UK in 2023.

Quirky cool Arlo is now well and truly back. Last year it broke into the US Top 200 boy names and consistently ranks among the most popular boy names on Nameberry.