Handsome Underused Boys' Names

The name of the great Homeric hero with the vulnerable heel, Achilles is more popular in its international form, Achille, which is popular in France, Italy, and Belgium. This variation did however appear briefly on the US Top 1000 list in 2015, perhaps owing to its similarity to the likes of Atticus, Adonis, and Apollo. It has declined in use since then, but is nevertheless chosen for around 160 babies each year.

Aiken is an Irish and Scottish surname that has evolved into a masculine given name. Derived from the Gaelic name Eoghan or Aodhagán, it means 'little fiery one' or 'born of fire.' Historically, it was a family name associated with certain clans in Ireland and Scotland before transitioning to occasional use as a first name. In contemporary usage, Aiken remains fairly uncommon as a given name, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options with Celtic roots. The name carries connotations of strength and passion, reflecting its fiery etymology. Its relatively rare usage gives it a distinctive quality while still being straightforward to pronounce and spell.

Alaric is an ancient regal name that sounds modern enough to be considered. Alaric was a traditional name for the kings of the Ostrogoths, the most famous of whom was Alaric I, the King of the West Goths who sacked Rome in 410.

Alexei could well join the legion of Alex names popular in the US. There are countless opportunities to liven up Alexander, and Alexei (or Alexey) is one of the most straightforward and appealing.

This name is a classic example of an underused golden oldie that ticks so many boxes - unusual yet traditional, heaps of cute nicknames, a statement name that exudes retro cool. Aloysius is the Latin form of many more common names like Louis, Luis, Luigi and the uncommon but symphonically familiar Ludwig.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's middle name could make an interesting pick for music-loving parents--if only in middle place. Amadeus is the title of a Peter Shaffer play which became an award-winning film in 1984.

One of Dumas' swashbuckling Three Musketeers, now better known as a men's cologne.

Although usually spelled without the final 'e', this version commemorates tennis immortal Arthur Ashe. Seth Meyers' son Ashe was given his wife's maiden name.

Once a popular choice in for boys in the Middle Ages and again during the 19th century, Aubrey has mostly been used for girls in the US since the 1970's. With its arty, surname-y, and sophisticated feel, however, it is rising up the UK charts for both boys and girls.

The poetic, soft-spoken Auden has recently started to be considered as a first name option, used for both sexes, appreciated for its pleasing sound as well as its link to the distinguished modern Anglo-American poet W.H. Auden.

Since Aurelius was given the supermodel seal of approval by Elle Macpherson, it has joined Augustus as an ancient Roman name that feels usable today. Slightly mystical and magical, Aurelius is grounded by its similarity to rising stars Aurora, Aurelia, and Atticus, and its golden aura is certainly appealing. 

Macho to the max. But with the rise of x as a fashionable letter anywhere it appears in a name, ala Jaxson or Maxon, we may be hearing more of Axton.

Meaning bard, this is an original choice with poetic and melodic undertones. Bard itself has also come into consideration, both names bringing to mind Shakespeare and other literary lights.

The Scottish surname Baird's most notable bearer was John Logie Baird, the Scottish engineer and inventor of the televisor, the world's first practical television system in 1926, and also the world's first fully electronic color TV tube two years later. Some might also remember puppeteers Bil and Cora Baird.

This evocative name of one of the Three Wise Men of the Orient, also spelled Balthasar, may finally be ready for prime time. Balthazar, Melchior and Caspar were the Magi who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus, though their names were not mentioned in the Bible.

In this form, or as Sebastian or as Bas, Bastien is a fashionable Euro name with a possible future in America.

Now that such Old Testament patriarchs as Elijah and Moses fill the playground, Boaz seems downright baby-friendly, having more pizzazz than many of the others, perhaps as a successor to Noah.

Brahm is a masculine name with several cultural origins and meanings. Primarily, it derives from the Sanskrit 'Brahma,' referring to the Hindu creator god, associated with knowledge and the universe. In Jewish contexts, it functions as a shortened form of Abraham, meaning 'father of multitudes.' The name also appears in Germanic and Nordic traditions, sometimes related to 'brahman' denoting spiritual knowledge or divine force. Brahm has maintained consistent but modest usage in Western countries, appealing to parents seeking a name with spiritual significance or multicultural resonance. Its short, strong sound gives it a contemporary feel despite its ancient origins. The name carries connotations of wisdom, creation, and spiritual depth across various traditions, making it a meaningful choice with cross-cultural appeal.

Caedmon is a masculine name of Anglo-Saxon origin with deep historical roots. It gained prominence through Caedmon, a 7th-century English poet considered the earliest known English poet whose name is recorded. According to the Venerable Bede's historical accounts, Caedmon was an illiterate herdsman who received divine inspiration to compose religious poetry. The name likely derives from Celtic elements meaning "wise warrior" or "battle wisdom." Though rare in modern usage, Caedmon has seen modest revival among parents seeking unique names with historical significance. It appeals to those drawn to medieval English heritage, literature, and names with scholarly associations. The name carries connotations of creativity, wisdom, and inspired eloquence.