Alternatives to Oliver

Alaster is a masculine name of Scottish origin, representing a variant of Alasdair or Alastair, which themselves derive from Alexander. The name ultimately traces back to Greek roots meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This less common spelling preserves the traditional Scottish pronunciation while giving the name a slightly distinctive written form. Alaster carries the noble associations of its related names, evoking images of Scottish highlands and clan heritage. Though never extremely popular, it has maintained consistent if limited usage among those with Scottish connections or those appreciating its combination of strength and sophistication. The name offers the friendly nickname options of Al or Ally while maintaining its distinguished full form.

The surname-style Alden has been on the rise in the US in recent years, while tree-inspired Rowan is a top choice. Combine this with the popularity of names ending in -er such as Carter and Parker and it makes sense why Alder is now 4 times as popular as it was a decade ago. Given to 125 boys in a recent year, it could be a modern way to honor an "Al".

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.

Allister is a variant spelling of Alistair or Alastair, which derived from the Scottish Gaelic form of Alexander. The name ultimately traces back to Greek origins meaning "defender of mankind." This spelling with double 'l' emerged as an Anglicized version that maintains the name's distinguished Scottish heritage while being somewhat easier to pronounce and spell for English speakers. Allister conveys strength, nobility, and protection. The name has maintained steady but modest popularity, appealing to parents seeking a name with classic appeal that isn't overly common. Notable bearers include various politicians, athletes, and fictional characters, contributing to its image as a name with substance and character. Its sound is strong yet sophisticated.

Derived from Italian bello "beautiful" and vedere "view", Belvedere is a dramatic name that was used for a cartoon hound dog in George Webster Crenshaw's comic strip by the same name, which ran from 1962 to 1995.

Can be used either with or without the addition of Mac.

Cassander is the masculine form of Cassandra, and the name of an ancient king of Macedon from the 3rd century BC. It could make a nice alternative to Alexander or a refreshing way to honour a female relative named Cassie/Cassandra/Sandra.

Chevalier is a distinguished masculine name of French origin, literally meaning 'knight' or 'horseman.' Derived from the French word 'cheval' (horse), it historically referred to a knight or a member of certain orders of knighthood. The name carries aristocratic connotations and evokes images of chivalry, honor, and gallantry from medieval times. Though uncommon as a first name, it has occasionally been used in French-speaking regions and among families with French heritage. The name gained some recognition through the famous French entertainer Maurice Chevalier. With its sophisticated sound and noble meaning, Chevalier offers parents seeking a rare name with historical depth and elegant pronunciation a distinctive choice.

Demeter, while historically a feminine name from Greek mythology, has occasionally been used as a masculine name in some contexts. In Greek mythology, Demeter was the powerful goddess of agriculture, grain, and fertility who controlled the seasons and harvest. The name derives from the Greek elements 'de' (possibly meaning earth) and 'meter' (mother). As a masculine name, Demeter is extremely rare and represents a bold, unconventional choice. It carries strong associations with nature, abundance, and life-giving power. The name has a distinguished, classical quality with its mythological heritage. For parents drawn to Greek naming traditions who appreciate its unique sound and powerful connotations, Demeter offers a distinctive option that bridges ancient tradition with contemporary uniqueness.

Elliot (which boasts several spellings depending upon how many 'l's or 't's you want to use) is a winner -- it has the ideal quality of being neither too common nor weirdly unique. Elliot had a style boost back in the early 1980s via the young hero of the movie E.T. , who was named Elliott. Since then there have been Elliots on Law & Order: SVU and Mad Men.

Evander is a name that could build on the popularity of shorter form Evan, and could work and play well with schoolmates like Zander and Xander.

Felix is one of those ancient but nontraditional names for boys that have come into favor over the past few decades, a favorite of parents who want a masculine name with history and heft that breaks ranks with the standard Franks and Freds. Felix is also an international darling, ranking in the Top 100 in several European and English-speaking countries.

Fletcher is a common surname with a touch of quirkiness; it definitely fits into the So Far Out It's In category--and moving further in all the time along with other occupational names from Parker to Forester.

Gulliver is an obscure Gaelic surname known almost solely through its literary Travels until actor Gary Oldman used it for his son, instantly transforming it into a lively option. British actors Damian Lewis, of Homeland, and Helen McCrory also have a son named Gulliver.

An Indian boy name most commonly used amongst Sikh families — also spelled Harwinder.

An unusual but very accessible name from Greek mythology, with the same strong ending sound as stylish picks like Alexander and Evander. Isandro is the equally attractive Spanish version.

Juniper is a nature name that we really like. While it's trendiest for girls -- about 2500 baby girls were named Juniper in 2022 versus 34 baby boys -- the most notable Juniper in history was the saint Brother Juniper, a follower of Saint Francis renowned for his generosity. Blessed Junipero Serra, who founded the first of the California Missions, took his name from the earlier Saint Juniper.

Jupiter's partner Juno has entered the mainstream, so it's possible that her divine mate could follow. But not necessarily for boys — Jupiter is currently mostly female in the US, thanks to its similarity to Juniper. Stars including Ed Sheeran and Ashley Tisdale recently welcomed daughters named Jupiter, which could shift the balance even more towards the girls.

Leander was once an almost unknown name, however, with the popularity of Leo and the rise of Leandro, it now feels like a perfectly accessible alternative to Leon or Alexander. In Greek legend, Leander was the powerful figure who swam across the Hellespont every night to visit his beloved Hero, a priestess of Venus.