Underused Boy Names

Variation on Rhidian, a Welsh saint's name.

This name of the archangel who protects those born under the sign of Capricorn is one of the most attractive and distinctive December baby names or January baby names. Cassiel is a little-known member of the increasingly popular Cass family, which includes Cassius, Cassian, and Cassia.

Joah is a simple but obscure Biblical name, the name of four men in the Old Testament. Joah could be the perfect way to honor Grandpa Joe, or might be seen as a streamlined alternative to Josiah. Joah has so much basic appeal, in fact, that it just might be the next Noah.

One of those names that most Americans find just too too tea-sippingly British to consider; its meaning has led to occasional use for Capricorn boys.

Dignified first name of poet W. H. Auden, less exposed than his currently stylish surname.

Fintan is an ancient Irish saints' name that in legend is also the name of the only person to survive The Flood. Popular in modern Ireland, Fintan is ripe for export to the US where it is rarely used but could make an excellent long form for the stylish Finn.

The additional syllable makes Lark a masculine surname name, borne by poet Philip Larkin.

Osian is the easier-to-comprehend version of the ancient Irish Oisin, an important name in mythology. Osian or Oisin was a warrior poet. Osian is popular in modern Wales and England. While Oisin is pronounce oh-SHEEN, Osian is pronounced O-shan -- though we bet most Americans would just say ocean, which you may consider a good thing.

If you like Dylan, Quinn, or Leo but find them too popular, Quillan could be a distinctive and interesting alternative. It is sometimes connected to the zodiac sign of Leo, making it a cool way to honor a someone born under the lion sign, or to mark your baby's birthdate if they're born between July and August.

Sander is a more conventional form of Zander or Xander, heard frequently on its own in Europe. It is now a Top 20 name in Norway, and is also popular in Denmark, Belgium and the Netherlands. 

Anson has always been rare, though you might think of actor Anson Williams, best known for playing Potsie Weber on 1970s sitcom Happy Days. As a direct result of the show's popularity, Anson charted in the US Top 1000 from 1976 to 1981.

Cassio is a notable Shakespearean name that's a member of the ever-more-popular Cassius family of names. Cassio was Othello's young, good-looking, and flirtatious lieutenant.

Rakish nickname able to stand on its own.

Ezra is a Biblical name that is being rediscovered, which means its variation Ezri can't be far behind. Ezri is one of the up-and-coming unisex names starting with E, with the gender divide surprisingly running five to one in favor of girls.

Neven is a masculine name with multicultural origins, particularly prominent in Slavic and Celtic naming traditions. In Slavic contexts, particularly Croatian, it derives from the word for 'marigold,' symbolizing the vibrant orange flower. In Celtic usage, it may relate to the Irish 'Naomhán,' meaning 'little saint' or 'holy person.' The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots. With a straightforward pronunciation and spelling, Neven offers international appeal while remaining distinctive in English-speaking countries. Though relatively uncommon in the United States, it has steady usage throughout Eastern Europe. The name balances masculine strength with subtle nature connections, appealing to parents seeking a name that's both meaningful and uncommon. Neven's cross-cultural background makes it adaptable across different cultural contexts while maintaining its distinctive character.

Clad in armor. But while this name may have been forbiddingly antiquated not that long ago, the connection to the trendy nickname Os or Oz makes it a real possibility.

Romaric was derived from the German elements hrôm, meaning "fame," and rîcja, "strong." It's the name of an obscure Frankish saint who left his life as a courtier to become a monk.

A rugged and contemporary choice, Riggins fits in with the likes of Briggs, Bridger, Riggs, Ridge, and Collins: surname style names with an outdoorsy feel. Riggins, however, is currently more quietly used than its style companions, given to around 125 boys in the US in a recent year.

An older form of Everett that stays closer to its Germanic roots. Distinguished Everard is the name of several historical figures and literary characters, including a minor hobbit in The Lord of the Rings. Yet, even now that Ever- names are the height of style, Everard hasn't been seen on the charts for decades.