Unusual Males Names From My Genealogy F-K
- Joachim
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Established by God"Description:
Joachim is an undiscovered biblical name with potential, although most modern parents would probably prefer the more lively Spanish version, Joaquin. Like many Old Testament names, it was primarily in use in the seventeenth century, and then became rare. In the Bible Joachim is a king of Judah; according to the Gospel of James, Saint Joachim was the husband of Saint Anne and the father of the Virgin Mary.
br/>Currently well-used in France, the name Joachim is known in countries and languages around the world and pronounced somewhat differently in each. While American might be most familiar with the Spanish version of the name, Joaquin via actor Joaquin Phoenix, that pronunciation wah-keen is not similar to any of the pronunciations of Joachim, which all have three syllables often with the emphasis on the second.
- Jefferson
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"son of Jeffrey"Description:
The name of the third U.S. President sounds, like Harrison and Jackson, more modern and stylish now than its root name. Used as a first name long before our surname-crazed era, Jefferson was most famously used as a first name by the President of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis, which may justifiably make you not want to use it. Jefferson is the middle name of another Prez, William Clinton.
- Godfrey
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"God's peace"Description:
Godfrey was very popular in the Middle Ages, but today you're more likely to hear it as a surname than a first name. It has a solid, old-man charm, but a couple of possible deal-breakers: the first syllable being God, and no obvious nickname. Goff, maybe? For a different feel, we also like the Italian artist's version Giotto.
- Heinrich
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"estate ruler"Description:
Traditional German names of this ilk have had a difficult time emigrating into the American name pool, mostly because anti-German sentiment during the two world wars of the 20th century drove German names out of fashion. One of Heinrich's nicknames, Harro, might do better.
- Gui
Origin:
Short form of Guillermo, Spanish form of WilliamMeaning:
"resolute protection"Description:
It's tempting to think of Gui as the Spanish form of Guy, but it's short for Guillermo.
- Florent
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"flowering"Description:
Historically, the French and English name Florence was used for both sexes. And Florent is a steady classic in France, booming there in the 1980s. Maybe it's time to import it, and show that boys can be floral too.
- Foulques
Description:
Foulques is a masculine name of Old Germanic origin that came into prominence in medieval France. It derives from the Germanic element 'folk,' meaning 'people' or 'army.' Historically significant, the name was borne by several Counts of Anjou during the Middle Ages, including Foulques V who became King of Jerusalem during the Crusades. Despite its noble heritage, Foulques remains exceptionally rare outside of historical contexts and French genealogical records. The pronunciation (roughly 'Foolk') may present challenges in English-speaking regions. This name carries strong connections to medieval European history and French heritage, making it an erudite choice for parents interested in historical names. Its extreme rarity guarantees distinctiveness for any modern bearer.
- Humbert
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"renowned warrior"Description:
A name with two strong literary associations, one overwhelmingly negative -- Lolita's pedophilic narrator Humbert Humbert -- and one positive, in the preferable European version: Italian author Umberto Eco.
- Fulk
Description:
Fulk is a masculine name of Germanic origin that was once relatively common in medieval Europe, particularly after the Norman Conquest of England. It derives from the Germanic element "folk" meaning "people" or "army." The name was borne by several notable historical figures, including Fulk III, Count of Anjou, and Fulk, King of Jerusalem during the Crusades. Despite its historical significance, Fulk fell out of common usage by the late Middle Ages. Today, it remains exceedingly rare, possibly due to its somewhat stark sound in modern English and potential negative associations with similar-sounding words. For history enthusiasts seeking a genuinely medieval name, Fulk offers authentic historical roots.
- Fulbert
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"the descendents of Fulbeorht, bright people"Description:
Fulbert comes from the same root as Fulbright, as in the prestigious fellowship. A unique name not prized by 21st century parents.
- Hamelin
Description:
Hamelin is a masculine name with Germanic and Old French origins, derived from the Germanic element 'hamal' meaning 'mutilated' or possibly related to the Old German word for 'house.' The name gained historical recognition through Hamelin de Warenne, an Anglo-Norman nobleman, and most famously through the medieval legend of the Pied Piper of Hamelin. Though uncommon in modern usage, the name carries a distinctive medieval charm and aristocratic feel. Hamelin has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and clear pronunciation. The name projects an air of mystery and historical depth, making it appealing to parents seeking a masculine name with literary associations and historical significance that remains relatively unique in contemporary naming practices.
- Giselbert
Description:
Giselbert is a masculine name of ancient Germanic origin, combining the elements 'gisel' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage' (in the political sense of the medieval period) and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous.' This historical name was borne by several European nobles during the Middle Ages, including dukes of Lorraine. Though extremely rare today, Giselbert represents a connection to deep European heritage. The name has evolved into the more common Gilbert in English-speaking countries. Giselbert maintains an air of medieval nobility and Old World sophistication. Its rarity makes it distinctive while its historical roots give it substance and gravitas not found in newly created names.
- Gilon
Description:
Gilon is a rare masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Hebrew, possibly meaning "joy" or "rejoicing," or could be related to a place name in ancient Israel. Alternatively, it might have French origins as a variant of Guillaume (William). Gilon appears in medieval records but has remained extremely uncommon throughout history. The name has a distinctive, somewhat exotic sound that combines ancient resonance with a contemporary feel. Despite its rarity, Gilon has occasionally appeared in Jewish naming traditions. With its unusual character and pleasing sound, Gilon might appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive name with potential historical or biblical connections, though it has never ranked on popular name charts in any country.
- FARAMUS
- GAINFROI
- GARLAND
- GARNERIUS
- GEBHARD
- GERDD
- GOSPATRIC