Unusual Male Names From My Genealogy R-Z

A charming -o name with cool nickname possibilities, Ramiro is also a historical choice: there were 2 Aragonese Spanish kings named Ramiro.

Russian form of Roderick given to a small number of American boys each year.

This is one of the least known or used of the Theo names, quite possibly because of its last syllable. In Samuel Butler's 1903 novel The Way of All Flesh, there is a clergyman character named Theobald Pontifex.

Rowland is more usually the surname spelling of Roland, as in Kelly Rowland.

Rice is really stretching the nature name boundary to its outer edges. But you may want to take it that far.

Name of nine provincial Spanish kings, but more likely to conjure up Sancho Panza, the hapless squire of Don Quixote.

An old name still occasionally heard in the U.K., but still and perhaps forever a foreigner in the U.S. Can be spelled Ranulf.

Wendel is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from the Vandals, an ancient East Germanic tribe. The name means 'wanderer' or 'one who travels,' reflecting the nomadic nature of these historical people. As a variant of Wendell, it offers a slightly more streamlined spelling while maintaining the same pronunciation. Wendel carries an air of quiet strength and dignity, with historical connections to European nobility—several medieval German nobles bore the name. While never extremely common, Wendel enjoyed modest popularity in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe. The name has an intellectual, somewhat serious quality, often associated with thoughtfulness and reliability. In contemporary usage, Wendel offers a distinctive alternative to more common classic names, appealing to parents looking for a name with historical depth and understated character.

Attractive if phonetically confusing; also pronounced exactly the same as the Renault car.

Rees is a Welsh masculine name derived from the Welsh word 'rhys,' meaning 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor.' This concise, strong name has deep Celtic roots and has been borne by several Welsh princes and nobility throughout history. While traditionally a surname, Rees has gained popularity as a first name in Wales and beyond. The single-syllable structure gives it a modern, streamlined quality despite its ancient origins. Rees offers a distinctive alternative to the more common spelling Rhys, while maintaining the same powerful meaning and Welsh heritage. Its simplicity, meaningful etymology, and cultural significance make it appealing to parents seeking a name with substance and brevity.