Foreign Names That Sound Cool (boys)

Luca

Italian variation of Luke and Lucas

"man from Lucania"

The related Lucas and Luke are both hugely popular boy names in the US and internationally, and now Luca has joined them on boys' popularity lists around the world. That's an astonishing success…

Marcel

French variation of Marcellus

"little warrior"

Marcel, despite distinguished namesakes including Proust and Duchamp, suffers from a terminal headwaiter image in this country. But along with its sister name Marcella and French variation (and…

Jeremias

German, Portuguese and Finnish variation of Jeremiah, Hebrew

"appointed by God"

This international variant of the popular Jeremiah refreshes the Old Testament name by lending it the stylish -s ending of Silas, Ozias, and Amias. Popular in Czechia and Puerto Rico, Jeremias…

Remus

Latin, meaning unknown

Remus is one of the legendary twins who, with brother Romulus, founded Rome. An unusual yet classic name for the extremely adventurous who can put aside the stereotyped image of Uncle Remus. Though…

Vlad

Diminutive of Vladimir, Slavic

"great ruler, peaceful ruler, ruler of the world"

The most famous Vlad was nicknamed "the Impaler." Enough said.

Klaus

German variation of Claus, diminutive of Nicolas, Greek

"people of victory"

Two drawbacks: some unpleasant World War II associations, and the Santa clause.

Lars

Scandinavian from Latin Laurentius

"crowned with laurel"

Lars is a perfect candidate for a cross-cultural passport: it has been heard often enough here to sound familiar and friendly, yet retains the charisma of a charming foreigner. In this country Lars…