Francophile Naming Guide -- Curiousities of Medieval France for Boys
- Adam
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"son of the red earth"Description:
Adam -- a primal Old Testament name -- was revived as a 1960s cowboy name. Adam is not as popular as it once was and feels ready for a respite, replaced by newer A names like Aidan/Aiden, Avery and Axel. Its most prominent current bearers include Adams Sandler, Levine, Brody and Driver -- who plays a character named Adam on Girls.
- Alain
Origin:
French, variation of AlanDescription:
Alain gives the midcentury Alan a bit of gallic dash.
- Amadeus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"lover of God"Description:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's middle name could make an interesting pick for music-loving parents--if only in middle place. Amadeus is the title of a Peter Shaffer play which became an award-winning film in 1984.
- Amaury
Origin:
French form of AmalricMeaning:
"work power"Description:
Friendlier french form of ancient Germanic royal name Amalric or Emmerich.
- Anselm
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"with divine protection"Description:
A somewhat solemn appellation, Anselm is a saint's name, connected to the twelfth century archbishop of Canterbury, and in modern times tied to the German neo-expressionist painter Anselm Kiefer.
- Arnaud
Origin:
French variation of ArnoldMeaning:
"ruler, strong as an eagle"Description:
French given and surname.
- Auberon
Origin:
English, French, GermanMeaning:
"elf ruler, bright elf; noble bear"Description:
Rarely heard in the US, Auberon has a gentle autumnal feel rare in a male name. A Shakespeare-adjacent choice, Auberon started out as as a pet form of Auberi, the French form of German Alberich.
- Aubert
Origin:
French variation of AlbertMeaning:
"noble, bright"Description:
Likely to be pronounced AW-bert in English, short forms Aubie and Bertie give this rare French name quirky modern appeal.
- Aubrey
Origin:
English from FrenchMeaning:
"elf ruler"Description:
Once a popular choice in for boys in the Middle Ages and again during the 19th century, Aubrey has mostly been used for girls in the US since the 1970's. With its arty, surname-y, and sophisticated feel, however, it is rising up the UK charts for both boys and girls.
- Auguste
Origin:
French form of Latin AugustusMeaning:
"great, magnificent"Description:
French version of August, for both sexes. And for those who feel the spelling of August is too plain.
- Augustine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"great, magnificent"Description:
Augustine is more substantial (and saintly) than August, less pretentious than Augustus, and, along with its nickname Gus, is definitely a viable choice.
- Acfrid
- Adalbert
- Aimand
- Aimery
- Alberic
- Alpaid
- Ancheti
- Ancitel
- Anseau
- Anseri
- Ansfrid
- Archambaud
- Arnoul
- Arnulf
- Artald
- Athon
- Aymar
- Aynan
- Baudouin
Description:
Baudouin is a masculine French name derived from the Germanic elements 'bald' meaning 'bold' and 'win' meaning 'friend' or 'protector.' Essentially the French equivalent of Baldwin, this name carries strong historical significance, particularly in Belgium where multiple kings have borne the name. The most notable was King Baudouin I who ruled Belgium from 1951 to 1993 and was deeply respected for his moral integrity and service to the nation. Outside of French-speaking regions, the name remains relatively uncommon, giving it an aristocratic and distinguished character. Pronunciation may pose challenges for non-French speakers (roughly bo-DWAN), which has limited its international usage. The name conveys strength, nobility, and cultural heritage, appealing to parents with connections to French or Belgian culture.
- Berenger
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"warrior fighting with a spear"Description:
Last-name-first-name with a romantic but dangerous edge.
- Bernard
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"strong, brave as a bear"Description:
Bernard is obviously a saint's name, but how did it get to the big, benevolent dog? The eleventh century monk, patron saint of mountain climbers, who lived in the Alps, was famed for setting up safe houses for pilgrims on their way to Rome over the treacherous St. Bernard Pass, and the canine breed, also used to rescue people in treacherous conditions, was named for him.
- Bartelmy
- Bompon
- Boso
- Boson
- Bouchard
- Béraud
- Calixte
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"most beautiful"Description:
French form of Callistus or Callixtus, borne by several popes and saints.
- Conrad
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"brave counsel"Description:
Conrad has a somewhat intellectual masculine image, a solid name that has been consistently on the popularity lists, especially well used in the 1920s and 30s, and given a pop of rock energy by the Elvis-like character of Conrad Birdie in Bye, Bye, Birdie--("We love you Conrad, oh yes we do!").
- Caribert
- Carloman
- Childebert
- Chilpéric
- Clotaire
- Conon
- Cunigunde
- Delmas
Description:
Delmas is a masculine name with French origins, functioning primarily as a surname before occasionally transitioning to first-name use. It derives from place names in southern France, particularly in regions where Occitan was spoken, and means 'from the farm' or 'of the farmstead,' combining 'del' (from the) and 'mas' (farmhouse or rural dwelling). The name carries a rustic yet dignified quality, evoking the French countryside and agricultural heritage. While relatively uncommon as a given name, Delmas has seen modest use particularly in French-speaking regions and the southern United States. Its distinctive sound and continental European flavor make it appealing for parents seeking something unique with authentic linguistic roots and a subtle sophistication.
- Dagobert
- Dreux
- Eberhard
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"brave boar"Description:
Much more niche and obviously Germanic than its anglicised cousins Everard and Everett, but with the same strong meaning. Eberhard is hardly ever used in the US - it's only made the charts once so far, back in 1918.
- Edouard
Description:
Edouard is the French variation of Edward, a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon origins meaning 'wealthy guardian' or 'prosperous protector.' Combining the elements 'ead' (wealth, prosperity) and 'weard' (guardian), Edouard carries a noble heritage. The name has been borne by numerous French aristocrats and several kings of England in its English form. Unlike the more anglicized Edward, Edouard maintains its distinctly French character with the elegant pronunciation ay-DWAR. While common in French-speaking regions, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, offering a sophisticated European alternative. The name conveys strength and reliability while maintaining a certain continental refinement and cultural richness.
- Emery
Origin:
English from GermanMeaning:
"industrious"Description:
Emery is one of the newly popular Em- names that has great potential, though right now for girls more than boys: it received a boost in 2009, a year after Angie Harmon and Jason Sehorn used it for one of their daughters.
- Eustache
Description:
Eustache is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from 'eustachys' meaning 'fruitful' or 'abundant harvest.' This classical name has deep historical roots in European tradition, particularly in France where it has been used since medieval times. Saint Eustace was a Christian martyr whose legend was popular in the Middle Ages, contributing to the name's usage throughout Europe. While maintaining an air of aristocratic heritage and scholarly sophistication, Eustache has become relatively uncommon in modern times. The name possesses a distinctive French elegance with its characteristic ending and rich sound. Though challenging for English speakers to pronounce (roughly 'oo-stash'), it offers a compelling option for parents drawn to names with historical depth, classical origins, and a touch of continental refinement.
- Ebalus
- Engelger
- Engilbert
- Enguerrand
- Erard
- Eudes
- 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.
- Fulbert
Origin:
German,"the descendents of Fulbeorht, bright people"Meaning:
"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.
- 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.
- Ferri
- Fredelon
- Fulcoald
- Gaston
Origin:
French from GermanMeaning:
"the foreigner, the guest"Description:
Depending on your cultural references, you may think of Phantom of the Opera author Gaston Leroux, or the macho villain of Beauty and the Beast. While he's hardly a role model (unless you too use antlers in all of your decorating), his name was likely chosen because it's a classic in France. It's been used there since the middle ages, partly in honor of the Frankish bishop St Gaston. It went out of style in France mid-century, but now it's having a revival, entering the Top 300 in 2017.
- Gerard
Origin:
English and Irish from GermanMeaning:
"spear strength"Description:
Gerard is currently in style limbo, after reaching peak popularity in the 1950s. With its strong meaning and gentle sound, it may be back in a generation or two. But for now, a boy called Gerard will likely be the only one in his class...unless you live in Catalonia, where it was recently in the Top 10.
- Gervase
Description:
Gervase is a distinguished masculine name with deep historical roots, deriving from the Germanic element 'ger' meaning 'spear' combined with a second element possibly related to 'vas' meaning 'servant'. This venerable name was introduced to England by the Normans after the conquest of 1066 and was relatively common during the Middle Ages. Saint Gervase, a Christian martyr from Milan, has lent the name religious significance. Though never extremely popular in modern times, Gervase maintains an air of classical elegance and scholarly refinement. The name experienced brief revivals among families interested in historical names, particularly in Britain. Gervase offers a distinctive alternative to more common traditional names, providing both historical depth and a sophisticated sound that works well in contemporary settings.
- Gilbert
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"shining pledge"Description:
Considered ultra debonair in the silent-movie era, Gilbert then went through a nerdy phase, a la Gilbert Gottfried. Now though, like Albert and Alfred and Walter and Frank, it could be in for a style revival.
- 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.
- Godefroi
Description:
Godefroi is a masculine name of Old Germanic origin, representing the medieval French form of Godfrey or Geoffrey. The name combines the elements "god" (god) and "frid" (peace), literally meaning "God's peace" or "divine peace." Godefroi was popularized during the Crusades, notably through Godefroi de Bouillon, a Frankish knight who became one of the leaders of the First Crusade and the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. This historical name carries a strong sense of nobility and medieval heritage. While uncommon in modern usage, particularly outside of French-speaking regions, Godefroi offers a distinctive classic option with rich historical associations. The name's traditional character and French pronunciation give it an aristocratic quality that appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and European flair.
- Guillaume
Origin:
French variation of WilliamDescription:
An everyday name in France, a charismatic possibility here.
- Guy
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"wood"Description:
The patron saint of comedians and dancers (also known as St Vitus) has a name that is both the ultimate everyman, and has a hint of British aristocracy. In the States, Guy was most popular in the 1950s. Now he hovers steadily below the Top 1000, in the sweet spot of familiar but not overused. With the meteoric rise of Kai, Guy may have potential with parents looking for a more classic name with a similar sound.
- Galeran
- Gardier
- Gaucher
- Gehard
- Gisald
- Gondebaud
- Gontran
- Guarin
- Guigues
- Guyonnet
- Guérimfred
- Heribert
Description:
Heribert is a masculine name of ancient Germanic origin, combining the elements 'heri' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous,' thus translating to 'brilliant warrior' or 'famous soldier.' With roots stretching back to medieval Europe, Heribert was particularly common among nobility in Germany and surrounding regions. Several saints and notable historical figures have borne this distinguished name. While relatively uncommon in modern English-speaking countries, Heribert remains in use in Germanic regions, especially Germany and Austria. The name carries a dignified, traditional quality with its historical depth and strong consonants, appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic medieval European heritage and a serious, scholarly character.
- Hermann
Description:
Hermann is a masculine name of Germanic origin meaning 'army man' or 'warrior,' derived from the elements 'heri' (army) and 'mann' (man). This powerful name has deep historical roots, most notably associated with Hermann (or Arminius), the Germanic chieftain who defeated Roman legions in the Battle of Teutoburg Forest in 9 CE. Popular throughout Germany, Switzerland, and Scandinavia, the name has been borne by notable figures such as author Hermann Hesse and physicist Hermann von Helmholtz. While its usage has declined in recent decades, it maintains a classic, strong character. In English-speaking countries, the simplified spelling 'Herman' is more common, though the double 'n' version preserves its authentic Germanic heritage.
- Hervé
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"battle worthy"Description:
Hervé was a legendary French saint, patron of the blind, who performed many miracles -- it's a lot more sophisticated than the English Harvey.
- Hubert
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"bright, shining intellect"Description:
A name that sounds so old-fashioned some parents out there might conceivably find it quirky enough for a comeback, along with other one-time fuddie-duddies like Oscar and Homer.
- Hugues
Description:
Hugues is a masculine French name, the Gallic variant of Hugh, deriving from Germanic roots meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit.' Popular throughout medieval France among nobility and commoners alike, Hugues has maintained steady usage in French-speaking regions. The name carries an air of sophistication and classical European charm. Several notable bearers include French composers, politicians, and artists, adding to its cultural significance. While pronunciation (typically 'üg') may be challenging for English speakers, the name offers a distinguished alternative to the more common Hugh or Hugo. Hugues balances historical gravitas with a certain timeless elegance.
- 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.
- Humphrey
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"peaceful warrior"Description:
Humphrey is an old name that might have faded completely were it not for that Bogie flair. A royal name in Britain, where it's used somewhat more frequently, Humphrey might just have some life beyond Bogart here, especially with the recent interest in the names of Golden Age Hollywood stars. His first name was the maiden name of his mother, Maud Humphrey, a well-known illustrator who used baby H. as a model.
- Herluin
- Hildiun
- Hélias
- Jourdain
Origin:
French variation of Jordan
- Josselin
- Lambert
Origin:
French and GermanMeaning:
"land brilliant"Description:
Ancient saint's name used for cowardly cartoon lion.
- Lucien
Origin:
French form of LucianMeaning:
"light"Description:
Sophisticated Gallic version of Lucian, Lucien may appeal to parents attracted to this meaning over that of Lucas and Luke, which have a different root, and also looking for a more unusual choice.
- Lancelin
- Leotald
- Lietard
- Lothair
- Mathieu
Description:
Mathieu is the French form of Matthew, a masculine name with biblical origins derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of God' or 'gift from Yahweh.' This elegant French spelling maintains the name's religious significance while adding Gallic sophistication. Widely used in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland and Belgium, Mathieu combines classical heritage with contemporary appeal. The pronunciation (mat-YUH or mat-YOO) distinguishes it from the more common Matthew. Notable bearers include French artists, athletes, and musicians, adding cultural cachet to the name. Mathieu appeals to parents seeking a name with international flair that remains recognizable across cultures, offering a distinguished alternative to more common variants.
- Michel
Origin:
French form and German short form of Michael, HebrewMeaning:
"who is like God"Description:
While the (male) French form is pronounced in English like the girls' name Michelle and the German form had a hard k-like sound in the middle, this variation of Michael is distinguished by being used evenly for girls and boys in the U.S. For either gender, though, pronunciation issues will dominate.
- Miles
Origin:
English form of Milo, Latin and Old German,"soldier or merciful"Meaning:
"soldier or merciful"Description:
Miles, which has a permanent veneer of cool thanks to jazz great Miles Davis, is a confident and polished boys' name that's an American classic. Always ranking in the US Top 1000, it's been drifting up the charts for the past half century and now ranks at its highest point ever, in the Top 50.
- Manrique
- Milon
- Nicolas
Origin:
Spelling variation of NicholasMeaning:
"people of victory"Description:
Nicolas is the French and Spanish form, or streamlined spelling, of Nicholas, popularized by actor Nicolas Cage. Nicolas has been consistently on the charts since Social Security began releasing data, but the name did not truly take off until around the 70s. Today Nicolas is popular among Spanish and Portuguese-speaking parents, ranking in the Top 30 in Spain, Brazil, and Chile.
- Odo
Description:
Odo is an ancient Germanic masculine name with rich historical connections. Most famously associated with Odo of Bayeux, the medieval bishop who commissioned the famous Bayeux Tapestry, and Saint Odo of Cluny, a significant 10th-century monastic reformer. The name likely derives from Germanic roots meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune.' Odo has maintained a presence throughout European history but remains uncommon in modern usage, giving it a distinctive quality. In contemporary culture, the name gained some recognition through the character Odo in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Its brevity and strong 'O' sounds (pronounced OH-doh) give it a bold, memorable quality while its historical depth adds gravitas, appealing to parents seeking a rare name with substantial heritage.
- Osbern
Description:
Osbern is a masculine name of Old English and Norse origin, derived from the elements "os" (god) and "beorn" (warrior or bear). It was introduced to England during the Viking invasions and later reinforced by the Norman Conquest. Historically, Osbern was used among Anglo-Saxon and Norman nobility, though it gradually declined in use after the medieval period. The name evolved into the more common Osborn or Osborne, often preserved as surnames. Today, Osbern remains exceptionally rare as a given name, offering a distinctive option with deep historical roots. Its meaning connects to both divine power and natural strength, appealing to parents drawn to names with significant historical and etymological substance.
- Othon
Origin:
Greek form of OttoMeaning:
"wealth, fortune"Description:
A Greek form of the rising star Otto, Othon was brought to public consciousness when a Bavarian prince named Otto became the first modern king of Greece in 1832. It was briefly popular in France in the early 20th century and might appeal today, due to its relation to Otto, and its slight similarity to Ethan and Nathan.
- Otto
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"wealthy"Description:
Otto is cool again. Long a quintessential Old Man Name, Otto has been promoted to trending darling of adventurous baby namers.
- Pepin
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"awe-inspiring"Description:
Most famous as the name of King Pepin the Short, this choice might feel somewhat belittling. The even-shorter form is Pippin, a name adopted for musical theater, and the Dutch form Pepijn is in that country's Top 100.
- Perichon
- Pons
- Quesnac
- Raimond
Origin:
Estonian variation of Raymond, GermanMeaning:
"wise-protector"Description:
The short form, Raivo, is more common these days.
- Rainier
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"wise army"Description:
European royal name, and to Americans a place-name evoking the majestic mountain in Washington state.
- Ranulph
Origin:
Scottish variation of RandolphMeaning:
"shield-wolf"Description:
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.
- Raoul
Origin:
French variation of RalphMeaning:
"wolf-counsel"Description:
Raoul, with its unique three-vowel middle, rolls off the tongue in an appealing way. Raoul is one of the French names that sounds infinitely more romantic and attractive than the somewhat harsh English version Ralph.
- Renard
Origin:
French word nameMeaning:
"fox"
- Renaud
Origin:
French variation of ReginaldDescription:
Attractive if phonetically confusing; also pronounced exactly the same as the Renault car.
- Richer
Description:
Richer is a masculine name of Germanic and Old French origin, derived from the elements 'ric' meaning 'power' or 'ruler' and 'hari' meaning 'army.' As a personal name, it conveys strength and leadership. Historically used in medieval France and England, Richer was borne by several notable figures including Richer of Reims, a 10th-century historian. The name fell from common usage but has occasionally appeared as a surname or rare given name. Modern usage remains extremely uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. Richer carries connotations of prosperity and abundance due to its phonetic similarity to the English word 'richer,' though this connection is coincidental rather than etymological.
- Rudolph
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"famous wolf"Description:
Sure, he'd probably get a certain amount of red-nosed teasing around the holiday, but a boy named Rudolph could probably take it. Besides, he's got other, more distinguished namesakes -- the great ballet dancer Nureyev, silent screen Lothario Valentino and 9-11 Mayor Giuliani.
- Raimbard
- Reginar
- Rorico
- Roscelin
- Rostraing
- Rotrou
- Samson
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"sun"Description:
With the prevailing popularity of Samuel, some parents are considering this more (literally) powerful biblical name, which shares the desirable nickname of Sam.
- Simon
Origin:
Hebrew, GreekMeaning:
"he has heard; flat-nosed"Description:
Simon is pure and simple (not in the nursery rhyme sense), and an appealingly genuine Old and New Testament name that's not overused. These factors make Simon a stylish yet classic choice.
- Sigebert
- Siger
- Theobald
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"courageous people"Description:
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.
- Thibaud
Description:
Thibaud is a masculine French name derived from the Germanic elements 'theud' meaning 'people' or 'race' and 'bald' meaning 'bold' or 'brave.' This classic name, also spelled Thibaut or Thibault in French and related to Theobald in English, has deep historical roots in medieval France. It was borne by several Counts of Champagne during the Middle Ages, including Thibaud IV who was also King of Navarre and a noted poet-composer. The name carries an aristocratic air while maintaining a certain softness in pronunciation. While not among the most popular names in modern France, it retains an elegant, traditional appeal. Thibaud offers parents a name with substantial historical weight and French cultural connections, appealing to those seeking a distinctive yet established choice with noble associations.
- Thierry
Origin:
French variation of TheodoricMeaning:
"ruler of the people"Description:
Thierry, which is very popular in France, would make an interesting import; it's somewhat familiar through designer Thierry Mugler and international soccer star Thierry Henry. It almost sounds like Terry, but not quite.
- Thorold
Description:
Thorold is a masculine name of Old Norse and Anglo-Saxon origin, combining elements meaning 'Thor's power' or 'Thor's rule.' This ancient name honors Thor, the Norse god of thunder and strength. Thorold was brought to England during Viking invasions and became established among Anglo-Saxon nobility. Though rare today, it was moderately popular in medieval England, especially in areas with strong Norse influence. The name declined after the Norman Conquest but survived in family surnames and place names. Thorold carries an air of nobility, ancient wisdom, and rugged strength. Its uncommon status makes it distinctive for modern bearers, connecting them to ancient Germanic and Norse heritage.
- Thurston
Origin:
ScandinavianMeaning:
"Thor's stone"Description:
Shades of Thurston Howell, the effete millionaire castaway on Gilligan's Island.
- Toussaint
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"all saints"Description:
Has been used in the past by parents wishing to invoke the blessing and protection of all the saints, also given to boys born on November 1, All Saints' Day.
- Tristan
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"noise or sorrowful"Description:
Tristan -- known through medieval legend and Wagnerian opera -- has a slightly wistful, touching air. This, combined with the name's popular "an" ending, makes Tristan very appealing to parents seeking a more original alternative to Christian.
- Tertulle
- Turcheti
- Walter
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"army ruler"Description:
Walter was seen as a noble name in the Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Walter Scott era, but it then spent decades in baby name limbo. Now quite a few independent-minded parents are looking at it as a renewable, slightly quirky, classic, stronger and more distinctive than James or John, second only to William among the handsome classic boy baby names starting with W.
- Waleran
- Wulgrin
- Yves
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"yew wood"Description:
On paper, with its stylish ties to fashion legend Yves Saint-Laurent (born Henri), Yves looks great, but the pronunciation--EVE-- could lead to gender confusion. German variation Ivo might be cooler and clear up the issue.