Ending in -ine for boys
- Peregrine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"traveler, pilgrim"Description:
Peregrine is considered to be an elegantly aristocratic name in England, but has never made it to the U.S., where it has been seen as extravagantly eccentric. In the new naming climate, though, it's not beyond consideration — in fact it's already been chosen by at least one Berry.
- Constantine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"steadfast"Description:
This Roman Emperor's name has long been considered too grand for an American boy. But in this era of children named Augustine and Atticus, it just may be prime for an unlikely comeback.
- Valentine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
Valentine is an attractive Shakespearean name with romantic associations, but those very ties to the saint and the sentimental holiday have sent it into a decline, one which we think may be about to turn around.
- 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.
- Blaine
Origin:
Irish and ScottishMeaning:
"yellow"Description:
Attractive Scottish and Irish surname name of a seventh-century saint, associated with the illusionist and escape artist David Blaine.
- Carmine
Origin:
Latin, English, ItalianMeaning:
"vivid red; garden, song"Description:
This Italian name could have a whole new life when viewed as a color name, however, it is traditionally a masculine form of Carmen, pronounced with three lilting syllables. Both provide an arty, distinctive feel, though in different ways.
- Antoine
Origin:
French variation of AnthonyMeaning:
"priceless one"Description:
Antoine is a venerable French name that is still stylish in its native habitat, where it is in the Top 30. In the US, it was most popular in the 1970s and '80s, reaching Number 262 in 1985.
- Cymbeline
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"sun lord or sun hound"Description:
The title of a Shakespeare play based on legends featuring the early Celtic King Cunobelinus, whose name derives from the Gaulish sun god Belenus.
- Caine
Description:
Caine is a masculine name with multiple origins and meanings. In Welsh traditions, it derives from 'cain' meaning 'beautiful' or 'fair,' while some associate it with the biblical figure Cain. The name has gained modest popularity as a contemporary alternative to similar-sounding names like Kane or Kaine. Its single-syllable strength gives it a bold, memorable quality that appeals to parents seeking a masculine name with impact. Caine has literary and pop culture connections, appearing in works ranging from classic literature to modern films. The spelling with the '-e' ending distinguishes it slightly from the biblical Cain, potentially softening controversial associations while maintaining the name's strong sound and visual appeal.
- Erskine
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"from the high cliffs"Description:
Rarely used un-Gaelic-sounding Scottish name with literary associations to Erskine Caldwell, author of Tobacco Road and God's Little Acre.
- Irvine
Description:
Irvine is a masculine name derived from a Scottish place name and surname, ultimately from Celtic origins meaning 'green water' or 'fresh water,' referring to the River Irvine in Ayrshire, Scotland. As a first name, Irvine gained modest popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in Scottish communities and among those with Scottish heritage. Notable bearers include American author Irvine Welsh and basketball hall-of-famer Irvine Clifton Turner, lending the name cultural resonance. Though never reaching mainstream popularity, Irvine maintains appeal as a distinguished name with clear geographic roots. It offers parents a distinctive option with authentic Scottish heritage while avoiding the more common Celtic names. The name carries connotations of natural beauty and freshness through its water-related meaning.
- Aureline
Description:
Aureline is an uncommon masculine name with Latin origins, derived from "aureus" meaning "golden" or "gilded." It's related to the more familiar feminine name Aurelia and the masculine Aurelius, names that were popular in ancient Rome. Aureline suggests qualities of brightness, value, and radiance. While not widely used in modern times, it carries an elegant, somewhat aristocratic quality. The name may appeal to parents seeking something distinctive with classical roots. Aureline shares connections with other gold-related names like Aurelia, Aurelio, and Orion. Its rarity gives it a unique quality while still retaining recognizable linguistic elements and a melodious sound.
- Ravine
Origin:
Nature nameMeaning:
"chasm, gulley"Description:
A dramatic nature name which calls to mind wild rocky landscapes and mountaineering.
- Craine
Description:
Craine is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a surname that originally referred to someone who lived near a crane habitat or perhaps someone tall and slender like the bird. It may also relate to medieval occupational surnames connected to cranes used in construction. This uncommon name carries a distinguished, somewhat aristocratic sound with its long vowel and crisp ending. Craine possesses a rare quality of being both traditional in structure yet unusual in usage. The name evokes imagery of the graceful crane bird, symbolizing longevity and wisdom in many cultures, while its strong one-syllable sound gives it a bold, memorable presence.
- Daine
Description:
Daine is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may function as a variant spelling of Dane, relating to someone of Danish heritage, or as a diminutive of biblical names like Daniel. In some contexts, it could connect to the Irish surname Deane or the French word "daine" referring to a female deer. The name has a strong, concise sound while maintaining a certain softness through its pronunciation. Though relatively uncommon, Daine offers an interesting alternative to more popular names like Dane or Dean. Its simplified spelling and clear pronunciation make it accessible across language barriers. The name projects qualities of strength and gentleness simultaneously, appealing to parents seeking a brief yet distinctive name for their son.
- Pine
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Worthy sibling for Oak, Elm, Juniper, and Spruce.
- Soutine
Origin:
French artist nameDescription:
Creative choice relating to the Lithuanian-born expressionist painter known for his bold, vibrantly colored canvases.
- Germaine
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"from Germany"Description:
This French feminine version of Germain is a unisex choice in the U.S., also spelled Jermaine, Jemaine, and Germain. Rooted in the ancient Latin Germanus, which may mean sprout or brother, it's no longer a fashionable choice in any version.
- Boine
Description:
Boine is an unusual masculine name with obscure origins. It may derive from Old French 'boin' (good), or could be related to Scottish place names or clan associations. Alternatively, it might be connected to the Irish surname Boyne, which refers to the River Boyne in Ireland. The name has a compact, distinctive sound with just two syllables (BOY-n). Boine remains extremely rare in usage, with virtually no appearance in mainstream naming records. This obscurity makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking truly unique names, though its unfamiliarity might lead to pronunciation questions and spelling corrections. The name carries a certain strength despite its brevity.
- Efraine
Description:
Efraine is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Efrain, which itself derives from the Hebrew name Ephraim. In biblical tradition, Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name means 'fruitful,' 'productive,' or 'fertile' in Hebrew. Efraine remains extremely rare in English-speaking countries but may have more usage in Hispanic communities. The alternative spelling with the final 'e' gives the name a slightly distinctive quality while maintaining its multicultural heritage. Despite its rarity, Efraine carries rich historical and biblical significance while offering the friendly nickname options of 'Ef' or 'Raine.' The name balances cultural tradition with a somewhat unusual presentation that sets it apart from more common biblical choices.
