Boy Names Are Hard!!

Acacius is a Latinized form of the Ancient Greek Akakios and can be interpreted to relate to the same root as the name Acacia, for the thorn bush, or Akakios which means "not evil." With the modern taste for ancient names that end in "us," this obscure but attractive choice may have a chance of new life. Acacius is the name of three early saints.

Fritzchen is a masculine name of German origin, representing an affectionate diminutive form of Fritz, which itself is a familiar short form of Friedrich. The name Friedrich means "peaceful ruler," derived from German elements "frid" (peace) and "ric" (ruler, power). The suffix "-chen" in German indicates smallness or endearment, similar to adding "-y" or "-ie" in English. Traditionally, Fritzchen would be used as a nickname for a young boy named Fritz, conveying fondness and familiarity. While uncommon as a formal given name, it carries charming German cultural connections. The name might appeal to families with German heritage seeking to honor their cultural roots. Despite its rarity, Fritzchen has a distinct and recognizable Germanic character.

Gentle meaning and bona fide Hebrew history, but feels old-mannish, like Herman and Menashe.

Like Horace, Horatio is a variation on the Latin Horatius, but its Shakespearean and optimistic Horatio Alger pedigree makes it an attractive up-and-comer, especially with its cool final o. A modern reference is the charismatic TV character Horatio Caine played by David Caruso in CSI: Miami.

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.

Matthaus is a masculine name of German origin, being the German form of Matthew. Derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of Yahweh' or 'gift of God,' it carries strong biblical connections to the apostle and evangelist. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Matthaus enjoys greater popularity in German-speaking regions and parts of Europe. The name gained additional recognition through Johann Sebastian Bach's famous St. Matthew Passion (Matthäus-Passion) and notable bearers like German footballer Lothar Matthäus. The name combines traditional religious gravitas with a distinctive European flair, offering parents a sophisticated alternative to the more common Matthew while honoring German or European heritage.

Seeley is a Medieval surname with a happy, fortunate meaning.

This early Scottish title -- known to us via Shakespeare's Macbeth -- has recently surfaced as a baby name possibility, familiar sounding through its similarity to names like Zane and Wayne.

Theodoric feels prehistoric, though with short form Theo one of the hottest names around, this old German names for boys may soon feel new again.