Animal Names for Boys

  1. Alphonsus
    • Origin:

      Latin form of Alfonso
    • Meaning:

      "noble and ready"
    • Description:

      This Latinized form of a name that's well used in Italy and Spain is sometimes heard, oddly enough, in Ireland.
  2. Busby
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "shrub farm"
    • Description:

      A busby is the English name for the fur military headdress originally worn by the Hungarian hussars. As a first name, Busby is also the unique name of iconic movie choreographer Busby Berkeley.
  3. Fiore
    • Description:

      Fiore is a masculine name with Italian origins, literally meaning 'flower' in Italian. This lyrical name carries artistic and natural connotations, reflecting beauty and growth. Though traditionally more common in Italy and other Italian-speaking regions, Fiore has gained some international recognition as parents increasingly seek names with cultural depth and melodic quality. The name has a gentle yet dignified presence, balancing masculine strength with aesthetic elegance. While not widely popular in English-speaking countries, it represents a growing trend toward borrowing poetic names from other languages. For those with Italian heritage or an appreciation for Italian culture, Fiore offers a distinctive option that honors these connections while remaining accessible.
  4. Corbinian
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "crow/raven"
    • Description:

      A subtle nature name which would nevertheless make for a bold choice, saint’s name Corbinian derives from Latin corvus ("crow; raven"). It’s a traditional yet rare choice in parts of southern Germany, where it’s usually spelt Korbinian.
  5. Cree
    • Origin:

      Native American
    • Description:

      This Native American tribe name is an attractive option for a boy or a girl. Tia Mowry used it for her son in 2011.
  6. Buff
    • Origin:

      Modern nickname, also color name
    • Description:

      Has too many slangy connotations to be considered.
  7. Ion
    • Origin:

      Romanian and Basque variation of John
    • Description:

      A cross between Ian and a group of atomic particles.
  8. Haman
    • Origin:

      Persian
    • Meaning:

      "illustrious"
    • Description:

      Whatever its merits as a name, Haman is a Biblical villain, a member of the Persian king's court who plotted to slaughter the Jews. His plan was foiled by Queen Esther and Haman was hanged. Not a role model you want for your child.
  9. Azir
    • Description:

      Azir is a powerful, concise masculine name with multiple cultural connections. It may relate to the Arabic name Aziz, meaning 'powerful' or 'respected,' or could be associated with the Hebrew name Ezer, meaning 'help' or 'support.' The name has gained some recognition in modern times through a character in the popular video game League of Legends, potentially contributing to its contemporary appeal. With its strong 'z' sound and brief two-syllable structure, Azir carries a dynamic, distinctive quality that feels both ancient and modern simultaneously. Though relatively uncommon in Western naming practices, it fits well with the trend toward short, powerful-sounding names with multicultural resonance. The name's exotic feel combined with its straightforward pronunciation makes Azir an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name that sounds distinguished and unique without being difficult.

  10. Aureli
    • Origin:

      Polish variation of Aurelius
    • Meaning:

      "golden"
    • Description:

      Along with Aureliusz, Aureli is a Polish form of Aurelius, a Ancient Roman name meaning golden, and made most familiar in the form of emperor Marcus Aurelius.
  11. Adnan
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "settler"
    • Description:

      Adnan in the Muslim religion was an ancestor of Muhammad. More recently, the name was introduced to many Westerners via Adnan Syed, the young man at the center of the sensational Serial podcast.
  12. Azizi
    • Origin:

      Swahili
    • Meaning:

      "precious treasure"
    • Description:

      Two z's equal double pizzazz.
  13. Caetano
    • Origin:

      Portuguese
    • Meaning:

      "from Gaeta"
    • Description:

      The attractive Portuguese form of Gaëtan/Gaetano, meaning "from Gaeta" (a town in ancient Italy).
  14. Fairfax
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "blond"
    • Description:

      If this name makes you think of Victorian novels, it's because Fairfax was part of Mr Rochester's name in Jane Eyre, and the surname of a minor character in Jane Austen's Emma. It has a distinctly aristocratic feel, despite its straightforward meaning. Fairfax is also a city in Virginia.
  15. Colsen
    • Origin:

      Variation of Colson, English
    • Meaning:

      "son of Nicholas"
    • Description:

      Author Colson Whitehead put his name on the map, and now variations such as Colsen and Colsyn are shooting up along with it.
  16. Dartagnan
    • Origin:

      French fictional name
    • Meaning:

      "From Artagnan"
    • Description:

      The name of the protagonist of a trio of novels by French author Alexandre Dumas, most notably The Three Musketeers. D’Artagnan is an aspiring musketeer who travels to Paris in search of fortune and adventure. The character is based on real-life musketeer Charles Ogier de Batz de Castelmore, Comte d’Artagnan. Artagnan is a small village in southwest France.
  17. Harland
    • Description:

      Harland is a masculine name of Old English origin meaning 'hare land' or 'land of the hares,' referring to an area populated by these animals. As a traditional surname that transitioned to a first name, Harland has a dignified, classic quality. It reached modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, partly due to the influence of industrialist Harland Sanders (better known as Colonel Sanders of KFC fame). The name conveys strength and reliability, with its solid consonants and connection to the land. While never extremely common, Harland maintains steady usage among parents drawn to vintage names with natural associations. The nickname 'Harley' offers a more casual alternative for everyday use.

  18. Artair
    • Origin:

      Scottish Gaelic form of Arthur, Celtic
    • Meaning:

      "bear"
    • Description:

      A surprisingly rare form of Arthur that rings more Scottish, and lends itself easily to Art as a nickname.
  19. Averill
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "boar battle"
    • Description:

      Averill is an ancient name, most properly spelled Averil, that has a Boston Brahmin air – probably due to the image of statesman Averill Harriman. It's of the rare English surname names that originally derived from a female given name: Eoforhild (Everild), meaning "boar battle".
  20. Bingo
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Description:

      A name best for pets.