Animal Names for Boys

An old Irish surname that was big in the 1960s, but would be an unexpected choice for a child now.

Surname of a noted modern Urdu poet.

Think of this as the Hebrew equivalent of Benedict or Benito; best for observant Jews.

The last name of folksinger Joan is melodic in its own right.

Guadalupe is a river in Spain, the name of which is derived from the Arabic phrase Wad-al-lubb, meaning "hidden river." Alternatively, it may come from a combination of the Arabic word wadi, meaning "valley" or "river," and the Latin lupus, "wolf."

French variant of Isaiah

Blewett is related to the Middle English words bluet, referring to a blue woolen cloth, and bleuet, meaning "cornflower." Its use as a surname was likely influenced by Blewett's status as a nickname for people with blue eyes, as well as those who often wore blue clothing.

Logan came from nowhere in the past few decades to break the Top 25, and Hogan is a good bet to follow, now that "Hogan's Heroes" has faded from memory.

Now that Camilla is super popular, why not consider the male version? It's been the name of dozens of prominent Italians -- including a 16th century pope -- throughout history, and Shakespeare used for a Sicilian nobleman in The Winter's Tale.

Greek and French form of Apollo, son of Zeus and Leto and the twin of Artemis in Greek mythology. He was the god of prophecy, medicine, music, art, law, beauty, and wisdom, also associated with the sun and light.

Diehard World War II buffs may be interested in this name as a reference to American combat medic Desmond Doss, the first conscientious objector to be awarded the metal of honor. But it carries a host of negative connotations in the U.K., especially in Scotland, related to laziness and the shirking of work.

A Roman family name, the origin of Emil.

Son of Zeus known for musical abilities, an edgy choice for music-minded families.

Not a traditional biblical choice, but the Philistine giant isn't a bad character as such, just a champion fighter who lost to the underdog. He has given his name to everything from insect species to roller coasters. In a time when we're seeing more biblical names with chequered associations — Leviathan and Cain spring to mind — Goliath may appeal to some.

A cute Welsh name with a strong meaning. This was the name of a 6th-century Welsh saint who founded Caergybi, or Holyhead in English.