Animal Names for Boys

Hopewell feels like it could be a Puritan-era virtue name, but it is actually a habitational surname. It is derived from Hopwell, from the Old English elements hop, meaning "valley," and well, "stream." Hopewell could easily be adapted into a first name, with Hope or Wells as nickname possibilities.

The Biblical Abijah might be temporarily lost to time, but this antiquated short form could move with it into the modern era.

Avdel is an obscure Old Testament name with a straightforward feel and sound and the fashionable A initial. One to consider if you want a highly unusual yet not difficult Hebrew or Biblical name.

Italian form of Gratian, the name of a Roman emperor who campaigned across the Rhine and favored Christianity over paganism. Graziano isn't common either in the English-speaking world or its native Italy, although the boxer Rocky Graziano adopted it from his grandfather's surname. In the current vogue for names ending in -o and Italian names, it may be worth a second look.

Eddard is a spin on Edward created by author George R.R. Martin for the Game of Thrones series. Eddard, usually known as Ned, Stark was the wise and good King of the North whose shocking murder at the end of the first season of the TV show set off years of chaos. While Eddard as a name may have more earthly ties than Sansa or Daenerys, it's linked firmly to the Game of Thrones franchise and will peg you as a fan.

Swedish and Norwegian form of the Old Norse name Asketill.

The Arthur variation preferred in Portugal and across much of Eastern Europe. It’s a truly international name, and one that would be easy to wear in the US as well.

Obscure, though legitimate, name that could be used to honor a relative named Barton or Martin.

Takes Edwin one step -- make that ten steps -- too far.

This colorful Sanskrit name belongs to the Hindu god Aruna, the charioteer who drives the sun god Surya across the sky. Aruna can also be masculinized to Arun.

The most minimalist of names, Ed is decidedly out -- though that usually means it's due to swing back in. More stylish these days: Ned or even Ted.

A worldly and attractive choice for a child of any background. Two early New World explorers were Hernandos — de Soto and Cortés.

Older form of Helge, and a masculine form of Helga.

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

Though you might think you were honoring baseball's Ken Griffey, most people would think you were using a term of endearment for GRIFFIN or GRIFFITH.

With word names, almost anything goes. But maybe not Ghost, unless you're naming a white dog.