Animal Names for Boys

Heinz has become a cartoonish German name, prone to ketchup teasing.

Meaning "golden flower", this name was borne by a semi-legendary 3rd century saint.

Rhythmic, strong, and buoyant.

Kit and Topher are the Christopher nicknames du jour, thanks to actors Harington and Grace. But now that Chris is feeling less ubiquitous, this jaunty Scottish and Irish short form has a certain charm.

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.

A decade or two ago, we might have stopped with Blake, but today the surname Blakely or Blakeley sounds more modern as a first name.

Since this is a word that pertains to cowardice, not the most appealing choice. Raven, Arven, and Haven might be more positive options for those drawn to the name by its sound.

Futuristic, in a 1930s kind of way.

Anas is an Arabic name uncommon in the US -- it was given to 130 baby boys last year -- but popular in Spain, England and Wales, Italy, and especially France.

A late Roman saint's name that feels perfect for a Thanksgiving baby.

Dugan is an open, friendly, and cheery Irish surname that would be suited to a dark-haired boy.

A sweet French pet name from the name of a popular cartoon character.

The surname Bennington denoted someone from one of three towns name Ben(n)ington in England, all meaning "town by the Beane river." The river name Beane was derived from Beonna, an Old English given name.

Much less intimidating than the formal form, Aaprahami.

Gyatso is a highly meaningful name in Tibetan Buddhism. It is added to the name of each Dalai Lama ⁠— the current one is Tenzin Gyatso. It is a translation of the title Dalai, which means "ocean" or "big" in Mongolian.