Animal Names for Boys

Gediminas is derived from the Lithuanian elements gedauti, meaning "grieve," and minėti, "to celebrate" or "to mention." The most famous bearer of the name is Gediminas, Grand Duke of Lithuania from 1316–1341. Many consider him the true founder of Lithuania, and baby boys are often named in his honor.

An archaic French form of the name Ingram, itself a rare, attractive last name option.

Leans toward the feminine, but could work for boys too.

Akif is derived from the Arabic word iʿtikāf, the practice of staying in the mosque for days, devoted to worship. It is commonly associated with the month of Ramadan.

An upbeat English word name with a Puritanical feel, famously borne by Zulu king Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who reigned for over 50 years until his death in 2021.

Despite its virtuous meaning, Fergall - along with the more standard spellings Fergal, Ferghal and Fearghal - has never made it across the ocean. In the States, Fergall is a rare yet pronounceable name with strong ties to Ireland. In its native land, it's been worn for over a thousand years by everyone from chieftains to poets to sportsmen, and still appears steadily in birth records.

This country name has come into steady use for girls in recent decades, and it's occasionally given to boys too. With interest in other -land names like Leland and Roland, we can see this patriotic heritage choice becoming more gender-balanced.

If you're not finding Nemo unusual enough, consider the even more eccentric Emo, which may have been invented by comedian Emo Philips.

Beekman is derived from the Dutch element beke, meaning "stream" or "creek."