Animal Names for Boys
- Araf
Description:
Araf is a masculine name with roots in multiple cultures. In Arabic, it means 'recognition' or 'understanding,' and refers to a place between heaven and hell mentioned in the Quran. In Welsh tradition, 'Araf' means 'slow' or 'gentle.' The name also appears in Bengali and other South Asian cultures with various meanings including 'ascent' or 'height.' Araf is relatively uncommon as a given name globally but has seen some usage in Muslim communities, parts of the UK with Welsh influence, and in Bangladesh. Its cross-cultural nature makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with international resonance. The name's brevity and easy pronunciation in multiple languages add to its accessibility.
- Gussy
Description:
Gussy is a playful masculine name that originated as a diminutive of names like Augustus, Angus, or Gustav. With Latin and Germanic origins through these parent names, Gussy carries connotations of "respected," "one strength," or "staff of the Goths" depending on which root name it stems from. Historically, it functioned primarily as an affectionate nickname rather than a formal given name. Gussy has a cheerful, familiar quality that evokes a bygone era, particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Though uncommon as a standalone name today, its vintage charm appeals to those seeking names with a nostalgic, friendly character. The name's light-hearted sound contrasts with the gravitas of its potential origin names.
- Elijuah
Description:
Elijuah is a contemporary variation of the Hebrew name Elijah, which means 'Yahweh is my God.' This modern spelling adaptation maintains the biblical significance of the original while offering a distinctive twist with the addition of the letter 'u.' Though uncommon in historical records, Elijuah emerged in recent decades as parents sought unique alternatives to traditional biblical names. The name carries the gravitas of its biblical predecessor—an important prophet in the Old Testament—while its modified spelling creates a subtle point of differentiation. Despite its rarity, Elijuah remains recognizable and shares the rising popularity of other forms of Elijah.
- Alaster
Description:
Alaster is a masculine name of Scottish origin, representing a variant of Alasdair or Alastair, which themselves derive from Alexander. The name ultimately traces back to Greek roots meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This less common spelling preserves the traditional Scottish pronunciation while giving the name a slightly distinctive written form. Alaster carries the noble associations of its related names, evoking images of Scottish highlands and clan heritage. Though never extremely popular, it has maintained consistent if limited usage among those with Scottish connections or those appreciating its combination of strength and sophistication. The name offers the friendly nickname options of Al or Ally while maintaining its distinguished full form.
- Ibhar
Description:
Ibhar is a masculine name with ancient Hebrew origins, appearing in biblical texts as one of King David's sons. The name means 'He chooses' or 'election,' suggesting divine selection or choosing. Despite its biblical heritage, Ibhar remains quite rare in contemporary use, making it an uncommon choice with deep historical roots. The name has a distinctive, strong sound with just two syllables, and its unusual nature may appeal to parents seeking a name with spiritual significance that stands apart from more common biblical choices. In various cultures where biblical names are valued, Ibhar might be appreciated for its authentic scriptural connection and meaningful etymology, though its rarity means most people will be unfamiliar with it.
- Cergio
Description:
Cergio is a distinctive male name with primarily Italian and Spanish roots. Though relatively uncommon, it appears to be a creative variation of the more familiar Sergio, which derives from the Roman family name Sergius. The name may have connections to Latin "serviens" meaning "to serve" or could reference St. Sergius, an early Christian martyr. Cergio has a melodic quality with its soft 'c' sound and flowing syllables, giving it a sophisticated European flair. While not widely used in mainstream naming trends, Cergio offers parents seeking a unique name with a classically Mediterranean feel an interesting alternative to more common variants. Its rarity gives the name a distinctive character while maintaining recognizable linguistic roots.
- Heywood
Description:
Heywood is a masculine name of English origin, derived from a surname referring to 'the enclosed forest' or 'fenced wood' in Old English. As a given name, Heywood emerged from the English tradition of using family surnames as first names, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While never extremely common, it gained some recognition through notable bearers like American filmmaker Heywood Gould and jazz musician Heywood Henry. The name conveys qualities of stability, tradition, and natural strength. It has an aristocratic English feel with its connection to land ownership and geography. Though Heywood has declined in usage in recent decades, it retains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive name with Anglo-Saxon roots and woodland associations.
- Deaire
Description:
Deaire is a unique and modern masculine name with limited documented history. It may be a creative variation of names like Daire (an Irish name meaning 'oak tree') or a contemporary invented name combining elements like 'De' (suggesting 'of' in Romance languages) with 'aire' (potentially evoking air or a lofty quality). The name is exceptionally rare in usage statistics, making it a distinctive choice that stands out. This rarity gives Deaire an exclusive quality while its soft sound profile balances nicely with its masculine attribution. Parents choosing Deaire may appreciate its uniqueness and the blank slate it provides for their child to define their own identity.
- Benjemín
Description:
Benjemín is a masculine name that represents a Spanish language variation of Benjamin, with a slight spelling modification that affects pronunciation by emphasizing the final syllable. Like its more common counterpart, Benjemín derives from the Hebrew 'Binyamin,' meaning 'son of the right hand' or 'son of the south.' This variation is found primarily in Spanish-speaking regions, particularly in Latin America. While less common than the standard Benjamin spelling, Benjemín offers a distinctive cultural connection to Hispanic heritage while maintaining the same biblical roots and historical significance. The name references the youngest son of Jacob in the Old Testament. Despite its relative rarity, Benjemín shares the friendly, approachable associations of Benjamin while offering a pronunciation more aligned with Spanish language patterns.
- Heremon
Description:
Heremon is a rare masculine name with ancient Irish origins, derived from the legendary first Milesian king of Ireland, Éremón. In Irish mythology, Éremón was one of the sons of Míl Espáine who conquered Ireland from the Tuatha Dé Danann. The name carries strong associations with leadership, nobility, and Celtic heritage. Pronounced roughly as "HER-e-mon" or "AIR-e-mon," it has remained extremely uncommon in modern usage, making it a distinctive choice. The name conveys a sense of historical significance and mythological power. For parents with Irish heritage seeking a name with deep cultural roots and regal connotations, Heremon offers an unusual option with substantial historical weight and Celtic character.
- Barna
Origin:
Hungarian, Albanian, Aramaic, "brown; harvest, fertility; song of the prophet"Meaning:
"brown; harvest, fertility; song of the prophet"Description:
Barna is a masculine name with rich multicultural roots. In Hungarian tradition, it means 'brown' and functions as both a surname and given name, while in Hindi contexts, it relates to color, caste, or character.
- Benício
Description:
Benício is a masculine name of Portuguese and Brazilian origin, derived from the Latin name Benedictus, meaning 'blessed.' Popular throughout Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil, the name carries both traditional roots and contemporary appeal. Benício has seen increased usage in Brazil in recent decades, appreciated for its melodic quality and positive meaning. The name offers the friendly nickname Ben while maintaining its distinctive character. In Brazil, actor Murilo Benício has helped raise awareness of the name. While still uncommon in English-speaking countries, Benício represents a warm, approachable option for parents seeking a name with Latin roots, international recognition, and a gentle yet masculine quality.
- Gahan
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"the Lord is gracious"Description:
Rare Scottish variant of John, with multicultural overtones.
- Hume
Origin:
Scottish variation of HolmesDescription:
Distinguished actor Hume Cronyn (who shared his father's name) put this unusual choice in the lexicon.
- Flórián
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"flowering"Description:
Polish version of Florian.
- Danial
Description:
Danial is a variant spelling of Daniel, a masculine name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my judge.' This alternate spelling maintains the same pronunciation while offering a slightly distinctive written form. The biblical Daniel was known for his wisdom and interpretation of dreams, particularly in the lion's den story, giving the name strong religious associations across Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Danial has been consistently used throughout history but remains less common than the traditional spelling. While especially popular in Muslim communities as a form of the Arabic Danyal (دانيال), this spelling variant appears across various cultures. The name conveys qualities of wisdom, faith, and integrity, regardless of its spelling.
- Corbit
Description:
Corbit is a masculine name with English origins, derived from the Old French word 'corbet' meaning 'little raven' or 'crow.' It may also be a variant of the surname Corbett, which was traditionally given to people who lived near a dark wood or forest associated with ravens. This uncommon name carries a distinctive sound that combines strength and uniqueness. While never particularly widespread, Corbit has maintained a quiet presence throughout history, appealing to parents seeking a rare name with historical roots. Its association with the intelligent raven gives it a subtle connection to wisdom and cleverness in folklore.
- Estefon
Description:
Estefon is a masculine name that appears to be a variant of the more common 'Esteban,' the Spanish form of Stephen, ultimately derived from the Greek 'Stephanos' meaning 'crown' or 'garland.' This variation gives the traditional name a unique twist while maintaining its recognizable roots. Estefon carries a sophisticated, international quality with its blend of familiar sounds and distinctive spelling. The name remains rare in English-speaking countries, making it a standout choice for parents seeking something with cultural depth yet uncommon. Its three syllables create a rhythmic, melodic quality when spoken. While unusual, the name's connection to the widely recognized Stephen family of names provides it with a sense of legitimacy and history despite its modern feel.
- Brucey
Description:
Brucey is an affectionate diminutive form of the masculine name Bruce. Bruce itself has Scottish origins, derived from the Norman place name 'Bruis' or 'Brix' in Normandy, France. The name gained significant recognition through Scotland's King Robert the Bruce (1274-1329). Brucey represents the addition of the diminutive suffix '-y' which creates a more endearing, youthful variation. This nickname form is typically used informally rather than as an official given name on birth certificates. While Bruce enjoyed peak popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, the diminutive Brucey is less common as a legal name. It carries a friendly, approachable quality that often remains as a childhood nickname.
- Dimitros
Description:
Dimitros is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing a variation of the more common Dimitris or Dimitrios. These names derive from Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest, ultimately meaning 'follower of Demeter' or 'earth-lover.' Dimitros retains the strong Mediterranean roots of its source names while offering a slightly unique spelling. The name is especially prevalent in Greek communities and throughout the Mediterranean region but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. With its strong consonants and rhythmic syllables, Dimitros conveys a sense of classical strength and cultural heritage, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and distinctive character.