Animal Names for Boys

Eilo is one of the few masculine names to derive from a feminine one. It comes from Eila, the Norwegian variation of Elina.

Akari is a feminine name in Japan but gender-neutral in the US, with a slight edge as a masculine name.

We think, probably, most parents who name their sons Alias are using it as a variation of Elias.

Originally a short form of Odell, a place name turned surname that hails from England.

This evocative name of a dramatic tropical Indian fig tree is ready to move west.

Variation of Derek.

Like Cerulean, one of the new and unusual color names -- it's a soft grayish green -- suitable for a boy.

An everyday name in France, a charismatic possibility here.

Leathery, masculine image, complete with user-friendly short form.

Might make a worthy masculine spin on either of the uber popular Emma or Emily.

This is the Turkish form of Alif, the name of the first letter of the Arabic alphabet. Actor Natalie Portman gave another spelling to her son, Aleph. Elif can also mean "slender", from the Turkish phrase elif gibi, literally "shaped like Elif."

Eilon, a fraternal twin of the name Elon, was the Biblical grandson of Jacob. A rare name, Elon is getting some recent notice thanks to Tesla maker Elon Musk.

Dagger is one of the new badass baby names, a sharp and scary choice that some parents may feel arm their child for battle in a cruel modern world.

The name of the Roman god of love, the son of Venus, considered so romantic as to be unfit for mere mortals. Yet now that Romeo and Venus herself are fair game for modern babies, why not Cupid?

Rockers Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz put a new baby name on the map when they chose this downscale New York borough name for their son. The Bronx, the place, was named for early Dutch settler Jonas Bronck. Might Bronx become the next Brooklyn? We'd be surprised if it did.

Popular among Hispanic parents, it explains the source of the nickname Gonzo.

This occupational surname could find new life with those wishing to honor someone in their heritage who was connected to the tough-as-nails breed that was the pre-modern coal miner. Coll and Collie are some sweet nickname options to tone down the formality of this name.

Unusual alternative to Fisher with a brisker surname appeal.

Much stronger than Dale for a boy.