Invented Boy Names

Once strictly a surname--Chasen's was an old Hollywood hangout--it's now catching on as a first name, both as an elaboration of the popular CHASE, and in following the pattern of popular two-syllable boys' names.

Kallen is a versatile masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Irish surname Ó Cathalán, meaning 'descendant of Cathalan,' ultimately from 'cath' meaning 'battle.' Alternatively, it could be a variation of Kellen, with Germanic roots meaning 'powerful' or 'mighty.' In Finnish, the word 'kallen' relates to 'precious' or 'valuable.' The name gained some recognition through the anime character Kallen Stadtfeld from 'Code Geass.' With its strong consonants and modern sound, Kallen appeals to parents seeking a contemporary name with potential historical connections. Though still uncommon in most English-speaking countries, its familiarity to names like Cullen and Kellan makes it accessible.

One part fantastical literary invention and one part Ancient Greek, Atreyus is a new and rising name for boys. It's could be viewed as a combination of Atreus, an Ancient Greek name, and Atreyu, created by German author Michael Ende for his novel The Neverending Story.

Stevie Wonder was born Steveland, but it's not likely that many other babies will follow.

Also found as Brason, this is one of an army of Jason sound-alikes, which include Cason, Mason, Kaysen, and so on. Stylish, yes; recommended, no.

Kal-El is Superman's Kryptonian name, invented by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938 as the birth name of the superhero. Some theorize that it relates to Hebrew characters with the meaning "voice of God", while others give the meaning as "son" or "Earth one".

While Oakley is remarkable even in terms of girl-boy distribution, the Oaklee spelling variation is used much more often on girls.

See TADEN.

Ayven is a modern masculine name with a distinctive sound that combines elements of popular names like Aiden and Evan. While its exact origins are unclear, it likely emerged as a contemporary variation of similar-sounding names. The name has gained modest popularity in recent years as parents seek unique alternatives to common names. With its blend of familiar sounds and unconventional spelling, Ayven appeals to parents looking for a name that feels both accessible and distinctive. The name carries a contemporary vibe and works well in multicultural contexts. Its rising usage reflects broader trends toward creative spellings and modern-sounding names for boys.

Tyler, with zest.

Braelyn just barely qualifies as a unisex name, being used for girls over 89 percent of the time.

Enough parents have appreciated this combinations of the sounds from Brayden and Jaylen to make it a widely used name. Its most noted bearer is former football player Braylon Edwards.

Though it's a new name, sounds almost as dated as GARY and DARREN.

One of the oft-mocked Zappa kid names; it supposedly was a nickname his father had for his wife's pinkie toe.

Has lots of energy, perhaps due to its association with top tap dancer Savion Glover.

Khamari is a modern masculine name with African roots, particularly from Swahili origins. The name can be interpreted to mean 'moon' in some contexts, though interpretations vary. It's gained popularity in the United States since the 2000s as parents have sought distinctive names with cultural connections. Khamari offers a balance of uniqueness and accessibility, featuring melodic sounds with its three syllables and flowing rhythm. Often associated with qualities like strength and spirituality, Khamari represents a contemporary choice that stands out without being difficult to pronounce. The name has shown steady but modest usage, appealing to parents looking for a name that's uncommon while still feeling familiar and warm in tone.

This rising name, possibly a variation of the Irish Kian, has been associated with several accomplished athletes.

Even less popular than the rarely-used Deangelo. This spelling is likely helped by singer-songwriter and record producer D'Angelo.

Though it appears as if it could be Irish, Cilan is an invented name from the Pokemon universe, derived directly from the word "cilantro."