Middle Names for Boys (with Meanings and Popularity)

This unusual English word name and surname was the middle name of American sci-fi writer Philip K. Dick, after his mother's maiden name. Its striking sound and appealing meaning make it a promising virtue name possibility for either gender.

Lorca is a Spanish place name from the province of Navarre, but more famous as the last name of the eminent Spanish poet and playwright Federico Garcia Lorca, who was the direct inspiration for the name of Leonard Cohen's daughter Lorca.

Very occasionally given to boys born on that day; Noel is a more common name for Christmas babies.

Like True, a virtuous word name, but a little more awkward. In Trust we trust.

A bit too cunning.

The name of the most renowned of the Old Masters is a potential option for families who put an emphasis on the creative. Rembrandt Peale was a member of the Peale family of painters, all named for famous artists.

For basketball fans, in honor of Magic Johnson. Or anyone who believes in magic.

In the US this is likely to conjure zebras, lions and elephants on the Serengeti, but its original meaning "journey" broadens its wearability. Safari is a name common in Africa for babies born while their parents were on a journey.

Sociable middle name choice with a Quaker feel.

Not even for Brandy's twin brother.

Like Justice and Peace, this word name makes a very strong statement. Ving Rhames chose it for his boy.

If you like the idea of King and Prince but find them too sophisticated, this might be the name for you.

Painter is among the most creative choices in this very fashionable category of names, with a particularly pleasant sound. Whereas most occupational names conjure up physical labor, this one feels like a gateway to the arts.

Adventurous word choice, but still quite a burden for a child to bear.

Nobility names like Duke and Count seem to be forming a minitrend: actor Danny Bonaduce named his son Count Dante Jean-Michel Valentino. Beat that. Or wait: don't.

Eighties star Judge Reinhold (born Edward Jr. , he was given this nickname at the age of two weeks) made this possible, but it could cause a lot of confusion.

Power is one of the new crop -- Justice, Liberty, Peace -- of strong, clear-cut, declarative choices, though this one carries more assertiveness than virtue.

An appealing Hawaiian name which belongs to a town, river and bay on Kauaʻi island in Hawaii. The two possible meanings of the name, "crescent bay" or "garland (lei) valley" both describe the beauty of the place.

Alternative to Prince, Duke, King, or Earl, but not an improvement on them.

One of the simplest, most down-to-earth yet evocative of the word names, which could work — especially as a middle.