aesthetic: nautical

for ocean enthusiasts, a list of names from a myriad of origins with nautical meaning or origins.
  1. Anchor
    • Origin:

      Word name
    • Meaning:

      "heavy object used to moor a ship; provide with a solid foundation"
    • Description:

      Plausible word name, denoting strength and stability, currently given to a small handful of boys in the US each year.
  2. Caspian
    • Origin:

      Place name
    • Meaning:

      "white"
    • Description:

      One of the most romantic of appellations, Caspian is a geographical name referring to the large salty sea between Asia and Europe. It's also the name of the hero of C.S. Lewis's beloved Chronicles of Narnia, Prince Caspian.
  3. Eirik
    • Description:

      Eirik is a masculine name of Old Norse origin and is a traditional Scandinavian variant of Erik or Eric. The name derives from the elements 'ei' (ever, always) and 'ríkr' (ruler, king, mighty), thus meaning 'eternal ruler' or 'ever powerful.' Particularly common in Norway, this spelling preserves the authentic Nordic heritage of the name. Eirik was borne by several Norwegian kings and figures in Norse sagas, including Eirik Bloodaxe. While less common internationally than Erik, this spelling offers cultural authenticity appealing to those with Scandinavian heritage or those seeking a strong name with historical depth and a slightly distinctive spelling.
  4. Forde
    • Description:

      Forde is a masculine name of English origin derived from a surname that initially indicated someone who lived near a ford (a shallow river crossing). The name carries connotations of strength and practicality, as fords were essential passageways in medieval transportation systems. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, Forde has an authoritative quality and fits among the trend of using traditional surnames as given names. The spelling with an 'e' at the end gives it a slightly more distinguished appearance than the more common surname spelling 'Ford.' While never reaching widespread popularity, Forde appeals to parents seeking a strong but uncommon name with historical roots.
  5. Gunnar
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Gunther
    • Meaning:

      "bold warrior"
    • Description:

      A key figure in Norse legend and a traditional Scandinavian favorite making inroads here.
  6. Henrik
    • Origin:

      Danish and Hungarian variation of Henry
    • Description:

      The long history and solid usage of Henry has infiltrated other cultures, where a number of variations experience the same degree of popularity. In the US, Henrik first entered the Top 1000 in 2014. In Norway, Henrik is a mega popular choice.
  7. Jannik
    • Origin:

      Dutch and German variation of John
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      Popular form of John in Germany. Just remember to pronounce it YAHN-nik, which most English-speakers won't. Jannick is another spelling.
  8. Lincoln
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "town by the pool"
    • Description:

      Lincoln cracked the Top 50 for boys' names for the first time in 2016, more than 150 years after the death of its most famous bearer. This is especially remarkable because, as crazy as it seems now, Lincoln was deeply out of fashion as recently as the late 90s, consistently hovering near the bottom of the Top 1000.