Different Kind of Boys' Names
- Ceallach
Description:
Ceallach is a traditional Irish masculine name pronounced roughly as 'KEL-akh' or 'KAL-akh,' depending on the dialect. It derives from the Old Irish word meaning 'war' or 'strife,' though some sources alternatively suggest meanings like 'bright-headed' or 'church-lover.' The name has ancient roots in Irish history and mythology, with several early Irish saints and chieftains bearing variations of this name. The anglicized form Kelly evolved from Ceallach, becoming much more widely used internationally. While Ceallach remains rare outside Ireland, it has seen modest revival among those seeking authentic Irish names with historical depth. The name presents pronunciation challenges for non-Irish speakers but offers a strong connection to Gaelic heritage and Celtic traditions for those with Irish ancestry or cultural affiliations.
- Cecil
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"blind"Description:
Once a powerful Roman clan name, Cecil has lost much of its potency over the years, though it retains a strong presence in the sports and jazz worlds. Past bearers include film giant Cecil B. DeMille, poet Cecil Day Lewis, father of Daniel, and photographer Cecil Beaton. Fictional Cecils appear in Oscar Wilde's play, Lady Windemere's Fan, E. M. Foster's A Room With a View and the film Lee Daniel's The Butler.
- Cedric
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"bounty"Description:
Cedric was invented by Sir Walter Scott for the noble character of the hero's father in Ivanhoe, presumed to be an altered form of the Saxon name Cerdic. The name was later also given to Little Lord Fauntleroy, the long-haired, velvet-suited, and lace-collared boy hero of the Frances Hodgson Burnett book, who became an unwitting symbol of the pampered mama's boy.
- Cedro
Description:
Cedro is a masculine name with Latin origins, deriving from 'cedrus', meaning 'cedar tree'. The cedar has long symbolized strength, dignity, and immortality across many cultures. As a name, Cedro conveys these noble qualities while maintaining a melodic, accessible sound. Popular primarily in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking regions, the name connects its bearer to the natural world and evokes the majestic presence of the cedar. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Cedro offers a distinctive alternative to more common tree-inspired names. Its relatively simple pronunciation and spelling, combined with its meaningful natural symbolism, make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with both substance and style.
- Cephas
Origin:
AramaicMeaning:
"rock"Description:
The apostle Simon was called Cephas by Jesus because he was to be the rock upon which the Christian church was to be built. In most versions of the New Testament, Cephas is translated into Petros in Greek, Peter in English.
- Chalil
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"flute"Description:
Rarely heard in this country.
- Chaviv
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"loved one"Description:
Lively sounding Hebrew choice.
- Ciaren
Description:
Ciaren is a masculine name that appears to be a modern variant of the Irish name Ciaran (Ciarán). The original name derives from the Irish word 'ciar,' meaning 'dark' or 'black,' traditionally referring to hair or complexion. Ciaran was the name of several important Irish saints, giving the name strong historical and religious connections in Celtic traditions. The spelling Ciaren offers a contemporary twist while maintaining the authentic Irish pronunciation (approximately KEER-ən). While less common than the traditional spelling, Ciaren provides a distinctive option that honors Irish heritage. The name combines ancient Celtic roots with a modern feel, appealing to parents seeking a name that's both meaningful and somewhat uncommon.
- Cielo
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"sky"Description:
Expansive, sunny Italian word name.
- Claiborne
Origin:
French and GermanMeaning:
"boundary with clover"Description:
This surname-name oozes Southern charm; nevertheless, its most famous bearer was a New Englander, Rhode Island senator Claiborne de Borda Pell, who sponsored education legislation leading to the much beloved Pell scholarship programme. That connection alone instills this name with intellect as well as style.
- Clemente
Origin:
Spanish, Portuguese, ItalianMeaning:
"mild, merciful"Description:
A more romantic form of old school Clement, which ranks in the Top 100 boy names in Chile. Clemente, like Clement, derives from the Late Latin name Clemens, the name of 14 popes and several saints.
- Conlan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"hero"Description:
An undiscovered Irish surname with a cool meaning. It could work as an alternative to Connor and Lachlan.
- Constantine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"steadfast"Description:
This Roman Emperor's name has long been considered too grand for an American boy. But in this era of children named Augustine and Atticus, it just may be prime for an unlikely comeback.
- Cyprien
Description:
Cyprien is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Latin name Cyprianus, meaning 'from Cyprus.' The name connects to the ancient Mediterranean island of Cyprus, which was sacred to Aphrodite in Greek mythology. Cyprien has a long history of use in France and French-speaking regions, with notable peaks during early Christian periods due to the veneration of Saint Cyprian, a 3rd-century bishop and martyr. While well-established in French culture, the name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries. Cyprien carries an elegant, sophisticated quality characteristic of French names. It offers a distinctive alternative to more common names while maintaining historical roots and cultural significance. The name balances classic heritage with a slightly exotic quality, appealing to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon.
- Caiaphas
- D'artagnan
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Artagnan"Description:
The least usable of the Three Musketeers names.
- Daedalus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"craftsman"Description:
Name of a tragic mythological hero, used as a surname in the works of James Joyce; heavy but ponderous for an American boy, though pulled off very well by single-name musician Daedalus and writer and artist Daedalus Howell.
- Damian
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"to tame, subdue"Description:
Damian has sidestepped its demonic horror movie overtones, leaving a basically friendly and charming Irish image. A well-used upper-class name in England, it is growing in popularity here.
- Damon
Origin:
English variation of DamianDescription:
Damon is a name with a strong, pleasing aura (much like the persona of Matt D.) and extremely positive ancient associations. From the classical myth, Damon and Pythias have become symbols of true friendship, as Damon risked his life to save his friend from execution. And Damon of Athens was the fifth century philosopher who taught both Pericles and Socrates.
- Dante
Origin:
Latin diminutive of DurantMeaning:
"enduring"Description:
Though closely associated with the great medieval Florentine poet Dante Alighieri -- who's so famous most people skip the last name -- it's not as much of a one-man name as you might think. Heck, it's not even a one-poet name, thanks to British pre-Rapahaelite Dante Gabriel Rosetti. Though especially well used in the Italian-American community, it would make a striking name for any little boy.