classic and unusual character names for men
- Txomin
Origin:
Basque, from LatinMeaning:
"belonging to the lord"Description:
Distinct, sunny and energetic, Txomin is actually a variant of Dominic used in the Basque Country.
- Tymek
Description:
Tymek is a masculine name of Polish origin, functioning as a diminutive of Tymoteusz, the Polish form of Timothy. The name derives from the Greek 'Timotheos,' meaning 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' In Poland, Tymek serves as both a nickname and standalone name, appreciated for its friendly, approachable quality. The name has grown in popularity within Poland in recent decades as part of a trend toward traditional names with modern-feeling diminutive forms. Outside Poland, Tymek remains distinctive and uncommon. The name's combination of cultural authenticity and contemporary sound appeals to parents seeking Polish heritage connections or simply a unique name with established roots and clear pronunciation.
- Uram
Description:
Uram is a masculine name with several possible origins. In Hungarian, it can mean 'my lord' or 'my master,' deriving from 'úr' (lord) with a possessive suffix. The name also appears in Korean, though with different meanings depending on the specific characters used to write it. In some Slavic contexts, it may be related to the word for 'tempest' or 'storm.' Uram remains relatively uncommon as a first name in Western countries, though it has been used traditionally in parts of Eastern Europe and Asia. The name's strong, concise sound gives it a bold quality, while its cross-cultural presence offers international appeal. With just two syllables, Uram is direct and memorable. Though rare in mainstream usage, it might appeal to parents seeking a name with traditional roots but distinctive character in contemporary Western contexts.
- Usher
Origin:
Yiddish variation of Asher or English surname from FrenchMeaning:
"blessed; doorkeeper"Description:
Strongly associated with the mega-popular single-named singer, who was actually the fourth Usher Raymond in his family. He could start a fad.
- Umbriel
- Vail
Origin:
Place-nameMeaning:
"valley"Description:
Aspen's sibling.
- Valentine
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
Valentine is an attractive Shakespearean name with romantic associations, but those very ties to the saint and the sentimental holiday have sent it into a decline, one which we think may be about to turn around.
- Valerian
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"strength, health"Description:
This name of a Roman emperor and of a sedating plant doesn't have much of a baby name future, unless you just like its strong, rhythmic sound.
- Valor
Origin:
Word nameMeaning:
"courage and bravery"Description:
This modern virtue name gives a nod to ancient chivalry and could also work as an updated form of the classic Victor. A bold choice, but one that an increasing number of parents have been making in the last decade.
- Verdan
Description:
Verdan is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Latin 'viridis' meaning 'green,' suggesting connotations of growth, vitality, and nature. Alternatively, it could be related to the French 'verdant' (flourishing) or have Persian roots. The name has never reached significant popularity in English-speaking countries, remaining a rare choice. Verdan has a modern, distinctive sound despite its possible ancient etymological connections. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name that still feels familiar and pronounceable. The name carries positive associations with nature, renewal, and freshness, potentially symbolizing growth and vibrant life.
- Veren
Description:
Veren is a rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Latin 'verus' meaning 'true,' or have connections to Dutch and Germanic roots. In some contexts, it could be related to the Latin 'vernal' (spring-like) or possibly be a variant of Vernon. The name has remained exceptionally uncommon in English-speaking countries throughout recorded naming history. Veren has a crisp, modern sound despite its possible ancient origins, featuring a pleasing balance of the soft 'v' and stronger 'n' ending. Its brevity and simplicity give it contemporary appeal, while its rarity offers distinctiveness. Those named Veren might appreciate having a name that feels both unique and accessible, with a certain cosmopolitan quality that transcends specific cultural traditions.
- Verne
Description:
Verne is a masculine name of Latin origin, derived from the Latin word 'vernus,' meaning 'spring-like' or 'flourishing.' This name gained recognition largely through the famous French author Jules Verne, known for pioneering science fiction works like 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea' and 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' Verne has a classic, slightly vintage feel while remaining distinctive. In the United States, it saw modest popularity in the early 20th century but has since become uncommon, making it an distinctive option for parents seeking a name with literary connections and historical weight without being commonplace. The name's brevity gives it strength and memorability, while its association with a visionary writer lends it an air of creativity and adventure.
- Vernon
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"place of alders"Description:
Much more upscale and modern for a girl than a boy.
- Virgil
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"staff bearer"Description:
The name of the greatest Roman poet and an early Irish saint who believed the earth was round, Virgil is heard most notably today as the name of designer Virgil Abloh of Off-White.
- Vow
- Warrick
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"strong leader who defends."Description:
Warrick has recently come into the spotlight as the character Warrick Brown on the TV show CSI. The more conventional spelling is Warwick, a medieval English noble name.
- Wendell
Origin:
German, EnglishMeaning:
"wanderer; to travel, to proceed"Description:
This name has hardly been used since Wendell Willkie ran for president in 1940, and it may not quite be ready for revival yet. Still, clunky grandpa names like Lionel, Douglas, Benedict, Carl, and Melvin have received more attention in recent years, so Wendell can't be ruled out just yet.
- Wild
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Asking for trouble.
- Wrecker
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Wrecker is a new entry to the newly trendy group of badass baby names -- names mostly for boys that sound wild (or Wilder) and summon the kind of kid that races around (Racer), breaking things (Breaker), and yeah, why not, being a Wrecker while he's at it. Actor Cam Gigandet introduced this one, with a more phonetic spelling, when he named his son Rekker.
- Wystan
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"battle stone"Description:
Dignified first name of poet W. H. Auden, less exposed than his currently stylish surname.