Bewitching Names for Boys

Carnelian is an ochre-colored semi-precious gemstone, named after a type of cherry.

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.

Corentin is an intriguing saint's name fashionable in France but virtually unknown here-- which you may consider a big plus. St. Corentin possessed a magical fish that regenerated itself each night, feeding himself and his lucky visitors in perpetuity.

Cormoran first popped up as the name of a Cornish giant in the 18th century fairy tale Jack the Giant Killer, which drew on ancient British folklore. Today, though, it is more familiar as the name of the protagonist of J.K. Rowling's detective novel The Cuckoo's Calling, published under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. Its proximity to Cormorant, a family of seagoing birds, gives it extra appeal to nature lovers.

A potential hero name: Crispus Attucks, an African and Native American man, was the first colonist to die for independence in the Boston Massacre.

Popular President Franklin Delano Roosevelt inspired a brief fashion for this as a first name in the 1940s; almost never heard today.

Demeter, while historically a feminine name from Greek mythology, has occasionally been used as a masculine name in some contexts. In Greek mythology, Demeter was the powerful goddess of agriculture, grain, and fertility who controlled the seasons and harvest. The name derives from the Greek elements 'de' (possibly meaning earth) and 'meter' (mother). As a masculine name, Demeter is extremely rare and represents a bold, unconventional choice. It carries strong associations with nature, abundance, and life-giving power. The name has a distinguished, classical quality with its mythological heritage. For parents drawn to Greek naming traditions who appreciate its unique sound and powerful connotations, Demeter offers a distinctive option that bridges ancient tradition with contemporary uniqueness.

Desiderio was the full name of the Cuban bandleader who famously Loved Lucy. There was also a Saint Desiderio. Major attraction: the great nickname Desi.

Drexel is an occupational surname but the original meaning of what a person who "turned" for a living actually did is unclear: It may mean turning the soil or making hay or spinning cloth or creating decorative objects. With the rise of the similar-sounding Dexter, Drexel might catch on.

Although this is traditionally seen as a female name, via the classical mythological nymph who pined away for Narcissus until all that remained of her was a disembodied voice — it can also be used for boys. Remember that old song, 'Little sir echo, how do you do?'

Eliyahu is the Hebrew form of the increasingly popular Biblical prophet name Elijah, also found in forms Elias and Eli. There were 100 boys given the name Eliyahu in the U.S. in 2012. Its upside is that it's one of the most distinctive forms of the name, but that final yahoo may prove difficult.

Erasmo is a masculine name of Greek and Latin origin, derived from Erasmus, meaning 'beloved' or 'desired.' The name has historical significance through Desiderius Erasmus, the influential Dutch Renaissance humanist and scholar. Erasmo is particularly common in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking countries, where it maintains steady though not overwhelming popularity. The name carries intellectual and scholarly associations due to its connection with Erasmus of Rotterdam, while its meaning suggests someone who is cherished and valued. With its distinctive rhythm and open vowel ending typical of Romance languages, Erasmo offers a sophisticated option that works well across multiple cultures while being uncommon enough to stand out in many communities.

Estevan is a masculine name of Spanish origin, representing a variation of the more common Stephen or Esteban. Derived from the Greek name Stephanos meaning "crown" or "garland," it carries connotations of honor and achievement. This variant spelling is particularly popular in Latin American countries and among Hispanic communities in the United States. Estevan combines classical roots with a distinctive spelling that sets it apart from more common versions. The name has experienced modest but consistent usage throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. It offers parents a name with recognized historical roots while providing a slightly uncommon spelling that adds uniqueness. Estevan maintains its cultural connections while working well in multicultural environments.

Ferrando is a masculine name of Spanish and Italian origin, representing a variant of Ferdinand, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'journey' and 'brave.' This name carries the weight of European royal history, as Ferdinand was the name of several Spanish and Holy Roman Empire monarchs. Ferrando offers a melodious, romantic alternative to the more formal Ferdinand, with its flowing rhythm and open ending. Uncommon in the United States, it maintains popularity in Spanish and Italian-speaking regions. The name conveys strength, nobility, and a cosmopolitan sensibility, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and international flair. Its distinctive sound makes it memorable without being difficult to pronounce.

Festo is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'festus' meaning 'festive' or 'joyful.' This uncommon name carries connotations of celebration, happiness, and liveliness. While rare in Western countries, it has some usage in parts of Africa, particularly in Tanzania and other East African nations. The name's association with festivity makes it symbolically rich, suggesting a cheerful and spirited personality. Its brevity and distinctive sound pattern (with strong consonants balanced by open vowel endings) give it a memorable quality. Despite its rarity, Festo offers parents seeking unusual names an option with positive associations and cross-cultural appeal, embodying celebratory qualities and an optimistic outlook on life.

For lovers of that romantic city.

If Flora and Florence have returned full force, Florian, with its trendy Latinate ending, could also have a chance. Popular in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and France, St Florian was the venerated patron saint of those in danger from water and the patron saint of firefighters.

Gareth, the name of a modest and brave knight in King Arthur's court, makes a sensitive, gently appealing choice, used more in its native Wales than anywhere else.

This name of the courteous Knight of the Round Table, the nephew of King Arthur, has long been superseded by its Scottish form, Gavin.

Occasionally found in the Anglicized Benga spelling, this strong Yoruba name is a popular choice in Nigeria. American actor Gbenga Akinnagbe was born Olugbenga, which is a longer form of the name, meaning "God lifted me".