Finding the perfect British boy name can seem like quite a task! After all, you want him to sound cool but classy, proper but popular. But, have no fear, as we are here to guide you through some of the best boy names on the British isles, including all you need to know about their meanings, origins, namesakes, and more!
100 Popular British Names for Boys
Get ready to find your new favorite British boy name, and learn all you need to know about it for your new little gentleman.
Ackerley
A unique but cool name, we love Ackerley for a baby boy and hope to see it grow in popularity over the coming years. Ackerley is most commonly seen as a surname, but would make a strong name for a man thanks to its impressive bite and stylish spelling. Ackerley holds the charming, nature-inspired meaning of “oak meadow,” adding to its sturdy, noble aura.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Oak meadow
- Variations: Ackley, Acker
- Namesakes: J.R. Ackerley, a noted British writer and editor.
Alder
Alder is a cool, rustic name for a beautiful little baby. Yet, with the wizened meaning of “old,” the name will suit him perfectly as he ages up! Also, Alder can be a name inspired by the beauty of the outdoors, after the majestic alder tree. Alders are said to be great protectors, and mythology dictates they may even be home to families of fairies! The trees are a great choice for back-garden planting, so a beautiful idea would be to plant an alder tree for your baby Alder and watch them grow “old” together!
- Origin: British, English
- Meaning: Old, or alder tree
Alfred
Alfred is a traditional and masculine name of Old English origin. Thanks to its timelessly sweet nicknames of Alfie and Freddie, Alfred has remained ever-popular in English-speaking countries. The name is derived from Old English, carrying the mystically wise meaning of “elf counsel.” Alfie is a hugely popular boy’s name in Britain at the moment, used independently despite being derived from Alfred, thanks to its soft, sweet, and chirpy sound.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Elf counsel
- Variations: Freddie, Alfie, Alfredo
- Namesakes: Alfred the Great, a 9th-century English king. Alfred Hitchcock, an English film director. Alfred Lord Tennyson, a British poet.
- Popularity: Alfred entered the top 100 most popular boys names in the UK in 2019 but is surprisingly not as popular as its nickname Alfie, which remains a firm choice for parents!
Alvin
Alvin is a sweet and chirpy given name for a little boy and. With the meaning of “noble friend,” the name Alvin brings an amicable, honest, and loving spirit to those who hear it. Like most “A-” names, Alvin is strong but with a gorgeous lilt to be desired. If you choose this name for your new little one, just be ready for any potential “chipmunk” jokes which may come your way!
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Noble friend
- Variations: Alwin, Adalwin
Arthur
Handsome, traditional, and an all-around winner of a name, Arthur is a brilliant choice to consider for your new little boy. The tales of the great King Arthur have dominated British legend since as early as the 9th-century, from his leadership of the Knights of the Round Table to his romance with Gwenevere, even linking in to the magical myths of the enchantress Nimue. Not only do these legends create quite an honorable and just name for a little boy, but Arthur also sounds impressively wise, honest, and noble – a fantastic choice for your glorious new son.
- Origin: British, Celtic
- Meaning: Bear
- Variations: Artie, Arturo
- Namesakes: King Arthur, the legendary king of Britain. Arthur Guinness, an Irish brewer, founder of the Guinness beer company. Arthur Miller, an American playwright.
Ashley
Although Ashley sounds cool and modern as a unisex given name, its origins actually date back to Old English, where it was derived from the elements “æsc” and “leah,” meaning “ash tree” and “meadow,” respectively. This charming meaning is great if you’re hoping for a name inspired by nature, combining the freedom and adventure of a meadow with the strength and purity of an ash tree. Although Ashley (and its spelling variants Ashleigh and Ashlee) is a commonly-used feminine name now, it originated as a male name and is sure to be admired if you choose to give it to your sweet baby boy.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Ash tree meadow
- Variations: Ash, Asher, Ashleigh
Ashton
As well as being a cool, earthy surname taken from the pure and protective ash tree, Ashton is a great choice of name for an awesome little kid. Across the UK, there are many different towns named Ashton, including Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, home of the Ashton Canal. Locational baby names are especially sentimental to those who choose them, and Ashton is certainly one of the more masculine, slick options out there.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Town of the ash tree
- Variations: Ash, Ashley
- Namesakes: Ashton Kutcher, an American actor.
Aubrey
Aubrey is a delightfully sweet choice of name, traditionally for boys but now for both genders. Aubrey is derived from the Germanic name Alberich, which holds the intriguing meaning of “king of the elves.” Magical, mighty, and creative – have you ever heard a more awesome meaning? In 1973, the music group Bread released a song named Aubrey, which was definitely about a female bearing the name, but is still a cool namesake to bear!
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: King of the elves
- Variations: Awbery, Alberich
Bailey
Despite sounding fun and friendly as a given name, Bailey carries a hefty, no-nonsense meaning which gives it a certain respectable toughness. Bailey is derived from the Old English occupational term of “bailiff,” which is the title given to a debt collector or law enforcer. Thankfully, this stricter meaning is softened by the sweetness of the name Bailey, making it a lovely but strong choice for any little girl or boy.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Bailiff
Barclay
Barclay is a wonderful name for a proper little gentleman! The name is derived from Old English, carrying the light, airy meaning of “birch tree meadow,” and is also known as a clan name of Scottish origin. If you like Barclay but would rather your son sounds less like he was named after a UK banking organization, you could try spelling it Barkley or use the perhaps more-Americanized version of Berkeley.
- Origin: Scottish, English
- Meaning: Birch tree meadow
- Variations: Berkeley, Barkley
Barry
Fun and friendly, Barry is an honest and likable name for a man. It has a couple of interpreted meanings, the first being “fair-haired,” from the Gaelic Fionnbharr, or the second being “spear,” from the Irish Berach. Although it sounds like a nickname in itself, Barry is often heard familiarly as Bazza, but its longer forms, such as Barrington or Barnabas, are strong choices too. If you are Welsh, you’ll know of the gem of Barry and Barry Island, the coastal hotspots in Glamorgan, South Wales.
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish, British
- Meaning: Fair-haired, or spear
- Variations: Barnabas, Barron, Barrington
Baxter
Baxter is a hip, smart, and sophisticated-sounding name for a boy, with origins you may be surprised at! Baxter actually began life as an English occupational surname, given to someone who worked as a baker. However, “Bakster” was originally the feminine form of the name, with “Baker” being masculine! Of course, “baker” is stuck and is used to determine bread or cake-making individuals of either gender, and Baxter is now used as a more masculine, awesome-sounding first name.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Baker
Beckett
Beckett is a sharp but sweet surname and masculine given name of English origin. It holds two possible meanings, equally as cute, with the first being “by the little brook” and the second being “beehive.” Whether your little baby has all the peace and freshness of a babbling brook or is full of sweetness and honey, Beckett is a marvelous and earthy name to choose for him.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Little brook, or beehive
Blade
Blade may be more of an unconventional choice of name for a little guy, but it’s certainly one to consider for your new baby warrior. Perhaps most popularly known as the name of a character from Marvel Comics, Blade is also featured in various fictional works, including video games, fantasy franchises, and more. Etymologically, Blade can refer to a sharp cutting edge, but may also come from the lesser-threatening Old English word “blæd,” meaning “leaf of a plant.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Blade (a sharp edge for cutting) or a leaf of a plant
Blake
Blake is a great name for both girls and boys, carrying an air of sophistication and class alongside its modern-sounding, stylish aura. A particularly cool feature of this name is that it holds two juxtaposing meanings, as it could have derived from the Old English nickname “blaac,” meaning “fair,” or “blac,” meaning “dark.” Whether dark or fair, we love this sweet name for your kiddo, and we’re sure everyone else will admire it too.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Fair, or dark
- Variations: Blakeley
- Namesakes: William Blake, a Romantic-Era English poet and visionary. Blake Shelton, an American singer. Blake Lively, an American actress.
Bond
Thanks to the British writer Ian Fleming, who penned his series of spy novels in 1953, the name Bond will forever be associated with the slick, suave British fictional icon of James Bond, star of not just the books but also countless large-scale movies. A common surname being adopted as a cool, masculine given name, Bond comes from Anglo-Saxon origin, meaning “farmer.” Classic, British, powerful, and bold, we love the name bond for a badass little man.
- Origin: British, Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Farmer
- Namesakes: James Bond, the fictional British spy.
Bradley
Bradley is a cool and fresh name for a little boy, derived from Old English and carrying the meaning of “broad meadow.” Bradley is also a common surname, but with the potential to hold the nickname Brad, it is very popular as a given name. Bradley sounds playful, free, and inquisitive, and we love this choice of name for an awesome little chap.
- Origin: English, Irish
- Meaning: Broad meadow
- Namesakes: Bradley Cooper, an American actor. Brad Pitt, an American actor. Bradley Wiggins, a British professional cyclist.
- Popularity: Bradley has been in the US top 1000 most popular boys names since 1900, peaking in the 1970s-80s, during which time it held strong in the top 100.
Brian
Brian is a strong and confident name for a little boy, rooted in Irish and Breton origins with the meaning of “high” or “noble.” The name is associated with the legendary Irish warrior-king Brian Boru, known for defending Ireland from the Viking invasions of the 11th-century. The other common and perhaps more modern-appearing spelling of the name would be Bryan, which may also be transformed into Byron or Bryant for a bit of added flair to the name.
- Origin: Irish, Breton
- Meaning: High, noble
- Variations: Bryan, Byron, Bryant
- Namesakes: Brian Boru, a legendary Irish King. Brian May, an English musician and founding member of the band Queen. Brian Warner, an American singer known professionally as Marilyn Manson.
Cadan
Cadan is a strong and confident name for your masculine little warrior and not one you’ll hear too commonly. Cadan is of Cornish origin, carrying the feisty meaning of “battle” from the word “cad.” Cadan will traditionally be pronounced “ca-dan” but may be softened to “kay-dan” by those unfamiliar with the name.
- Origin: Cornish
- Meaning: Battle
- Pronunciation: ca-dan, or kay-dan
Cameron
Cameron is an English and Scottish given name and surname, said to have been derived from the meaning “crooked nose” in Gaelic. A funny meaning for such a popular name, we perhaps suggest you overlook this meaning and choose Cameron for its sweet, stylish, and cheery sound instead.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Crooked Nose
- Variations: Kamran, Camren, Camryn
Carter
Carter is a stylish and slick name for a little boy, derived from the English occupational surname for a person who transported goods using a cart. Not the most common occupation in today’s modernized society, but thankfully the name has lived on. Notable bearers of Carter as a surname include Jimmy, the 39th President of the United States, and Shawn Corey, known more widely as Jay-Z. As a given name, Carter G. Woodson was an American historian, remembered as the “father of Black history,” and credited with founding Black History Month.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Transporter of goods
- Namesakes: Jimmy Carter, 39th President of the United States. Carter Beauford, an American drummer. Carter G. Woodson, an American historian and author.
Chance
Forget four-leaf clovers, horseshoes and red envelopes – bestow luck upon your little boy by blessing him with the name Chance! If you believe in fate and fortune, you’ll love the name Chance, especially for your new little miracle. Chance is of Middle English origin, and our fingers are crossed that you will choose it for your new son!
- Origin: Middle English
- Meaning: Good fortune
- Namesakes: Chance the Rapper, a Canadian hip-hop artist. Chance M. Vought, an American aviation pioneer and engineer.
Charles
Charles is a masculine name as strong as they come, with countless notable namesakes to give the title a depth most honorable for any child to live up to. There have been men of nobility named Charles in multiple European countries, including Spain, Sweden, Monaco, and Romania, not forgetting Charles, Prince of Wales – the current heir to the British throne. In fact, there are notable Charles’ in many honorable fields, including Dickens, De Gaulle, Darwin, and Baudelaire. In terms of its etymology, Charles is derived from a Germanic boy’s name meaning “free man,” giving the name even more of a limitless, joyful, and opportunistic feel to it. If you choose this name for your little boy, his possibilities are endless!
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Free man
- Variations: Charlie, Carlos, Carl
- Namesakes: Charles, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II, heir to the British throne. Charles Dickens, a classic English novelist. Charles Darwin, a British scientist.
Chester
The English city of Chester gets its name from the Latin “castrum,” which holds the meaning of “encampment” or “fortress” – particularly fitting since it is one of the best-preserved walled cities in the country. This meaning makes Chester sound strong and reliable as a British name for boys and would be especially meaningful if given to him as a nod to his place of birth. There are multiple UK cities that bear a form of “chester” as a suffix in their name, including Manchester or Colchester!
- Origin: Old English, Latin
- Meaning: Fortress
- Variations: Cheston
- Namesakes: Chester Bennington, an American singer-songwriter. Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States of America.
Christopher
Christopher is one of those names which has held up in popularity and appreciation, despite having been around since the 10th century. Christopher is derived from a Greek name meaning “bearer of Christ,” offering the name a religious and traditional beauty to it. One of the most attractive qualities to Christopher as a name is that there are countless variations that can be spun from it – from nicknames such as Chris, Topher, or Kit to altered forms like Christian or Cristoph. If you are using the name in honor of a family namesake, this gives you plenty of room to play around and choose a form personal to you whilst still keeping the beauty and power of this fantastically handsome name.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Bearer of Christ
- Variations: Chris, Cristoph, Kester, Topher, Christian
- Namesakes: Saint Christopher, a 3rd-century saint. Christopher Columbus, an Italian navigator. Christopher “Chris” Martin, an English singer-songwriter and co-founder of the band Coldplay.
Clinton
Traditionally, Clinton was an Old English locational surname used for people who hail from the towns of Glympton or Glinton in Oxfordshire and Cambridgeshire, respectively. This, of course, makes the name rather specific. Yet thanks to politics and history, Clinton has evolved into a rather stylish given name. Most recently, it has been Bill and Hillary Clinton who have thrust this name into the spotlight, although this could lead to a divide in popularity depending on political preference. You could always shorten the name to the smart Clint, as in Eastwood, for toughness.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the towns of Glympton or Glinton
- Variations: Clint
- Namesakes: Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States. General Sir Henry Clinton, a British general during the American Revolutionary War.
Dane
Dane is a cool, stylish name of English origin, with two known meanings behind it. The first of these meanings is “from the valley,” interpreted from the Old English “denu,” meaning “valley,” making a strong choice for a baby born between a hilly or mountainous region. Alternatively, Dane has historically been used for people hailing from Denmark, so would be an especially firm choice for a little boy born with Danish heritage!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the valley, or from Denmark
Darcy
Any fans of classic English literature will attest that the name Darcy is perfectly swoon-worthy, thanks to Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice. In this novel, it was the moody but romantic character of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy that cemented this name as a British favorite, full of mystery only heightened by the name’s intriguing meaning of “dark one.” Darcy is also rooted in French, having derived from the family name d’Arcy, referring to those with heritage in the Arcy region of France. Whichever way you look at it, Darcy is a romantic, intellectual, and alluring choice of name for an honorable man.
- Origin: English, French, Irish
- Meaning: Dark one, or from Arcy, France
Darwin
Darwin has “evolved” into quite a cool name for smart little boys! Get it? It is derived from the Old English given name Deorwine, which means the lovely “dear friend.” For some reason, Deorwine has dropped off everyone’s radar, but its variant Darwin is hugely cool and clever, thanks to the namesake of Charles Darwin, the naturalist known for his contributions to human history and science.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Dear friend
- Variations: Darwen, Deorwine
- Namesakes: Charles Darwin, an English scientist.
Devon
Devon is a dreamy, easygoing name for a cool little boy. It is taken from the southwestern county in England, famed for its sandy shores, popular tourism, and the local’s tendency to put the cream, then jam, on their scones. If you hail from this region, Devon makes for a wonderfully meaningful name, or perhaps you have fond memories of beachy vacations in that area which you’d like to live on through your son. Alternatively, Devon may be considered a variation on the popular name Devin, which is said to have derived from the Latin word for “divine.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the English county of Devon
- Variations: Devin
Dudley
A soft, chirpy, and cuddly-sounding name, Dudley is a cozy choice for a little boy. The given name was derived in conjunction with the town of Dudley, located in the West Midlands of England, making it a meaningful locational name if you’re from this area, or just a fun reason to visit the town if you choose the name for your son. In British history, Dudley was borne by a 16th-century noble family, giving the name an aura of power and regality.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From Dudley
Earl
Dating all the way back to Saxon times, an “Earl” has been a rank of nobility in the UK. Although giving the name to your son won’t give him any official noble status, Earl has become a rather trendy name for a little boy – sounding both proper and powerful amongst his peers. The American sitcom My Name is Earl may have lessened the classiness of the name somewhat, but over in the UK, we think the name carries a particular sense of charm and a stature most admirable.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Earl, nobleman
Edgar
Edgar may not be the most commonly-chosen name for baby boys these days, but if you’re looking for something to make your son sound sophisticated and proper, this could be a strong contender! Edgar is derived from the Anglo-Saxon Eadgar, with “ead” meaning “rich, fortune” and “gar” meaning “spear.” This strong and prosperous meaning will hopefully carry true to any bearer of the name.
- Origin: English, Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: Fortune and spear
- Variations: Eadgar
- Namesakes: Edgar Allan Poe, an American author. Edgar the Peaceful, king of England from 959-975.
Edward
A regal name that has been popular and used ever since medieval times, Edward is a choice you simply can’t go wrong with. A timeless classic, Edward has been borne by countless kings, noblemen, politicians, and intellectuals – too many to name, but with such a rich and honorable collective history to live up to. Edward carries the handsome meaning of “wealthy guardian,” which complements its regal, rich-sounding connotations. Edward is also timelessly popular thanks to its nickname potential – as Ed, Eddie, Ned, and even Woody, can all be derived from this charming name.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Wealthy guardian
- Variations: Ed, Eddie, Eduardo
- Popularity: Edward is a very popular name in the US. It ranked within the top 10 most popular names from 1900 through 1930 and has remained in the top 200 ever since!
Elliot
Elliot is a lovely and charming name for a boy, which in fact stems from the same root as the names Elias and Elijah. These names carry the beautiful meaning of “the Lord is my God,” making it a brilliant option for if you want a religious name that’s a bit different to the more-traditional biblical choices. You are able to play around with the number of “l” and “t”s in the spelling of the name to make it more personal, but Elliot is perhaps the best go-to choice for a lovely name indeed.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: The Lord is my God
- Variations: Elliott, Elias, Elijah
- Namesakes: Elliott Carter, an American composer. Elliot Page, a Canadian actor.
Ellis
Possibly derived from the traditional masculine names Elias or Elisud, Ellis is a charming, modern-sounding, unisex name of English and Welsh origin. Carrying the honorable meaning of “benevolent,” Ellis sounds instantly likable and proper, as well as being a short, stylish choice that will age with your precious son well.
- Origin: English, Welsh
- Meaning: Benevolent
Elton
As if the legendary musician Elton John wasn’t a cool enough reason to choose this name for your son, Elton simply oozes class, style, and wit. There are a handful of villages dotted throughout the UK named Elton, whose etymology is said to have been derived from the Old English name Ella, plus the element “tun,” meaning “town.” As a locational name, Elton is strong and homely, but wherever you are in the world, this name sounds classy enough to be admired by all.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From Elton, or Ella’s town
- Namesakes: Elton John, a British musician.
Emmet
Emmet is a cool and stylish name of English and Hebrew origin, carrying the honorable meaning of “truth.” Emmet may be the masculine form of the pretty, feminine name Emma, making it a particularly lovely choice to use in honor of an Emma in the family. Emmet is slick-sounding and sophisticated, perfect for a little boy with a smart head on his shoulders.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Truth
- Variations: Emmett
Finley
Finley is an adorably sweet unisex name and a great choice if you are looking for a softer, more modern-sounding title. The name is derived from the Gaelic Fionnlagh, which translates to the feisty meaning of “white warrior.” This meaning gives Finley an aura of strength and purity, which is certain to be admired. Finley may also be shortened to the handsome nickname Finn, which is also a popular choice for a boy.
- Origin: Gaelic, British
- Meaning: White warrior
- Variations: Finn, Finlay, Fionnlagh
Floyd
Floyd is a smart variation on Lloyd, which was in turn derived from the Welsh “llwyd,” meaning “gray.” Not only does Floyd make a confident masculine name, but it also carries the association to the hugely popular English rock band Pink Floyd, known for their countless progressive rock hits such as “Another Brick in the Wall,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “Comfortably Numb.” For music lovers, Floyd is an especially cool British male name, which also sounds sophisticated and charming in its own right.
- Origin: Welsh, British
- Meaning: Gray, gray-haired
- Variations: Lloyd
- Namesakes: Floyd Mayweather Jr., an American boxing champion.
Ford
Ford is a slick, stylish choice of given name for a baby born, having originated as an Old English surname, either in reference to British places named Ford or in reference to someone who lives near a natural shallow ford. The name is often associated with strength, power, and industrialism, thanks to its bearers as a surname such as Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, Harrison Ford, the noted actor from movies such as the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises, and Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company. As a given name, Ford has fewer impressive namesakes. But, with a name like Ford, your son will no doubt be inspired to achieve great things for himself!
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: By the ford
George
George is derived from the Greek word for “farmer.” Yet, despite this modest meaning, the name has become one of the most popular, well-used, and mighty names in the English language since medieval times. Borne by countless kings, noblemen, saints, and US presidents over the years, George carries a stature of regality, fairness, and wisdom. In 2013, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge named their firstborn George, who is currently third in line of succession to the British throne.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Farmer
- Namesakes: George Washinton, the first President of the United States. George Michael, an English singer-songwriter. George Clooney, an American actor.
- Popularity: George is one of the most popular names in the UK, having ranked in the top 20 most-used names since 1996, according to ONS records.
Grayson
Grayson is a strong, confident name for a little boy, derived from Middle English and carrying the meaning of “son of the steward.” Grayson is a pure, stony name, more unique than its rhyming Jason but somehow sounding much more serious. Although etymologically unrelated, Grayson sounds sweetly similar to the ever-popular feminine name Grace, making them adorable choices for complimentary sibling names.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son of the steward
- Variations: Gray
Guy
As well as being a colloquial, familiar term for a man, Guy makes a strong name for a cool chap. It is short and to-the-point enough to sound practical and masculine whilst still being stylish enough to suit an awesome little dude. In England, the name is perhaps best associated with Guy Fawkes, an English Catholic involved with the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This failed act of treason might have added a touch of political rebellion to the name, although there have been many noblemen and even saints who have borne the name too, perhaps deserving more limelight.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Man, guide
- Variations: Guido
- Namesakes: Saint Vitus (also known as Saint Guy), an early Christian saint and martyr. Guy Fawkes, an English historical figure known for his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Guy Fieri, an American celebrity chef.
Harold
Harold is an impressively strong and mighty name for a boy, perfect if you like the nickname Harry but are looking for something a bit meatier. Harold is derived from Old English, carrying the feisty and powerful meaning of “army ruler,” making it perfect for any little leader.
- Origin: English, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Army ruler
- Variations: Harry, Haroldo, Harrod
Harrison
With a literal meaning of “son of Harry,” Harrison is a wonderful option if your new little boy has a Harry in his family! Harrison is a fresh and modern-sounding name for a boy, with presidential namesakes and that stylish surname-turned-given-name flair that’s always so popular. Of course, Harry makes a great alternative, or you could opt for the smart variant, Harris.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son of Harry
- Variations: Harry, Harris
- Namesakes: Harrison Ford, an American actor. Sir Harrison Birtwistle, a British composer. William Henry Harrison, the 9th President of the United States.
Harry
As well as being a nickname form of names such as Harold and Harrison, Harry is a medieval English form of the name Henry, from which it carries the strong, reliable meaning of “home ruler.” Harry is a timeless classic of a name, sounding playful and honest and loved by all. Harry will always be an iconic name thanks to J.K. Rowling’s creation of Harry Potter, the title figure in the bestselling franchise of books, movies, and more. Bring a bit of the Wizarding World into your family, and choose Harry as the name for your son.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Variations: Henry, Harrison, Harold
- Namesakes: Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. Harry Houdini, a Hungarian-born American escapologist and stunt performer. Harry Potter, the fictional title character in J.K. Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter series of novels.
- Popularity: Harry is a very popular name in the US, which has been cemented in the top 1000 most popular names since 1900. It was at its most popular between 1900 and 1919, during which time it featured in the top 20 masculine names.
Harvey
Harvey is a sweet and sensitive masculine name brought over to England following the Norman Conquest. Harvey holds the strong, reliable meaning of “battle-worthy,” giving the name some bite, and is also a commonly-heard surname. Did you know that the iconic smiley graphic feature was originally designed by an American artist named Harvey Ball in the 1900s? That’s a cool fact about the name Harvey certain to put a smile on anyone’s face!
- Origin: English, Breton
- Meaning: Battle-worthy
- Namesakes: Saint Hervé, a 6th-century patron saint of the blind. Harvey Fierstein, an American actor and playwright. Harvey Mason Jr., an American songwriter and record producer.
- Popularity: In the US, Harvey was at its most popular during the early 1900s, peaking at rank 72 in the charts in 1906, but has clung to the top 1000 most popular names list ever since.
Henry
A chirpy and playful name with many a powerful namesake behind it, Henry is a great name for your little boy. Henry is derived from a Germanic name meaning “home ruler,” giving the name a strong, masculine feel to it, which is only emphasized by the long line of kings and noblemen who have borne the name over the years. Despite these robust connotations, Henry still manages to be a fun, amicable name, certain to be liked and admired by all those who hear it.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Variations: Hendry, Harry
- Namesakes: Henry VIII, infamous 16th-century King of England. Henry James, a British author. Henry Ford, an American automobile manufacturer.
Hilary
It’s hard to resist a name that means “cheerful,” especially when it’s one as bubbly and upbeat as Hilary! Although Hilary is perhaps better recognized as a feminine name in modern times, the name began life as a masculine name, derived in medieval times from the Latin “Hilarius.” Hilarius isn’t a name we’d recommend, however, as its humorous sound may lead to people thinking it’s a joke – so stick to Hilary for a stylish, easy-going option.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Cheerful
- Variations: Hillary, Hilarius, Ellery
Hugh
Thanks to actors including Grant, Bonneville, and Laurie, Hugh has become well-recognized as a particularly charming British name. Despite being so short, Hugh has an air of sophistication to it, yet its meaning of “heart, mind, spirit” adds a grace of purity and passion. Huey is a familiar diminutive of Hugh, but you could also opt for the sweet Hugo as a lovely alternative.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Heart, mind, spirit
- Variations: Huey, Hugo
- Namesakes: Hugh Grant, an English actor. Hugh Jackman, an Australian actor. Hugh Cornwell, an English musician known for being part of the band the Stranglers.
Hunter
Hunter is a stylish and earthy given name, taken from the Old English occupational surname for a person who hunts. Hunter is also a Scottish clan name and would make a particularly cool and meaningful given name if used as a tribute to a family surname. Although hunting is a controversial sport drawing conflicting ethical opinions, we like to think the name Hunter is independent enough from its roots to still work as a trendy, amicable name for a sweet little boy, irrespective of whether he lives up to its occupation or not.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Hunter
- Namesakes: Hunter S. Thompson, an American writer. Hunter Hayes, an American singer-songwriter. Hunter Doherty Adams, known as Patch Adams, an American activist, comedian, and physician.
Jack
Jack is one of those timelessly classic names, which manages to be informal and familiar, yet traditional and smart all at the same time. Jack – believe it or not – is actually derived from the name John, yet manages to be even more consistently popular in the UK in recent years. Jack has frequently been used as a colloquial term for “man” or “lad,” giving the name somewhat of a boyish charm, always up for adventure and exploration. If you choose this name for your little boy, he is unlikely to be the only Jack at school, but the choice is so cool and simple we doubt he’ll even mind.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: God is Gracious
- Variations: Jackson, John
- Namesakes: Jack Kerouac, an American novelist. Jack Nicholson, an American actor. Jack Frost, the personification of winter, according to folklore.
- Popularity: Jack is a hugely popular name in the UK, having dominated the popularity charts steadily from the mid-1990s and remaining in the top 10 most used names through 2019.
Jago
The Cornish form of the names Jacob and James, Jago makes an awesome name for a cool little dude. Although it still carries the same traditional, biblical sentiment and meaning as these names, Jago sounds modern and stylish, with a totally unique lilt and attitude to it that can’t be found anywhere else. Short, fun, and friendly, Jago is a superb choice for a little boy.
- Origin: Cornish
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Pronunciation: JAY-go
- Variations: Jacob, James
Jake
As well as being a variant on the name Jack, Jake is a commonly-used nickname of the timelessly popular Latin boy name Jacob, which has gone on to become a popular choice independently of each of these variations. On its own, Jake is fun, chirpy, and amicable yet carries the biblical sentiment from its original form of Jacob.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Variations: Jacob, Jack
- Popularity: Jake on its own is a very popular name in the US, but not as popular as Jacob, which was the single most-used name in the US from 1999 through 2012!
Jasper
Jasper is an especially stylish and unique given name for a boy and one which glows with dazzling mystique! In English, Jasper is a variety of semi-precious quartz, reddish-brown in color and symbolically believed to possess warm, healing energy. The name for this gem was derived from the Old French word “jaspre,” meaning “speckled stone.” As a given name, Jasper may be better considered to be of Persian origin, meaning “treasurer.” It is said that one of the three wise men who visited the baby Jesus during the nativity was named Jasper, which gives the name even more of a wise, philosophical draw.
- Origin: English, Persian
- Meaning: Named after the gemstone Jasper, or treasurer
Kent
Kent is a common English surname, turned sophisticated and charming given name for any proper little British boy. There is a county in the South East of England named Kent, whose name is said to have derived from elements translating to “coastal region” or “land on the edge,” which would make sense to those viewing the county on a map of the UK. Stylish, nickname-proof, and unique, we love Kent as a royal given name for your adorable new son.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From Kent
Kit
Kit is a smart, sassy nickname derived from Christopher, a Greek-rooted name meaning “bearer of Christ.” However, Kit is so cool that it is perfectly usable as an independent name for a stylish guy. Although Kit may be asked what his name is short for, you know that his peers aren’t going to shorten the name into any unappealing nicknames. All in all, Kit is an awesome name to consider for your son. Just perhaps don’t call his sister Kat!
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Bearer of Christ
- Variations: Christopher
- Namesakes: Kit Harington, a British actor. Christopher “Kit” Marlowe, an Elizabethan-era English playwright.
Kyle
Popular, smart, and timelessly cool, Kyle is a great choice of name for your little man. Kyle is derived from the Gaelic word “caol,” carrying the meaning of “narrow” or “straight,” giving the name a sense of directness and logic.
- Origin: Gaelic, English
- Meaning: Narrow, straight
- Variations: Kye, Kiley
- Namesakes: Kyle MacLachlan, an American actor. Kyle Walker, an English footballer.
- Popularity: In the US, Kyle is a very popular name, having ranked in the top 100 most used names from the 1970s to the 2000s.
Landon
Landon is a stylish name of English origin, holding the strong, sturdy meaning of “long hill.” However, it’s usage is vastly higher in the US, where it is a largely popular name, especially in modern times. A sophisticated alternative would be Langdon, but both of which are equally as handsome, as well as being nickname-proof and manly.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Long hill
- Variations: Langdon
- Popularity: Landon has shot to popularity in the US since the 2000s, reaching as high as the 33rd most-used name in 2010 and staying in the top 100 most popular names since 2003.
Lewis
Lewis is an English variant on the name Louis, which in turn is a French variation on the Germanic name Ludwig. A popular name that is simple yet sweet, Lewis holds the strong meaning of “renowned warrior.” Both Lewis and Louis are commonly-used spellings and may be shortened to the casual Lou or Louie.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Renowned warrior
- Variations: Louis, Louie, Ludwig
- Namesakes: Lewis Carroll, an English writer. Lewis Hamilton, a British Formula One racing driver.
Liam
We can see why Liam has ranked as the top most popular boy name in the US for four years in a row – it’s so cute and romantic! Liam holds the honorable meaning of “strong protector,” which adds an aura of wisdom and nurture to the beautiful name. Liam may be used as a nickname for William but works perfectly well as an independent, fresh choice.
- Origin: Irish, British
- Meaning: Strong protector, guardian
- Variations: William, Uilliam
- Namesakes: Liam Neeson, an Irish actor. Liam Gallagher, an English rock singer of the band Oasis. Liam Hemsworth, an Australian actor.
- Popularity: Liam is a super popular name, having been the most popular in the US from 2017 right through 2020!
Lincoln
A name most presidential indeed, Lincoln is a popular surname and given name for smart, honest little boys. The name originated from the East Midland county of Lincolnshire in the UK, yet was popularized in the UK thanks to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Strong, noble, and earthy, Lincoln makes a great choice of name for your little leader.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Town by the pool
- Namesakes: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Lincoln Perry, an American comedian and actor.
- Popularity: Lincoln has shot to popularity in the US over the last two decades, having entered the 2000s at rank 711 on the baby name charts, yet climbing all the way to its peak at rank 40 by 2020.
Lloyd
Lloyd is a cool surname and masculine given name, with spelling so unique but attractive that it is certain to stand out. Lloyd is derived from the Welsh word “llwyd,” meaning “gray,” offering the name the sweet meaning of “gray-haired.” Although it is unlikely your baby will be born with this particular feature, we love the cool, wise connotations this meaning brings, and we are sure others will approve of the choice too.
- Origin: Welsh, English
- Meaning: Gray-haired
- Namesakes: Lloyd, an American R&B artist. Sir Alan Lloyd Hodgkin, a Nobel Prize-winning British physiologist. Andrew Lloyd Webber, an English composer.
Luke
A strong, handsome, and pure name for a man, Luke is a wonderful choice to consider. Although the name is traditional, most notably born by Luke the Evangelist, the author of the third gospel in the New Testament, Luke’s short, snappy spelling and sound make it a timelessly accessible choice of name. Any Star Wars fan would be envious of the name Luke, but you could always mix it up a bit by opting for Lucas, Luca, or Lucien, as softer alternatives.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Light
- Variations: Luca, Lucas, Lucien
- Namesakes: Luke the Evangelist, author of the Gospel of Luke. Luke Skywalker, the fictional protagonist of the Star Wars original trilogy.
- Popularity: Luke is a very popular name in the US, having been comfortably within the top 500 most-used boys names for most of the last century. It has been within the top 100 since 1992, peaking at rank 28 between 2014 and 2015.
Lyndon
Lyndon is a handsome and sophisticated name of English origin, which carries the meaning of “linden tree hill.” The linden tree – or lime tree – is symbolic throughout folklore from various cultures, often seen as sacred and the restorer of truth and peace. The 36th President of the United States bore the name Lyndon, giving the stylish name even more power and nobility.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the linden tree hill
- Variations: Linden
- Namesakes: Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States.
Marlowe
A sophisticated and proper-sounding British name for boys, Marlowe is a great choice for your little boy. Despite being traditional and of Old English origin, Marlowe sounds modern and stylish and isn’t often heard as a given name. The name is perhaps best associated with Christopher “Kit” Marlowe, an Elizabethan-era English playwright, who was said to have influenced William Shakespeare himself!
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Remnants of the lake
- Variations: Marlo, Marley
- Namesakes: Christopher Marlowe, an Elizabethan-era English playwright and poet.
Nelson
Nelson is an admirable English surname-turned-first name, holding the traditional meaning of “son of Neil.” Even if his parents aren’t bearers of this name, we certainly think Nelson should be on your list of potential names for your little boy. From its smart-sounding lilt to the honorable namesakes of Horatio Nelson and Nelson Mandela, this powerful name beginning with N is one to be treasured.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son of Neil
- Namesakes: Horatio Nelson, a British Admiral. Nelson Mandela, a South African politician and activist.
Noah
A pure name for a little boy, Noah is best associated with the biblical Ark builder from the Old Testament. From its Hebrew origin, Noah carries the peaceful and hopeful meaning of “rest,” a sentiment reflected beautifully in the name’s soft, gracious sound.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Rest
- Popularity: In the UK, Noah has been comfortably in the top 100 most popular names since the early 2000s, breaking into the top 10 in the mid-2010s.
Oliver
Despite the origins of the name Oliver not being British, it is so popular in the UK that it would be remiss not to consider it a British boy’s name. Along with its female counterpart Olivia, Oliver has dominated the top of the UK name popularity charts in recent years, having held the top spot for baby boys since 2015. And we can see why – Oliver is such a cool, slick, strong name, with a classic British stage musical of the same name to add to the appeal. In terms of its meaning, Oliver may be interpreted as Latin in reference to the olive tree, or perhaps as the Old French form of the Germanic name Alfhar, carrying the magically feisty meaning of “elf army.”
- Origin: Latin, French, Germanic
- Meaning: Elf army, or olive tree
- Popularity: Oliver is the single most popular name in the UK at the moment, having been at the top of the baby boy name charts from 2015-2020, and counting!
Oscar
Oscar is an adorable choice of name for a little boy, with an especially wholesome meaning bound to be beloved by anyone inspired by fauna. Derived from the Irish elements “os” (meaning “deer,”) and “car” (meaning “friend,”) Oscar holds the meaning of “friend of deer. However, Oscar is such a sweet and amicable name, we wouldn’t be surprised if he was the friend of all other species’ too! From Oscar comes the fluffy nickname Ozzie, and you can sharpen the name by spelling it Oskar for some unique sass, too.
- Origin: English, Irish, Gaelic
- Meaning: Friend of deer
- Variations: Oskar, Osgar
Parker
Parker started out as an Old English occupational surname meaning “park keeper,” but has evolved into a cool, modern-sounding given name for adventurous little boys. Everyone loves a day in the park, with park keep sounding like a dream job for many, so we love the earthy, fresh, and nature-inspired style to the name Parker, who sounds ready to go exploring.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Park keeper
Perry
Meaning “pear tree,” Perry is a fresh, earthy, and modern-sounding name to give to your happy little boy. In the UK, perry is an alcoholic beverage most popular in the Three Counties, similar to cider but made with pears instead of apples. If your baby is born “on the first day of Christmas,” then “pear tree” is an especially humorous meaning to have.
- Origin: English, Welsh
- Meaning: Pear tree
Philip
Philip is a strong name of Greek origin, carrying the adorable, amicable meaning of “friend of horses.” The name has been borne by countless kings and noblemen across the world, religious figures, rulers, and more, but perhaps most notably by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Prince Philip served as the consort and husband to Queen Elizabeth II up until his passing in 2021 and will be remembered for many things, not least his unique personality, faithful service to his country, and loyalty to the Queen.
- Origin: Greek, English
- Meaning: Friend of horses
- Variations: Phillip, Felipe, Phil
- Namesakes: Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. Philip Pullman, an English writer.
Pip
If you have “Great Expectations” for your little boy, Pip is a brilliant name to consider for him! The main character in Charles Dickens’ classic novel was named Philip Pirrip, known as Pip, making this a strong literary name for fans of English literature. Short and sweet, Pip sounds nice and friendly to those who hear it. Did you know that the dots on domino tiles are called pips? That’ll be a fun fact to tell Pip during a family games night as he grows older.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Lover of horses
- Variations: Philip, Pippin, Piper
Preston
Preston is a cool, admirable choice of name for an awesome little lad, derived from Old English elements which translate the meaning of “priest’s town.” A common surname-turned-first-name, Preston is hip and fresh and may be used as a locational name, thanks to the countless towns, settlements and cities named Preston throughout England, the UK, and Australia. Perhaps the most noted Preston in Britain is the city in Lancashire, in the north of England. If you have family ties around this region, it could be a great tribute name to pass on to your little boy!
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Priest’s town
Ralphie
Ralphie is a gorgeous British name for a boy and definitely one to consider if you’re hoping for something unique. Ralphie is a pet form of Ralph, which is derived from the Norman Radulf, carrying the meaning of “wolf counsel.” However, in a similar way to how Alfie overtook Alfred in terms of popularity, Ralphie has become a strong contender for cute baby names, sounding simultaneously sweet and playful. Plus, Ralphie can be shortened back to Ralph as he ages, if he prefers.
- Origin: English, Norse
- Meaning: Wolf counsel
- Variations: Ralph
- Popularity: Ralph has been steadily increasing in popularity in the UK since 2004, having cracked into the top 100 names in 2016.
Randall
Randall is a medieval surname and masculine given name, which holds the meaning of shield-wolf. This feisty meaning offers an aura of protection to Randall, who sounds ready to go on an adventure through a forest somewhere. Randolph is a strong variant of the name but be prepared for the nickname Randy to be used.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Shield wolf
- Variations: Randolph, Randy
Ripley
As well as being a common surname, Ripley is a cool, unisex given name, made to sound especially badass thanks to Sigourney Weaver’s leading character of Ripley in the sci-fi/horror movie series Alien. Its origins come from the Old English elements “ripel” and “leah,” meaning “strip of land” and “clearing, lea,” respectively. There are a handful of places named Ripley throughout the US and UK, making it a fun locational name, but independently Ripley still sounds chirpy, adventurous, and sweet.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: A strip of land clearing
Robin
Everyone has heard of Robin Hood, the legendary outlaw from British folklore, who stole from the rich to give to the poor. His unique, feisty, and passionate morals are often adapted into films and media, and naturally, Robin has evolved into quite a cool name for a little boy. Robin may have originated as a diminutive of Robert, carrying the shining meaning of “bright fame,” and its feminine equivalent in spelling would be Robyn. However, we also like the idea of using the bird as a namesake, as these adorable little red-breasted robins are especially adored during the Christmas season, making Robin a joyful name for a winter-born baby.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Robin bird, or bright fame
- Variations: Robert, Robyn
- Namesakes: Robin Hood, the heroic English outlaw of legend.
Rory
- Origin: English, Gaelic
- Meaning: Red-haired king
- Variations: Ruairi
- Description: A royal name fit for any leader of the pack, Rory is a “r-awesome” choice to consider for your little king. Rory was derived from its variant Ruairi and the Gaelic elements “ruadh” and “righ,” which together form the meaning of “red-haired king.” Even if your baby isn’t born with fiery locks, you should definitely still consider Rory as a beautiful name for your little cub – full of chiefly energy and life.
Ross
Derived from the Gaelic word “ros,” Ross is a strong, masculine, and earthy given name, as well as being a common family name tracing back to the Scottish Highlands. There is actually a northern region in Scotland named Ross, ruled in the 12th-century by the Earl of Ross, however, the name is perhaps better associated today with the character on the US sitcom Friends. Short, snappy, and smart, Ross is an awesome name for a cool little dude.
- Origin: Gaelic, Scottish, English
- Meaning: Headland
Rylan
If you like the style of Ryan but would prefer something a tad more earthy-sounding and traditional, consider Rylan as a strong masculine name. Rylan and it’s variant Ryland come from the Old English meaning “land of rye,” or perhaps “island meadow.” Rural, easygoing, and heartfelt, Rylan is a handsome name for your little chap.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Land of rye, or island meadow
- Variations: Ryland, Ryan
Scott
Smart, cool, and practical, Scott is an awesome name for a stylish little boy. The name began as a surname traditionally given to people from Scotland or to those who spoke Scottish Gaelic, taken from the Latin “scoti.” Even though the name sounds cool enough independently from this meaning, we can’t help but think Scott is an especially perfect choice for a baby born of Scottish heritage or as a nod to family ancestry from the north.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: One from Scotland
- Variations: Scottie
Sheldon
Sheldon is a traditional Old English masculine name meaning “from the steep-sided valley.” Likewise to its similar variation, Shelton, Sheldon is a name born by a handful of towns and villages throughout the UK and US, making it a sweet locational name for if you hail from one of these regions. Sheldon sounds strong on its own but will sound considerably more magical if shortened to Shelly.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From the steep valley
- Variations: Shelton
Sidney
Once an old-fashioned boy’s name and now a stylish unisex option, Sidney is a great choice for your fun-loving little boy. Although perhaps best associated with the iconic city in Australia (there spelled Sydney), Sidney is said to have derived from the Old English elements “sid” and “ieg,” offering the name the earthy meaning of “wide, watered land.” Sidney is likely to be shortened to Sid, which could be cute, but perhaps refrain from spelling it Cyd to avoid unnecessary confusion.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Wide, watered land
- Variations: Sydney, Sid
Stanley
Stanley is a sophisticated and slick name for a boy. It is derived from an Old English name for various places, thanks to its meaning of “stone clearing” from its elements “stan” (“stone,”) and “leigh” (“clearing, meadow”). There is a popular children’s book series by author Jeff Brown named Flat Stanley, about a boy who is squashed flat in his sleep by a falling bulletin board but makes the most of it by going on all sorts of fascinating adventures. If you choose the name Stanley for your son, be prepared to avoid hanging any large boards or frames above his bed, just to be on the safe side.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Stone clearing
- Variations: Stan
- Namesakes: Stanley Kubrick, an American film director and screenwriter. Sir Henry Morton Stanley, a Welsh-American journalist and explorer.
Stuart
Stuart, and its alternative form Stewart, is a strong, confident, and regal name of Scottish and English origin. Stuart began as an occupational surname for a steward or an administrator of an estate and has grown to become a commonly-used masculine given name, as well as a family name. In the UK, its usage is heightened thanks to the House of Stuart, the royal family which ruled first Scotland, then England, and later Great Britain between 1371 and 1714.
- Origin: Scottish, English, French
- Meaning: Steward
- Variations: Stewart
Theo
Theo is an adorable and popular English boys name. Theo began as a shortened form of Theodore but has been steadily more popular in use in the UK since the start of the 2000s. Both names carry the precious meaning of “gift of God,” derived from Greek.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Gift of God
- Variations: Theodore
- Popularity: Theo is a very popular name in the UK, having ranked in the top 100 names since 2006.
Toby
Toby is a perfectly lovely name for a sweet little boy, sounding smart but playful at the same time. Toby is the English and shortened form of the biblical boy’s name Tobias, both of which carry the heavenly meaning of “God is good.” Other forms of the name include Tobin or Tobiah, which are also cute, but you really can’t go wrong with the classic Toby.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: God is good
- Variations: Tobias, Tobin
- Popularity: In the US, Toby peaked in popularity during the 1970s, reaching rank 190 in 1975. It has gradually dropped in popularity since then, falling out of the top 1000 names after 2019.
Todd
Todd is a blunt but stylish name of Middle English origin. It carries the meaning of “fox,” which evokes a curious, cunning, and adventurous aura which we absolutely love. Interestingly, the 1981 Walt Disney animated classic The Fox and the Hound features an eponymous fox named Todd, too! Todd is also an English surname and can be found spelled with just the one “d” or even an “e” on the end.
- Origin: Middle English
- Meaning: Fox
Trent
Trent is a cool, masculine name, which is best associated with the River Trent, which flows through Britain. Known for its tendency to flood quite dramatically, the Trent flows through central England from Staffordshire, through the cities of Stoke-on-Trent and Nottingham. If you have a sentimental association with this river, perhaps from growing up on its banks, Trent could be a particularly meaningful choice of name for you and your family. If not, Trent is still modern-sounding, badass, and slick for a name whilst still sounding classy and traditional.
- Origin: British
- Meaning: The flooder
- Namesakes: Trent Reznor, an American musician. Trent Williams, an American football player.
Trevor
Trevor is a smart name of Welsh origin, derived from the elements “tref” and “fawr,” meaning “village, homestead” and “large, big,” respectively. Whether you live in a “big village” or not, we love Trevor for its timeless, gentlemanly nature, and strong standing as a classically British name.
- Origin: Welsh, British
- Meaning: From the big village
Tucker
Tucker is a sweet and chirpy name for a little boy and one which still manages to sound cool and modern despite the long-gone original meaning behind it. Thanks to the industrial revolution, the process of “tucking” is now rarely practiced, but Tucker lived on as an occupational surname-turned-given-name to remind us of its roots. Tucking, also known as “fulling,” is the process of removing dirt and other impurities from wool, also making it thicker and ready to use in clothes-making. This is done by effectively pounding at the fabric, and so was named from the Old English verb “tucian,” meaning “to offend” or “to torment.” Of course, you can give Tucker a similar history lesson when he’s old enough to ask what his name means, or you can just tell him that it sounded so cute-as-a-button that you simply had to choose it for him!
- Origin: English
- Meaning: One who works as a fuller, or to torment
Valentine
Is there a better name for your new little love than Valentine? Of course, this handsome, confident name is best associated with Saint Valentine, the 3rd-century Roman saint who is remembered each February 14th in a celebration of courtly romance. Valentine is derived from the Latin word “valens,” which holds the powerful meaning of “strong” and “healthy,” glorious virtues to bestow upon your little cherub.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Strong, healthy
- Variations: Valentino, Valerius
- Namesakes: Saint Valentine, a 3rd-century Roman saint.
Wilbur
Wilbur is a rather old-fashioned-sounding name for a boy, but certainly one to consider. The name holds the amusing meaning of “wild boar,” having been derived from the Middle English nickname Wildbor, but we think this animal-inspired meaning adds a sense of cuteness, feistiness, and adventure to the name. Wilbur is also considered to be of Old German origin, where it holds the shining meaning of “resolute.” Either way, Wilbur is a strong, confident name and certainly one to be worn with pride.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Wild boar, or resolute
Wilfred
Wilfred is a name that is very rarely heard amongst young boys in modern times, but was a very popular name back in the 19th century, being strong and proper. Wilfred is derived from Old English and carries the sweet meaning of “desiring peace.” We’d love to say that choosing this name for your little boy would make him a quiet, tranquil baby, but unfortunately, this isn’t something we can guarantee! From Wilfred, you can use nicknames such as Will and Fred or even the smushy Wilf, which seems to soften the name considerably.
- Origin: Old English, Germanic
- Meaning: One who desires peace
- Variations: Wilf, Wilfried, Wilfrith
- Namesakes: Wilfred Owen, a British poet of the First World War.
William
William is an absolute classic of a boy’s name, borne by countless noblemen and geniuses in their fields since the middle ages. William is derived from the Germanic Wilhelm, carrying the sturdy meaning of “strong protector,” so perfect for your new little sidekick. In Great Britain, William is certainly a regal name, thanks to the Duke of Cambridge, second in line to the throne. William is also an adaptable name, with foreign-language variations such as Guillermo or Villem and countless nicknames including Will, Liam, Willie, or Lee. William’s style and strength as a name is reflected in its concrete popularity, and you can’t go wrong by choosing it for your precious little boy.
- Origin: English, Germanic
- Meaning: Strong protector
- Variations: Wilhelm, Guillermo
- Namesakes: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, member of the British royal family. William Shakespeare, an English playwright. Bill Gates, an American businessman and co-founder of Microsoft.
- Popularity: William is a hugely popular name, having ranked in the top 20 most used boy’s names in the US since 1900!
Winston
Winston is a bold and traditional name of Old English origin, perhaps best associated with Churchill, the British Prime Minister who served during World War II. Winston evokes strength, power, and wisdom, all sturdy sentiments for a little boy. Winston may be shortened to the fluffy nickname Winnie, but we prefer the breezy, cool, Wynn.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Wine’s town
- Variations: Wynn, Winnie
- Namesakes: Winston Churchill. Winston Duke, a Tobagonian actor.
Wren
Short and unique, Wren is an undeniably cool-sounding name and a perfect, flighty choice for an animal-inspired name. A wren is a small and adorable songbird, and its sweet and lively nature is beautifully reflected in this name. Wren is an uncommonly-heard choice of name in America but is considerably more popular for females than males.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Wren (the small songbird)
- Popularity: Wren is a rare name in the US, having never ranked in the top 1000 most popular boys names. As a girl’s name, it did enter the charts in 2013 and has risen in popularity since.
