Old-fashioned boy names come from various sources, including biblical names, saints’ names, names from literature and mythology, and names that were popular in the past. These names often have a strong and masculine sound, conveying a sense of strength and character.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of old-fashioned boy names as parents seek unique and vintage choices for their children. These names offer a break from contemporary trends and can help a child stand out in a world of more modern and unconventional names.
We dedicated hours of research to uncover the origins and meanings behind these classic old-fashioned boy names, and we’ve included some intriguing facts to assist you in determining if one of these names is the perfect choice for your baby.
In This Article
100 Unique and Vintage Boy Names and Meanings
Discover the ideal name for your new baby with this curated list of 100 old-fashioned boy names and their meanings.
Abe
Abe is a Hebrew name meaning "Father of a multitude." It is a short form of the name Abraham or Abram. Abe Lincoln served as the 16th President of the United States and played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery.
Albert
Albert is a Germanic name meaning "Noble and bright." Famous physicist Albert Einstein, known for his theory of relativity, is one of the notable namesakes of this name.
Alexander
Alexander is a Greek name meaning "Defender of men." Alexander the Great, one of history's most prominent military leaders, conquered vast territories and established one of the largest empires in ancient times. His military strategies and tactics are still studied and admired today.
Alfred
Alfred is an English name meaning "Elf counsel." It combines a touch of whimsy with wisdom. Alfred Hitchcock, a legendary film director known for his suspenseful movies, created a lasting impact on the world of cinema. His innovative storytelling techniques continue to inspire filmmakers.
Andrew
Andrew is a Greek name meaning "Manly, courageous." It is a timeless and widely used name. Andrew Carnegie, a prominent philanthropist and industrialist, revolutionized the steel industry and became one of the wealthiest individuals in history.
Anthony
Anthony is a Latin name meaning "Priceless one." Anthony Hopkins, an acclaimed actor, is known for his powerful performances and has received numerous awards throughout his career, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "The Silence of the Lambs."
Arthur
Arthur is a Celtic name meaning "Bear." Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of the iconic detective character Sherlock Holmes, made a significant contribution to the detective fiction genre and has left a lasting impact on literature.
August
August is a Latin name meaning "Great, venerable." Augustus Caesar, the first Roman Emperor, played a pivotal role in the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire, establishing a period of relative peace and stability known as the Pax Romana.
Balthazar
Balthazar is a Hebrew name meaning "Ba'al protects the king." Balthazar Getty, an American actor, has appeared in various films and television series, showcasing his talent and versatility in the entertainment industry.
Bartholomew
Bartholomew is an Aramaic name meaning "Son of Talmai." It has a rich history and carries a sense of heritage. Bartholomew Diaz, a Portuguese explorer, was the first European mariner to sail around the southern tip of Africa, opening a sea route to the Indian Ocean.
Benjamin
Benjamin is a Hebrew name meaning "Son of the right hand." It is a timeless and popular name. Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, made significant contributions as a statesman, scientist, inventor, and writer. His experiments with electricity and his role in drafting the U.S. Constitution are among his notable achievements.
Bernard
Bernard is a Germanic name meaning "Brave as a bear." Bernard Shaw, a renowned Irish playwright and critic, is known for his wit and influential works, including "Pygmalion." His contributions to the literary world earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Bradley
Bradley is an English name meaning "Broad clearing." It has a pleasant and down-to-earth quality. Bradley Cooper, a highly acclaimed actor, has received numerous accolades for his versatile performances, including several Academy Award nominations. His portrayal in movies like "Silver Linings Playbook" and "American Sniper" showcases his talent and range.
Caleb
Caleb is a Hebrew name meaning "Whole-hearted." It conveys loyalty and sincerity. Caleb Carr, an American author, is known for his historical mysteries and psychological thrillers. His novel "The Alienist" gained critical acclaim and became a bestseller, leading to its adaptation into a television series.
Calvin
Calvin is a Latin name meaning "Bald." Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, presided over a period of economic prosperity known as the "Roaring Twenties." His commitment to limited government and fiscal responsibility earned him the nickname "Silent Cal."
Carlton
Carlton is an English name meaning "From the land of free men." Carlton Fisk, a former professional baseball player, is best known for his time as a catcher for the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago White Sox. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000.
Charles
Charles is a Germanic name meaning "Free man." It is a timeless and regal name. Charles Dickens, an iconic English writer, created some of the most memorable characters in literature and is celebrated for works like "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Great Expectations."
Chester
Chester is a Latin name meaning "Fortress." It evokes a sense of strength and security. Chester Bennington, the lead vocalist of the band Linkin Park, made a significant impact on the rock music scene with his powerful vocals and emotionally charged lyrics.
Clarence
Clarence is a Latin name meaning "Bright, clear." It exudes a sense of clarity and brilliance. Clarence Darrow, a prominent American lawyer, is known for his involvement in high-profile criminal defense cases, including the famous Scopes Monkey Trial.
Claude
Claude is a Latin name meaning "Lame." It carries a sense of uniqueness and artistic flair. Claude Monet, an influential French painter, was a leading figure of the Impressionist movement. His innovative use of color and light in capturing natural landscapes revolutionized the art world.
Clement
Clement is a Latin name meaning "Merciful." It conveys kindness and compassion. Clement Clarke Moore, an author best known for writing the poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (commonly known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas"), has left a lasting legacy in popularizing the modern image of Santa Claus and his reindeer.
Clifford
Clifford is an English name meaning "Clifford's ford." It evokes a sense of ruggedness and strength. Clifford Brown, a legendary jazz trumpeter, made significant contributions to the genre with his exceptional talent and virtuosic playing. His improvisational skills and melodic style continue to inspire musicians to this day.
Curtis
Curtis is an English name meaning "Courteous." Curtis Mayfield, a highly influential singer-songwriter, was known for his soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics. His songs, such as "Move On Up" and "People Get Ready," became anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.
Cyril
Cyril is a Greek name meaning "Lordly." It exudes a sense of authority and power. Cyril of Alexandria, an early Christian theologian and bishop, played a significant role in shaping Christian doctrine and defending the divinity of Christ.
David
David is a Hebrew name meaning "Beloved." David Bowie, a legendary musician and cultural icon, pushed the boundaries of music and artistic expression. His innovative style and diverse body of work have had a profound impact on popular culture.
Douglas
Douglas is a Scottish name meaning "Dark river." It carries a sense of mystery and depth. Douglas Adams, a British author, is best known for his science fiction series "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy."
Edgar
Edgar is an English name meaning "Wealthy spear." It combines strength and prosperity. Edgar Allan Poe, an American writer and poet, is known for his dark and macabre stories, such as "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Raven."
Edmund
Edmund is an English name meaning "Prosperous protector." Edmund Hillary, a New Zealand mountaineer, achieved international fame as one of the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest. His groundbreaking ascent and subsequent philanthropic work in Nepal earned him widespread admiration.
Edward
Edward is an English name meaning "Wealthy guardian." Edward Jenner, an English physician, is widely regarded as the pioneer of smallpox vaccination. His discovery and subsequent development of the smallpox vaccine revolutionized the field of immunology and saved countless lives.
Edwin
Edwin is an English name meaning "Wealthy friend." Edwin Hubble, an American astronomer, made groundbreaking observations that provided evidence for the expanding universe. His discoveries revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos and laid the foundation for modern cosmology.
Elias
Elias is a Greek name meaning "The Lord is my God." Elias Howe, an American inventor, revolutionized the textile industry with his invention of the sewing machine. His innovative design and contributions to the field of mechanical engineering have had a lasting impact on manufacturing processes.
Elmer
Elmer is an English name meaning "Noble and famous." It combines qualities of distinction and renown. Elmer Bernstein, an American composer, created iconic film scores for movies like "The Magnificent Seven" and "To Kill a Mockingbird."
Emmanuel
Emmanuel is a Hebrew name meaning "God is with us." Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, has played a significant role in shaping French politics and advocating for various reforms.
Ernest
Ernest is a Germanic name meaning "Serious and resolute." It conveys strength and determination. Ernest Hemingway, an iconic American writer, is known for his literary works such as "The Old Man and the Sea" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls." His unique writing style and realistic depiction of human experiences earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954.
Eugene
Eugene is a Greek name meaning "Well-born, noble." Eugene O'Neill, an American playwright, is regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in American history. His works, including "Long Day's Journey Into Night" and "The Iceman Cometh," tackle deep psychological themes and have had a profound influence on modern theater.
Everett
Everett is an English name meaning "Brave as a wild boar." Everett Dirksen, an American politician, served as the Senate Minority Leader and played a crucial role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Ezekiel
Ezekiel is a Hebrew name meaning "God strengthens." Ezekiel Elliott, an American football player, has achieved great success in the NFL as a running back for the Dallas Cowboys.
Felix
Felix is a Latin name meaning "Happy, fortunate." It evokes a sense of joy and good fortune. Felix Mendelssohn, a German composer, is renowned for his compositions such as the "Wedding March" from "A Midsummer Night's Dream." His musical genius and contributions to the Romantic era of classical music have left an indelible mark on the art form.
Ferdinand
Ferdinand is a Germanic name meaning "Bold voyager." Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, led the first circumnavigation of the Earth, proving that the Earth is round.
Floyd
Floyd is a Welsh name meaning "Gray-haired." Floyd Mayweather Jr., a legendary professional boxer, is considered one of the greatest fighters in the history of the sport. His unbeaten record and numerous world titles have solidified his legacy as an iconic figure in boxing.
Francis
Francis is a Latin name meaning "Free man." It symbolizes independence and liberty. Francis Ford Coppola, an acclaimed filmmaker, is known for directing movies such as "The Godfather" trilogy and "Apocalypse Now."
Franklin
Franklin is an English name meaning "Free landowner." Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, made significant contributions to science, writing, and politics. His experiments with electricity and his role in drafting the U.S. Constitution are just a few examples of his wide-ranging achievements.
Frederick
Frederick is a Germanic name meaning "Peaceful ruler." It signifies leadership and tranquility. Frederick Douglass, an influential African-American abolitionist and writer, played a pivotal role in the fight against slavery and advocated for civil rights. His autobiographical works, such as "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass," shed light on the harsh realities of slavery.
Gabriel
Gabriel is a Hebrew name meaning "God is my strength." Gabriel GarcÃa Márquez, a Colombian writer, is renowned for his magical realism novels, including "One Hundred Years of Solitude." His literary works have earned him numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982.
George
George is a Greek name meaning "Farmer." George Washington, the first President of the United States, played a crucial role in the founding of the nation and establishing its democratic principles.
Gerald
Gerald is a Germanic name meaning "Rule of the spear." It represents strength and authority. Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, served during a challenging period and focused on healing the nation after the Watergate scandal.
Gilbert
Gilbert is a Germanic name meaning "Bright pledge." Gilbert Keith Chesterton, an English writer, is celebrated for his wit and insightful works, including the "Father Brown" detective stories.
Gordon
Gordon is a Scottish name meaning "Great hill." Gordon Ramsay, a renowned celebrity chef, has achieved international fame with his multiple Michelin-starred restaurants and television shows. His culinary expertise and fiery personality have made him a household name in the world of cooking.
Gregory
Gregory is a Greek name meaning "Vigilant, watchful." Gregory Peck, an iconic American actor, is best known for his roles in films such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "Roman Holiday." His performances earned him an Academy Award and established him as a beloved figure in cinema.
Hamish
Hamish is a Scottish name meaning "Supplanter." It carries a sense of determination and assertiveness.
Harold
Harold is an Old English name meaning "Army ruler." Harold Pinter, a celebrated playwright and Nobel Laureate in Literature, is known for his influential works such as "The Birthday Party" and "The Homecoming."
Harry
Harry is an English name meaning "Ruler of the household." Harry Styles, a renowned singer and actor, gained fame as a member of the boy band One Direction and later pursued a successful solo career.
Harvey
Harvey is a name of Breton origin meaning "Battle-worthy." It represents strength and valor. Harvey Milk, an influential American politician and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, became one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States. His activism and dedication to equality have inspired generations of activists fighting for equal rights.
Hector
Hector is a Greek name meaning "Steadfast." Hector Berlioz, a renowned composer of the Romantic era, is known for his innovative compositions and orchestration techniques. His influential works, such as the "Symphonie fantastique," have left a significant impact on classical music.
Henry
Henry is a Germanic name meaning "Ruler of the household." Henry Ford, an influential industrialist and founder of Ford Motor Company, revolutionized the automotive industry with the introduction of the assembly line and mass production.
Herbert
Herbert is a Germanic name meaning "Illustrious warrior." It represents bravery and distinction. Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, served during the Great Depression. He implemented various policies and initiatives in an attempt to alleviate the economic crisis and foster recovery.
Hershel
Hershel is a Yiddish name meaning "Deer." Herschel Walker, a former professional football player, achieved great success in the sport, winning numerous accolades and breaking multiple records.
Horace
Horace is a Latin name meaning "Timekeeper." It signifies wisdom and insight. Horace Mann, an influential educator and reformer, played a key role in the development of public education in the United States.
Howard
Howard is an Old English name meaning "Brave heart." Howard Hughes, a prominent business magnate and aviator, made significant contributions to the aviation industry and the field of filmmaking.
Hubert
Hubert is a Germanic name meaning "Bright mind." Hubert de Givenchy, an influential fashion designer, established the iconic Givenchy brand known for its elegant and sophisticated designs.
Hugh
Hugh is a Germanic name meaning "Mind" or "Intellect." Hugh Jackman, a versatile actor known for his portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men film series, has achieved critical acclaim and widespread recognition for his talent and dedication to his craft.
Hugo
Hugo is a Germanic name derived from the name Hugh, meaning "Mind" or "Intellect." Hugo Boss, a renowned fashion designer, founded the Hugo Boss fashion brand known for its modern and sophisticated designs.
Irving
Irving is a Scottish name meaning "Green water." It evokes the imagery of nature and tranquility. Irving Berlin, a prolific composer and songwriter, is best known for penning timeless classics such as "White Christmas" and "God Bless America."
Isaac
Isaac is a Hebrew name meaning "He will laugh." Isaac Newton, a renowned physicist and mathematician, formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, laying the foundation for modern physics. His groundbreaking discoveries revolutionized our understanding of the physical world.
Ivan
Ivan is a Slavic name meaning "God is gracious." It symbolizes divine favor and mercy. Ivan the Terrible, the first Tsar of Russia, had a significant impact on Russian history. His reign was marked by centralization of power, expansion of territories, and cultural reforms.
Jack
Jack is an English name derived from the name John, meaning "God is gracious." It represents divine favor and kindness. Jack Nicholson, an acclaimed actor, has delivered memorable performances in films such as "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "The Shining," earning multiple awards and widespread acclaim.
Jacob
Jacob is a Hebrew name meaning "Supplanter." Jacob Marley, a character in Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," serves as a cautionary figure representing the consequences of a life driven by greed. His role in the story highlights the importance of compassion and kindness.
James
James is a Hebrew name meaning "Supplanter." It represents someone who takes the place of another. James Brown, often referred to as the "Godfather of Soul," revolutionized the music industry with his energetic performances and influential contributions to funk and soul music.
Jasper
Jasper is a Persian name meaning "Treasurer." Jasper Johns, a renowned artist, is known for his contributions to the pop art movement and his iconic paintings such as "Flag" and "Target." His innovative approach to art has influenced numerous artists.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah is a Hebrew name meaning "Exalted by God." Jeremiah Johnson, a legendary mountain man of the American West, explored and lived in the wilderness during the mid-1800s. His experiences and survival skills made him a popular figure in folklore and literature.
Jesse
Jesse is a Hebrew name meaning "Gift." Jesse Owens, an Olympic athlete, made history by winning four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, defying racial discrimination and showcasing his exceptional athletic abilities.
Joel
Joel is a Hebrew name meaning "Yahweh is God." Joel Coen, along with his brother Ethan Coen, is a renowned filmmaker known for their critically acclaimed movies such as "Fargo" and "No Country for Old Men."
Jonah
Jonah is a Hebrew name meaning "Dove." Jonah Hill, an actor and filmmaker, has gained recognition for his versatile performances in movies such as "Superbad" and "The Wolf of Wall Street."
Joseph
Joseph is a Hebrew name meaning "God will increase." Joseph Stalin, a political leader, served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. His controversial leadership had a profound impact on the Soviet Union and shaped the course of world history.
Lawrence
Lawrence is a Latin name meaning "From Laurentum," an ancient city in Italy. Lawrence of Arabia, also known as T.E. Lawrence, was a British soldier, writer, and archaeologist. He became famous for his role in the Arab Revolt during World War I and his extensive knowledge of the Middle East.
Leonard
Leonard is a German name meaning "Brave lion." Leonard da Vinci, a Renaissance artist, was a polymath known for his mastery in various fields such as painting, sculpture, and invention. His iconic works like the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper" continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Louis
Louis is a name with German and French origins, meaning "Famous warrior." Louis Armstrong, a legendary jazz musician and trumpeter, revolutionized the genre with his distinctive style and improvisational skills. His contributions to music continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians.
Martin
Martin is a Latin name meaning "Warlike." Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent civil rights leader, played a pivotal role in the American civil rights movement, advocating for equality, justice, and social change.
Matthew
Matthew is a Hebrew name meaning "Gift of God." Matthew McConaughey, an acclaimed actor, has showcased his talent and versatility through roles in movies such as "Dallas Buyers Club" and "Interstellar." His performances have earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.
Michael
Michael is a Hebrew name meaning "Who is like God." Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, achieved remarkable success and revolutionized the sport with his unmatched athleticism and skill.
Nathaniel
Nathaniel is a Hebrew name meaning "Gift of God." Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American author, is known for his classic novels, such as "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables," which contributed significantly to American literature.
Nicholas
Nicholas is a Greek name meaning "Victory of the people." It represents triumph and popularity. Nikola Tesla, an influential inventor and electrical engineer, made groundbreaking contributions to the development of alternating current (AC) electrical systems.
Oliver
Oliver is a Latin name meaning "Olive tree." It symbolizes peace, fertility, and prosperity. Oliver Cromwell, an English political leader, served as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland during the mid-17th century.
Oscar
Oscar is an Old Norse name meaning "God's spear." It represents strength and protection. Oscar Wilde, a renowned Irish writer, is celebrated for his wit, literary works, and plays, including "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."
Patrick
Patrick is a Latin name meaning "Nobleman. Patrick Stewart, a highly acclaimed British actor, is best known for his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation." His talent and charisma have made him a respected figure in the world of acting.
Paul
Paul is a Latin name meaning "Small." It symbolizes humility and modesty. Paul McCartney, a legendary British musician and member of the iconic band The Beatles, has made significant contributions to the world of music with his timeless songs and innovative musical style.
Peter
Peter is a Greek name meaning "Rock." It signifies strength, stability, and leadership. Peter Jackson, a renowned film director, is known for his masterful work in bringing J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy to the big scree.
Raymond
Raymond is a Germanic name meaning "Wise protector." It represents wisdom and guardianship. Raymond Chandler, an American author, is considered one of the pioneers of hard-boiled detective fiction. His detective novels featuring the iconic character Philip Marlowe have had a lasting impact on the crime genre.
Richard
Richard is a Germanic name meaning "Brave ruler." Richard Feynman, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, made significant contributions to quantum mechanics and particle physics. His work on the development of quantum electrodynamics has had a profound impact on the field of physics.
Robert
Robert is a Germanic name meaning "Bright fame." Robert Frost, an esteemed American poet, is celebrated for his evocative and introspective poems, including "The Road Not Taken" and "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening."
Samuel
Samuel is a Hebrew name meaning "God has heard." Samuel Morse, an American inventor and artist, is renowned for his invention of the telegraph and the development of Morse code, which revolutionized long-distance communication.
Simon
Simon is a Hebrew name meaning "Listener." Simon Bolivar, a South American revolutionary leader, played a pivotal role in the liberation of several South American countries from Spanish colonial rule, earning him the title "The Liberator" and shaping the political landscape of the region.
Stanley
Stanley is an Old English name meaning "Stone clearing." It symbolizes strength and resilience. Stanley Kubrick, an influential film director, is acclaimed for his groundbreaking works, including "2001: A Space Odyssey," "A Clockwork Orange," and "The Shining."
Thomas
Thomas is an Aramaic name meaning "Twin." It represents companionship and duality. Thomas Edison, an American inventor and businessman, is widely regarded as one of the greatest inventors in history. He made significant contributions to the development of numerous groundbreaking inventions, including the practical electric light bulb and the phonograph.
Timothy
Timothy is a Greek name meaning "Honoring God." Timothy Leary, an American psychologist and writer, became an influential figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. He advocated for the exploration of altered states of consciousness and promoted the use of psychedelics for therapeutic and spiritual purposes.
Victor
Victor is a Latin name meaning "Conqueror." It represents triumph and victory. Victor Hugo, a celebrated French author, is renowned for his literary works, including the novels "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame."
Vincent
Vincent is a Latin name meaning "Conquering." Vincent van Gogh, a Dutch post-impressionist painter, created an extensive body of artwork that has had a profound influence on the art world.
Walter
Walter is a Germanic name meaning "Ruler of the army." It represents leadership and authority. Walter Cronkite, an American broadcast journalist, is widely regarded as one of the most trusted voices in news reporting. His career spanned over five decades, and his coverage of major events, such as the Apollo moon landing and the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
William
William is a Germanic name meaning "Resolute protector." It signifies determination and defense. William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest playwright in the English language, wrote numerous plays and sonnets that have had an enduring impact on literature and theater.
Xavier
Xavier is a Basque name meaning "New house." It represents renewal and progress. Francis Xavier, a Spanish missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), played a significant role in spreading Christianity in Asia. He is considered one of the greatest Christian missionaries and is revered for his tireless efforts to evangelize and provide humanitarian aid.