73 Unique Baby Boy Names With Meanings

Choosing a name for your son may be one of the most enjoyable (although sometimes tricky) decisions you’ll make when you’re about to become a parent. You may have heard all the popular and common names out there, but perhaps you’re in search of a baby boys’ name that’s more original, unusual or rare. To make your search easier, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of unique boy names with their meanings.

Popular Yet Unique Baby Boy Names

While it may seem like an oxymoron, giving your little boy a fashionable yet unique name is possible. If you’re looking for a way to make your baby boy stand out while ensuring he still fits into his generation, check out our list of the most popular yet unique names for boys in the United Kingdom in recent years:

1. Roman. This unique boys’ name has become increasingly popular in the UK in recent years – possibly due to its strong and masculine vibe. It literally means ‘Roman’, and is also a popular choice in the United States, Poland and Ukraine.

2. Arlo. The origins of the name Arlo are disputed. Some believe it refers to the Irish town Aherlow, meaning ‘between two hills’ while others credit the fictional ‘Arlo Hill’ from the epic poem The Faerie Queene written by Edmund Spenser in the sixteenth century. 3. Sebastian. A popular name in Europe for centuries, Sebastian means ‘from Sebaste’, a town in modern-day Turkey. It also means ‘venerable’ in Greek. 4. Luca. Luca means ‘man from Lucania’. It’s the Italian version of Luke or Lucas, which makes for a unique option for lovers of Italian boy names. 5. Ezra. Why not opt for a unique biblical name for your boy? Meaning ‘help’ or helper’ in Hebrew, Ezra could be the perfect fit for your friendly little boy. 6. Jaxon. Derived from the Old English name Jason, both spellings can be found throughout English-speaking parts of the world, but Jaxon adds a unique spin to the more common boys’ name. 7. Albie. With its meaning ‘white’ in Latin, Albie can be a great unique name for both boys and girls. It is the shortened form of the Germanic name Albert, which is thought to derive from Adalbrecht. 8. Logan. A surname derived from a Scottish place, Logan means ‘little hollow’ in Gaelic. It’s an adorable meaning and a stately name. 9. Reuben. As trendy as ever, the biblical name Reuben means ‘behold, a son’. Other spellings include Ruben and Rubin. 10. Ellis. Popular as both a boy and girl name in the UK, Ellis is derived from the Welsh word meaning ‘benevolent’. It can also be spelt Elis.

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Retro and Uncommon Baby Boy Names

Want a unique and old-fashioned boys’ name that exudes that vintage charm? Take a look at these rare and unusual baby boy names: 11. Alfred. This name was popular in England and Wales around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, but maybe it’s time for a comeback? You might remember Alfred the Great from history lessons at school – he was the mediaeval king who (legend has it) burnt some cakes entrusted to him by a peasant woman who was sheltering him. Apart from the odd kitchen disaster, though, Alfred is known to have been a wise ruler and protector of the weak. 12. Benedict. This Latin name entered England in the 12^th century and became a popular name choice; however, it has decreased in popularity since then, making way for Benjamin and Ben. But why not bring this classic and rare boys’ name back? You even have famous actor Benedict Cumberbatch as a cool namesake. 13. Ernest. Even with its meaning of ‘serious’ from the English word earnest, this unique boys’ name still manages to have a cute vintage vibe. And if you’re a bookworm, you may recognise this name from the American author Ernest Hemingway and the character in Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. 14. Kendrick. The boy’s name Kendrick may have several origins – including Old English, Welsh and Gaelic – but wherever it comes from, this name has an ancient, classic ring to it that radiates strength and refinement.

15. Octavius. Even though this rare name means ‘eighth’ in Latin, your baby boy doesn’t have to be the eighth child to bear this noble Roman name. Before he ruled Rome, Emperor Augustus was called Octavius.

16. Orson. Orson is a diminutive word derived from the Latin word for bear (ursus), so it means ‘bear cub.’ This name is as cute as a teddy bear, but it also sounds strong and dignified.

17. Reggie. This name is a shortened version of Reginald from an ancient Germanic word for ‘King’. Both the long and the short versions of this name have been growing popular again more recently. 18. Riggs. Originally an Old English surname, Riggs meant someone living at a place called Ridge – either a village of that name or the actual ridge of a hill, for example. Nowadays though, it’s increasingly popular as a first name too.

Strong and Unusual Boy Names

Interested in something powerful and different for your son? Pick one of these strong and unusual baby boy names: 19. Atlas. In Greek mythology, Atlas was a famous Titan who carried the heavens on his shoulders, although he is often depicted holding up the world too. Either way, this name certainly conjures up an image of strength and power. 20. Aziel. This name has its roots in Hebrew and means ‘God is my strength’. It’s a rare boys' name, but a great choice if you want to name your baby something biblical but original. 21. Finlay. Finlay originates from Scotland, coming from the Gaelic for ‘fair-haired warrior or hero’. This unique boys’ name could be a great way of honouring your Scots ancestry, but then again you don’t have to be of Scottish descent (or even have a blond-haired child) to name your son Finlay if you like the sound of it. 22. Kenji. This Japanese name literally means ‘strong and vigorous’ but also the ‘intelligent second son’. It’s a powerful and unusual name for your little boy, especially if your family has Japanese roots. If you’re expecting a twin boy and girl, you might also enjoy these Japanese girl names. 23. Hernan. Hernan comes from the name Hernando, the mediaeval Spanish form of the more common Ferdinand, meaning ‘daring’ and ‘brave’. Hernan is a unique, creative name that fits an adventurous baby boy who loves knights and castles, and perfect if you enjoy Spanish boy names! 24. Leonardo. Originating from Italy, Spain and Portugal, this name is a variant of Leonard, meaning ‘brave lion’. But the name could also suggest an affinity with science, art and culture thanks to historical namesakes such as the artist and scientist Leonardo da Vinci, or the 13th-century Italian mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci. Of course, however, many famous people have had this name in the past, and your son will soon make it his own. 25. Marcellus. Meaning ‘young warrior’ in Latin, this strong, yet unusual boys’ name certainly makes a statement. 26. Max. This short form of Maximillian or Maxwell is also great as a standalone name. Coming from Latin, it simply means ‘greatest’. And what could be better than reminding your son, every time you call out his name, that you think he’s the greatest? 27. Maynard. This German name means ‘brave’, ‘hardy’ and ‘strong. It’s a great option for a unique name with a mighty meaning for your baby boy. 28. Storm. Evoking thundery skies, Storm is an original name for your little superhero. It’s also popular as a girl’s name, so if you’re looking for a unisex or ungendered name this could be one for your shortlist.

Cool and Unique Baby Boy Names

Have the feeling your little one will stand out from the crowd? We know he will with one of these cool and quirky baby boy names if you had something less traditional in mind: 29. Dario. Dario is the Italian form of the Greek-Persian name, Darius. In fact, it may be derived from the name of an ancient Persian king. The Latin variant Dario is an elegant name meaning ‘upholder of the good’. 30. Eliot. This English name for boys is a great choice if you’re looking for something a bit unique, and your son will certainly be in good company: The poet and playwright T.S. Eliot and the mob-busting American crimefighter Eliot Ness will be among your child’s namesakes if you pick this one. 31. Jaylen. Jaylen is a cool African-American unisex name that’s been around since the 1990s. So, if you’re looking for something fresh, modern and interesting for your little boy – this might be it! 32. Lake. This unisex name is a gentle, nature-based option. Perhaps your baby will grow up to love the outdoors. 33. Micah. Shake things up with this unusual but catchy alternative to Michael, and your baby boy’s name will always make a statement.

34. Orlando. For another distinctive name with cool, Latin appeal, try Orlando (the Italian form of Roland). William Shakespeare seemed to like this name too: The character Orlando in Shakespeare’s play ‘As You Like It’ is brave, chivalrous, modest, intelligent, strong and handsome.

35. Seven. If you’re on your seventh child and you’re having trouble finding a name, then Seven could be a playful solution. Or maybe you want to break tradition and name your first child Seven. Seven is often thought to be a lucky number, so it could also be a fitting name for your little lucky charm. 36. Tremaine. This uncommon boys’ name started as a Cornish surname meaning ‘stone settlement’. You might consider it if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary with timeless appeal, or perhaps as a nod to your family’s Cornish roots. 37. Zarif. This Arabic name meaning ‘elegant’, ‘witty’ or ‘graceful’ could be an inspired choice if you’d like to give your baby boy an unusual name with an eastern flavour.

Unique Non-English Names for Boys

There is no need to restrict your hunt for the perfect name to the English language. Perhaps you’d like to reflect your family heritage or commemorate a place you’ve lived or visited. Read our list of non-English boy names for some unique inspiration. 38. Alessandre. A variant of Alessandro, the Italian form of Alexander, Alessandre means ‘defending men’ in Greek. 39. Amadeo. This is the Italian version of the Late Roman name Amadeus, meaning ‘love of God’. Amadeus was also the middle name of famous Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 40. Ambrose. From the Late Latin name Ambrosius, meaning ‘immortal’. Ambrose is a unique name for boys if you’re looking for a sophisticated touch. 41. Callum. Also spelt Calum, this name is a derivation of Columba, a Latin name that means ‘dove’. The most notable bearer was an Irish monk who brought Christianity to Scotland. What a peaceful and serene middle name for your baby boy. 42. Enzo. Popular in Europe, Enzo is the short form of names ending in enzo, such as Italian names like Lorenzo or Vicenzo. It’s also the historic version of the name Heinz, derived from the German form of Henry (Heinrich), which means ‘home ruler’. 43. Kazimir. A form of Casimir, this unique boys’ name comes from Russian, Croatian and Slovene languages. It has two rather conflicting meanings, ‘to destroy’ or ‘world, peace’. You could also shorten it to Kaz for a cute nickname or middle name. 44. Lazlo. The Anglicised version of the Hungarian name László, the king of Hungary in the eleventh century. László is also the Hungarian version of the Slavic name Vladislav, meaning ‘rule’ and ‘glory’. 45. Lev. This name of Russian origin means ‘lion’ and was the real name of the author Leo Tolstoy, whose full name is Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy. Lev is also a Hebrew name meaning ‘heart’ and a short form of the Georgian name Levan, derived from the Greek word for ‘lion’.

46. Osvaldo. For another distinctively unique baby boys’ name with international appeal, try Osvaldo, the Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese version of Oswald, which means ‘god’ and ‘power’ or ‘ruler’. 47. Xandros. This is a variant of Xandro, derived from the Portuguese name Alexandro, which comes from Alexander. Just like Alessandre, Xandros means ‘defending men’ in Greek. 48. Yael. A boy’s name of Hebrew, Welsh and Old English origin, Yael means ‘mountain goat’ or ‘fertile moor’. Making it a great unique choice for your little boy. 49. Zahir. This unique Arabic name means ‘helper’ or ‘supporter’ and can also be spelt Zaahir.

Nature-Inspired Unique Boy Names

If you’d like your little one to have a strong connection to nature, consider choosing one of these unique gems for your baby boy’s name: 50. Amo. Meaning ‘little eagle’ in French, this unique boys’ name can also be the short form of any name starting with Am, such as Ambrose, Amadeo, or Amaal. 51. Ashby. Similar to the popular name Ashely, Ashby means ‘ash tree’. The by suffix extends the meaning to ‘ash tree farm’, which is the same meaning as the name Ashton. 52. Atwood. Rather unsurprisingly, Atwood means ‘dweller at the wood’. If you love nature, especially forests, this could be a sweet and uncommon boys’ name for your very own little woods’ dweller! 53. Banks. Just like above, the meaning of Bank is also pretty easy to guess. It refers to someone who lived near the edge of a river or hillside. 54. Caleb. Related to the Hebrew word kevel, Caleb means ‘dog’. However, some believe it may be a combination of the two words kal and lev, which mean ‘whole’ and ‘heart’.

55. Elon. In Hebrew, Elon means ‘oak tree’. It’s also the name of one of the judges in the Old Testament. 56. Foster. Another unique boys’ name derived from a surname, Foster refers to ‘forester’ or ‘woodsman’. 57. Madden. From the Irish word maddah, Madden means ‘little dog’. You may recognise it as the surname of popular fashion designer Steven Madden. 58. Odell. Those from the town of Odell in Bedfordshire bore this name. It comes from two words that mean ‘wood hill’ when put together – a unique and trendy sounding boys’ name for a little nature lover. 59. Rhodes. Derived from the Old English word rod, the name Rhodes means ‘cleared land’. In Greek, it has the very sweet meaning of ‘where the roses grow’, making it a cute and unique name for your baby boy. 60. Zale. Most commonly used as a surname in Poland, Zale combines the words za and las, meaning ‘on the other side of the wood’. 61. Zamir. Meaning Hebrew in ‘songbird’, this makes a great choice if your lad has a strong set of lungs. It also means ‘good voice’ in the southern Balkans.

Rare and Unique Baby Boy Names With Meaning

Your son’s name will represent him for life, so choose one that’s as special as he is. Here are some more unique and rare baby boy names with special meanings to help inspire you: 62. Adel. This name comes from the Arabic for ‘one who judges fairly’, so it’s a great choice if you’re keen to pass on the values of fairness and impartiality to your children. Then again, you might just like this boys’ name for its simplicity and unpretentious yet unique feel. 63. Adryan. Derived from the Roman name Hadrianus, meaning ‘from Hadria’ in Latin, Adryan is a modern version of a classic boys’ name. 64. Brennon. You might consider this uncommon variant of the name Brennan for your baby boy. It comes from the Irish surname Ó Braonáin, the Gaelic word for ‘descendant of Braonán’ meaning rain, teardrop or moisture. Perhaps your family has Irish roots, or you simply love Irish boy names. 65. Cree. This very rare baby name that comes from the name of a Native American tribe in central Canada may be a nice choice for your little one. 66. Dewi. This charming name is an old Welsh form of the more familiar-sounding David – meaning ‘beloved’. Saint Dewi also happens to be the patron saint of Wales. But even if you don’t have Welsh ancestry, this name from the valleys could be a perfect match for your beloved son. 67. Keanu. Meaning ‘cool mountain breeze’ in Hawaiian, this boy's name is a poetic and unique name for a special little boy. 68. Kalen. This name can be used for both boys and girls, making it a unique unisex name. It has its roots in Gaelic, deriving from the name Kaelan, meaning ‘slender’. 69. Kapono. This virtuous Hawaiian name means ‘righteous’ or ‘good’. It’s a beautiful and rarely used name that could be an original choice for your son. 70. Rehan. This name comes from the Koran and means ‘sweet-scented plant’, like basil. It can also be a name with Irish roots, coming from a Gaelic surname, which is a variant of Regan. 71. Rush. Derived from a surname, Rush refers to a grassy plant that grows in marshland. Needless to say, it may also describe your energetic baby boy perfectly!

72. Teddy. This name is actually a diminutive of Edward or Theodore, meaning ‘wealthy’ or ‘gift of God’. There are plenty of other, equally cute versions of this name that you could use, such as Ted, Ed, Eddie, Teddie, Theo or Ned.

73. Wren. A great unisex choice. From the Middle English name for a bird, it’s also the short form of the name Wrenley.

The Bottom Line

Picking a unique name for your baby boy can be fun. You could even make it a team effort by holding a baby naming party with family and friends. As your search continues, check out these top baby names for boys. And if your little one’s gender is still unknown, you might like to check out these unique girl names. You never know where you’ll stumble across the perfect name!