Vintage baby boy names never truly go out of style, which is why classic names like Henry, Theodore, and Arthur remain popular today. While some old-fashioned baby boy names fell out of favor but are prime for a comeback, like Clarence, Edmund, and Claude. No matter your style, there are timeless vintage baby boy names that give a nod to the past.
Abraham: Means “father of many”. Abraham is a central biblical figure, the founding patriarch of the Israelites and of the Arab people. He is known for his great faith in God's promises to have a son even in old age. Alfred: Means “elf counsel” or “wise elf”. Alfred was an important historical figure, an Anglo-Saxon king who held off the Vikings and promoted learning and the rule of law. Arthur: From Celtic elements meaning "bear". King Arthur is a legendary British leader famous for the Knights of the Round Table and a code of honor and chivalry later known as the Arthurian legend. August: From the Roman family name Augustus, meaning “majestic”, “venerable”, or “great”. The birth month was named in honor of Augustus Caesar, Roman emperor and adopted son of Julius Caesar who was the first emperor of ancient Rome. Barnaby: Form of Barabbas, from Aramaic meaning "son of the father". In the Bible, Barnabas was an early Christian mentioned in the Book of Acts who supported welcoming Gentiles into the faith. Claude: From a Roman family name meaning "lame, limping". Saint Claud was a popular 7th century bishop. The name sounds dignified yet kind. Clarence: From Latin 'clarus' meaning "bright, clear". In medieval legend, Clarence was a companion of Lionheart Richard fighting in the Crusades. It has a bold yet refined image. Clyde: From the Scottish river name, possibly from Celtic roots meaning “to wash, cleanse.” It brings to mind images of running waters and sounds pleasantly smooth. Desmond: From the Irish place name meaning "one from Munster". Saint Desmond was an Irish monk from the 600s AD. The name has a wise and spiritual feel. Earnest: Means "serious, determined". An old-fashioned virtue name that calls to mind sincerity of purpose. Edgar: From Old English, meaning "fortunate and powerful". Edgar was a 10th century king who united Scotland and England. Edwin: From Old English, meaning "rich friend". Edwin was a 7th century saintly king of Northumbria who converted his people to Christianity. Felix: From Latin, meaning "lucky, successful". An ancient Roman surname later adopted as a virtue name. Sounds cheerful and optimistic. Francis: From Latin, meaning "Frenchman". Saint Francis founded the Franciscan monastic order and was known for his love of nature and animals. Frederick: From German, meaning "peaceful ruler". Frederick was a common name for Germanic kings and emperors known to be just and wise leaders. Geoffrey: From German, meaning "God's peace". Geoffrey Chaucer wrote The Canterbury Tales and is considered the Father of English literature. Graham: From Scottish, meaning "gravelly homestead". The name sounds dependable and down-to-earth. Grover: From Old English, meaning "grove of trees". It brings to mind a pleasant, nature-filled place. Harold: From Old English, meaning "army ruler". Harold Godwinson was the last Anglo-Saxon king of England before the Norman conquest. Herbert: From Old German, meaning "bright army". Herbert Hoover was the 31st US president during very difficult economic times. Horace: From Latin, meaning "time, hour". Horace was a famous Roman poet from the 1st century BC. The name has artistic flair. Howard: From Old English, meaning "noble watchman". Sounds like a steadfast guardian who takes his duties seriously. Humphrey: From German, meaning "peaceful warrior". Sounds thoughtful and kindly. Irving: From Old English, meaning "green river". Washington Irving was an early American author famous for stories like Rip Van Winkle. Ivan: From Hebrew, meaning "God is gracious". Has a reasonably familiar yet still uncommon sound. Eight Russian rulers have been named Ivan. Lawrence: From Latin, meaning "man from Laurentum". Recalls the grandeur of ancient Rome and sounds dignified. Louis: From Old German, meaning "famous warrior". Louis was the name of many French kings who built many beautiful palaces and left ambitious legacies. Morris: From Latin, meaning "dark-complexioned, moorish". Sounds casual and easygoing. Oscar: From Old English, meaning "God's spear". Oscar Wilde was a famous playwright and author from the Victorian era renowned for his clever wit. Otis: From German, meaning "wealthy". Perhaps because the Otis Elevator Company brought vertical transportation to the modern world. Randolph: From Old English, meaning "shield-wolf". Recalls medieval noblemen who were fierce in battle yet also protective. Reginald: From Old German, meaning "council power". Sounds dignified and authoritative. Roger: From Old German, meaning "famous spear". Recalls valor and military strength from the age of chivalry. Many dukes, counts, and kings were named Roger. Rupert: From Old German, meaning "bright fame". Rupert Brooke was a handsome young English poet and soldier who died tragically in World War I. Stanley: From Old English, meaning "stony meadow". Sir Henry Morton Stanley famously found explorer Dr. David Livingstone in the remote African jungle greeting him with "Dr. Livingstone, I presume?"
Post Comment Cancel Reply