103 Traditional English Baby Boy Names With Meanings

Baby Boy With A Traditional English Name

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“A rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.” – Shakespeare.

This line reminds us that your name is an identity, not a label. It’s what introduces you to the world and gives you a sense of being. So, here we bring you a list of traditional English boy names that can add elegance and charm to your little prince’s personality.

Though these names are traditional, they are also evergreen and stylish. In addition, they have a unique rhythm that makes these names instantly feel regal. So, if you like traditional names that ooze class, scroll down.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • Several English names such as Zachary, Nathaniel, and Jasper are inspired by Biblical figures.
  • Names such as Arthur and George are also inspired by personalities from history.
  • Admirable human qualities such as bravery, nobility, and wisdom are common in most of these names.

Classic And Traditional English Boy Names

Here is our list of 103 traditional English names that will be perfect for your little man:

1. Adam

Adam, an Old Testament name meaning ‘son of the red earth,’ carries historical significance and is often linked to leadership and strength, making it a favored choice for parents who appreciate tradition and meaning.

2. Abbott

It is an old English name which was used to address the head of a religious community.

3. Addison

It means the son of Adam.

4. Albert

It means the one who is bright and noble.

5. Aldrich

It is used to refer to someone who is a wise leader.

6. Alfred

It means someone who is wise.

7. Arnold

It refers to the one who is as sharp as an eagle and is a good ruler.

8. Baldwin

It means the one who is a brave friend.

9. Benedict

It means the one who is blessed.

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The name Benedict is an amalgamation of two Latin words, ‘bene’ and ‘dicte’, that mean ‘good’ and ‘well-spoken,’ respectively.

10. Bernard

It means the one who is as strong and as brave as a bear.

11. Brian

It means the one who is from a high and noble birth.

12. Byron

It means a man who is associated in some way with cattle sheds.

13. Calvert

It was a popular name for cowboys and shepherds and means one who is a cowboy or a shepherd.

14. Chad:

It is derived from the name of Saint Caedda.

15. Charles

It means the one who is a free man. The name originates from two other names, Cearl or Ceorl.

16. Christian

It is derived from the name Chrisianus which means someone who is a Christian.

17. Christopher

It means the one who is a Christ bearer.

Christopher is a common name and liked by many parents. Meaghan Burnett, a mother of three, shares why she and her husband adore the name and might keep it as an option for their future son. She says, “My husband and I like the name Christopher. It’s definitely in the running for one of our future sons! We both like the sound of the nickname Chris, so it’s definitely going to take some thought (i).”

18. Clive

It originated from people who lived near slopes or cliffs.

19. Conrad

It means the one who is bold in counsel.

20. Craig

It means rocky and originates from a Gaelic word called craeg.

21. Curtis

It means the one who is courteous.

22. Emory

It is a very old English name which means home strength.

23. Alexander

It means the one who defends men, and the name has been made more popular by the nobles.

24. Andrew

It means one who is strong and manly. It is one of the most popular baby boy names used in aristocratic families.

25. Arthur

The name originally means bear. It is also the name of the famous character who was the head of the Knights of the Round Table.

26. Benjamin

It means the son who is of the right hand. The name also features in the Old Testament.

27. Daniel

The name Daniel means god is my judge. It also features in the Old Testament.

28. David

It means the one who is beloved. The name plays a very significant part in the Old Testament.

29. George

The name originally means farmer. It is also the name for the king of Britain for 116 years at a stretch.

30. Frederick

It means the one who is a peaceful ruler.

31. Harry

It means the one who is the ruler of an estate.

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Harry is a Medieval version of the name ‘Henry’ derived from the Germanic name ‘Heimerich’.

32. Henry

It also means the one who is the ruler of an estate.

33. Jack

The name Jack means god is gracious. The name had an interesting change from being originally used as John to Johnkin to Jankin to Jackin and finally Jack.

34. Jonathan

It means the gift of Jehovah. The name is found in the Old Testament and replaced the name John during the late 50s.

35. Leo

It means the one who is as brave as a lion and has been a popular name amongst Popes.

36. Luke

The name was used to refer to men who originally came from a place known as Lucania. It also features in the New Testament.

37. Mark

It means the one who is warlike or brave enough to be in a war. The name has been especially popular since the 1950s.

38. Louis

It means the one who is a renowned warrior.

39. Nathan

It means the one who is given. The name also features in the Old Testament.

40. Matthew

It means the one who is a gift from the god. The name features in the Old Testament.

41. Nicholas

It means the one who is victorious or people of victory.

42. Paul

The name means the one who is small, and is often used to name the younger boys of the family. It was also the name of Saint Paul.

43. Nathaniel

It means the one who is a gift of god. In the New Testament the other name for Nathaniel is Bartholomew.

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Nathaniel is a combination of the words ‘natan’, which means ‘to give,’ and ‘el,’ which refers to God. It is derived from the Hebrew name “Netan’el.”

44. Patrick

It means the one who is a noble man and a patrician. The native version of the name was Padraig.

45. Peter

The name means the one who is as solid and as steadfast as a rock. It is also present in the New Testament.

[ Read: Royal Names For Baby Boys ]

46. Raymond

It means the one who is a wise protector. The name was introduced in England through the Normans and was excessively popular through the time of the Crusades.

47. Philip

It means the one who has a tremendous love for horses.

48. Simon

It means the one who is a good listener. The very simple name is extremely popular and is found both in the Old and New Testament.

49. Robert

It means the one who is of a bright fame.

50. Theodore

It means the one who is a gift of the gods.

51. Thomas

It means the one who is a twin and is often used for names of siblings. It has also been a popular name among many English saints.

52. Richard

The name means the one who is a dominant ruler.

53. Timothy

It means the one who is honoring god. The name also features in the New Testament and was also the name of a Saint.

54. Victor

It means the one who is victorious and is a conqueror.

55. William

It means the one who will offer resolute protection. It is also the name of Prince William who is the son of the late Princess Diana and Prince Charles.

56. Vincent

It means the one who will be a conqueror. The name was especially popular during the Middle Ages.

57. Walter

The name means the one who is the ruler of an army. It was also a very favorite Norman name and was very popular in the medieval England.

58. Zachary

The meaning of the name is the lord has remembered. The name has at least eight characters of the same name in the Bible.

59. Dale

It means the one who lives in a valley.

60. Dalton

It means the one who belongs to a town in the valley.

61. Damon

It means the one who can tame.

62. Darcy

It originates from the surname d’Arcy.

63. Drake

It means the one who is a brave and fierce as a dragon.

64. Earl

It means the one who is of a noble birth.

65. Edgar

It is compiled from the words which mean the one who is rich and fortunate.

66. Edmond

It means the one who is a prosperous protector.

67. Edwin

It means the one who is a prosperous friend.

68. Ellery

It means an alder tree.

69. Elmer

It means the one who is famous and noble.

70. Eric

It means the one who will always be a ruler.

71. Erasmus

It means the one who loves.

72. Aaron

It means the one who is enlightened.

73. Alan

It means the one who is handsome.

74. Fletcher

It means the one who works to make arrows.

75. Ford

It refers to a person who lives near a river.

76. Gary

The name originates from the word Gar which means a spear.

77. Gerard

It means the one who is as brave and strong as a spear.

78. Gerald

It means the one who rules with a spear.

79. Gilbert

It means the one who is famous and bright.

80. Godwin

It means the one who is a friend of god.

81. Grant

It means the one who is of a large heart.

82. Grayson

It means the son of a man with gray hair.

83. Gregory

It means the one who is watchful.

84. Halbert

It means the one who is like a bright stone.

85. Harding

It means the one who is strong and brave.

86. Harper

It refers to someone who plays a harp.

87. Hubert

It means the one who has a famous heart or spirit.

88. Morton

It refers to the one who hails from the moor town.

89. Nelson

It is a variation of the name Neil which means the one who is a champion.

90. Oscar

It means the one who is like a spear of the gods.

91. Owen

It means the one who is of a noble birth.

92. Porter

It means the one who watches the gates.

93. Stuart

It means the one who works as a steward.

94. Warner

It means the one who is an army guard.

95. Ivor

It means the one who is a bowed warrior.

96. Jackson

It means the one who is a son of Jack.

97. Jasper

It refers to the one who is the bearer of treasures in reference to the three wise men.

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The name Jasper is derived from the Persian name ‘Ganzabarah.’ Jasper was also the name of one of the Three Kings in the Holy Bible.

98. Kemp

It means the one who is a good athlete or wrestler.

99. Laurel

It means the one who is like a tree.

100. Lee

It means a clearing or wood.

101. Magnus

It means the one who is great.

102. Neville

It means a new settlement.

103. Noah

It means rest.

The names mentioned in the list here are all traditional English names that are elegant and are again coming back on the popularity list.

Discover More Names

When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of choosing an English name for a baby boy?

English baby names sound good, are classic but traditional, and each one has a charming meaning. Also, because these names are timeless, they are well-known and will never go out of style.

2. How have recent trends impacted the popularity of English baby boy names?

English baby boy names are well-known since they are usually inspired by the names of Saints and Rulers. They are also quite always in trend and have a lovely meaning. Recent trends have not affected their popularity, and they remain a popular choice for parents worldwide.

3. How can an English baby boy’s name be easy to pronounce and spell?

Choosing a name that follows common English phonetic patterns and has simple letter combinations may make it easier to spell and pronounce. Some well-known, easy-to-pronounce names are Jack, Peter, Henry, and Thomas.

4. How can an English baby boy’s name be versatile and suitable for different personalities?

When choosing a name for your child, it is vital to consider the meaning of the name, as well as the sound of the name and how it will be spelled. You may also want to consider the popularity of the name and whether or not it has any negative associations. Alexander, Benjamin, Christopher, and Nicholas are just a few examples of English baby boy names that are versatile and suitable for different personalities.

5. What impact can an English baby boy name have on future opportunities and success?

While a name may influence initial impressions, long-term success is determined by various factors such as education, skills, and personal qualities. It’s important to note that success is not solely dependent on a name, but on one’s abilities and efforts.

6. Do English baby boy names offer a range of options for nicknames?

English baby boy names offer a range of options for nicknames. Longer names such as William can be shortened to Will or Liam, while shorter names such as Samuel can be nicknamed Sam. This flexibility allows individuals to choose a nickname that resonates with their personal preferences and identity.

7. What factors should be considered when choosing an English baby boy’s name?

When choosing an English baby boy name, several factors should be considered. These include cultural background, family traditions, personal preferences, and the name’s meaning and significance. It’s important to choose a name that both parents agree on and that holds positive associations for the child throughout their life.

8. How can an English baby boy’s name be a source of pride and identity?

Traditional English names carry a sense of timelessness and can create a sense of belonging and connection to the English-speaking world. By passing down a name with a strong historical and cultural background, parents can instill a sense of pride in their child’s identity.

9. Are there any historical English baby boy names that carry significance?

Many historical English baby boy names carry significance. Some popular examples include Arthur, William, Henry, Alfred, and Richard. These names can evoke a sense of tradition, heritage, and a connection to England’s rich history. Choosing such a name can honor the past and carry a sense of historical significance.

Do let us know which of the above names you liked the most and if you are planning to use any of them for your baby boy. If you have any suggestions, please leave them in the comment box below.

Infographic: English Baby Boy Names With Meanings

If you are a keeper of traditions and a lover of the classics, it would only be apt to name your little boy inspired by them. To make your job easier, the following infographic brings elegant English names that will check all your requirement boxes. Read on!

english baby boy names with meanings (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: Traditional English Baby Boy Names With Meanings

english baby boy names_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Looking for some traditional English names? Here is a list of English names suitable for baby boys. Check out the list and pick the most alluring and interesting name.

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Arshi Ahmed
Arshi AhmedMA (English)
Arshi Ahmed did her graduation from Shri Shikshayatan College, Kolkata, and post graduation in English from Lovely Professional University. With nearly four years of experience, she specializes in writing baby names articles as she loves to help new parents find a name for their child.

Read full bio of Arshi Ahmed
Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG Diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in editing ranges across niches, including academics, human psychology, and child development.

Read full bio of Srija Chanda Burman
Angela is an honors student with a master's degree in Linguistics from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in History from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi. Her combined interest in history and the science of language has taught her the skills to understand how language and its use have changed over time.

Read full bio of Angela Alex