Top boy Names For 2021
Names that reflect values and heritage.
Most parents select baby names that stand for some admirable human qualities. The popular boy names of 2021 represent qualities such as strength, bravery, and nobility. These popular names blend traditional and modern influences, each representing admirable traits parents hope their sons will embrace. Many of these names come with a rich history, which adds to their charm. These names offer a sense of heritage and convey meaningful qualities that keep them relevant even after centuries.
Two of the top favorites, Liam (protector) and William (protector) signify protection and are also associated with bravery or fearlessness. Similarly, names like Ethan (strong) and Bryan (strong) convey strength, a highly valued trait in boys. On the modern side, names like Ryder (mounted warrior) and Xander (defender of people) bring to mind warriors with meanings that highlight their roles as defenders and protectors of their people. If you’re looking for popular and meaningful boy names in the US, check out the list below, compiled from official SSA data (1).
In This Article
Browse Top Baby Names by Gender
Browse Top Baby Names by Year
| Name | Gender | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Leader; Lion; Strong | ||
| | Church | ||
| | The people | ||
| | He who is my messenger | ||
| | Giver of Rain; One of the Ragas; A Raga Used in Indian Music | ||
| | Hammer; Warlike; Dedicated to Mars | ||
| | Mallet; Hammer | ||
| | Anointed; Messiah | ||
| | Sturdy; Firm; Solid | ||
| | Given by God | ||
| | Name of a demigod; Trickster god | ||
| | A kind and affectionate person; Sun | ||
| | Who is like God; Son of Cathmhaol; Chief of battle | ||
| | Who is like God; Enormous | ||
| | Who is like God | ||
| | Beneficient | ||
| | Little mountain; Royal Mountain | ||
| | Pearl; Teardrop; Leader | ||
| | Messenger | ||
| | The most praised one | ||
| | A person who assists and takes care of others | ||
| | Helper; Supporter; Victorious; Protector; Victory-maker | ||
| | One at a high place or a lofty person | ||
| | From Nazareth | ||
| | The winning person of the people | ||
| | Victory of the people | ||
| | Victory of the people | ||
| | Victory of the people | ||
| | Light | ||
| | The one under God's protection | ||
| | Nobleman | ||
| | Lover of horses; Friend of horses; Horse lover | ||
| | A scout; A pioneer; Return; Oppose; Fight | ||
| | Thunder; Honest; Bounteous; Wheel; Advice | ||
| | Exalter; Glorifier; Raiser | ||
| | King; Ruler; Hope | ||
| | Shepherd | ||
| | Well Advised Ruler | ||
| | Famous; Loud | ||
| | A good human being; Strong; Lord Shiva | ||
| | Priest; Saint; Desire; One destined to become a priest; Seasonal sacrificer | ||
| | Rightly guided | ||
| | Virtuous | ||
| | Priceless | ||
| | A shepherd; Servant | ||
| | Sword | ||
| | One who is in service of others | ||
| | Monarch; King; Sovereign of Iran; Gentleman; Merchant | ||
| | Falcon, Hawk | ||
| | He who is bright as the Sun | ||
| | Mount Sinai; From the desert of clay | ||
| | One who comes from the hardy stone ford | ||
| | Wool; Pure; Clean; Slim; Thin | ||
| | Son of a priest | ||
| | Complete; Perfect; Strong | ||
| | One who has accomplished a goal | ||
| | He who wields the sword | ||
| | Stone settlement | ||
| | Garment maker; Cloth fuller; Offend; To pull up or gather up; Torment | ||
| | God is good | ||
| | Breeze | ||
| | To pull | ||
| | Courageous; Valiant; A brave part | ||
| | Carrier; Porter | ||
| | God will have mercy | ||
| | Yahweh is gracious | ||
| | Trustworthy; Faithful; True; Loyal | ||
| | Will helmet; Resolute protector | ||
| | Yew | ||
| | Yahweh is gracious; God is gracious; Gift | ||
| | Universal; World | ||
| | Yahweh has hidden | ||
| | Thankful; He will judge; Salmon | ||
| | White village or settlement | ||
| | Righteous; Honest; Fair; High in moral and virtue; Sanctimonious | ||
| | Allah's servant | ||
| | Happy; Blessed | ||
| | Lord; Master; My lord | ||
| | Gazelle; Roebuck | ||
| | From Hadria | ||
| | Modern and unique | ||
| | Praise | ||
| | Tree branches with leaves | ||
| | Day; Dawn | ||
| | Strength; Wisdom; Lord Ganesha | ||
| | Furrow | ||
| | Invincible ; Unconquerable; Epithet of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu | ||
| | Noble and ready | ||
| | White; Bright | ||
| | Grandfather; Elderly man | ||
| | Defender or helper of the people; Powerful | ||
| | Ella's hill; From Aldon; Town near river | ||
| | Old; Ruler; King | ||
| | Lofty; Sublime; To be high | ||
| | Leopard; Cheetah | ||
| | Male; Manly; Brave; Virility | ||
| | Grace; Favor | ||
| | Priceless; Inestimable; Flower | ||
| | Eternal; Imperishable | ||
| | Sacred hill near Mecca | ||
Popular baby boy names of 2021 reflect parents’ dreams and aspirations for their sons. By exploring the list above, you can find names that carry historical significance and meaningful qualities you would want your son to inherit. Since the name you choose will stay with your son for his entire life, selecting one that aligns with your family values and heritage is important. Choose a name that your son will be proud to carry and that reflects the qualities you admire.
Infographic: Popular Boy Names Symbolizing Faith In God
For centuries, parents have chosen names for their children that reflect their faith in the Almighty. And despite the ever-changing trends, many parents still opt for baby names with deep spiritual meanings. The infographic below offers a look at the most trending boy names with spiritual meanings.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Popular Names in 2020.
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
Look Up For Many More Names
Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.

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