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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Resolute; Lethal | ||
| | A little dear lion; Lion cub | ||
| | Shield | ||
| | An African American name | ||
| | Black or dark-skinned | ||
| | Brave lion; Hard; Brave; Hardy | ||
| | Helper; Defender of men; Garden of holly; Camp | ||
| | Hidden; Veil | ||
| | Ten thousand; Hemp; Wisdom; Pure; City; Man battle | ||
| | Magnificent; Glorious | ||
| | Little monk | ||
| | Dedicated to Mars; Hammer; Little warrior; Male | ||
| | From Marcus | ||
| | Holy; Pure; Innocent | ||
| | He who lives on the boundary of the valley | ||
| | Sturdy; Firm; Solid | ||
| | Praised; Commendable | ||
| | Strong; Courageous. | ||
| | Who is like God? | ||
| | Who is like God | ||
| | Comforter; Someone who commands respect | ||
| | Savior; Draw out of water; Son; Deliver | ||
| | Exaltation of the Lord; Sender | ||
| | Drinking companion; Confidant; Friend; Close companion | ||
| | Drinking companion; Confidant; Friend; Close companion | ||
| | New; Fresh; Creative; Young; Bright; Regenerated | ||
| | Fight; War place; Competition; Contest | ||
| | God has given | ||
| | Little mountain | ||
| | Bright North; Northern brightness | ||
| | God's light; Fire of Lord | ||
| | Black | ||
| | Chosen one; Honorific title for the prophet Muhammad | ||
| | One who turns in repentance; One who turns to the right path | ||
| | Oak tree; Someone who lived near an oak tree; Son of Dubhdara | ||
| | He gave | ||
| | Sound of the sacred syllable; The primordial sound | ||
| | Honor | ||
| | One who is like a wolf | ||
| | To strive in the cause of God; Doers of Jihad; Toiler; Laborer | ||
| | Symbol; First Word In A Sentence; Beginning; Origin | ||
| | Victory of the people | ||
| | Cub or pup; Holy | ||
| | Night | ||
| | Pleasing; Window; Frame | ||
| | Pioneer; Pathfinder; Leader; Guide | ||
| | One who has good guidance | ||
| | Advice; Counselor; Wise protector | ||
| | Diminutive of Patrick | ||
| | Advice; Counsel; Fire; Sword | ||
| | Meadows; Gardens; Land with beautiful grass and flowers | ||
| | Brave king; Firm ruler; Mighty ruler | ||
| | Crooked nose; Date palm | ||
| | Ruler's counsel | ||
| | Horse spring | ||
| | Raven; Bold; Brave; Bright | ||
| | Son of a king, Prince | ||
| | Counsel of the wolf; Wise wolf | ||
| | Dark blue; Black; Hindu god Krishna | ||
| | Victorious guardian | ||
| | Of the woods | ||
| | Sun | ||
| | Boatman; Bargeman; Sea captain | ||
| | Soft, gentle breeze | ||
| | A stony meadow; Become glorious; Constant; Steadfast | ||
| | Rye land | ||
| | A part of Lord Shiva | ||
| | Peaceful man | ||
| | Auspicious; Dear; Favorable | ||
| | Yahweh remembers | ||
| | Heart; Gift of God | ||
| | Virtuous; Pure; Chaste; Cleansed; Free from sin | ||
| | Smile | ||
| | Servant | ||
| | Ambition | ||
| | To shine | ||
| | Victory; Best archer; God of Love | ||
| | Aztec god of rain and fertility; Covered with earth | ||
| | The mind or thunder God | ||
| | Sad; Sorrowful; Noise; Tumult | ||
| | Fair town | ||
| | Stern; Strict; Severe | ||
| | To accuse; To argue | ||
| | Love; Bird trapping net | ||
| | Flourishing | ||
| | Resolute protector, Will helmet | ||
| | To grow tall; To cut; To carve; Talons; Anklebone | ||
| | Tank | ||
| | Boon; God of fire | ||
| | Huge; Grand; Magnificent | ||
| | First rays of Sun | ||
| | Genuine; Faithful; Loyal; Steadfast | ||
| | Brave in battle; Hard; Firm; Hardy | ||
| | Ruler over heroes | ||
| | Cloud; Yahweh is gracious | ||
| | 36th chapter of the Quran | ||
| | Born on Thursday | ||
| | Camp; Fortress; Favored; Chief place | ||
| | One who is intelligent | ||
| | Brave in battle; Battlefield | ||
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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