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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Mountain of strength | ||
| | One who seeks the right direction; Correct path | ||
| | Dimensions; extension in time | ||
| | Father Anubis; Of Anubis | ||
| | Dawn; Aurora | ||
| | Follower of the generous | ||
| | Intelligent; Wise | ||
| | High father | ||
| | Father is peace | ||
| | Gift of God; Heart | ||
| | Educated; Scholarly; Courteous | ||
| | Return; Press out | ||
| | One who is rising; Coming up | ||
| | Alone; Solitary; Hermitage; Woodland; Clearing | ||
| | Stand tall; Nobleness; Sublimity; Loftiness; Eager to learn spiritual values | ||
| | Supporter; One who upholds | ||
| | Admire; Commander; Prince | ||
| | Horse; Steed | ||
| | Wise; Intelligent | ||
| | Little Rock; Harmony; Handsome | ||
| | Ruler of all | ||
| | From Hadria | ||
| | One worthy of respect | ||
| | The first | ||
| | Strong man; Powerful; Prowess | ||
| | Defending men | ||
| | Handsome; Attractive | ||
| | Old | ||
| | Seemed destined to die at birth; Free-born; Beloved | ||
| | Home ruler; Brave king | ||
| | Chapter; Chinese constellation; Person | ||
| | Great ruler; Vigorous king; Home ruler | ||
| | Male; Manly; Brave; Virility | ||
| | From Alba; Bright; Noble | ||
| | Strength; Flow; Stream; A born warrior; Manly and brave | ||
| | An honorific title of a pilgrim | ||
| | Fourth-born child; From the brook; Cloudy; Sluggish | ||
| | Flower; Highly praiseworthy | ||
| | Worshipped; Prayed; Great devotion | ||
| | Elf battle; Elf gift | ||
| | Ever-ruling; Powerful ruler; Holy ruler | ||
| | Destroyer of demons and evil; Protector | ||
| | Eagle; Eagle ruler | ||
| | Radiant warrior | ||
| | Oak tree | ||
| | Ocean | ||
| | Powerful; Pride of love | ||
| | Pure gold or silver; Vision; Intelligence; Insight; Rain | ||
| | The new house | ||
| | Bear king | ||
| | Of Arcadia | ||
| | God has listened | ||
| | Blessed with a long life | ||
| | Benefit; Blessings; Powerful | ||
| | Bear king | ||
| | A bailiff or a steward | ||
| | bailiff; berry wood | ||
| | Happy; Blessed | ||
| | A baby camel | ||
| | Spinel gemstone; Shine; Glitter | ||
| | To tan; Leather tanner | ||
| | Barley town | ||
| | Bringer of good news | ||
| | Long-lived; One who has a good life | ||
| | Son of the right hand; Son of the south | ||
| | Warrior; Man; Hero | ||
| | Brave; Brave as a Bear | ||
| | Free or liberated | ||
| | God can be found in strong men | ||
| | Yellow | ||
| | A native of Britain | ||
| | One with good fate | ||
| | Shelter; Hut; Dwelling | ||
| | Descendant of Breacán; Spotted; Speckled | ||
| | Broad oak | ||
| | Broad; Slope of a hill | ||
| | Father of many; Mercy | ||
| | King; Prince; Heat | ||
| | Hilltop; Bryni's town; Fire | ||
| | Broom hill | ||
| | Victorious | ||
| | In the shadow | ||
| | Bryni's town; Fire | ||
| | High; Power; Hill | ||
| | Bridge | ||
| | Settlement belonging to Brun; Fire; Flame | ||
| | A person from Bohan in Namur, Belgium; Victorious | ||
| | A fortified settlement located in a field or clearing | ||
| | Possession | ||
| | Of or relating to the region of Brittany or Breton | ||
| | Slender | ||
| | Strong; Victorious; Possessing goodness; Man | ||
| | Fort of Michael | ||
| | To excel; To shine; Name of a star | ||
| | Son of the brown-haired one | ||
| | Morning; Grace; Charm | ||
| | Small boy; Frenchman | ||
| | Low land; Sun | ||
| | Christian; Anointed | ||
| | Follower of Christ; Anointed | ||
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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