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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Bearing Christ | ||
| | Son of Nicholas; Victory of the people | ||
| | Clay settlement | ||
| | Good-natured; Gentle and merciful | ||
| | Keeper of colts | ||
| | The black color; Bald | ||
| | Someone who lived near the chestnut tree; Chestnut | ||
| | Bearing Christ; Follower of Christ | ||
| | The region encompassing Romania and Moldova | ||
| | God is the king | ||
| | To choose | ||
| | Moon; Skilled; The valley meadows | ||
| | A gentle tamer | ||
| | Stone-like durable material | ||
| | Fair person; Large | ||
| | Son of Ruadh; The red one; Person from Croy | ||
| | Gift | ||
| | Great; One who is from Airelle | ||
| | Beloved; Uncle | ||
| | Allies; Friends | ||
| | One who dyes; Right-handed; Skilled | ||
| | Virtuous; Pure; Chaste | ||
| | One who resides near the pond | ||
| | God is my judge | ||
| | Open; From Airelle | ||
| | From Artagnan | ||
| | To praise; Praiseworthy | ||
| | Light of God; God's Gift; Brightness and Radiance of God; Blessing of God | ||
| | King of Hearts; One who rules hearts | ||
| | Teacher; Saint; Supplanter | ||
| | He is so; He does so | ||
| | Maker or seller of woolen cloth | ||
| | Salmon; Thief | ||
| | From Airelle | ||
| | Desire; Longing | ||
| | Man from South Munster | ||
| | One who has dark skin | ||
| | Soul; Spirit | ||
| | A person born in Thuringia | ||
| | Little dark one | ||
| | Wealthy ruler; Fortunate King | ||
| | Riverside village | ||
| | Gift | ||
| | God is gracious | ||
| | Glorious person; Honorable scholar | ||
| | Deed; Action; To do | ||
| | Noble and bright | ||
| | God is gracious | ||
| | Gift; Descendant of Deoradhain; Exile; Wanderer; Stranger | ||
| | Name of a town; Son of Ellis; Noble; Settlement | ||
| | Whole; Great; Limitless | ||
| | Strong with a sword; Gift; Eagle | ||
| | God will uplift | ||
| | Prosperity | ||
| | Wild boar settlement | ||
| | God will strengthen; God contends | ||
| | Bean | ||
| | Honorable; Generous; Superior; Grace | ||
| | To defend; To help; Defender | ||
| | Savior | ||
| | Successful; Victorious; Winner | ||
| | Successful; Ruler; Benefit; Generous | ||
| | One who knows the difference between right and wrong | ||
| | Descendant Of Fearghal | ||
| | Iron grey | ||
| | Knowledge; Awareness; Learning | ||
| | Son of Fergus; Manly strength; Masculine force | ||
| | Eagle | ||
| | Luck; Good fate | ||
| | Frenchman; Franks; Someone who is free | ||
| | Frenchman; A Germanic tribe; Land of the Franks; Spear | ||
| | Criterion between right and wrong; Proof | ||
| | One who comes from the town Exton | ||
| | Spear power; Brave spear | ||
| | Farmer; Earthworker | ||
| | Exile; Uncover; Reveal; Splendor; Giant | ||
| | Gray | ||
| | Warrior | ||
| | From the heath | ||
| | Through the fens; Through the marsh | ||
| | Patient, Tolerant, Mild | ||
| | White hawk | ||
| | From the high meadow; Beauty; Grace | ||
| | Gift from god | ||
| | Brave; Hardy; Strong; Firm | ||
| | God's son | ||
| | Light; Sunny person; Distant; Remote; Clear weather | ||
| | Determined; Decisive; Judge or ruler | ||
| | Lion | ||
| | Firm; Steadfast; Resolute; Stern | ||
| | God is gracious | ||
| | Respected; Pious; German | ||
| | Voice of the Lord; Gathering together | ||
| | Life; Alive | ||
| | Christian; Follower of Christ | ||
| | Gatherer; The one who assembles | ||
| | Sheep; Little sheep | ||
| | High; Thank; Flying upward; West | ||
| | Lion; Brave; Warrior | ||
| | Yew wood; Archer | ||
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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