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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  Boy | Bad town | |
| | Boy | Greatest; Supreme; Maximum; Eldest | |
| | Boy | From a coal town | |
| | Boy | Father is peace | |
| | Boy | White; Caspian sea | |
| | Boy | Weapon; Land | |
| | Boy | Domain or region belonging to Thracius; Warlike; Fighter | |
| | Boy | Rain; Moisture; Drop | |
| | Boy | Manly; Masculine | |
| | Boy | Famous protector; Advice; Counsel | |
| | Boy | Conquering | |
| | Boy | Oarsman; Rower; Lord consoles in me; Heaven; Sky | |
| | Boy | Famous warrior | |
| | Boy | Son | |
| |  Unisex | Strong; Healthy | |
| | Boy | Blessed; Benevolent | |
| | Boy | Famous in the land | |
| | Boy | From the western town | |
| | Boy | Wagon builders | |
| | Boy | Bear | |
| | Boy | Increase; Growth | |
| | Boy | One equal to the Almighty; Who is like God | |
| | Boy | Companion; Kinsman | |
| | Boy | Noble; Old; Wise | |
| | Boy | Ready for battle; Noble | |
| | Unisex | Heart; Courageous; Gift of God | |
| | Boy | God is salvation | |
| | Boy | Bird's claw; To touch; Heel; Destroy | |
| | Boy | Barn; From the barn; Place of the cow sheds | |
| | Boy | Dedicated; Disciplined; Trained | |
| | Boy | Earnest; Serious; Sincere; Resolute | |
| | Boy | Freckled; Speckled | |
| | Unisex | Vigilant | |
| | Boy | Strong; Bright-headed; Slender; Great warrior; Swampy area | |
| | Boy | I believe; To believe | |
| | Boy | Son of Jack | |
| | Boy | God's grace; Being; Existence; Essence". | |
| | Boy | Large; Great | |
| | Boy | Ascending; Red-haired | |
| | Unisex | Merciful; Soldier; Gracious | |
| | Girl | God is my judge | |
| | Boy | Woodlands; Woodsman; One who lives near the forest; Outside | |
| | Boy | Enclosure; Spearman; Watchful | |
| | Boy | Bright-headed; Strife; Church | |
| | Boy | To run or sprint; One from Chiel | |
| | Boy | Servant of Allah; Servant of God | |
| | Boy | Free man; Army | |
| | Boy | God is gracious | |
| | Unisex | Dog; Hound | |
| | Boy | Ocean; To rejoice; Triumph; Victory | |
| | Boy | Broad valley; Brave; Salmon | |
| | Boy | Who is like God | |
| | Boy | Handsome; Good; Beautifier; Improver; Benefactor | |
| | Boy | Immortal; Divine | |
| | Boy | Order; Command | |
| | Boy | Possessing goodness | |
| | Boy | Ruler of all; Noble ruler | |
| | Boy | Christian; Follower of the Christ; Anointed | |
| | Boy | Handsome; Little rock | |
| | Boy | Messenger; Bottom; Small hut; Descendant of Buadan; One who takes shelter | |
| | Boy | Manly; Male; Virility; Brave | |
| | Boy | Origin; Birth | |
| | Unisex | Interpreter; Ardent lord | |
| | Boy | Bearing Christ | |
| | Boy | Praise | |
| | Boy | Prince or ruler; Commander | |
| | Boy | The one from Denmark; Valley dweller | |
| | Boy | Will helmet; Desired protection | |
| | Boy | Noble; Illustrious; Honorable; Educated | |
| | Boy | God provides salvation | |
| | Boy | Well-born; Noble; Born to nobility | |
| | Boy | From Laurentum | |
| | Boy | To thatch | |
| | Boy | Heart; Compassionate; Tide; Flow | |
| | Boy | Elf ruler; Elf king | |
| | Boy | Lord; Guardian of the north-east direction; Lord Shiva | |
| | Girl | A short form of Robert; Bright; Famous | |
| | Boy | God is my fortune; To know God | |
| | Boy | West town | |
| | Boy | Bailiff | |
| | Boy | Son of Brown; Son of the dark-skinned | |
| | Boy | People's victory; Charcoal | |
| | Boy | Elf army; All guard | |
| | Boy | Hill; Noble; Power | |
| | Boy | Famous wolf | |
| | Boy | Great; Powerful; Leader | |
| | Boy | Jehovah increases | |
| | Boy | Roda's island; Island near the clearing | |
| | Boy | Fire; Enlightened; Illuminating; Clear | |
| | Unisex | Marsh; Fen | |
| | Boy | Horse lover | |
| | Boy | Emperor; Hairy | |
| | Boy | Solid; Enduring; Firm | |
| | Boy | Mire; Muddy place; Ditch; Second son | |
| | Boy | Religious attendant; Priest's helper; Noble | |
| | Boy | To hate | |
| | Boy | Burning sword; Son of Brandr | |
| | Boy | Son of Jud; Son of the one who descends; Son of Judah; Son of the praised one | |
| | Boy | A great soldier; One who worships Marduk; Servant of Marduk | |
| | Unisex | Supplanter; Cauldron; Hollow | |
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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