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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | One who is like a falcon | ||
| | A victorious and one of success | ||
| | Gift from God; One who follows God's rules | ||
| | Triumph | ||
| | One who is a judge | ||
| | Bright; Pure | ||
| | A lucky and successful man | ||
| | God loves me | ||
| | Son of Fernando; Peace; Daring | ||
| | Successful | ||
| | Festive; Full of joy; Holiday | ||
| | Son of a Flann; Red; Ruddy-colored | ||
| | Solitary clearing; Secluded meadow or woodland; Someone living alone or in a secluded place | ||
| | Tuft of hair; Outspoken man | ||
| | Grouping; Separation | ||
| | Fortunate; Blessed; Happy | ||
| | Heart; Soul | ||
| | Frank; Frenchman; Spear | ||
| | Cloth worker; A fuller of cloth | ||
| | God is my strong man; Man of God; Champion of God | ||
| | God is my strong man; Man of God | ||
| | Son of Gallchobhair; Descendant of Gallchobhair. | ||
| | Lord of hordes; Hindu god of wisdom and good luck; Son of Lord Shiva and Parvati | ||
| | Serpent's mouth; Nubian | ||
| | Honor; Pride; Respect; Dignity | ||
| | Farmer; Earthworker | ||
| | Spear; Brave; Hardy | ||
| | God is gracious; Famous warrior | ||
| | Monument; Heap of witness | ||
| | Heap of witness | ||
| | Farmer; Earthworker | ||
| | One of the names of Lord Shri Krishna; Cow protector | ||
| | Cow finder; Cowherd; Chief herdsman; A name of Lord Krishna | ||
| | Noble; Illustrious | ||
| | Holy book; Sacred scriptures | ||
| | Watchful; Alert | ||
| | Stern; Severe; Shape-changer | ||
| | Grey | ||
| | Lord of fury; Soul; Spirit | ||
| | Warrior of the Guru; Brave and Courageous defender of the Guru | ||
| | Skillful; Intelligent; Wise | ||
| | Responsible caretaker; Guardian; Keeper; Preserver | ||
| | The best ox; The largest ox; The biggest ox | ||
| | Half Dane; From Denmark | ||
| | Intimate friend; Bosom friend | ||
| | Open space in a forest; Shining; Smooth | ||
| | Manor; Hall | ||
| | True believer; Orthodox | ||
| | The Hindu god of weather; Submission; Lord Shiva; Ambition | ||
| | Brilliant or illustrious warrior; Bright army | ||
| | Mountain of strength; Exalted | ||
| | Stony town; Haefer's town | ||
| | Count; Noble; Scribe | ||
| | Happy; Joyous; Cheerful | ||
| | Strong; Hardy; Good; Handsome | ||
| | Curved, hooked nose; Claw | ||
| | Decisive; Determination | ||
| | A variant of Hadrian; Son of Adrian | ||
| | Firm; Steadfast; Resolute; Stern | ||
| | Skillful; Intelligent; Capable | ||
| | Society; Friendship; League; Association | ||
| | High gate; Lofty gate | ||
| | Son of Hick | ||
| | Bright; New house | ||
| | Son of Robert | ||
| | Falcon person | ||
| | From the Hollow Valley | ||
| | Happiness | ||
| | Heart | ||
| | A part of the divine; A piece of the heart | ||
| | Handsome and elegant; Pure in the eyes | ||
| | Traditional Filipino sword; Clean | ||
| | Perfect; Ideal; Flawless; Great and Wonderful | ||
| | Son of Hernando | ||
| | The power of God | ||
| | My God is Yahweh | ||
| | My God is Yahweh | ||
| | Acquiring God's treasure | ||
| | Supplanter; Holder of the heel | ||
| | A tree species of Agathis australis found in New Zealand; Flower; Beautiful or shaped like a flower | ||
| | To pass; To continue | ||
| | Tree | ||
| | Downy-bearded | ||
| | A fictional character | ||
| | A hermit; An ancient sage | ||
| | Frenchman | ||
| | Allah's archangel | ||
| | Faithful | ||
| | Supplanter; May God protect; Holder of the heel | ||
| | Purplish-blue dye; From India; River | ||
| | To pack; Peddler; World; Universe | ||
| | Fire; Refreshing; Powerful | ||
| | Reward; Man of hire | ||
| | Divine victory; God of victory | ||
| | Thankful; He will judge; From Hadria | ||
| | Pure; Divine; Life-related | ||
| | Son of James; Supplanter | ||
| | Thankful; God has heard | ||
| | Supplanter; Holder of the heel; To tame | ||
| | Right hand | ||
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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