Just Beyond the Top 1000: A-Z Baby Boy Names
Published on October 24, 2025
Looking for a name can be daunting, especially if you want a unique moniker for your little one. Look no further than this list for usable but rare boy names. These names rest just beyond the top 1000 names in 2022, putting them in that sweet spot of heard of but not used too often.
Aspen
Meaning: Aspen is a nature-inspired name, often associated with the aspen tree. It's a symbol of resilience and strength, as these trees can endure harsh conditions and continue to flourish.
Characteristics: Aspen conveys a sense of natural beauty and strength. It's a unisex name, making it a versatile choice for any child.
Boaz
Meaning: Boaz is a Hebrew name found in the Old Testament in the book of Ruth that means "swiftness" or "strength." It carries a sense of vitality and energy.
Characteristics: Boaz is a name that exudes strength and determination, making it a great choice for a strong-willed child. With the name Beau on the rise, Boaz is likely to climb the ranks with the nickname option Bo.
Crosby
Meaning: Crosby is an English name that means "village with a cross." Originally a place name, then a surname, it has now entered the realm of first names following the surnames-as-first-names trend.
Characteristics: Crosby is a name that harks back to simpler times and may be perfect for those who value tradition, community, and unity.
Davion
Meaning: Davion is a name derived from the Old French word "davion," meaning "beloved." It is related to the Hebrew name David. It could also be a combination of David, meaning "beloved," and Dion, meaning "of the sea."
Characteristics: If you love the classic feel of David but are looking for something more out there, Davion is a unique, contemporary-sounding name that carries a sense of affection and a connection to nature.
Eliezer
Meaning: Eliezer is a Hebrew name appearing in the Old Testament that means "God is my help."
Characteristics: Eliezer, related to the more popular name Ezra (which means "help") is a name that reflects one's faith. With Elijah, Eli, Elias, and Ezra all within the top 100 for 2022 Eliezer makes a powerful and meaningful choice of a name.
Foster
Meaning: Foster is an English name that means "to nourish" or "to support." It can also mean "forester" and has history as both a surname and a given name.
Characteristics: Foster is a name that reflects a nurturing and caring personality. It's a beautiful choice for a child who is destined to be a caring soul.
Granger
Meaning: Granger is an English occupational surname now slowly entering the world of first names. It means "worker of the granary." It embodies the values of hard work and dedication.
Characteristics: Granger embodies the values of diligence and dedication, making it a name for a child who will work hard to achieve their goals.
Hollis
Meaning: Hollis is an Old English surname meaning "near the holly bushes." It's a name deeply connected to nature.
Characteristics: Hollis had a shining moment in the 1920s and it's slowly rising again in the ranks. Hollis evokes a sense of natural beauty and tranquility and makes a perfect name for parents who appreciate the wonders of the great outdoors.
Izan
Meaning: Izan is a variation of the popular name Ethan and is of Basque origin. It means "strong, firm."
Characteristics: Izan, pronounced ee-ZAHN, is a strong, distinctive name that is sure to give your little boy a boost in life.
Jamal
Meaning: Jamal is an Arabic name that means "beauty" or "handsomeness." It signifies physical and inner beauty.
Characteristics: Jamal reflects an appreciation for the good and the beautiful, making it a name that celebrates the intrinsic worth of an individual.
Kenai
Meaning: Kenai is an Alaskan Native name, meaning "flat lands" or "black bear."
Characteristics: Kenai is a name that celebrates the majestic wildlife of the great outdoors and can be a symbol of strength and connection to nature.
Lyle
Meaning: Lyle is an Old French surname meaning "from the island." It carries a sense of uniqueness and solitude.
Characteristics: Lyle conveys an aura of individuality and independence, making it an excellent choice for a child who values their own path.
Merrick
Meaning: Merrick is of Welsh origin and means "fame" or "power."
Characteristics: If you love the strong meaning and sound of Maverick but it's just too popular, try Merrick on for size. Merrick is a name that exudes charisma and leadership. It was made for a child destined for success.
Norman
Meaning: Norman is an Old English surname that means "northern man" or "man from the north." It's derived from the Normans who originated in Normandy, France.
Characteristics: Norman carries a sense of heritage, making it an excellent choice for those with a strong sense of tradition. With the cutest nickname of Norm who can resist!
Ozias
Meaning: Ozias is a variant of the Hebrew name Uzziah, which means "the Lord is my strength." It signifies divine protection.
Characteristics: With names like Isaiah and Elias being so highly ranked, Ozias is an adorable alternative with a strong meaning. Bonus: the nickname Ozzie!
Palmer
Meaning: Palmer is an English occupational surname that originally referred to a pilgrim returning from the Holy Land. It can mean "pilgrim" or "he who holds the palm." It symbolizes a journey and faith.
Characteristics: Palmer, while being significantly more popular for girls, makes for a gorgeous boy name as well. It would be perfect for a boy who loves adventure and has a strong faith and sense of purpose.
Quest
Meaning: An English word name meaning "seek" or "mission," Quest has slowly been rising in popularity over the last few years as a name.
Characteristics: Parents who choose Quest for their sons are often looking to instill a sense of curiosity, determination, and ambition. A boy named Quest would surely embody the spirit of adventure and the heroic pursuit of something greater.
Reginald
Meaning: Reginald, a name with a long history stretching back to medieval times, is a strong and regal name of Germanic origin, meaning "counsel and rule."
Characteristics: Parents who opt for Reginald for their sons may appreciate its traditional and noble connotations, looking for a name that exudes strength and authority.
Shai
Meaning: Shai is a Hebrew name that means "gift" or "present." It carries a beautiful sentiment, symbolizing the precious nature of a child.
Characteristics: Every child is a gift, so why not name your child a name meaning "gift?" Shai is a name that suggests a sense of gratitude for the wonderful blessings that have been bestowed upon you.
Tzvi
Meaning: Tzvi is another Hebrew name that means "deer" or "hart." It is a name rich in symbolism, as deer are often associated with grace and spirituality.
Characteristics: Lovers of nature names may choose the rare name Tzvi for their sons. Tzvi is a great name that encourages a child to connect to nature while honoring a Jewish heritage.
Ulysses
Meaning: Ulysses is a name of Greek origin, derived from the hero of Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey." It means "wrathful" or "full of anger."
Characteristics: Parents who select Ulysses may admire the strength and determination of the legendary character, wanting to inspire their child with tales of epic journeys and tenacity.
Vaughn
Meaning: Vaughn is a Welsh name that means "small." While it may sound unassuming, it carries a certain charm and elegance.
Characteristics: Parents who choose Vaughn may appreciate its simplicity and timeless appeal, seeking a name that is both classic, sophisticated-sounding, and unpretentious.
Wren
Meaning: Wren is a nature-inspired name, referring to the small and melodious bird of the same name.
Characteristics: A truly gender-neutral gem, Wren is rising in the charts for its simplicity and connection with nature. Parents who name their son Wren may appreciate the musicality of the name.
Xavion
Meaning: Xavion is a modern and creative variation of the traditional name Xavier, which means "bright" or "splendid."
Characteristics: Xavion is a distinctive name that blends tradition with innovation, offering a sense of individuality and brilliance.
Yadiel
Meaning: Yadiel is a Spanish version of a Hebrew name that means "praise of God."
Characteristics: Parents who name their son Yadiel often want to instill reverence and honor for God in their child.
Zephyr
Meaning: Zephyr is a Greek name meaning "gentle breeze" or "west wind." It is associated with calmness and tranquility.
Characteristics: Choosing Zephyr for your child speaks an air of serenity and peace over their life. It's a soothing nature name that's talked about a lot but truly rare to see one named this name.
Each of these names offers a unique story, a distinctive characteristic, and a meaningful connection to nature, heritage, or spirituality, so remember, the journey is as beautiful as the destination; embrace the name that resonates with your heart, as it marks the first chapter in your precious one's lifetime of stories, adventures, and achievements—happy naming!