Old boy names have a timeless charm that many parents appreciate. Names like Arthur, Walter, and Harold offer a classic feel that is both strong and memorable. These names often come with rich histories, helping to connect children to their roots and family traditions. Many of these names have resurfaced in popularity, showing that old can be new again.
Today, we’ll look at some of the best old boy names, their meanings, and why they stand out. Whether you’re looking for a name that honors your family’s past or simply love the vintage vibes, this list will inspire you to find a unique name with character.
Old Boy Names
1. Abner
Abner is a Hebrew name meaning ‘father of light’. It carries a warm and wise feel, perfect for those looking for an old boy name with spiritual depth.
2. Alistair
Alistair has Scottish roots and means ‘defender of mankind’. This strong name reflects bravery and honor, making it a wonderful choice for any child.
3. Amos
Amos, meaning ‘carried by God’, is a simple yet profound name. Its biblical history gives it a classic appeal that resonates through generations.
4. Barnaby
Barnaby is an old English name meaning ‘son of comfort’. This unique name adds flair while maintaining a vintage style.
5. Bartholomew
The name Bartholomew means ‘son of the furrow’. It boasts biblical importance, connecting it to rich traditions and stories.
6. Clarence
Clarence, which means ‘bright’ or ‘clear’, evokes a sense of nobility. This old boy name has an elegant and distinguished sound.
7. Cornelius
Cornelius is a Latin name meaning ‘horn’. It’s old-fashioned yet makes a bold statement, perfect for those who want a standout name.
8. Chester
Chester, meaning ‘fortress’, carries a sense of security and reliability. This name has strong roots in English history.
9. Cecil
Cecil means ‘blind’, but it carries a charm that has made it a beloved old boy name for centuries.
10. Edgar
Edgar translates to ‘wealthy spear’. The name holds royal connections, making it a noble choice for a baby boy.
11. Ferdinand
Ferdinand means ‘bold voyager’ and signifies adventure and exploration. This old boy name is perfect for a curious spirit.
12. Gilbert
Gilbert, meaning ‘bright pledge’, emphasizes loyalty and intelligence. It has a vintage allure that feels both charming and unique.
13. Horace
Horace means ‘timekeeper’ and has a classic sound to it. This name implies wisdom with its historical connections.
14. Leopold
Leopold is a strong name meaning ‘brave people’. It possesses a dignified essence, making it an impressive old boy name.
15. Milton
Milton means ‘mill town’, representing heritage and community. This classic name evokes a sense of tradition.
16. Otto
Otto means ‘wealth’ and is a classic name that feels both modern and vintage at the same time.
17. Rupert
Rupert, meaning ‘bright fame’, holds a sophisticated sound. It has royal ties, unique twists, and a vintage vibe.
18. Stanley
Stanley means ‘stony meadow’, representing nature and tranquility. This name has remained timeless through generations.
19. Tobias
Tobias, meaning ‘God is good’, offers a spiritual connection alongside its vintage appeal. This name has a gentle, soft charm.
20. Victor
Victor means ‘conqueror’ and exudes strength and success. Its classic quality makes it a popular choice among old boy names.
21. Wallace
Wallace means ‘Welshman’ and is tied to bravery. The name has a historical richness that many parents find appealing.
22. Wilbur
Wilbur means ‘resolute’ or ‘brilliant’. This unique old boy name has a fun, friendly sound that’s bursting with character.
23. Frederick
Frederick means ‘peaceful ruler’ and has German roots. It’s a classic name associated with strength and stability.
24. Whitley
Whitley means ‘white meadow’ and offers a quaint, nature-inspired vibe. Its old-fashioned sound makes it endearing.
25. Harvey
Harvey means ‘battle worthy’ and has a vintage sound. This name has been a favorite through the ages.
26. Elmer
Elmer means ‘noble’, giving it an air of dignity and charm. This old boy name brings back nostalgia for many.
27. Roland
Roland means ‘famous throughout the land’. This classic name carries a sense of adventure and heroism.
28. Tobias
Tobias, meaning ‘God is good’, stands out as a soft and gentle name with historical significance.
29. Percival
Percival meaning ‘piercing the vale’ is a name tied to legendary stories, making it rich in culture.
30. Albert
Albert means ‘noble and bright’. This charming name has strong historical roots, making it a popular choice for old boy names.
31. Enzo
Enzo means ‘ruler of the home’, combining modern flair with a classic undertone.
32. Mercer
Mercer means ‘merchant’, representing trade and commerce. This name has a vintage feel yet remains unique.
33. Quinton
Quinton means ‘fifth’ and has a sophisticated sound, perfect for a family favorite.
34. Langston
Langston means ‘long town’. Though modernly popular, it has historic roots that give it a rich backstory.
35. Silas
Silas means ‘wood’ and has biblical connections, making it spiritual and classic at the same time.
36. Ainsley
Ainsley means ‘one’s own meadow’, adding a touch of nature and calmness to an old boy name.
37. Maurice
Maurice means ‘dark-skinned’ and brings a sense of identity and cultural history.
38. Reginald
Reginald means ‘counsel power’ and has a royal character that many parents find appealing.
39. Orville
Orville means ‘gold town’, reflecting prosperity and tradition that fits into old boy names perfectly.
40. Thaddeus
Thaddeus means ‘courageous heart’. This strong name carries a vintage quality with a spirited meaning.
41. Wallace
Wallace means ‘foreigner’, and this name embodies a sense of adventure and charm.
42. Desmond
Desmond means ‘gracious defender’. This dignified name combines importance with an old-world appeal.
43. Ivor
Ivor means ‘bow warrior’ and has a strong character, reflecting leadership and courage.
44. Basil
Basil means ‘kingly’, blending strength with a unique old-fashioned charm.
45. Augustus
Augustus means ‘great’ or ‘venerable’ and carries a regal sound, making it highly appealing among old boy names.
46. Lucius
Lucius means ‘light’, promising a bright, promising future for any boy with this name.
47. Malachi
Malachi means ‘messenger of God’, making it a significant and historical name that adds charm.
48. Otto
Otto translates to ‘wealth’, and while classic, it always carries a fresh vibe.
49. Solomon
Solomon means ‘peaceful’, drawing connections to wisdom and calmness. This name holds a timeless quality.
50. Jasper
Jasper means ‘treasurer’, which is rich in meaning and history. Its vintage charm makes it appealing for many parents.
51. Ambrose
Ambrose means ‘immortal’, adding a unique twist to the traditional old boy names.
52. Cletus
Cletus means ‘called forth’ and has an old-fashioned charm, making it a rare yet resonant choice.
53. Gideon
Gideon, meaning ‘hewer’, has biblical significance, making it rich in tradition.
54. Percival
Percival means ‘piercing the vale’, introducing strength and courage through its sophisticated sound.
55. Rufus
Rufus meaning ‘red-haired’ adds a playful yet vintage essence to the old boy name category.
56. Oswald
Oswald means ‘God’s power’, highlighting strength in this classic name.
57. Alden
Alden means ‘old friend’ and brings a warm, welcoming feel that people adore in names.
58. Grant
Grant means ‘great’ and holds a strong, simple quality that never goes out of style.
59. Percy
Percy means ‘piercing the valley’, providing a unique and noble flair among old boy names.
60. Winston
Winston means ‘joyful stone’, a name that brings a blend of classic and modern charm.
61. Ferdinand
Ferdinand, meaning ‘brave traveler’, evokes adventure and unique storytelling.
62. Malcolm
Malcolm translates to ‘devotee of Saint Columba’, lending religious depth to an already strong name.
63. Quentin
Quentin means ‘the fifth’, offering a traditional vibe that many find appealing.
64. Horatio
Horatio, meaning ‘timekeeper’, brings a rich history and sophisticated touch to the name landscape.
65. Thaddeus
Thaddeus means ‘heart’, projecting affection and warmth in a vintage manner.
66. Sinclair
Sinclair means ‘from the sacred place’, encapsulating a rich legacy and timeless appeal.
67. Emmett
Emmett means ‘universal’, embracing an all-encompassing warmth in this vintage name.
68. Jasper
Jasper means ‘treasurer’, which provides a regal and historical context in old boy names.
69. Orson
Orson means ‘bear cub’, introducing a playful yet bold character to the name.
70. Edwin
Edwin means ‘rich friend’, conveying warmth and loyalty that parents appreciate.
71. Ignatius
Ignatius means ‘fiery’, making it a strong and passionate choice with a historical backdrop.
72. Leonard
Leonard means ‘brave lion’, giving it an empowering connection to strength and courage.
73. Ramsey
Ramsey means ‘home island’, reflecting a charming sense of warmth and stability.
74. Vincent
Vincent means ‘conquering’, and stands as a classic name with lasting value.
75. Wilbur
Wilbur means ‘resolute’ and brings a friendly, warm feel wrapped in vintage charm.
76. Amos
Amos means ‘carried by God’, and has a biblical echo that adds weight to its vintage qualities.
77. Elwood
Elwood means ‘elder tree’, imparting a rustic, nature-inspired feel to an old boy name.
78. Ferdinand
Ferdinand means ‘brave traveler’, making a strong statement about adventure and heritage.
79. Lennox
Lennox means ‘from the elm grove’, capturing a blend of nature and strength.
80. Darrell
Darrell means ‘beloved’, bringing warmth and affection in its vintage style.
81. Cornelius
Cornelius means ‘horn’, evoking a sense of pride and history in this classic name.
82. Rupert
Rupert means ‘bright fame’, adding a sophisticated charm with its royal connections.
83. Orville
Orville is an old boy name meaning ‘gold town’ and gives off a sense of nostalgia and charm.
84. Ambrose
Ambrose means ‘immortal’, linking a strong presence to its historical context.
85. Bernard
Bernard means ‘brave as a bear’, reflecting strong characteristics of fortitude and bravery.
86. Edison
Edison means ‘son of Edward’ and offers a modern twist with an intrinsic vintage essence.
87. Marshall
Marshall means ‘horse servant’, embodying dedication and tradition that resonates through time.
88. Wallace
Wallace means ‘Welshman’, providing a rich background woven into the name’s identity.
89. Samuel
Samuel means ‘heard by God’, radiating warmth and spiritual connection in this classic old boy’s name.
90. Weston
Weston means ‘from the west town’, providing a geographical tie with rustic charm.
91. Clarence
Clarence means ‘bright’ or ‘clear’, emphasizing clarity and nobility in an old boy name.
92. Gideon
Gideon means ‘hewer’, bringing strength and determination to this timeless name.
93. Lawrence
Lawrence means ‘from Laurentium’, evoking a regal feel with its classic heritage.
94. Wilbur
Wilbur means ‘strong’ and carries an endearing charm within its old-fashioned context.
95. Hugo
Hugo means ‘mind’ or ‘intellect’, showcasing intelligence wrapped in vintage allure.
96. Edgar
Edgar means ‘wealthy spear’, combining historical significance with a strong, classic feel.
97. Nolan
Nolan means ‘champion’, reflecting determination and strength in a modern yet timeless way.
98. Felix
Felix means ‘happy’ or ‘fortunate’, emphasizing a joyful spirit within an old boy name.
99. Ross
Ross means ‘from the peninsula’, providing geographic ties paired with a classic feel.
100. Archie
Archie means ‘genuine’ and ‘bold’, bringing warmth and character to an old-fashioned style.
101. Milton
Milton means ‘mill town’, which fosters a sense of community and tradition.
102. Irving
Irving means ‘green river’, which connects nature to personal identity in this classic old boy name.
103. Emory
Emory means ‘brave’, presenting a strong character with a tender, classic vibe.
104. Harold
Harold means ‘army commander’, exuding strength and leadership through history.
105. Sidney
Sidney means ‘wide island’ and conveys a sense of openness and tranquility.
106. Martin
Martin means ‘warlike’, bringing strength and heritage through its historical root.
107. Nathaniel
Nathaniel means ‘gift of God’, offering a significant and spiritual context in its old boy name appeal.
108. Sidney
Sidney means ‘from Saint Denys’, creating strong ties to history and heritage.
109. Chester
Chester means ‘fortress’, implying strength and resilience through its classic sound.
110. Edgar
Edgar means ‘wealthy spear’, offering a strong and memorable old boy name.
111. Clinton
Clinton means ‘from the hill’ and displays geographic ties with a vintage twist.
112. Franklin
Franklin means ‘free landowner’, showcasing freedom and wealth with a noble essence.
113. Herbert
Herbert means ‘bright warrior’, offering a strong character and vintage resonance.
114. Rolland
Rolland means ‘famous throughout the land’, making it a bold and adventurous old boy name.
115. Wendell
Wendell means ‘to wander’, adding a touch of adventure into the vintage old boy names.
116. Sidney
Sidney means ‘wide island’ and draws connections to nature and tranquility in its classic appeal.
117. Clarence
Clarence means ‘bright’ or ‘clear’, reflecting nobility and clarity in historical contexts.
118. Leonard
Leonard means ‘brave lion’, evoking strength and courage entwined in an old boy name.
119. Murphy
Murphy means ‘sea warrior’, offering strength and adventure within its vintage flair.
120. Silvester
Silvester means ‘wild’, highlighting adventure and natural roots in this old boy name.
121. Wallace
Wallace means ‘Welshman’, connecting the name to rich cultural heritage.
122. Alfred
Alfred means ‘wise counselor’, offering dignity and wisdom that fits into the old boy name category.
123. Eustace
Eustace means ‘fruitful’, bringing a sense of abundance wrapped in a historical flair.
124. Clement
Clement means ‘merciful’, projecting warmth and kindness in this classic name.
125. Tobias
Tobias means ‘God is good’, promoting spirituality and gentle connection among classic names.
126. Mortimer
Mortimer means ‘dead sea’, providing a unique twist to traditional old boy names.
127. Caleb
Caleb means ‘faithful’ and ‘devoted’, adding warmth and loyalty through its vintage roots.
128. Warren
Warren means ‘watchman’, implying protection and responsibility within its old boy name charm.
129. Ignatius
Ignatius means ‘fiery’, showcasing a strong character in a classic context.
130. Howard
Howard means ‘highlander’ and provides strength and nobility from its old roots.
131. Leland
Leland means ‘fallow land’, drawing connections to rural traditions and nature.
132. Nelson
Nelson means ‘son of Neil’ and carries a legacy of strength through multiple generations.
133. Edmund
Edmund means ‘wealthy protector’, inspiring loyalty within its classic vintage aura.
134. Magnus
Magnus means ‘great’, adding a sense of strength and grandeur to an old boy’s name.
135. Oswald
Oswald means ‘God’s power’, introducing an empowering context to this vintage choice.
136. Roger
Roger means ‘famous spear’, embodying both strength and masculinity within old boy names.
137. Avery
Avery means ‘ruler of the elves’ and offers a unique spin with an enchanting vintage feel.
138. Prescott
Prescott means ‘priest’s cottage’, linking to history and tradition in its classic appeal.
139. Thornton
Thornton means ‘thorn town’, providing localized geographical ties to the name.
140. Finnian
Finnian means ‘victorious’, portraying great strength, ambition, and reputation.
141. Walden
Walden means ‘valley by a river’, creating a tranquil, nature-inspired essence to the vintage name.
142. Crispin
Crispin means ‘curly-haired’, resonating charm and uniqueness among old boy names.
143. Desmond
Desmond translates to ‘gracious defender’, providing a protective quality with its vintage sound.
144. Roland
Roland means ‘famed land’, bringing together heroism, honor, and history.
145. Virgil
Virgil means ‘flourishing’, emphasizing growth and connection to heritage with its classic essence.
146. Chester
Chester means ‘fortress’, connecting deep historical lines to security and legacy.
147. Thomas
Thomas means ‘twin’, offering a sweet and familial texture among classic names.
148. Leonidas
Leonidas means ‘lion’s son’, exuding adventure, strength, and individuality in an old-fashioned manner.
149. Walter
Walter means ‘ruler of the army’, giving a strong, commanding historical character to the name.
150. Montgomery
Montgomery means ‘from the mountain’, immersing adventure and nature into a classy old boy name.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an old boy name can connect your child to history and family roots while providing a classic sound that never fades with time. Names like Theodore, Jasper, and Alfred offer not just a glimpse into the past but carry forward unique meanings and charm. The resurgence of these names shows that the appeal of vintage charm can inspire modern choices, bridging generations. Whether you prefer names with a strong historical significance or one that embodies a lovely vintage quality, our curated list will make the search for the perfect old boy names an enjoyable journey.
Interested in exploring more? Why not discover great boy baby names or learn about boy names that start with B? Each name has its unique story and appeal just waiting to be uncovered.