Old English Boy Names:

Old English boy names are a rich and diverse collection of names that have been passed down through generations, each with its own unique history and meaning. These names reflect the cultural heritage and linguistic roots of the Anglo-Saxon people who inhabited England during the early medieval period.

The Old English language, also known as Anglo-Saxon, was spoken in England from the 5th to the 11th centuries. During this time, many names were derived from Old English words and had significant meanings related to nature, virtues, occupations, and personal characteristics. These names often had a strong and powerful sound, reflecting the values and beliefs of the society at that time.

Some popular Old English boy names include Æthelred, meaning „noble counsel,“ Wulfstan, meaning „wolf stone,“ and Leofric, meaning „dear ruler.“ These names have a timeless quality and evoke a sense of tradition and heritage. Exploring Old English boy names can provide a glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of the cultural influences that have shaped English naming traditions.






NameOriginsGenderCelebrity Name?Celebrity Baby Name?
SedgewicOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
SeegarEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
SeeleyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SeemourEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
SeftenOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
SeftunOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SegarEnglish, Old Norse, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SeimoreEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
SeiwelOld English, JapaneseunisexNNShortlist
SeldunOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SelieOld English, GreekunisexNNShortlist
SelwineOld English, Anglo-SaxonboyNNShortlist
SelwinnEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
SetEgyptian, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SetenEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SevernEnglish, Latin, Old EnglishunisexYNShortlist
SewellEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SeyleighEnglish, Old French, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SeylyOld English, ScottishunisexNNShortlist
SeymoorEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShadEnglish, Old English, BabylonianunisexYNShortlist
ShadeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShadowOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShadwelOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShaeleighIrish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShantyleeEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShaweEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShedrycOld English, HebrewunisexNNShortlist
ShedwelOld English, ScottishunisexNNShortlist
ShedwellOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
ShelleyOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
SheralleOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SherleighOld English, IrishunisexNNShortlist
SherleyEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SherlyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SherwoodEnglish, Old EnglishunisexYNShortlist
ShileighGaelic, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShineOld English, IrishunisexNNShortlist
ShirleighEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShoeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
ShornOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SidelHebrew, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SidneeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SidneyOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
SidniOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SidnieOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SiedreeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SigilwigOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
SigmonahOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SikeOld English, Dutch, ChineseunisexNNShortlist
SkiptonEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SlaidenOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SlainOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
SlaydinOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SmedleyOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
SniderOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SnowOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
SnugOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SomertonOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SparrowOld EnglishunisexNYShortlist
SpearOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SpeedOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StannesOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StarOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StarbuckOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StarleeEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StarlinahOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StaycyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
SteeleOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StewardOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
StingOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StocOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
StockOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StockardOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StodOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StokeOld English, Anglo-SaxonunisexNNShortlist
StormOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
StoveOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StruthersScottish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
StudsOld EnglishboyYNShortlist

Old-english boys names FAQs

What defines an Old English boy name?

Old English boy names are derived from the language spoken in England before the Norman Conquest of 1066. These names often have roots in Anglo-Saxon words and meanings, reflecting attributes like strength and nobility. They may also be connected to elements of nature, ancient mythology, or the names of early Anglo-Saxon leaders and saints.

Are Old English boy names still used today?

Yes, many Old English boy names are still in use today, though some have evolved in form. Names like Alfred, Edward, and Harold have remained popular over the centuries. Modern parents may choose these names for their historical significance or timeless quality.

What are some common elements found in Old English boy names?

Common elements in Old English boy names include "beorn" meaning warrior, "wulf" meaning wolf, and "stan" meaning stone. These elements were often combined to create compound names that conveyed specific traits or characteristics. For example, the name "Stanley" combines "stan" with "leah," meaning a clearing or meadow.

How can I trace the origin of an Old English boy name?

To trace the origin of an Old English boy name, you can research its etymology and historical usage. Many online databases and etymological dictionaries provide detailed information about the origins and meanings of names. Additionally, historical texts and records can offer insights into the popularity and variations of a name over time.

Do Old English boy names have specific meanings?

Yes, Old English boy names typically have specific meanings that were important to the Anglo-Saxon culture. These meanings often relate to strength, virtue, or desirable qualities in a leader. For instance, the name "Edmund" means "prosperity" and "protector."

Can Old English boy names be linked to specific regions in England?

Some Old English boy names can be linked to specific regions in England, especially those that were common among local nobility or saints. Regional dialects and naming traditions could influence the popularity and variations of names. However, many Old English names were widely used across different areas of England.

Are there any Old English boy names that are unique to England?

While many Old English boy names have spread beyond England, some remain more closely associated with English heritage. Names such as Aethelred and Cuthbert are less commonly found outside of England and have a distinctly Old English origin. These names are often celebrated for their deep historical roots and cultural significance.

How have Old English boy names influenced modern naming trends?

Old English boy names have influenced modern naming trends by providing a source of timeless and classic names. Many contemporary names are modernized versions of Old English names or are inspired by their meanings and sounds. Additionally, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of traditional names as parents seek to honor cultural heritage.

What is the significance of family lineage in Old English boy names?

Family lineage played a significant role in Old English boy names, with names often passed down through generations. This tradition was a way to honor ancestors and maintain family identity. Names could also signify the family's social status or lineage, particularly among the nobility.

How do Old English boy names differ from other historical English names?

Old English boy names differ from other historical English names in that they originate from the Anglo-Saxon period before the Norman Conquest. Later historical names may have influences from Norman French, Latin, or other languages that permeated English culture post-conquest. Old English names are distinct in their linguistic roots and the cultural context from which they arose.