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?
BeaduOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeadutunOld English, Anglo-SaxonunisexNNShortlist
BealEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BealdwineOld English, Anglo-Saxon, Middle AgesboyNNShortlist
BeanOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BearrocscirOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeasleaOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeaverOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeavisEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
BedwinEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
BeemenOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeemonOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeerOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeeverOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BelldenOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BendalOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BennsenOld English, EnglishboyNNShortlist
BentleaOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BentleahOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BentleighOld English, EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BentlieOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BentunEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeorhthrammOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BeorhttunOld English, Anglo-SaxonunisexNNShortlist
BeorthtraedOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BeresfrodeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BericEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
BerkeleyEnglish, Old English, IrishunisexYNShortlist
BerkelieEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerkieOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerkleahOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerklieOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerkyEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerleyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerlyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BernytOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BerresfordOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BerrickEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
BerthEnglish, Old English, GermanunisexNNShortlist
BertrymOld English, Anglo-SaxonboyNNShortlist
BerwycOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeryEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeryleeEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BethollOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BeverlyOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
BickfordeOld English, EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BiecafordOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BifordeOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BirchOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
BirkeyEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BirkittEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BirleEnglish, Old EnglishboyNNShortlist
BirleighOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BirtinOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BirtramOld EnglishboyNNShortlist
BishopOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlackbernOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlackberneOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlackburnOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BladeaneOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BladeeneOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BladeneOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlakeOld EnglishunisexYYShortlist
BlakeleeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlakeleyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlakelieOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlakeyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlaydeOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlaykeOld English, EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlayneOld English, GaelicunisexNNShortlist
BlazeOld EnglishunisexYNShortlist
BletsungOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlisOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlissOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlithOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlithsOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlodwineOld English, Anglo-SaxonboyNNShortlist
BlundellEnglish, Old EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BlundelleOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist
BocleyOld EnglishunisexNNShortlist

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.