English Boy Names

English boys' names fall into two broad groups: long-established given names and surnames that crossed over into first names. The first group includes William, Henry, Robert and James, names that were carried by English kings and have remained steady choices for centuries. Jack began as a familiar form of an older name and has long stood on its own, while Christian brings a more devotional note.

The second group is where much of the modern energy lies. Many English surnames described a person's job, and those occupational names now sound fresh as first names: Mason was a stoneworker, Carter drove carts, Hunter hunted and Tyler laid tiles. Others describe places or family ties. Landon comes from an Old English phrase for a long hill, Wyatt grew from a medieval personal name, and Jackson literally means son of Jack. Avery and Riley are also used for girls today, which gives them a more flexible feel.

Surname-style names can feel strong and modern, but they are also worth testing with your family name. Two occupational names in a row, or a first name that rhymes with your surname, can sound unexpected. Saying the full name aloud a few times, and imagining it on a school register or a business card, is a simple way to check the balance.