Unique Baby Boy Names That Start With A

Here are some fresh ideas for the next generation.

Unique Baby Boy Names That Start With A

Bun in the oven? Congrats. While you’re basking in the glow and craving weird food combos, why not search for the perfect name?

These special baby boy names start with A, so they’ll get an A+ right from the start.

Aarav

Origin: Indian

Aarav is a variant of the Indian baby boy name Arav.

Arav means "peaceful" and "musical" — just right for a baby boy who's joining a family of music lovers.

Aaron

Origin: Hebrew

Aaron is a biblical name meaning strong, exalted one. In the Bible, Aaron was the brother of Moses.

There are plenty of famous Aarons, too. Think Aaron Copeland, the composer, and Aaron Carter, the 2000s pop icon.

Able

Origin: Hebrew

In Hebrew, Able has a wonderful meaning: a breath. It's symbolic for bringing a new life into the world, which is pretty cool if you ask us.

It's currently ranked No. 181 in popularity.

Abram

Origin: Hebrew

Abram is short for Abiyram, meaning "high father."

It's a strong baby boy name that represents patience, perseverance and wisdom.

Abbott

Origin: Old English, Celtic

Centuries ago, an abbott was another name for a priest. This name isn't all about religion, though.

It's also a throwback to Abbott and Costello, the American comedy duo known for their act "Who's on First."

Ace

Origin: Latin

Don't let Ace Ventura put you off this fantastic baby boy name. Ace has Latin roots meaning "unity."

New babies always bring families together, so what better name than Ace?

Adlai

Origin: Hebrew

Adlai is a rare Hebrew name that dates back to the Old Testament. It appeared on American baby name charts in the late 1800s, but it quickly dropped back into obscurity. It means "God is just," and it's most commonly used in a religious context.

It was also the name of a famous politician, Adlai E. Stevenson. He unsuccessfully ran for president in the 1950s, but his failed election turned out to be a blessing. He helped to found the U.N. and became the organization's chief delegate from 1961-1965.

Adam

Origin: Hebrew

Adam is one of the most popular and well-loved Hebrew names. It means "son of the red Earth." In the Bible, Adam was also the first man ever created.

Adam reached peak popularity in 1984, but it's still remained in the top 100 names all this time.

Ainsley

Origin: Scottish

Ainsley means "a solitary meadow." How peaceful is that? It has old English roots, but it was popularized in Scotland. Considering how many green meadows Scotland has, it makes a lot of sense.

It was one of the top 50 names in Canada in 2016 and has become increasingly popular in Finland lately, but it's still rare in most parts of the world. It's a perfect baby boy name for a little one joining a family of introverts.

Ajay

Origin: Indian

In India, the name Ajay symbolizes power. Ajays can't be conquered.

In America, Ajay is often spelled A.J., although it's not a nickname for anything longer.

Adriel

Origin: Hebrew

Adriel is a Hebrew baby boy name roughly translating to "God is my help."

It's also just plain beautiful, so don't rule it out if you're not religious.

Ahmir

Origin: Arabic

If you want to raise a little prince, try the Arabic baby boy name Ahmir.

Also spelled Amir, it symbolizes wealth and royalty.

Aldo

Origin: Old German and Italian

Old souls, this one's for you. The baby boy name Aldo means "old one" or "elder."

It may seem odd to call an infant old, but it symbolizes granting a child wisdom beyond their years.

Alek

Origin: Greek

Alek means "warrior" in ancient Greek, tied to the similar Alexander.

Rumor has it that the phrase "smart aleck" started with a famous con man named Aleck Hoag.

Hopefully, your Alek will just be smart without the attitude.

Alessio

Origin: Latin and Italian

Alessio comes from the Latin name Alexius, meaning "helper" or "defender." It was more popular in the early 2000s, and it's most common in Italy.

We really hope it makes a comeback because it's a beautiful-sounding name with a powerful meaning.

Alexander

Origin: Greek

Alexander is means "defender of men," a pretty powerful title to hold.

Numerous kings were named Alexander, including Alexander the Great, one of the most impressive military leaders in history.

Not the worst person to be named after, eh?

Alistair

Origin: Scottish/Gaelic

Alistair comes from a long chain of revised names, which is how all names come to be, really.

Alastair comes from the Scottish/Gaelic Alasdair, which was a revision of the French Alexandre or the Latin Alexander.

Broken down, the name's roots mean "one who repels men." Translation? It's a warrior baby boy name.

Ambrose

Origin: Greek

Ever tried Ambrosia salad? It's almost as tasty as this baby boy name, which means "immortal."

Forget salad. Who wouldn't want an invincible baby?

Amihan

Origin: Tagalog

We're surprised this unique baby name hasn't been used more, because it rolls right off the tongue. Originating from the Philippines, Amihan means "north wind" or "winter storm."

According to legend, Amihan was also one of the first beings in the entire universe. He supposedly brought cool, fresh breezes to worthy fishermen. He was also said to have turned into a bird and pecked at a piece of bamboo that contained the very first human beings. Pretty cool story to be named after!

Amos

Origin: Hebrew

Amos, meaning "carried by God," is an old Hebrew name.

It's also the name of a feisty little mouse from the children's book "Amos and Boris," in which Amos travels the world on the back of a whale.

Oh, and remember Famous Amos cookies? Those were the best.

Anders

Origin: Scandinavian

Anders is one baby boy name starting with A that exudes masculinity.

The Scandinavian name literally means "manly," but it's also considered a friendlier-sounding version of Andrew.

Andres

Origin: Greek

If Andres looks familiar, that's because it's tied to some of the most popular American baby boy names. Andres is a Spanish version of Andrew, both of which are related to the Greek name "Andreas."

Andres means warrior, and it adds a fiery flair to the more common "Andrew."

Angel

Origin: Greek

All newborns are angels, but some are literally named Angel. It comes from the name Angelus, derived from the Greek word Angelos, meaning "messenger" or "messenger of God."

Ángel is a common name for boys in Spanish-speaking countries, but it has never been used much in the U.S. That just means your baby Angel will be extra special!

Angelo

Origin: Italian

Angelo means "Messenger of God." Just think of the word angel and it makes sense.

What better baby name than one inspired by angels?

Anson

Origin: British

The roots of the baby boy name Anson aren't the easiest to uncover, but it likely means "son of the divine."

If you're a parent with buckets of self-confidence, Anson might be the name for you.

Anthony

Origin: Latin

Anthony is one of the oldest names on record, with countless noblemen and saints as namesakes. Anthony is also linked to the famous Roman politician from the history books, Marcus Antony.

Anthony isn't the most popular boys name ever, but it does have staying power. It's been in the top 50 names for boys since 1905.

Antonio

Origin: Latin

Antonio is an Italian or Spanish version of Anthony. It's from the Latin "antonius," which is thought to mean "priceless." It may also come from the Greek word "anthos," which means "flower."

The name seems to ring true considering how many sculptors, painters, actors and singers have been named Antonio.

Apollo

Origin: Greek

Who hasn't heard of Apollo? In Greek mythology, Apollo is the son of Zeus and the god of music, medicine and poetry.

It's also the name of a historic theater and one of NASA's most renowned space programs.

And it sounds pretty tough as a baby boy name, too.

Aram

Origin: Hebrew and Armenian

Aram means "elevated on high." It's a popular Armenian name, and some might recognize it from William Saroyan's book of short stories called "My Name in Aram." Saroyan also named his son Aram.

The name appears in the bible several times, best known as one of Noah's grandson's. In the Armenian calendar, Aram is also the third day of the month.

Archie

Origin: English, Scottish

Archie is short for Archibald, a very old-fashioned sounding Germanic name. It means "genuine" and "brave."

Archie is most famous from the American comic book series founded in 1942. It's still cute today. Actress Amy Poehler even named her son Archie in 2008.

Ari

Origin: Hebrew

Ari is a Hebrew baby boy name, and guess what it means? Lion.

If you choose Ari for your new addition, it would go perfectly with a lion-themed nursery.

Aries

Origin: Latin

Sure, Aries is a zodiac sign, but it's also a cool baby boy name.

It means ram, so it's a good name for babies destined to be resilient and powerful.

Aris

Origin: Greek

Aris has a couple of roots, actually. Firstly, it's a modern reinvention of the name Ares, the Greek god of war. It's also a short version of Aristotelis, a variation of Aristotle. Best known as the name of the famous Greek philosopher, the name Aristotle means "the best purpose." Even today, Aristotle is considered one of the greatest philosophical minds in history.

Aris has also been used as a Dutch name derived from the name Adrian, which has some historical roots of its own.

Arlow

Origin: Spanish

Arlow, also spelled Arlo, is a Spanish name that means "barberry tree." It also can symbolize strong soldiers or warriors.

We like it because it’s such a unique baby boy name that rolls right off the tongue.

Arnaud

Origin: French

This fresh take on the name Arnold is pronounced "AR-NO," giving it quite the Parisian vibe. It means something along the lines of "powerful eagle." It was popular in France for decades, but it dropped off the charts in 2016.

In Europe, it's mostly seen as an old-fashioned name, but in America, it's practically brand new. It hasn't appeared on the top 1,000 baby boy names chart since 2005, so it's just about as unique as a name can get.

Arrow

Origin: English

Arrow was virtually unheard of as a name until the 2010s. It's a name for either gender that comes from the name of a weapon, the bow and arrow.

Arrows can symbolize having purpose, direction and determination in life.

Art

Origin: Celtic

Art has often been used as an abbreviation for Arthur, but it's actually a name all on its own. Coming from Ireland and Wales, Art originally meant "a bear." At the time, this was another term for a warrior or champion.

According to legend, Art was a High King of Ireland that was so good and kind that two angels protected him during battle.

Asaiah

Origin: Hebrew

The name Asaiah is traditionally given as a boy's name, meaning "the Lord hath made." It's most commonly used in Jewish families, but it's much more rare than the more popular "Isaiah."

It's like a mashup of Josiah and Asa, and it's sprinkled liberally throughout the Old Testament.

Asher

Origin: Old English

Of all the baby boy names, this one's meaning is pretty random. It means "one who lives by an ash tree."

If you live by a cedar grove, would that make your name "Cedarer"? We're not sure, but Asher is a sweet name even if your baby lives nowhere near trees.

Ashwin

Origin: Hindu

Ashwin is derived from an ancient Sanskrit word, "ashvin," which means "keeper of horses." In the Hindu religion, the Ashvins are gods of the sunrise and sunset. That's a pretty powerful name meaning, if you ask us!

We love that it matches up with the trend of adding "n" to the end of names, as in Grayson and Jaden. It can also be shortened to Ash, like the Pokemon trainer. How awesome is that?

Aspen

Origin: American

Aspen is the name of a beautiful tree, but it's probably best known as the popular Colorado ski town. The name has trended up in recent years because of the resort's popularity as a winter destination.

It's most popular among girls, but it can just as easily be used a unique, nature-inspired boys name.

Atlas

Origin: Greek

Greek mythology is packed with cool baby boy names. As the story goes, Atlas was a Titan who carried the entire world on his shoulders.

Fittingly, the name means "to carry."

Atreus

Origin: Greek

Atreus is every bit as Greek as it sounds, and the meaning is beyond cool. It means fearless and brave, just the qualities every parent hopes to pass on to their kids.

Mythologically speaking, Atreus was the king of Mycenae in the Peloponnese. The name has since been used as a character name in the God of War video game and the name of an asteroid in space!

Augie

Origin: Latin

Augie, coming from the Latin "Augustus" (or Augustine,) means majestic, venerable or great. It's a much more modern take on Augustus.

It's often used as a nickname for August, but it does just as well all on its own.

August

Origin: Latin

Obviously, August is a month. It's not just a good baby boy name for summer babies, though.

It comes from the name Augustus, which meant "venerable," and it was usually given to emperors.

Austen

Origin: Latin

Austen, also spelled Austin, was originally a surname derived from the Latin "Augustus." Like August and other Augustus variations, it means "great."

Many Austen's have been great indeed. Just think of Jane Austen, whose book was turned into a movie over 200 years after she wrote it.

Avian

Origin: Hebrew, French

Lovely and simple, Avian means bird-like. The name Avian symbolizes flight, freedom and adventure, and it has joined the ranks of other nature-themed names of late.

We love that it's a unisex name, so if you're waiting to find out the sex of your baby, Avian will work either way.

Ayven

Origin: Russian

Ayvan is basically Ivan, just a lot cooler. It's a Russian name meaning gracious and merciful. In religious traditions, it also means "gift from God."

It's virtually unheard of in the states, so it's a great choice for parents who want a unique name without completely inventing a new one.

Axton

Origin: English

Apparently, the English really love Ash trees. Axton is a spin on Ashton, which means "from the town of ash trees."

It's a great choice if you're looking for something that is inspired by nature.

Azai

Origin: Hebrew

Azai means, quite simply, strength. It has never cracked the top 1,000 baby names, so it's ultra-unique.

For a fun nickname, it could also be shortened slightly to "Zai."

Abel

Origin: Hebrew

Abel, pronounced AY-bel, means "breath." A baby named Abel is a living reminder to keep breathing and treasure every precious moment because, in the blink of an eye, he'll be all grown up!

Alexis

Origin: Greek

Alexis isn't just a name for girls. Alexis, like the related Alexander and Alex, means "protector" or "defender." It was in the top 50 most popular names from 1994 to 2010.

Armani

Origin: Italian

Armani is a name reserved for parents with an impeccable sense of style. After all, Armani is the name of Italian designer Giorgio Armani. During the 1990s, American parents decided it would make a trendy first name, too. If you're going to use the name Armani for your first child, consider saving Chanel for your second.

Adonis

Origin: Greek

Adonis sounds like the name of a Greek god, and reality isn't so far off. Adonis means "extremely attractive or handsome." It was also the name of the goddess Aphrodite's beloved.

Andy

Origin: Latin

Andy used to be no more than a nickname for Andrew or Andrea, but today it has become a popular unisex name all on its own. Andy comes from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "strong and masculine."

Azariah

Origin: Hebrew

The exotic-sounding Azariah comes from the Hebrew name "Azarel," meaning "helped by God." Navigating this crazy world has its ups and downs, so we'll take all the help we can get.

Alonso

Origin: Spanish

Alonso is similar to Alfonso, with Italian, Spanish and Old German origins. Its meaning? "Ready for battle." We hope baby Alonso won't need to fight many battles in life, but whenever a challenge arises, he'll be ready.

Alessandro

Origin: Greek

Alessandro, a more sibilant-sounding version of Alejandro, is a Greek boy's name meaning "man's defender" or "warrior." Some Alessandro's go by the shorter nickname Alessio or Alex.

Amias

Origin: Latin

One of our greatest wishes for our kids is for them to know how much they are loved. Amias comes from the Latin word for "loved." How perfect is that? It also has ties to the French words "ami," meaning friend, and "je t'aime," meaning "I love you."

Adler

Origin: German

For those who'd like a name that symbolizes soaring to great heights, try Adler. The Old German name means "eagle," and not too many birds fly higher than eagles.

Achilles

Origin: Greek

The name Achilles technically means "pain," but the character who bore it first imbued it with a powerful legacy. Achilles was the hero of the Trojan War in Homer's "Illiad." He was renowned for his bravery and good looks, and was virtually invincible aside from one spot on his heel.

Adrien

Origin: Latin

Adrien is a Latin name meaning "from Hadria." While it doesn't have a very deep meaning, that shouldn't be a deal breaker. The name sounds friendly and warm, and it works well for either gender.

Ansel

Origin: French

Ansel is an Old French name meaning "follower of a nobleman." Alternatively, it can be used as a variation of Hansel or Anselm, Old German names meaning "helmet of God."

Arley

Origin: British

Arley, rhyming with the more common Charlie, is a sweet gender-neutral name. The Old English name means "hare meadow." A meadow full of sweet, fluffy bunny rabbits is an adorable thing to be named after!

Afton

Origin: Old English

Afton is the name of a place in the southern portion of Scotland. If you like the sound of it but would prefer a name with a different meaning, consider Ashton or Arden.

Avi

Origin: Sanskrit

Short names can have just as much meaning as longer ones. Avi is the Sanscrit name for "sun and air."

Naming a baby Avi can have more than one purpose: It can remind your little one to appreciate the world we live in and that, to you, they are as magical as nature itself.

Arden

Origin: Latin

Anyone who finds peace in the great outdoors will love this one. The unisex name Arden translates to "great forest." It's also tied to the word "ardent," which means enthusiastic and full of life.

Ashlyn

Origin: Irish

While Ashlyn is more often used for girls these days, that wasn't always the case. It was originally used for both genders and comes from the Celtic word "aisling," meaning "dream." Ashlyn has been climbing the popularity charts since the mid-1980s.

Ashley

Origin: British

Much like Ashlyn, Ashley may sound like a girl's name, but it began as a trendy baby name for boys. It's a nature-inspired name meaning "ash meadow," and meadows definitely don't have genders. If you like the sound of it, use it!

Archer

Origin: Latin

Surnames used to come from a person's occupation. Archer began as a last name meaning "bowman," later becoming a popular first name. It's a great choice for anyone who's a fan of fantasy novels or a passion for archery.

The name first popped up on the U.S. baby name charts in 2009, and it's been climbing the ranks ever since.

Addison

Origin: British

The name Addison saw a huge leap in popularity thanks to the familiarity of Dr. Addison Montgomery, a fictional physician and one of the main characters of not one, but two popular medical dramas.

Today, it's more commonly used as a girls' name, but Addison actually means "son of Adam."

Aubrey

Origin: German

Aubrey and its cousin Audrey are both popular girls' names today, but historically, they were boys' names.

The most well-known Aubrey today is probably actress Aubrey Plaza from "Parks & Recreation," but Aubrey is also secretly the first name of the rapper Drake. The best part? Aubrey means "magical being."

Aiden

Origin: Gaelic

Aiden, the 33rd most popular name for boys according to the latest data, is an English version of the Gaelic name Aodah, meaning "fire." It comes from the name of a Celtic sun god, Aodh.

Aiden was also the name of a character on "Sex and the City," hitting the top 20 baby names in the mid-2000s alongside Jaden and Caden.

Axel

Origin: Hebrew

Axel, a name with both Hebrew and Old German roots, means "my father is peace," doubling as an undeniably cool name and a subtle humble brag. It was made famous by Axl Rose, the lead singer of Guns N' Roses and is currently the 118th most popular boys' name in the U.S.

Fun fact: Axel is also the name of the most challenging figure skating jump, named after Axel Paulsen, the skater who first landed it.

Avery

Origin: British

Avery was in the top 50 names for girls in America for some time, but it's also a great name for boys. It has fun, spritely roots from the Old English word for "elf," and it has appeared in several works of fiction, including "Charlotte's Web" and the "Harry Potter" series.