Boy Names That Start With A
By Dixie Legare – July 31, 2024
Choosing a name for a new baby boy can be both exciting and challenging.
For those who are drawn to names beginning with the letter “A,” there are many options available that encompass different backgrounds and styles.
From cool and unique to cute and biblical, the selection includes names with Italian, French, Greek, and Japanese origins.
Each name carries its own special meaning and charm, offering a wealth of choices for parents seeking the perfect fit for their little one.
Popular Boy Names Starting With A
Alexander: This name has Greek roots and means “defending men.” It appears in Greek mythology and the New Testament, and was famously borne by Alexander the Great, who created a vast empire. Although it hit its peak in the 1990s, Alexander remains a popular choice for boys in the U.S.
Aiden: Whether it’s spelled Aiden or Aidan, this name has Irish origins and means “little fire.” A fitting name for an energetic boy, it comes from the Irish name Aodhán, rooted deeply in Irish mythology.
Asher: A name with Hebrew origins, Asher means “happy” or “blessed.” It appears in the Old Testament as one of Jacob’s sons, making it a name with strong biblical ties.
Anthony: Derived from the Roman family name Antonius, this name calls to mind Mark Antony, the famous lover of Cleopatra. It gained widespread use in Christian culture, particularly after saints in the 4th and 13th centuries. In the U.S., it saw a popularity boost in the 1980s.
Andrew: This Greek name means “manly” and was notably borne by Jesus’ first disciple in the New Testament. Its popularity grew across Europe during the Middle Ages and surged even more after the veneration of St. Andrew.
Adrian: A variant of the Latin name Hadrian, meaning “from Hadria,” a town in ancient Italy. Adrian has been used by many saints and popes. It saw a rise in popularity in the mid-2000s in the United States.
Aaron: The exact meaning of this Hebrew name is unclear, though it might mean “exalted” or “high mountain.” Featured in the Old Testament as Moses’ brother, Aaron was especially popular in the U.S. during the 1980s.
Axel: This Danish name stems from the biblical Absalom, meaning “my father is peace” in Hebrew. In biblical references, Absalom is a son of King David.
Angel: Originating from the Latin name Angelus, which means “messenger” in Greek, this name is often given to boys and girls alike. In the Bible, angels are God’s messengers. The Italian spelling, Angelo, is also a popular choice.
Austin: A shorter form of Augustine, Austin is widely recognized as both a given name and a surname. It is also well-known as the name of the capital city of Texas.
Adam: In the Bible, Adam was the first man, and his name simply means “man” in Hebrew. The Hebrew word can also imply “to be red,” referencing the clay from which God made Adam. Adam saw significant popularity in the 1980s.
Amir: This name has dual meanings in different languages. In Hebrew, Amir means “treetop,” while in Arabic it signifies “commander” or “prince,” both offering a noble connotation for a young boy.
Rare and Unique Boy Names That Start With A
Here are some uncommon and distinctive boy names beginning with the letter A:
Altair
Altair is the name of a star in the Aquila constellation, symbolized by an eagle. In Arabic, Altair means “the flyer.”
Alvise
Alvise has Venetian roots and is a variant of Louis. This name has Germanic origins and means “famous battle.”
Amand
Amand is the male counterpart of Amanda, carrying the lovely meaning “worthy of love.”
Anand
Anand is a Sanskrit name that translates to “happiness” or “bliss.” It embodies the joy a newborn brings to a family.
Antares
Antares is a prominent star in the Scorpio constellation. Known for its brightness, this name might be fitting if your baby is born between October 23 and November 21.
Aravind
Aravind is a name rooted in Sanskrit, meaning “lotus.” This name appeals to those who value Eastern spirituality.
Archer
Archer, derived from an English surname of French origin, relates to the skill of archery. This name can be a striking first or middle name.
Arjuna
Arjuna means “white” or “clear” in Sanskrit. In Hindu mythology, he is the son of the god Indra and princess Kunti. Arjun is an alternative spelling.
Artair
Artair is the Scottish equivalent of Arthur, bringing a touch of Celtic charm.
Artem
Artem is the Russian version of Artemios from Greek, linked to the goddess Artemis. It can mean “safe” or relate to Artemis as the huntress.
Asim
Asim has meanings in both Sanskrit and Arabic. In Sanskrit, it means “boundless” or “limitless.” In Arabic, it translates to “protector.”
Cool and Cute Boy Names That Start With A
Choosing a name for your baby boy is a special task. Here are some wonderful and unique boy names that start with the letter A.
Ace
Ace is often used as a nickname, but it can make a great given name too. Meaning “highest rank,” it’s a strong name for a baby boy.
Adi
Adi is a unisex name that means “jewel” or “ornament” in Hebrew. It can also be a nickname for Adrian in some languages.
Ajit
Ajit is a Sanskrit name that means “unconquered” or “invincible.” It’s also used as an epithet for the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu.
Akamu
Akamu is the Hawaiian form of the name Adam. It’s a cool choice if you want a traditional name with a unique twist.
Akim
Akim is the Russian form of Joachim. St. Joachim is believed to be the father of the Virgin Mary.
Akira
Akira is a Japanese name that means “bright” or “clear.” It’s a popular choice in Japan and a great option for a boy’s name.
Akiva
Akiva is the Aramaic form of Yaakov, the Hebrew version of Jacob. This name has classic roots but offers a different and unique appearance.
Akram
Akram is an Arabic name meaning “most generous.” It’s a lovely name that has a special meaning.
Albie
Albie is a nickname for Albert, a German name meaning “noble and bright.” It’s a cute and charming option for a baby boy.
Alfie
Alfie is the diminutive form of Alfred, which means “elf counsel” in Old English. It’s a cute and cool name for a little boy.
Algar
Algar is an Old English name that means “elf spear.” It’s a unique choice that can stand out among other names.
Almas
Almas is an Arabic name of Persian origin meaning “diamond.” It’s a unique and precious name for your baby boy.
Alon
In Hebrew, Alon means “oak tree,” and in Tagalog, it means “wave.” Both meanings are cool and make Alon a unique choice.
Amani
Amani is an Arabic unisex name that means “wishes.” It’s a beautiful name with a hopeful meaning.
Amon
Amon is an Egyptian name meaning “the hidden one.” It was the name of the Egyptian god of air, creativity, and fertility.
Amos
Amos is of Hebrew origin and means “load” or “burden.” Amos was also one of the 12 minor prophets in the Old Testament.
Anakoni
Anakoni is the Hawaiian form of the name Anthony. It’s a cool option with a touch of Hawaiian flair.
Ander
Ander is the Basque version of the name Andrew. It’s a modern and unique take on a classic name.
Anri
Anri is the Georgian form of Henri, pronounced Ahn-Ree. The name has German roots and means “home ruler.”
Archie
Archie is a diminutive of Archibald, a German-origin name meaning “genuine” and “bold.” It’s a fun and endearing name, especially for fans of the comic book series Archie.
Ari
Ari means “lion” in Hebrew, “eagle” in Old Norse, and “brave” in Armenian. Any of these meanings make it a strong and cool name for your boy.
Ariel
Ariel means “lion of God” in Hebrew. Used in the Old Testament as another name for Jerusalem, it was also made famous by Shakespeare’s play The Tempest and Disney’s animated film The Little Mermaid.
Arlo
Arlo was supposedly created by poet Edmund Spenser. It likely refers to an Irish place meaning “between two highlands” in Gaelic.
Armas
Armas is a Finnish name that means “beloved.” It’s a lovely and meaningful option for a cherished baby boy.
Armin
Armin is the modern form of the Germanic name Arminius and may be related to Herman. It likely means “whole” or “universal.”
Arnie
Arnie is the English short form of Arnold. It’s a cute and endearing nickname that has a friendly vibe.
Arno
Arno is the short form of Arnoud in Dutch and Arnold in German, meaning “eagle power.” It’s a strong and unique name.
Artie
Artie is the short form of Arthur, which most likely has Celtic origins and means “bear man.” With the name Artie, it’s easier to imagine a friendly bear instead of a ferocious one.
Ashanti
Ashanti is a unisex African name meaning “warlike” in the Twi language. It’s a powerful and unique name.
Ashton
Ashton originally was a surname meaning “ash tree town” in Old English. It’s a trendy name and a good choice for a middle name.
Ashwin
Ashwin means “possessed of horses” in Sanskrit. In Hinduism, the Ashvins are twin gods of sunrises and sunsets.
Aslan
Aslan means “lion” in Turkish and was used by several medieval Turkish rulers. It’s also popular due to the lion character in The Chronicles of Narnia books and films.
Aston
Aston probably stems from a surname that means “east town” in Old English. It’s a unique and modern choice for a first name.
Astor
Astor comes from a famous surname (the eighteenth-century family founded by John Jacob Astor) and means “hawk.” It’s a strong and distinctive name.
Atem
Atem is an Egyptian name meaning “completion” or “totality.” It’s a unique and powerful name for your baby boy.
Avrum
Avrum is the Yiddish form of Abraham. It’s a traditional name with a unique twist.
Aziz
Aziz is an Arabic name meaning “powerful,” “respected,” “beloved,” and “cherished.” With such wonderful meanings, it’s a perfect name for a baby boy.
Biblical Boy Names That Start With A
Abdiel
Meaning “servant of God” in Hebrew. This name is found in the Old Testament and also appears in John Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost.
Abel
With Hebrew origins, the name means “breath.” Abel, the second son of Adam and Eve, is killed by his brother, Cain. Despite the sad story, the name became popular during the Middle Ages and Puritan times. It saw a resurgence in modern times, peaking in 2015.
Abner
This name means “my father is light” in Hebrew. Abner was a commander of an army in the Old Testament. Although it was popular among Christians and Puritans, it is less common today. Still, it offers a unique choice for baby boys.
Abraham
In Hebrew, this name means “father of many.” Abraham is a key figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The most famous bearer in modern times was Abraham Lincoln.
Abram
Meaning “high father” in Hebrew, this name was originally Abraham’s name before God changed it.
Absalom
Meaning “my father is peace” in Hebrew, this name appears in the Old Testament. Absalom was one of King David’s sons.
Asa
Believed to mean “healer” in Hebrew, Asa is found in the Old Testament.
Azariah
This name means “Yahweh (God) has helped” in Hebrew. It’s also found in the Old Testament and can be spelled as Azaria.
Azriel
This name means “my help is God” in Hebrew. Azriel is another name that appears in the Old Testament.
Classic and Old-Fashioned Boy Names That Start With A
Alan
Alan comes from Brittany, a region in France. This name can mean “little rock” or “handsome.” The name may also have Iranian roots. Variations include Allen (English and Scottish), Alain (French), and Ailín (Irish).
Alastair
Alastair is the Scottish version of Alexander. This uncommon name stands out while retaining the classic appeal.
Alberich
In German, Alberich means “elf ruler.” In German mythology, Alberich was the king of the elves. The name is perfect for those who appreciate mythology.
Alfred
Alfred is Old English for “elf counsel.” Though it has decreased in popularity, it is ripe for a comeback. Pairing Alfred with Alberich could make charming twin names. Alfie and Albie are adorable nicknames.
Alvin
Alvin is a medieval form of the Old English name Ealdwine, meaning “old friend.” It is also a Scandinavian name derived from Alfvin. This name has a friendly and enduring quality.
Archibald
Archibald is a Scottish name with Germanic roots, meaning “genuine” and “bold.” The name has a timeless charm, and Archie makes for a cute nickname.
Arnold
Arnold is a Germanic name meaning “eagle power.” Known bearers include saints and the famous modern figure Arnold Schwarzenegger. This name conveys strength and resilience.
Arthur
Arthur is likely derived from Celtic and may mean “bear man” or “bear king.” The name gained fame from the King Arthur legend. A suitable nickname is Artie.
Ashley
Initially used as an English surname, Ashley means “ash tree clearing.” It became a popular boy’s name before shifting more toward girls in the 1960s.
Aubrey
Aubrey is the Norman French version of Alberich. Popular in the Middle Ages for boys but used more for girls since the 1970s, it remains a unisex name. Pairs like Aubrey and Audrey make lovely names for boy-and-girl twins.
Avery
Originally a surname, Avery is derived from Alberich and Alfred. Now considered unisex, Avery peaked in popularity in the United States in the mid-2000s.
Italian, French, and Spanish Boy Names That Start With A
Alcide
This name is found in both Italian and French cultures. It comes from the Greek word for “strength.”
Aldo
An Italian name meaning “old” or “noble.” Perfect for a child with an old soul.
Alessio
The Italian form of Alexis. It stands out and has a musical quality to its sound.
Alfonso
Popular in both Spain and Italy, this name means “noble and ready.” It was the name of many kings in Spain and Portugal. Alfonso Cuarón, an acclaimed director, also shares this name.
Anastacio
This name is used in Spain and Italy. It is derived from the Greek and Latin name Anastasios, meaning “resurrection.” Another spelling is Anastasio.
André
This can be spelled with or without the accent. It is a variant of Andrew and is used in French, Portuguese, German, Dutch, and English.
Anthelme
A rare French name that means “wrath” or “zeal” and “helmet” or “protection.” It has roots in ancient German names.
Antoine
The French variant of Anthony, a popular name. Other versions include Antwan and Antonio.
Armand
This French name comes from Herman and means “army man.”
Arsenio
This name is Spanish and Italian, originating from the Greek name Arsenios, meaning “virile.”
Classical Latin and Greek Boy Names That Start With A
Achilles: Derived from Greek origins, the meaning of Achilles is unknown, though it is believed to mean “pain.” It is famously associated with the legendary warrior from Greek mythology who was nearly invincible except for his heel.
Aeneas: This name traces back to Latin, originating from the Greek for “praise.” Aeneas was the son of the goddess Aphrodite and is known as the founder of Rome in Virgil’s epic Aeneid.
Aesop: Known best as the name of a Greek fabulist, Aesop is associated with the famous collection of fables attributed to him, although his actual authorship remains uncertain.
Agathon: Agathon is a name of Greek origin, meaning “good.” This name is the male counterpart to the female name Agatha, conveying simplicity and goodness.
Albus: Albus, coming from Latin, means “white” or “bright.” This name is widely recognized by fans of the Harry Potter series.
Alexis: With roots in Greek, Alexis means “helper” or “defender.” This name has historical ties to various saints and a poet from the third century, and today it is used for both boys and girls.
Aloysius: Aloysius is a Latinized version of the name Aloys, which itself comes from the French name Louis. This form of the name is unique and rarely seen today.
Ambrose: This name has a dual origin, Greek and Latin, and means “immortal.” Ambrose was initially popularized by a saint but has since become more uncommon.
Apollo: Originating from Greek mythology, Apollo means “strength” or “father light.” Apollo is best known as the god overseeing the sun and light, among other responsibilities.
August: August is derived from the Latin name Augustus, which translates as “exalted” or “venerable.” This name has a historical association with the Roman emperor who followed Julius Caesar, carrying a dignified and honorable connotation.