Names that mean power promise something specific: strength, rule, or plain nerve. This list gathers 100 of them, from Hebrew and Greek classics to Norse, Swahili, and Japanese picks, with the meaning, pronunciation, and namesakes behind each one.
Ten names here still sit inside the U.S. top 100 for 2025, led by Liam at #1 (1), while a handful land on fewer than ten American birth certificates a year. Every ranking below comes from U.S. Social Security Administration birth data, which counts U.S. births only.
Skim the popular end for a name people already know, or head for the rare end and give your child the only one in the class.
Popularity at a Glance
The most popular names on this list in the United States, 1965 to 2025: Liam, Leo, Michael, Ethan and Alexander.
100 Powerful Names That Mean Strength
The countdown to the mightiest names that mean power begins now.
Aaron
Christians know Aaron as the brother of Moses, the biblical namesake who spoke for a brother too nervous to face Pharaoh. That is a quiet sort of strength, the kind that backs someone else up instead of taking the stage. Alternate readings include strong mountain, which suits a child you expect to stand firm, and the name has stayed familiar for generations without ever tipping into trendy.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strong, enlightened
- Pronunciation: AIR-ihn
- Namesakes: Aaron Rodgers, an American football player who plays for the Greenbay Packers.
- Popularity: Aaron ranked #80 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Adira
Adira sat at #1,406 in 2025, and it earns its place honestly. It is the feminine form of Adir, one of the names given to God in the Bible. Parents who want scripture behind a name without the wear of Sarah or Rebecca tend to land here. Disney fans meet Adira again as a supporting character in Tangled: The Series, which gives the name a warrior streak on screen as well as on paper. It sounds soft and lands hard, which is a useful combination.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strong, powerful
- Pronunciation: ah-DEER-ah
- Namesakes: Adira Suhaimi, a Malaysian pop singer.
- Popularity: Adira sat at #1,406 in 2025, up about 466% on the previous decade of births.
Alaric
Alaric is an old-fashioned title with royal history behind it, including a king of Sweden. The name reads formal at first and then loosens up fast, since Ricky is waiting inside it for anyone who wants a softer daily version. Television gave it a second life through The Vampire Diaries, so plenty of parents recognize it without being able to say why, and for a boy it offers the rare mix of a real historical record and almost no playground competition.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful ruler
- Pronunciation: AL-ar-ihk, ahl-AR-ihk
- Variations: Alarich, Alarick
- Namesakes: Alaric Alexander Watts, a British poet and journalist.
- Popularity: In 2025, Alaric placed #1,063, up about 222% on the previous decade of births.
Alexander
Alexander has been adopted by so many countries, among them Spain, Norway, France, Germany, and the United States, that it honors more than one heritage at a time. Alexander the Great sets the tone. The meaning, defender of men, keeps the focus on protection rather than conquest. It is a long name that never feels heavy, because Alex is always available. Parents who want a name their son can grow into keep choosing it, from preschool to a business card. It sat at #30 in 2025, down from a best of #4 in 2009.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Defender of men
- Pronunciation: AL-ehks-AND-er
- Variations: Aleksander
- Namesakes: Alexander Graham Bell, the Scottish inventor of the telephone.
- Popularity: Alexander reached its best rank of #4 in 2009 and held #30 in 2025.
Allura
Allura describes the pull one person can have on everyone in the room, which is a different flavor of power than muscle or rank. The sound is romantic without being fussy, and the animated series Voltron: Legendary Defender gave it a capable, commanding bearer. Namesakes are thin on the ground, so your daughter would mostly be writing the name’s story herself, which suits parents who want something recognizable in sound and unclaimed in fact.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Power of attraction
- Pronunciation: ah-LOOR-ah
- Popularity: Allura hit its best U.S. rank yet, #3,520, in 2025.
Amell
Amell points straight at the eagle. It is an animal that shows up in religion after religion as a symbol of freedom, vision, and power. It is also the national bird of the United States, which gives the name a patriotic edge for families who want one. The two accepted pronunciations, uh-MELL and AY-mell, let you pick the softer or the sharper reading. Either way it is a short, uncommon name with a clear image behind it.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Power of an eagle
- Pronunciation: uh-MELL, AY-mell
- Popularity: Amell reached its best rank of #4,749 in 2023 and held #12,124 in 2025.
Andrea
Andrea sits on a fault line: Americans mostly hear a girl’s name, while its use for boys in Europe is what earns it the unisex tag here. The two pronunciations, AN-dree-uh and AHN-dray-uh, give families room to choose the version that fits their household. Nonbinary nicknames include Andy, which travels well in any direction, and for parents who want flexibility built into the paperwork, that is the whole appeal.
- Origin: Greek, English, Italian
- Meaning: Strong, manly
- Pronunciation: AN-dree-uh, AHN-dray-uh
- Namesakes: Andrea Mitchell, an American journalist for NBC.
- Popularity: Andrea ranked #235 among U.S. girl names in 2025.
Andrew
Andrew belonged to one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. He now belongs to two countries as well, since he is the patron saint of both Scotland and Russia. The meaning, strong and manly, is about as plainspoken as onomastics gets. Parents who want a name that will never need explaining, at a job interview or on a first day of school, keep it in rotation. Drew handles the casual half of life.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Strong, manly, warrior
- Pronunciation: an-DROO
- Namesakes: Andrew Garfield, a British actor known for his role in Spider-Man.
- Popularity: Andrew sat at #73 in 2025, down about 52% on the previous decade of births.
Angus
Angus comes from Aengus, the Irish god of love, who used his power to make other people rich rather than to make himself feared, and that is a generous story to hand a boy. The name has a farm-solid sound and an obvious nickname, Gus, which softens it for a toddler. It reads Scottish, sturdy, and slightly out of step with fashion, which is exactly why some parents want it.
- Origin: Scottish, Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: One strength
- Pronunciation: AN-gus
- Namesakes: Angus Young, an Australian musician, and member of the band AC/DC.
- Popularity: In 2025, Angus placed #2,363, roughly level with the previous decade of births.
Apollo
In Greek mythology Apollo is the god of medicine as well as light, so the name suits a future doctor better than its blunt meaning suggests. The myth matters here: Apollo had enormous power and mostly used it to heal. Gwen Stefani put the name back in circulation when she chose it for her son in 2014. NASA’s spaceflight program keeps it aloft in a different way. Few names manage to sound mythic and modern at once.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Destroyer
- Pronunciation: uh-PAH-loh
- Variations: Apolo
- Popularity: Apollo reached its best rank of #389 in 2022 and held #445 in 2025.
Archie
Archie is the fastest riser on this entire list, and you can feel why. It follows the trend of nickname-style names used as full first names, friendly on a toddler and fine on an adult. Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan gave it a royal push as well. Millennials meet it again through Riverdale, which keeps it from reading purely vintage. The German root, powerful and bold, is doing quiet work under all that charm. Births are up about 713% over the last decade, more than any other name on this list.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful, bold
- Pronunciation: AR-chee
- Variations: Archy
- Namesakes: Archie Moore, an American boxer.
- Popularity: About one in 1,513 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Archie, ranking it #301.
Armstrong
Armstrong is a surname that almost nobody uses up front, which is the entire point. It was once a descriptive name for a man with muscular arms, so the meaning is about as literal as this list gets. With Lincoln and Cooper already common, the leap to Armstrong is shorter than it looks, and it works best on a family that likes a bit of nerve.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Strong arms
- Pronunciation: ARM-strong
- Namesakes: Armstrong Sperry, an American author known for his book Some Call It Courage.
- Popularity: Armstrong has charted in U.S. records since 1917 and ranked #10,803 in 2025.
Asta
Asta belongs on any shortlist of four-letter names that carry real weight. The Norwegian and Danish reading is divine strength. Many families treat it as a short form of Astrid or Anastasia, though it stands up perfectly well alone. Alternate meanings include love and starlike, which pull the name toward the tender end of powerful. Small, clean, and easy to spell out over the phone.
- Origin: Norwegian, Danish
- Meaning: Divine strength
- Pronunciation: AHS-tah
- Variations: Astah
- Namesakes: Asta Nielsen, a Danish silent film actress who starred in 74 films.
- Popularity: Asta hit its best U.S. rank yet, #2,838, in 2025.
Athena
Athena is the daughter of Zeus and one of the most recognizable figures in Greek myth, worshipped as the goddess of warfare rather than of beauty. The name sounds delicate and the story behind it is anything but, which is a contrast a lot of parents like. Families with Greek roots get a bonus, since the name is a feminine turn on Athens, a city built around art and philosophy, and it also carries an easy expectation of intelligence.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: From Athens
- Pronunciation: uh-THEE-nuh
- Variations: Athene
- Namesakes: Athena Andreadis, an Anglo-Greek musician and songwriter.
- Popularity: Athena sat at #109 in 2025, up about 157% on the previous decade of births.
Aubrey
Aubrey was a boy’s name until the 1970s, when it crossed over and stayed. Aubrey Plaza made it cool for a new generation of girls without stripping the older, sturdier feel from it. Alternate meanings include ruler of the elves. That reading is catnip for a Lord of the Rings household. Cute nicknames include Aubs and Ree, so the name has range from playground to office.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Power
- Pronunciation: AH-bree
- Variations: Aubree, Aubreigh
- Namesakes: Aubrey Dollar, an American actress known for her role in One Small Hitch.
- Popularity: In 2025, Aubrey placed #146, down about 32% on the previous decade of births.
Audrey
Audrey carries an association with poise and persistence, thanks mostly to Audrey Hepburn. Shakespeare got there first, writing an Audrey into As You Like It, and television has kept the name in circulation through Dawson’s Creek, 24, and Twin Peaks. The English meaning, noble strength, explains why it has never felt fragile despite the soft sound, and parents after a name with class and a spine both tend to land here.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Noble strength
- Pronunciation: AH-dree
- Variations: Audree, Audreigh
- Namesakes: Audrey Marnay, a French model.
- Popularity: Audrey reached its best rank of #33 in 2013 and held #86 in 2025.
Augustus
The most famous Augustus is Caesar Augustus, the first emperor of Rome and a powerful warrior whose reign shaped the city. That is a lot of history to carry. The name comes with a built-in escape hatch, Gus. Pop culture keeps it lively too, with bearers in the Harry Potter films and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The Latin meaning, majestic, is the rare case where the name means what it sounds like.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Powerful, majestic
- Pronunciation: uh-GUS-tus
- Namesakes: Augustus Thomas, an American playwright known for his work in The Jungle.
- Popularity: About one in 2,183 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Augustus, ranking it #407.
Aza
Aza is a palindrome, so it reads the same coming and going, and it works for a boy or a girl without adjustment. The Z gives it snap, which is half of why parents notice it in the first place. Alternate meanings include comfort, an unexpected pairing with powerful that gives the name two moods, and it stays short, unusual, and easy for a small child to learn to write.
- Origin: Arabic, African
- Meaning: Powerful
- Pronunciation: AH-zah
- Namesakes: Aza Raskin, an American writer and humanitarian.
- Popularity: Aza has charted in U.S. records since 1920 and ranked #6,358 in 2025.
Barnett
Barnett once described someone who lived near burned land. That is a strange and vivid origin for a modern first name. Today it turns up almost entirely as a surname, so a boy would have it largely to himself. The painter Barnett Newman is worth a look if you want your child to grow up around art. Barney is the natural short form for the toddler years.
- Origin: French, Old English
- Meaning: Mighty as a bear
- Pronunciation: bar-NEHT
- Popularity: Barnett last charted in U.S. data in 2015 at #12,290 and has not appeared since.
Bedelia
Readers meet Bedelia through Amelia Bedelia, which gives the name a warm, slightly comic first impression before the Irish meaning, strength and exalted one, gets a word in. Nobody is using it, which leaves the field open. It suits a free-spirited girl, and Delia trims it down when the full version is too much of a mouthful.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Strength, exalted one
- Pronunciation: buh-DEEL-ee-ah
- Popularity: Bedelia has been off the U.S. charts since 1968, when it sat at #5,683.
Bellatrix
J.K. Rowling made Bellatrix famous, and she gave it to a villain, which is the first thing anyone will say about it. Get past that and the Latin meaning, female warrior, is one of the strongest on this list. The name has the sound of something fashion-forward rather than something historical. Trixie is waiting if you want to take the edge off.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Female warrior
- Pronunciation: BEL-uh-triks
- Popularity: In 2025, Bellatrix placed #4,674, up about 228% on the previous decade of births.
Bernadette
Fans of The Big Bang Theory will recognize Bernadette instantly, but the older namesake is the more interesting one: Saint Bernadette of Lourdes, known for her visions of the Virgin Mary, and alternate meanings include brave as a bear, which fits a girl with more nerve than caution. It is a long name and it knows it, so Bernie does the daily work. Vintage, French, and due for another look.
- Origin: German, French
- Meaning: Brave, strong
- Pronunciation: ber-nuh-DEHT
- Namesakes: Bernadette Dupont, a French senator.
- Popularity: Bernadette reached its best rank of #188 in 1946 and held #1,034 in 2025.
Bree
Once just a short form of Bridget, Bree has stood on its own for decades now. It descends from Brighe, the Irish goddess of poetry, art, and magic. That gives a very small name a very large backstory. Parents hunting short and sweet names find it does the job in four letters. It ages well, since nothing about it reads as a nickname anymore.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Strength, power
- Pronunciation: BREE, BRYE
- Variations: Bri
- Namesakes: Bree Turner, an American actress known for her role in Bring It On.
- Popularity: About one in 27,027 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Bree, ranking it #2,826.
Brian
Brian is the steepest faller on this list, which makes it a genuine sleeper for anyone tired of hearing the same three boy names at the park. The history is anything but soft: Brian Boru was an Irish king who freed his country from oppression, and the meaning runs to strong, virtuous, honorable. Actors like Brian Austin Green kept it visible through its long slide, and a name most people know and almost nobody is using is a rare thing.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Strong, virtuous, honorable
- Pronunciation: BREYE-in
- Variations: Bryan
- Namesakes: Brian Austin Green, an American actor known for his role in Desperate Housewives.
- Popularity: Brian has charted in U.S. records since 1909 and ranked #339 in 2025.
Brielle
Brielle takes the tail end of Gabrielle. It turns that into an edgy first name in its own right. The French meaning, God is my strength, gives faith-minded families a reason to look twice. Alternate readings include messenger of God and angel, so the whole name points in one direction. It sounds current without being invented, which is a narrow lane to sit in.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: God is my strength
- Pronunciation: bree-EHL
- Namesakes: Brielle Lacosta, an American model.
- Popularity: Brielle ranked #143 among U.S. girl names in 2025.
Brodrick
Brodrick is another last name rarely used as a first name, and it means famous power, which is a lot to promise. Alternate meanings include brother, so it carries family loyalty alongside the ambition. The Brodricks sat in the Irish parliament in the 1600s, giving the name a real paper trail, and Ricky keeps it friendly.
- Origin: German, Scottish
- Meaning: Famous power
- Pronunciation: BRAHD-rihk
- Variations: Broderick, Brodric
- Popularity: Brodrick sat at #5,895 in 2025, down about 48% on the previous decade of births.
Burke
Burke is a French surname that once described someone from a fortress, which gives it a wartime edge that appeals to military families. It is short, hard-consonant, and expensive-sounding, closer to a tailored suit than a football field. Grey’s Anatomy fans will place it as the surname of Dr. Preston Burke. If you want a boy’s name that means power without announcing it, this is the one.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Strong hill
- Pronunciation: BURK
- Namesakes: Burke Badenhop, an American baseball pitcher.
- Popularity: In 2025, Burke placed #2,649, roughly level with the previous decade of births.
Callan
Callan means powerful in battle. It is still new enough to American ears that most people will ask about it. Netflix’s The Gray Man gave it a visible bearer and a bump in attention. It is technically unisex, though in practice it is used for boys almost every time. Either way it is a short, sturdy name with an easy nickname in Cal.
- Origin: Scottish, Gaelic
- Meaning: Powerful in battle
- Pronunciation: KAL-an
- Namesakes: Callan Mulvey, an Australian actor known for his role in The Gray Man.
- Popularity: In 2025, Callan reached #190, the highest it has ever placed in U.S. data.
Camilla
Camilla was once the word for a teenager who served in the local church, which makes the name sound gentler than its record deserves. In Roman myth, Camilla was a fighter who led an army of warrior maidens and outran everyone who tried to catch her. That is the version worth telling your daughter, since the name is elegant on paper, tough underneath, and stays in steady use without ever getting crowded.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Helper to the priest
- Pronunciation: kuh-MILL-uh, kuh-MEE-lah, KAM-uh-luh
- Variations: Camila, Kamilla
- Namesakes: Camilla Cabello, a Cuban American singer and songwriter.
- Popularity: About one in 1,898 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Camilla, ranking it #361.
Cassandra
Greek mythology hands Cassandra a brutal deal. She was among the strongest prophetesses alive, and Apollo cursed her so nobody would believe a word she said. The meaning, excelling over men, is unusually direct for a girl’s name. It suits a child you expect to be right early and often. Cassy and Cass keep the everyday version simple.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Stronger than men, excelling over men
- Pronunciation: kuh-SAN-druh
- Variations: Kassandra, Cassondra
- Namesakes: Cassandra Patten, a British Olympic swimmer.
- Popularity: Cassandra has charted in U.S. records since 1902 and ranked #631 in 2025.
Daivat
Daivat is the Indian word for “first god,” making this sweet title all-powerful. The Hindi religion holds Daivat in high regard, as its alternate meaning is “divine.” Similar to David, Daivat is sure to tickle the ears of everyone who comes across him. Add American flair to Daivat by nicknaming your son Davy.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Power, strength
- Pronunciation: DAY-vaht
- Popularity: Daivat has never reached the five births a year the U.S. government needs to publish a name, so it has no American ranking at all.
Denzel
Denzel Washington gave this Cornish name its American moment in the 1990s, and it has been quietly uncommon since. That is good news if you want a name people recognize and nobody else is using. The meaning, from the high stronghold, keeps it on theme without sounding like a costume, and Denny is there for the small years.
- Origin: British, Cornish
- Meaning: From the high stronghold
- Pronunciation: den-ZELL
- Namesakes: Denzel Perryman, an American football player and member of the Las Vegas Raiders.
- Popularity: Denzel sat at #1,166 in 2025, roughly level with the previous decade of births.
Dustin
Dustin is tied to Thor, the Norse god of thunder. That is a lot of Norse weight for a name most people file under 1980s yearbook. Stranger Things has been steadily reintroducing it to a generation that never met it the first time. Dustin Hoffman is still the namesake most adults will land on. Even so, it never quite vanished, the way some yearbook names do.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Thor’s stone
- Pronunciation: DUSS-tihn
- Namesakes: Dustin Hoffman, an American actor known for his role in Rain Man.
- Popularity: In 2025, Dustin placed #729, down about 45% on the previous decade of births.
Easton
Easton reads as two things at once, a plain English place name and magical power. It is the second reading that pulls in fantasy families. It rose fast in the United States and has stayed high, helped along by celebrity parents like Jenna Elfman. The sound fits neatly beside Weston, Grayson, and the rest of that group without disappearing into it. Unisex on paper, mostly a boy in practice.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Magical power, East town
- Pronunciation: EES-tuhn
- Namesakes: Easton Corbin, an American country music star.
- Popularity: Easton peaked at #66 back in 2016 and has settled at #110 as of 2025.
Ebba
Ebba has Swedish and Norwegian roots and is genuinely rare in America, currently ranked #5,010 in the U.S., about one birth in every 62,500. The namesake Princess Ebba of Sweden explains a lot of that European fondness. Alternate meanings include “fortress of riches,” making Ebba ideal for the little diva, and if you want a powerful name fit for a princess, this one is still yours to claim.
- Origin: German, English
- Meaning: Strength of a boar
- Pronunciation: EH-buh
- Namesakes: Ebba Busch, the Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden.
- Popularity: About one in 62,500 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Ebba, ranking it #5,010.
Edrea
Edrea keeps its history quiet, since almost nothing beyond its Hebrew and English meaning has survived. That scarcity itself is the appeal, since it puts Edrea among the rarest girl names built around power. Parents drawn to something unclaimed can shorten it to Rea for everyday use.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Powerful
- Pronunciation: ehd-RAY-uh, EE-dree-ah
- Popularity: Edrea sits below the five-births-a-year line U.S. federal data uses, so no American ranking exists for it.
Emersyn
A variant of gender-neutral Emerson, Emersyn is strictly female. The spelling has been in U.S. birth records since the late 1990s and has only grown more popular since. Its unusual ending gives your girl an edgy, distinct look that stands out from the pack.
- Origin: American
- Meaning: Brave, powerful
- Pronunciation: EM-er-SIHN
- Variations: Emerson
- Popularity: Emersyn ranked #138 among U.S. girl names in 2025.
Etana
The female version of Ethan, Etana is for the girl who knows her mission. Alternate meanings include “dedication,” which pairs nicely with Etana’s other interpretations. With its melodic pronunciation, Etana is bound to be a hit.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strength of purpose
- Pronunciation: ee-TAH-nah
- Variations: Ettana, Etanna
- Popularity: Etana has been off the U.S. charts since 2024, when it sat at #16,037.
Ethan
Ethan turns up everywhere once you start looking, from Civil War figures to Ethan Hawke. The biblical Ethan is remembered for wisdom and for music rather than for battle, which is a nice counterweight to a name meaning strong and firm. It has spent two decades near the top without ever feeling overused, and parents who want a short, solid name that reads well at any age keep coming back to it.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strong, firm
- Pronunciation: EE-thun
- Variations: Eathan
- Namesakes: Ethan Hawke, an American actor known for his role in Dead Poets Society.
- Popularity: In 2025, Ethan placed #24, down about 39% on the previous decade of births.
Ezekiel
In the Bible, Ezekiel was a prophet who foretold Jerusalem’s demise, which you can read about in the book of Ezekiel. Fans of The Walking Dead will adore the chance to name their son after a supporting character. Cute nicknames include Zeke.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God strengthens
- Pronunciation: ee-ZEE-kee-uhl
- Namesakes: Ezekiel Kemboi, a Kenyan Olympic runner.
- Popularity: Ezekiel peaked at #48 in 2022 and has settled at #61 as of 2025.
Fallon
Fallon is a cheerful title commonly associated with Jimmy Fallon, an American comedian, though underneath the joke it is also a fierce name for a future leader. The hit show Dynasty made Fallon briefly famous in the 1980s, and it never made a full recovery. With the return of names like Farrah, who’s to say Fallon can’t make a comeback?
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Powerful leader
- Pronunciation: FAL-luhn
- Namesakes: Fallon Fox, an American mixed martial artist.
- Popularity: Fallon ranked #779 among U.S. names in 2025, about one baby in every 4,608.
Gabriel
Gabriel is commonly associated with its angelic namesake in Christian circles. Some believe Gabriel is a powerful archangel who can appear to humans, usually to tell them their destiny. Gabriel is also highly revered in Islam and Judaism, uniting multiple religions, and alternate meanings include “mighty man of God,” perfect for parents who want to pass on their faith.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my strength
- Pronunciation: GAI-bree-uhl
- Namesakes: Gabriel Iglesias, an American comedian.
- Popularity: Gabriel has charted in U.S. records since 1880 and ranked #37 in 2025.
Gabriella
Gabriella took off in the early 2000s due to Gabriella Montez, a main character in High School Musical. This exotic take on Gabrielle is perfect for parents who want a traditional name with extra sparkle. Though Gabriella isn’t hot off the press, it’s a timeless choice for your virtuous little sweetie, and cute nicknames include Gabbi and Ella.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God is my strength
- Pronunciation: GAH-bree-ELL-uh
- Variations: Gabriela, Gabrielle
- Namesakes: Gabriella Pizzoli, an American actress known for her role in Stranger Things.
- Popularity: In 2025, Gabriella held the #105 spot among U.S. girl names.
Garrett
Fans of Pretty Little Liars will recognize Garrett as one of the show’s supporting characters. A fresher version of Gerard, Garrett will appeal to parents who want a name with a good reputation. Garrett refers to one who leads with his spear, possibly a nod to a warrior, and perhaps your little Garrett will be the next to lead a great revolution.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Spear strength
- Pronunciation: GAIR-eht
- Variations: Garret
- Namesakes: Garrett Hilbert, an American YouTuber and star of Dude Perfect.
- Popularity: Garrett sat at #564 in 2025, down about 55% on the previous decade of births.
Gertrude
With its old-fashioned appearance, Gertrude will trigger memories of cookies, quilts, and Grandma’s favorite hugs. Despite its serene connotations, Gertrude belongs to many powerful women. Among the most notable namesakes is Saint Gertrude, trusted with visions of Jesus’ beating heart and Purgatory, and modern nicknames include Gertie and Trudy.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Spear, strength
- Pronunciation: GER-trood
- Namesakes: Gertrude Warner, an American children’s novelist known for The Boxcar Children.
- Popularity: In 2025, Gertrude placed #6,632, up about 85% on the previous decade of births.
Gibor
In the Bible, God is referred to twice as “El-Gibor.” Scholars say this title emphasizes God’s strength, particularly in battle. Gibor is perfect for parents who want a biblical title that few others share. Your little man’s winning attitude may be what makes him so lovable.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strong one
- Pronunciation: JEYE-bor
- Popularity: Gibor does not appear in U.S. birth records, which list a name only once at least five babies receive it in a year.
Gideon
Biblical judge Gideon is remembered for his victory against the Midianites. To this day, he’s known as one of the wisest prophets and military leaders of that time. Gideon is popular among Christian circles as it’s slightly different from traditional titles like John, and pop culture references include a supporting character in Harry Potter.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Great destroyer
- Pronunciation: GID-ee-on
- Variations: Gidion
- Namesakes: Gideon Yago, an American writer and journalist for CBS and MTV.
- Popularity: Gideon ranked #337 among U.S. names in 2025, about one baby in every 1,721.
Godric
If you’re into Harry Potter, you’ll recognize Godric as the founder of the Gryffindor house. J.K. Rowling was historically accurate since Godric was popular in the 11th-century. Other pop culture references include a character on the show True Blood. You can call your little firecracker Ricky for short.
- Origin: Anglo-Saxon
- Meaning: God’s power
- Pronunciation: GOHD-rihk, GOD-rihk
- Popularity: Godric has charted in U.S. records since 2009 and ranked #10,033 in 2025.
Griffin
In mythology, Griffin is a creature that’s half lion, half bird, and legend says it guarded treasure and those who hunted for it. Griffin has been one of America’s top 300 boy names since 1996. With its cool back story and masculine association, Griffin will stay relevant for years to come.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Strong Lord
- Pronunciation: GRIF-fin
- Variations: Gryffin
- Namesakes: Griffin Gluck, an American actor known for his role in Tall Girl 2.
- Popularity: Griffin ranked #222 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Hercules
Disney gave Hercules a big screen moment, but real-world boys still rarely wear it, ranked just #4,921 in 2025. In Greek mythology he is the demigod defined by his labors, strength paired with a duty to protect rather than to dominate. That rarity is the draw: your son gets namesakes ranging from painters to Olympic athletes, and Herc for the years before he grows into the whole thing.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Hero
- Pronunciation: HERK-yoo-leez
- Namesakes: Hercules Burnett, an American baseball player.
- Popularity: Hercules sat at #4,921 in 2025, up about 132% on the previous decade of births.
Hilde
Hilde is the wearable version of Hildegarde, trimmed to two syllables and a lot less formality. The name points back to a Valkyrie, one of the figures who escorted fallen soldiers to Valhalla, so the German meaning, battle woman, is not decoration. It suits a girl who argues with the referee, soft on the ear and stubborn underneath.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Battle woman
- Pronunciation: HILL-duh
- Namesakes: Hilde Ziegler, a German actress known for her role in Messidor.
- Popularity: Hilde’s U.S. births have climbed about 81% over the past decade, putting it at #8,554 in 2025.
Irie
Jamaicans use irie the way other people use everything is fine or I am feeling good today, which makes it a genuinely cheerful name. It is a reminder that power is not only physical, and that steadiness counts as strength. The name is rare enough in the United States to feel deliberate rather than borrowed, and it suits a daughter who talks everyone else down.
- Origin: Jamaican
- Meaning: Positive and powerful
- Pronunciation: EYE-ree
- Namesakes: Irie Love, an American reggae singer.
- Popularity: Irie is a unique girl name in the United States, ranked #2,009 in 2025.
Isa
Isa has European roots and is almost forgotten here, which is the sweet spot for parents who like titles with European flair. Plenty of families treat it as a trimmed Isabella, though the German reading, strong-willed, gives it a spine of its own. Two accepted pronunciations, EE-sah and EYE-sah, mean you can set the tone yourself, in a name that is three letters, no fuss, and no spelling arguments.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Strong-willed, God is abundance
- Pronunciation: EE-sah, EYE-sah
- Namesakes: Isa Tapia, an American women’s shoe designer.
- Popularity: Isa hit its best U.S. rank yet, #933, in 2025.
Jarek
Jarek is unusual without being strange, which is a harder trick than it sounds. It lands close to Jared, so people can say it on the first try, and the Slavic meaning runs to famous for his strength. Alternate meanings include spring, a nice fit for a baby born as the weather turns. Jerry is the ready-made short form for anyone who wants one.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: One who is famous for his strength
- Pronunciation: JAIR-ehk
- Namesakes: Jarek Goebel, a New Zealand rugby player.
- Popularity: U.S. records have carried Jarek since 1977, and it ranked #4,777 in 2025.
Jasira
Jasira has East African roots and very little written history, which makes it a name your daughter gets to define rather than inherit. Some sources tie it to female warriors, which lines up with a meaning of strong and courageous. The rhythm is lovely either way you say it, JAH-sir-ah or yah-SEER-ah. This is the rarest name on the whole list, so she would almost certainly be the only one.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: Strong and courageous
- Pronunciation: JAH-sir-ah, yah-SEER-ah
- Popularity: Jasira ranked #13,925 among U.S. girl names in 2025.
Jason
Mythology gives Jason a crew of treasure hunters and a long, complicated voyage, and he came out of it with his reputation intact if not his luck. The name also carries a medical reading, healer, which is an unusual pairing with all that adventure. Jason Derulo keeps it current on the radio. It is a 1970s name that never became a punchline, which is more than most of its cohort can say.
- Origin: Greek, Hebrew
- Meaning: Power to heal, healer
- Pronunciation: JAY-suhn
- Variations: Jayson, Jaison
- Namesakes: Jason Derulo, an American singer with 11 platinum singles.
- Popularity: Jason sat at #165 in 2025, down about 45% on the previous decade of births.
Kano
Kano spans African and Japanese naming traditions, so it arrives with more than one heritage attached. The meaning, one’s masculine power, is direct, and the alternate reading, god of the waters, suits a baby born near the ocean. It is short, laid-back, and about equally at home on a surfer or a linebacker. Two syllables, no nicknames required.
- Origin: Japanese, African
- Meaning: One’s masculine power
- Pronunciation: KAH-noh
- Popularity: Kano’s births are up about 90% over the last decade, landing it at #6,638 in 2025.
Karleen
Karleen is the perfect option for the girl who embraces being a woman. Some translate Karleen as “little and womanly,” bringing to mind a petite beauty. Karleen is a variation of Carleen, a title that fell off American name charts by 1970. Though its pronunciation is vintage, Karleen appears fresh and ready to take on the world.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Strength
- Pronunciation: kar-LEEN
- Variations: Carleen
- Popularity: Karleen last charted in U.S. data in 2024 at #16,448 and has not appeared since.
Kedar
Kedar looks villainous at first glance, since the meaning starts at dark one, and that reading misses the point entirely. Both of its meanings run closer to power that holds up in dark times, which is the kind most families actually need. It is a Hebrew and Arabic name with real history and almost no American traffic. A quietly serious choice.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Dark one, powerful
- Pronunciation: KEE-dar
- Popularity: About one in 200,000 U.S. babies born in 2025 was named Kedar, ranking it #8,597.
Kelsey
Kelsey ruled the 1990s and then slipped out the back door with the century. It is unisex on paper and has been mostly a girl’s name in practice for a long while now. The spellings multiply, Kelsee, Kelcie, and Kelsie among them, so you can pick the one that looks right to you. Metro Station’s song Kelsey is still the pop culture footnote most people remember.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Fierce, Cenel’s Island, ship’s victory
- Pronunciation: KEL-see
- Variations: Kelsee, Kelcie, Kelsie
- Namesakes: Kelsey Chow, an American actress known for her role in One Tree Hill.
- Popularity: Kelsey has appeared in U.S. birth records since 1942 and ranked #814 in 2025.
Kendra
Kendra means royal power, which is either aspirational or accurate depending on the toddler. Some read it as a blend of Ken and Sandra, making it a tidy way to honor two family members at once. In Gaelic use it described a prophetess, someone who could see what was coming, so the name carries intuition alongside authority. Kendra Scott gives it a modern, self-made namesake.
- Origin: English, Welsh, Gaelic
- Meaning: Royal power
- Pronunciation: KEN-drah
- Namesakes: Kendra Scott, an American jewelry designer.
- Popularity: In 2025, Kendra held the #849 spot among U.S. girl names.
Kenzo
Kenzo means strong and healthy, which is the first wish most parents make and rarely get to write on a birth certificate. The meaning shifts with the Kanji chosen, and other readings include wise and create. Kimora Simmons brought it to American attention when she named her son Kenzo in 2009. Short, sharp, and easy for a small child to say.
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Strong and healthy
- Pronunciation: KEN-zoh
- Namesakes: Kenzo Shirai, a Japanese gymnast.
- Popularity: Kenzo sat at #630 in 2025, up about 560% on the previous decade of births.
Keren
Keren is a fabulous, exotic alternative to Karen. Poldark fans will instantly recognize Keren as one of the show’s leading characters. Keren is popular in Israel but has yet to make it big in the States. Alternate meanings include “ray of light,” fitting for the girl who brightens your day.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Strength, power
- Pronunciation: KEE-ren
- Namesakes: Keren Cytter, an Israeli visual artist.
- Popularity: In 2025, Keren placed #2,632, roughly level with the previous decade of births.
Kiah
Short for Hezekiah, Kiah counts as biblical without sounding like it walked out of a hymnal. That makes it useful for families who want faith in the name and nothing archaic in the sound. Alternate meanings include start of the season, which fits a first baby well. It is gender-neutral, though the Hezekiah connection tilts it toward boys in practice.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God gives strength
- Pronunciation: KYE-uh
- Popularity: Kiah reached its best rank of #1,313 in 2002 and held #3,550 in 2025.
Lenna
Lenna is the female variation of Leonard, which is associated with lions. With its German roots, Lenna appears strong and practical. Notable namesakes include Lenna Arnold, one of America’s first female baseball players. Lenna is rare yet beautiful, just like your little cub.
- Origin: German, Estonian
- Meaning: Lion’s strength
- Pronunciation: LEH-nuh, LAY-nuh
- Popularity: Lenna ranked #1,761 in 2025, roughly one baby in every 13,889.
Leo
Leo means lion, and the whole name works off that single image: courage, family loyalty, and a certain unbothered confidence. The zodiac connection makes it an easy pick for a late-summer baby. Leo Tolstoy is the heavyweight namesake, though the name never feels literary or heavy on a child. Three letters, one syllable, no explaining required.
- Origin: Latin, Japanese
- Meaning: Lion
- Pronunciation: LEE-oh
- Namesakes: Leo Tolstoy, a Russian author known for his book War and Peace.
- Popularity: Leo has been in U.S. birth records since 1880 and ranked #19 in 2025.
Liam
Liam is the most popular name on this list by a wide margin, and it got there in a single generation. It began as a short form of William and became a standalone name around 2000, which is roughly when the climb started. Liam Neeson gave it a durable adult face. The Irish meaning, strong-willed protector, explains the appeal better than the trend data does.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Strong-willed protector
- Pronunciation: LEE-uhm
- Namesakes: Liam Neeson, an Irish actor known for his role in the Taken films.
- Popularity: Liam ranked #1 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Matilda
Matilda is the biggest comeback story on this list, a name that all but vanished and then came roaring back, its 2025 birth rate now about 37 times its 1993 low. Roald Dahl’s book gave it a bookish, quietly defiant image that has done it nothing but good. Hollywood parents like Gordon Ramsay and Michelle Williams chose it for their daughters, which kept it visible. The German meaning, battle mighty, sits under all that whimsy, and Tilda handles the everyday.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Battle mighty
- Pronunciation: muh-TILL-dah
- Namesakes: Matilda Keeper, a British actress known for her role in EastEnders.
- Popularity: Matilda sat at #365 in 2025, up about 101% on the previous decade of births.
Max
Max is short for Maximilian and Maximus, both once carried by Latin warriors, so the small version has serious ancestry. Gladiator cemented the association with battle for a whole generation of moviegoers. It is the rare three-letter boy’s name that works on a newborn, a teenager, and a surgeon. If you want power in as few letters as possible, this is the shortlist.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Strongest, greatest
- Pronunciation: MAKS
- Namesakes: Max Carver, an American actor known for his role in Teen Wolf.
- Popularity: Max’s births have slipped about 19% over the past decade, landing it at #180 in 2025.
Michael
Michael is an archangel in both Christianity and Islam, which is a rare kind of cross-tradition weight for a first name. It spent decades as the default American boy’s name and somehow never wore out. Michael Jordan supplies the secular version of the same idea. If timeless is what you are after, there is no safer bet on this list.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Who is like God
- Pronunciation: MYE-kull
- Variations: Mykel, Mikel
- Namesakes: Michael Jordan, an American basketball player.
- Popularity: Michael once topped the charts at #1 in 1954 and now sits at #21 in 2025.
Mildred
Mildred is a grandmother’s name in the best sense, all cookies and quilts on the surface. The meaning, gentle strength, describes the kind of power that stays out of sight until somebody needs it. Saint Mildred was known for generosity and an even temper, and the jazz singer Mildred Bailey gives it a second, cooler namesake. Millie makes the whole thing modern in one move.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Gentle strength
- Pronunciation: MILL-drehd
- Namesakes: Mildred Bailey, an American jazz singer.
- Popularity: Mildred ranked #1,973 in 2025, about one baby in every 16,393.
Minka
Minka is a contemporary trim of Wilhelmina, and it keeps the German meaning, strong and resolute, intact. Minka Kelly has carried it visibly for years without the name catching on, which is good news for anyone who wants rare. Readers of Jodi Picoult will recognize it as a lead character in The Storyteller. Minnie is the obvious soft version for the small years.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Strong, resolute
- Pronunciation: MINK-ah
- Namesakes: Minka Kelly, an American actress known for her role in Friday Night Lights.
- Popularity: Minka first appeared in U.S. records in 1966 and ranked #6,047 in 2025.
Montgomery
Montgomery is a long, formal name with Civil War history behind it, including the engineer Montgomery Meigs. Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why introduced it to a generation that had never met it, for better or worse. The French meaning, manpower, keeps it firmly on theme. If four syllables feel like a lot on a toddler, Monty solves it immediately.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Manpower
- Pronunciation: mont-GUM-er-ee
- Namesakes: Montgomery Meigs, an American civil engineer who served during the Civil War.
- Popularity: In 2025, Montgomery held the #962 spot among U.S. boy names.
Moxie
Moxie started as a 1930s soda that was rumored to settle the nerves, became slang for exactly that quality, and only then turned into a name. Today it describes someone with spark and no quit in them. It is playful on paper and tougher than it looks in practice. A good fit for the girl who talks back to the doctor.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Powerful energy, nerve
- Pronunciation: MAHKS-ee
- Namesakes: Moxie Raya, an American songwriter.
- Popularity: Moxie sat at #5,060 in 2025, up about 91% on the previous decade of births.
Nikita
Nikita means unconquered, and it belongs to the girl who runs the room without raising her voice. Elton John’s 1985 song put it in front of millions, and it has been a go-to name for badass females in television and comics ever since. The Russian, Indian, and Greek roots give it reach across very different families. Nikki is there when you want something lighter.
- Origin: Russian, Indian, Greek
- Meaning: Unconquered
- Pronunciation: nih-KEE-tah
- Namesakes: Nikita Parris, a British soccer player.
- Popularity: In 2025, Nikita placed #4,524, down about 53% on the previous decade of births.
Nina
Mesopotamian legend makes Nina a goddess of love, war, and political power, which is a broader portfolio than most name meanings manage. Alternate readings include little girl and God is kind, so the name swings tender as easily as fierce. It crosses Russian and Spanish traditions without changing spelling, which matters in a mixed family. Two syllables that work in almost any language.
- Origin: Russian, Spanish
- Meaning: Fire
- Pronunciation: NEE-nah
- Namesakes: Nina Siciliana, an Italian poet.
- Popularity: Nina’s best U.S. showing was #148 back in 1980; today it holds #324.
Njord
Njord is a Norse god responsible for fisherman’s luck. Njord is often painted amid rolling waves, making this title perfect for your little water bug. Alternate meanings include “north,” fitting for a baby born in this territory.
- Origin: Scandinavian, Swedish, Danish
- Meaning: Strong, vigorous
- Pronunciation: NYORD
- Popularity: Njord has never cleared the five-births minimum for U.S. name data, making it genuinely unrecorded here.
Osiris
Osiris is one of the central gods of Egyptian myth, responsible for death and for what comes after it. Another of his epithets translates to The Beautiful One, a gentler counterweight to a name that means with strong eyesight. Comics, video games, and film have all borrowed it, so it is not unfamiliar even where it is unused. This is a big name with a big story, and it needs a family comfortable with both.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: With strong eyesight
- Pronunciation: oh-SYE-riss
- Namesakes: Osiris Eldridge, an American basketball player.
- Popularity: Osiris entered U.S. birth records in 1970 and stood at #1,077 in 2025.
Oswald
Oswald is a gift to anyone who loves old books: it appears in Shakespeare’s King Lear and in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. The meaning, divine power, and a roster of namesakes that runs to kings, historians, and mathematicians give it real substance. It is thoroughly vintage, and that is the appeal rather than the problem. Ozzy adds the spice the full version lacks.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Divine power
- Pronunciation: AHZ-wald
- Namesakes: Oswald Chambers, a Scottish evangelist and author.
- Popularity: Oswald ranked #2,161 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Philomena
Philomena is tied to a Greek princess who became a patron saint of children, often pictured wearing a crown of flowers. That image gives a formal name an unexpectedly free-spirited streak. The meaning, lover of strength, is about admiration rather than force, which is a distinction worth having. Mena keeps it manageable day to day.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Lover of strength
- Pronunciation: fil-oh-MEE-nah
- Namesakes: Philomena Begley, an Irish country music singer.
- Popularity: Philomena’s births climbed about 144% over the past decade, reaching #1,920 in 2025.
Phoenix
Most people hear the city first, and then remember the bird that burns down and comes back. That myth is the whole case for the name: resilience, and the ability to start over without asking permission. It works about equally well for a boy or a girl, which is rarer than it sounds in a name this dramatic. Nothing about it needs shortening.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Dark-red
- Pronunciation: FEE-niks
- Namesakes: Phoenix List, an American actor known for his role in Rabbit hole.
- Popularity: In 2025, Phoenix placed #329, up about 81% on the previous decade of births.
Quinlan
In Ireland, Quinlan was a title given to those with muscular bodies. Like many Irish names, Quinlan doubles as a surname. Star Wars buffs will recognize Quinlan as a Star Wars: Republic character. Typical nicknames include Quin, which is always fashion-forward.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Fit, strong
- Pronunciation: KWIN-lihn
- Variations: Quinlin
- Namesakes: Quinlan Terry, a British architect specializing in classic-style buildings.
- Popularity: Quinlan reached its best rank of #1,176 in 2006 and held #3,921 in 2025.
Renfred
Renfred is for the boy who knows the power of being a peacemaker. Alternate meanings include “peaceful raven,” perfect for the nature lover. Ravens symbolize prophecy, and some believe they connect people to the supernatural. With a strong title like Renford, your little man could be the next great diplomat.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful peace
- Pronunciation: REN-ferd
- Popularity: Renfred has been off the U.S. charts since 1972, when it sat at #5,576.
Ricarda
Ricarda describes a powerful female leader, something the world needs. Ricarda spans multiple cultures with her German, Spanish, and Portuguese roots. Alternate meanings include “brave leader,” an honorable attribute for any woman. Break gender norms by nicknaming your girl Rikki (RIK-ee).
- Origin: German, Spanish, Portuguese
- Meaning: Powerful leader
- Pronunciation: ree-CAR-dah
- Popularity: Ricarda last showed up in the U.S. rankings in 2002 at #17,528, far below its best of #2,158 in 1927.
Ryker
Ryker may have German roots, but its taken Southern U.S.A. by storm. Country music star Lee Brice gave Ryker a boost of fame in 2013 by choosing it for his son. Alternate meanings include “rich,” providing Ryker with two forms of power. With its rugged aura, Ryker has already cooled a bit from its 2018 peak, though it remains solidly in the boy-name mix.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Brave power
- Pronunciation: RYE-ker
- Variations: Riker
- Namesakes: Ryker Mathews, a Canadian football player.
- Popularity: In 2025, Ryker held the #183 spot among U.S. boy names.
Samson
In the Bible, Samson was a Nazarite who gave his life over to God and received extraordinary strength in return. His story ends badly and honorably, which makes it a more interesting bedtime tale than most. The name has an old-fashioned sturdiness that pairs oddly well with the very gentle Sammy. If you want biblical strength without reaching for Samuel again, this is the neighbor.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Sun
- Pronunciation: SAM-suhn
- Namesakes: Samson Satele, an American football player.
- Popularity: In 2025, Samson reached #477, the highest it has ever placed in U.S. data.
Sibyl
Sibyl represents the supernatural ability to see into the future. In Greek mythology, the Sibyls were prophetesses who foretold wars. These women had to have thick skin because, many times, their visions fell on deaf ears. May your little Sibyl never be afraid to stand up for her beliefs.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Seer, Oracle
- Pronunciation: SIH-bill
- Namesakes: Sibyl Buck, an American model and musician.
- Popularity: Sibyl climbed about 57% in births over the past decade and now sits at #5,537 in 2025.
Stark
Game of Thrones writers took Stark to new levels when they created the House Stark family. Stark is an original German surname that translates to “formidable.” In modern slang, Stark means “plain or “obvious.” It’s “plain” to see that Stark is one of the coolest boy names that mean power.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Strong, powerful
- Pronunciation: STARK
- Namesakes: Stark Young, an American playwright known for his work in So Red the Rose.
- Popularity: Stark peaked at #3,983 in 2019 and has settled at #6,752 in 2025.
Steel
Steel is rare now, though with Diamond and Crystal already on the register, that could change quickly. Some people will think of the Pittsburgh Steelers, which is either a bonus or a dealbreaker depending on your household. The appeal is the property itself: steel holds its shape under pressure, which is what every parent hopes for. It is a blunt name, and it does not pretend otherwise.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Like steel
- Pronunciation: STEEL
- Variations: Steele
- Popularity: Steel ranked #3,174 in 2025, roughly one baby in every 45,455.
Thor
Thor is among the best known of the Norse gods, responsible for agriculture and for storms, hard on his enemies and forgiving toward mortals. Marvel gave the name a second life on screen, so a modern child gets both versions. It is one syllable and impossible to mispronounce, which counts for a lot. Few names promise this much and take up this little space.
- Origin: Norse, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Thunder
- Pronunciation: THOR
- Namesakes: Thor Freudenthal, a German film director known for his work in Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
- Popularity: Thor has appeared in U.S. birth data since 1904, ranking #2,875 in 2025.
Ulric
Ulric describes the power that lies within the animal kingdom. For centuries, wolves have been one of the most respected animals. Many say wolves symbolize loyalty to family, friendship, and intelligence. Alternate meanings include “power of the home,” reminding you to make your abode a haven.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Power of the wolf
- Pronunciation: uhl-RIHK
- Popularity: Ulric ranked #10,595 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Uzziah
Uzziah ruled Judah for more than forty years and is remembered as one of its better kings, bringing a long stretch of prosperity. The meaning, my power is Yahweh, puts the credit somewhere other than the man holding it. Families reaching past Jacob and Isaac for something biblical and unused tend to find it here. Zi and Uzzi both work as short forms.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: My power is Yahweh
- Pronunciation: oo-ZYE-uh
- Popularity: Uzziah rose about 69% in births over the last decade to land at #2,225 in 2025.
Valentine
Valentine belongs to the patron saint of love, which makes it a natural for a February baby and a bold one otherwise. Shakespeare used the name in two plays, so it has a literary record as well as a romantic one. Europeans still use it comfortably while Americans file it under vintage. Val works for a boy or a girl without adjustment.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Strength, health
- Pronunciation: VAL-ehn-TEEN, VAL-in-tyne
- Popularity: Valentine’s U.S. births rose about 116% over the last decade, putting it at #1,807 in 2025.
Valerie
Valerie is commonly associated with Saint Valerie of Limoges, the first martyr of Aquitaine. Pokemon fans will be honored to name their baby after one of the cartoon’s gym leaders. In America, Valerie is usually a girl’s title, but it’s considered masculine across the pond.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Strength, health
- Pronunciation: VAL-er-EE
- Namesakes: Valerie Leon, an American actress known for her role in Carry On Girls.
- Popularity: Valerie peaked at #60 in 1959 and has held steady near #127 in 2025.
Victor
Victor once honored Christ’s victory over death, which is why so many saints, bishops, and popes carried it. That spiritual history sits alongside the plainest possible meaning, conqueror. Marvel and DC have both used it, usually for someone with ambitions. It is formal without being stiff, and it has never needed a nickname to survive.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Conqueror
- Pronunciation: VIK-tor
- Variations: Viktor
- Popularity: Victor ranked #211 among U.S. names in 2025, about one baby in every 1,027.
Waldrom
Waldrom has deep German roots and is translated as “ruling raven.” Ravens may seem unassuming, but they’re widely represented in classic literature, such as Poe’s The Raven. Waldrom may be obsolete, but you can always call your little birdy Wally.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful raven
- Pronunciation: WAL-drahm
- Popularity: Waldrom is absent from U.S. name records, which publish a name only after five babies a year carry it.
Wei
Wei may appear adorable, but looks can be deceiving. This traditional Chinese title has many macho meanings based on the symbols used to write it. Eye-catching interpretations include “great” and “guard.” If you use Wei for a little girl, the meaning changes to “small rose.”
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Power, lofty
- Pronunciation: WAY
- Popularity: Wei ranked #10,614 among U.S. boy names in 2025.
Zala
Zala’s balanced appearance will appeal to parents who like tidy titles. Some say Zala refers to a group of people from Southwest Ethiopia, making it a beautiful way to honor your heritage. Alternate meanings include “healthy,” making Zala embody every parent’s hope for their child.
- Origin: Bulgarian, Slovenian, African
- Meaning: Strong
- Pronunciation: ZAH-lah
- Popularity: Zala’s births grew about 116% over the past decade, putting it at #4,543 in 2025.
Zeus
Zeus is the head of the Greek pantheon, god of the sky and everything that comes out of it: storms, thunder, lightning. Naming a child Zeus is a statement, and there is no quiet version of it. The upside is that nobody forgets it and nobody mispronounces it. Big shoes, but somebody has to fill them.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Sky father
- Pronunciation: ZOOS
- Popularity: Zeus was up about 155% over the past decade, ranking #1,351 in 2025.
Zuberi
If you want your boy to have a title all on his own, name him Zuberi. With multiple origins, Zuberi will be widely accepted. Zuberi is a rare first name but a popular Arabic surname. Alternate meanings include “superior,” which only adds to Zuberi’s powerful air.
- Origin: Swahili, Egyptian, Arabic
- Meaning: Strong
- Pronunciation: zoo-BAIR-ee
- Popularity: Zuberi last charted in U.S. data in 2022 at #14,329 and has not appeared since.
