In the realm of baby names, trends come and go as the years pass, but some names have an enduring charm that keeps them at the top of the list. The year 2017 was no exception, as parents welcomed their newborn sons with a mix of modern and timeless names. Whether you’re reminiscing or seeking inspiration for a little one on the way, this top 10 countdown of boy names from 2017 spotlights the monikers that captured the hearts of moms and dads during that year.
#10 Ethan
Starting off our list is Ethan, a name of Hebrew origin meaning “strong,” “safe,” “firm.” With its classic feel and easy pronunciation, Ethan has consistently been a popular choice for boys. It’s a name that carries with it a sense of durability and reliability, traits that many parents hope to bestow upon their sons.
#9 Mason
Mason may have started as a surname or an occupation (one who works with stone), but it has since cemented itself as a fashionable choice for boys. Its rise can be attributed to a growing trend of using occupational names for first names. Mason’s appeal also lies in its masculine sound and its compatibility with many middle and last names.
#8 Alexander
The name Alexander is steeped in history and nobility, most famously borne by Alexander the Great, one of the most successful military commanders of all time. The name means “defender of the people,” derived from the Greek components “alexein,” meaning “to defend,” and “aner,” meaning “man.” With a variety of nicknames like Alex, Xander, and Lex, Alexander offers versatility alongside its regal tone.
#7 James
James is a time-honored name that has traversed centuries without losing its appeal. A classic name of Hebrew origin meaning “supplanter” or “one who follows,” it’s one of those names that exudes a certain level of sophistication and strength. It’s equally suitable for a child and an adult, ensuring that a little James can grow into his name seamlessly.
#6 Benjamin
Warm and inviting, the name Benjamin comes from the Hebrew “Binyamin,” meaning “son of the right hand,” which often is interpreted as “son of the south” or “son of luck.” Benjamin has a friendly, approachable quality while also being a staple biblical name. It provides a rich ground for nicknames, too, such as Ben or Benny.
#5 Lucas
Lucas, an offshoot of Luke, has a luminous and international appeal. This name of Latin origin means “light-giving” or “illumination.” Lucas has gained popularity in various countries, thanks to its cross-cultural ease. It’s both sophisticated and modern, making it an excellent pick for parents looking for a globally recognized name.
#4 William
William is a name that’s both royal and resilient. Deriving from the Germanic name Willahelm, meaning “resolute protection,” William has been a favorite among the British royals for centuries, cementing its image as a dignified and powerful name. It’s a name that offers a lot of flexibility with friendly, diminutive forms like Will, Willie, and Bill.
#3 Oliver
Gentle yet strong, Oliver is another name with a fine blend of tradition and freshness. While its origins are somewhat unclear, some believe it’s derived from the Latin “olivarius,” meaning “olive tree planter,” which symbolizes peace. Oliver’s surge in popularity can also be linked to the beloved character Oliver Twist from Charles Dickens’s novel, adding a touch of literary charm to the name.
#2 Liam
Liam is an Irish name that started as a short form of William. It means “strong-willed warrior” and “protector.” As a given name, Liam has seen a remarkable rise and has managed to feel both contemporary and rooted. Its popularity has been bolstered by many celebrities choosing the name for their children, as well as the fame of actor Liam Neeson.
#1 Noah
Topping our list for 2017 is the serene and grounded name Noah. Another name with biblical roots, Noah is derived from the Hebrew word “noach,” meaning “rest” or “repose.” Noah has enjoyed widespread appeal for its soft but strong sound. It’s simple to spell and pronounce, which adds to its international popularity. The name’s biblical association with the story of Noah’s Ark brings connotations of renewal and hope.
Each of these names has its unique flavor and appeal that attracted parents back in 2017. Trends in names can give us an insightful peek into the values and cultural shifts of a particular time, reflecting what parents are looking for in a name. Whether you prefer something time-honored or fashion-forward, this list showcases a spectrum of choices that have resonated with families across the world. The right name sets the first layer of a person’s identity, and these top 10 boy names from 2017 suggest a blend of strength, grace, and international versatility that has made them popular choices.