100 Modern Baby Boy Names for 2026 (Trendy + Unique Picks)

Choosing a modern baby boy name can feel overwhelming, especially with so many new trends, rising favorites, and unique styles emerging each year. If you’re looking for modern boy names for 2026 that feel fresh, meaningful, and stylish (without being overused), this curated list has you covered.

Below, you’ll find 100 modern baby boy names organized by theme — from nature-inspired choices and strong, bold names to international picks, surname names, mythological names, and more. Every name includes its origin and meaning to help you choose something that feels personal and timeless.

If you want even more inspiration, you can browse our Full Baby Naming Guide, where we’ve gathered hundreds of names by meaning, style, and theme.

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Top Modern Boy Names for 2026

These are the fresh, modern, stylish boy names predicted to trend in 2026:

• Kairos — Greek, “the perfect moment”
• Zephyr — Greek, “west wind”
• Enzo — Italian, “winner; ruler of the home”
• Cassian — Latin, “hollow” (historical)
• Atlas — Greek legend, strength + endurance
• Aurelius — Latin, “golden”
• Nico — Greek, “victory of the people”
• Hendrix — German, “ruler of the home,” modern + musical
• Rowan — Celtic, nature-inspired
• Kai — Hawaiian/Japanese/Scandinavian, “sea”
• Milo — Germanic/Slavic, “soldier; dear one”
• Orion — Greek, celestial
• Bodhi — Sanskrit, “awakening”
• Finn — Irish, “fair; bright”
• Zane — Hebrew, “gift from God”

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Classic Boy Names With a Modern Twist

These baby boy names are rooted in tradition but feel fresh, stylish, and modern for 2026. Each one blends familiarity with a contemporary edge parents love.

Xander

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Defender of the people”
A cool, modern short form of Alexander that feels bold without being too trendy.

Bennett

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Blessed”
A polished alternative to Benjamin that sounds traditional yet modern.

Hendrix

Origin: German
Meaning: “Ruler of the household”
A distinctive twist on Henry with a rock-and-roll edge.

Nico

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Victory of the people”
A sleek, modern take on Nicholas with global appeal.

Ollie

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Olive tree”
A playful, contemporary variation of Oliver with a friendly vibe.

Samson

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Sun” or “Service” (commonly associated with “strength”)
A strong, modern alternative to Samuel with a heroic feel.

Theo

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Gift of God”
A stylish, shortened version of Theodore that’s fresh and lovable.

Tomlin

Origin: Aramaic
Meaning: “Twin”
A distinctive, modern twist on Thomas that feels rare but grounded.

Wilkes

Origin: Germanic
Meaning: “Resolute protector”
A contemporary variation of William that feels sharp and modern.

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Strong Modern Boy Names

These names carry power, grit, and bold energy. If you’re looking for a modern boy name with strength and presence, this list is full of confident options.

Maverick

Origin: American
Meaning: “Independent; nonconformist”
A bold choice for parents who love adventurous, free-spirited names.

Hunter

Origin: English
Meaning: “One who hunts”
A rugged, outdoorsy name that still feels modern and approachable.

Griffin

Origin: Welsh
Meaning: “Strong lord” or linked to the mythical griffin
A powerful name rooted in legend and symbolism.

Maximus

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Greatest”
A grand, commanding name with a strong modern feel.

Titan

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Defender” or linked to the powerful Titans of mythology
A striking, larger-than-life name for parents who love bold choices.

Axel

Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: “Father of peace”
A modern, energetic name with a cool edge.

Ryker

Origin: Dutch
Meaning: “Rich; powerful”
A sleek, contemporary name with leadership vibes.

Phoenix

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Dark red” or symbolic of rebirth
A rising favorite that represents strength, renewal, and resilience.

Zane

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Gift from God”
A modern, punchy name that’s short, cool, and confident.

Roman

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “From Rome”
A timeless yet modern-sounding name with strength and style.

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Nature-Inspired Modern Boy Names

These names draw inspiration from the outdoors—trees, water, gemstones, and celestial wonders—giving them a fresh, earthy, modern feel.

Asher

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Happy; blessed”
A bright, uplifting name often associated with flourishing trees and growth.

River

Origin: English
Meaning: “Flowing water”
A calm, modern nature name that feels serene and adventurous.

Jasper

Origin: Persian / Greek
Meaning: “Treasurer” or linked to the jasper gemstone
A grounded, earthy name with both sparkle and strength.

Forrest

Origin: English
Meaning: “Dweller near the woods”
A timeless nature name that evokes lush green forests.

Sage

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Wise” or the aromatic herb
A gentle, nature-inspired name with a calm, modern feel.

Orion

Origin: Greek
Meaning: Linked to the mighty hunter and constellation
A celestial name with a strong, cosmic presence.

Reed

Origin: English
Meaning: “Red-haired” or “reed plant”
A simple, nature-forward name with a smooth, modern sound.

Rowan

Origin: Celtic
Meaning: “Little redhead” or linked to the rowan tree
A nature name with mystical roots and modern appeal.

Canyon

Origin: English
Meaning: “Deep gorge”
A strong, adventurous name inspired by epic landscapes.

Stone

Origin: English
Meaning: “Rock”
A solid, sturdy nature name that feels bold and modern.

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Virtue-Inspired Modern Boy Names

These baby boy names are rooted in qualities parents often hope to nurture — courage, honesty, integrity, and purpose. Each one carries a clear, positive meaning while still feeling stylish and modern.

Valor

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Bravery; courage”
A bold, heroic name for parents drawn to strength and fearlessness.

Noble

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “High-born; honorable”
A dignified, elegant choice representing integrity and character.

Justice

Origin: English
Meaning: “Fairness; righteousness”
A modern virtue name tied to doing what’s right. (Listed twice originally — kept once here.)

Chance

Origin: English / French
Meaning: “Fortune; luck”
A light, optimistic name symbolizing opportunity and possibility.

Honor

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Dignity; respect”
A meaningful virtue name representing integrity and moral strength.

True

Origin: English
Meaning: “Genuine; truthful”
Short, modern, and quietly powerful — a name rooted in authenticity.

Creed

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Guiding principle; belief”
A strong, modern name symbolizing conviction and purpose.

Zeal

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Passion; enthusiasm”
A spirited, energetic name for a child with a bright spark.

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International Modern Boy Names (Global Favorites with Great Meaning)

These internationally loved boy names blend culture, style, and strong meanings. Whether you want something worldly, warm, or quietly sophisticated, these names bring modern appeal with global roots.

Enzo

Origin: Italian
Meaning: “Home ruler”
A stylish, charismatic favorite across Europe and the U.S.

Kai

Origin: Hawaiian / Japanese / Scandinavian
Meaning: “Sea; ocean; forgiveness; earth” (varies by culture)
Short, modern, and gently nature-inspired.

Luca

Origin: Italian
Meaning: “Bringer of light”
A bright, friendly name with timeless charm.

Mateo

Origin: Spanish
Meaning: “Gift of God”
A warm, melodic name steadily rising in global popularity.

Arjun

Origin: Sanskrit / Indian
Meaning: “Bright; shining; white”
A heroic name tied to the warrior prince of the Mahabharata.

Aiden

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Little fire”
A fiery, energetic modern classic with Celtic roots.

Hugo

Origin: Germanic
Meaning: “Mind; intellect; spirit”
Short, refined, and international in feel.

Leo

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Lion”
Courageous, strong, and consistently popular around the world.

Soren

Origin: Old Norse / Danish
Meaning: “Stern; resolute”
A Scandinavian name balancing strength and sophistication.

Elio

Origin: Italian / Spanish
Meaning: “Sun”
Warm, sunny, and gaining popularity for its light, modern sound.

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Mythology-Inspired Modern Boy Names

These modern baby boy names are rooted in ancient mythology — Greek, Roman, and Norse legends full of strength, adventure, and timeless storytelling. They’re perfect if you want a name with meaning, power, and a touch of magic.

Apollo

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Destroyer; god of light, music, and prophecy”
A bold, radiant name tied to one of mythology’s most dynamic gods.

Odin

Origin: Norse
Meaning: “Frenzy; inspiration; god of wisdom and war”
A powerful name connected to the chief Norse god.

Atlas

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “To endure; to support”
Strong and symbolic — inspired by the Titan who held up the heavens.

Loki

Origin: Norse
Meaning: “Airy; trickster god”
A mischievous, charismatic choice with modern pop-culture appeal.

Hercules

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Glory of Hera”
A heroic name tied to the strongest mythological figure.

Orion

Origin: Greek
Meaning: Unknown (associated with “hunter”)
A celestial and striking choice linked to the famous constellation.

Thor

Origin: Norse
Meaning: “Thunder”
A strong, protective name tied to the god of storms and strength.

Zeus

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Sky; shine”
A bold, commanding name belonging to the king of the gods.

Ares

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Ruin; bane; god of war”
Short, edgy, and full of intensity.

Frey

Origin: Norse
Meaning: “Lord; god of prosperity and peace”
A softer, nature-connected choice with a mythological edge.

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Hipster & Indie-Cool Modern Boy Names (Trendy, Artsy & Unique)

These modern boy names blend creativity, vintage charm, and effortless cool — perfect if you love names that feel stylish without trying too hard.

Atticus

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Man of Attica”
A literary favorite with a smart, artistic vibe.

Beckett

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Bee cottage”
A modern, artsy-sounding surname name with cool-kid energy.

Finn

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Fair; white”
Short, adventurous, and effortlessly stylish.

Ezra

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Help”
A soft, creative, vintage-turned-modern favorite.

Milo

Origin: Germanic
Meaning: “Soldier; merciful”
Playful and charming with a fresh, modern sound.

Jasper

Origin: Persian
Meaning: “Bringer of treasure”
A gemstone name with indie-cool appeal.

Jude

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Praised”
Simple, soulful, and quietly stylish.

Arlo

Origin: Old English / Spanish
Meaning: “Fortified hill”
Rustic and warm with a growing modern following.

Otto

Origin: German
Meaning: “Wealth; prosperity”
A vintage classic making a major comeback.

Dashiell

Origin: French
Meaning: “Page boy”
A literary, distinctive choice with a smooth sound.

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Musical-Inspired Modern Boy Names (For Artsy, Music-Loving Families)

These names take inspiration from iconic musicians and legendary bands. They’re bold, creative, and perfect if you want a name with rhythm and personality.

Lennon

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Dear one”
A cool, modern pick inspired by John Lennon — warm, artistic, and unmistakably musical.

Bowie

Origin: Scottish
Meaning: “Yellow-haired”
A name forever linked to David Bowie, giving it instant creative, boundary-pushing energy.

Hendrix

Origin: Germanic
Meaning: “Ruler of the household”
A bold, electric name inspired by Jimi Hendrix — edgy without trying too hard.

Zeppelin

Origin: German
Meaning: “Airship”
A daring, rock-n-roll choice nodding to Led Zeppelin; unique but still easy to say.

Elvis

Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: “All-wise”
Vintage charm with a musical punch thanks to the King of Rock and Roll.

Marley

Origin: English
Meaning: “Pleasant meadow”
A peaceful, soulful name with warm reggae roots through Bob Marley.

Cash

Origin: English
Meaning: “Maker of chests”
Short, cool, and rooted in Americana through Johnny Cash.

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Tech-Inspired Modern Boy Names (Futuristic & Innovative)

These modern boy names draw inspiration from technology, innovation, and forward-thinking ideas. They’re sleek, bold, and perfect for parents who love the cutting edge.

Elon

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Oak tree”
A modern, futuristic choice associated with innovation and big ideas — grounded but forward-looking.

Axel

Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: “Father of peace”
Not directly tech-related, but its sharp, energetic sound gives it a modern, high-tech edge.

Neo

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “New”
A short, futuristic name that signals fresh beginnings and big possibilities.

Titan

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Defender” or “Giant”
Strong, powerful, and often used in tech branding — a name that feels bold and modern.

Orion

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Rising in the sky; hunter”
A cosmic, star-inspired name with a sleek sci-fi feel.

Zephyr

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “West wind”
Light, breezy, and modern — a name with motion and creativity built in.

Quantum

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “How great; how much”
A futuristic, science-driven pick that feels inventive and full of potential.

Cypher

Origin: English
Meaning: “Code; secret writing”
A cool, mysterious name with undeniable tech-savvy energy.

Aero

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Air; atmosphere”
Clean, streamlined, and modern — perfect for aviation or space-loving families.

Zenith

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “The highest point”
Strong, aspirational, and great for parents who want a name that symbolizes reaching new heights.

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Last Names as First Names for Boys

Surname-style boy names continue to trend because they feel modern, strong, and effortlessly cool. These picks blend tradition with a contemporary edge — perfect for parents who want a name with character and style.

Jackson

Origin: English
Meaning: “Son of Jack”
A long-time favorite that feels bold, modern, and full of energy.

Hudson

Origin: English
Meaning: “Son of Hudd”
Trendy and crisp, this name carries a breezy, outdoorsy vibe.

Anderson

Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: “Son of Anders”
A distinguished, timeless choice that feels polished but approachable.

Bennett

Origin: English
Meaning: “Blessed”
Stylish and sophisticated, this surname-turned-first-name has a soft, modern charm.

Cooper

Origin: English
Meaning: “Barrel maker”
A friendly, upbeat name with a crafty, hands-on feel.

Carter

Origin: English
Meaning: “Transporter of goods by cart”
Clean, strong, and professional — a go-to modern favorite.

Parker

Origin: English
Meaning: “Park keeper”
Urban and contemporary, with a polished, gender-neutral appeal.

Brooks

Origin: English
Meaning: “Near the brook”
A smooth, nature-inspired choice that feels calm and modern.

Harrison

Origin: English
Meaning: “Son of Harry”
A timeless surname name that exudes strength and classic charm.

Sullivan

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Dark-eyed one”
Warm, friendly, and lively — a great pick with a cheerful, modern energy.

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Unique Modern Boy Names

If you’re looking for modern boy names that stand out without feeling too unusual, this list blends contemporary style with fresh, memorable charm.

Zephyr

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “West wind”
A breezy, cool, and modern choice that feels light and imaginative.

Caspian

Origin: English (inspired by the Caspian Sea)
Meaning: “Of the Caspian Sea”
Sophisticated and adventurous, with a worldly, romantic feel.

Cairo

Origin: Arabic (place name)
Meaning: “Victorious”
Cool and cosmopolitan, inspired by one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Bodhi

Origin: Sanskrit
Meaning: “Enlightenment; awakening”
A modern spiritual favorite with a peaceful, grounded vibe.

Wilder

Origin: English
Meaning: “Untamed; wild one”
A bold, free-spirited choice for parents who love adventure.

Kairos

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “The right moment; perfect timing”
A rare, meaningful name that feels intentional and poetic.

Cove

Origin: English
Meaning: “Small coastal inlet”
Soft, serene, and modern — a quiet but striking nature-inspired pick.

Aurelius

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Golden; gilded”
A regal, elegant name with a warm, radiant meaning.

Cassian

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Hollow” (historic)
Smooth, stylish, and increasingly popular for parents seeking something refined.

Alistair

Origin: Scottish
Meaning: “Defender of the people”
Classic yet distinctive — a name that blends old-world charm with modern appeal.

Ezio

Origin: Italian
Meaning: “Eagle”
Short, sharp, and striking, with a strong and noble meaning.

Jaxon

Origin: American / English
Meaning: “Son of Jack”
A modern twist on Jackson with a trendy, contemporary look.

Salem

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Peace”
Soft, mystical, and quietly powerful — a unique choice with comforting meaning.

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One-Syllable Modern Boy Names (Short, Strong & Stylish)

These short boy names are simple, modern, and full of personality. Whether you love bold, rugged names or softer, nature-inspired options, these one-syllable picks make a strong statement in just a few letters.

Cove

Origin: English
Meaning: “Small coastal inlet”
A calm, modern nature name that feels fresh and serene.

Zane

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Gift from God”
Cool and contemporary with a sleek, minimalist feel.

Nash

Origin: English
Meaning: “By the ash tree”
Modern and edgy — short but full of character.

Reeve

Origin: English
Meaning: “Steward; bailiff”
A distinguished, tailored-sounding name with a crisp finish.

Blaise

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “To lisp”
A distinctive, fiery name with a smooth, modern sound.

Kai

Origin: Hawaiian / Japanese / Scandinavian
Meaning: “Sea; shell; keeper of the keys” (varies by culture)
A fluid, international favorite with strong modern appeal.

Pax

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Peace”
Simple, stylish, and deeply meaningful.

Stone

Origin: English
Meaning: “Rock; stone”
Strong and grounded — a bold, rugged nature option.

Pierce

Origin: English
Meaning: “Rock” (from Peter)
Sharp and modern, with a clean, confident sound.

Jude

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Praised”
A timeless, artistic one-syllable name with modern charm.

Quinn

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Descendant of Conn”
A balanced, contemporary unisex name with a smooth feel.

Finn

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Fair; white”
Short, upbeat, and adventurous — a perennial modern favorite.

Cade

Origin: English
Meaning: “Round; gentle”
A cool, modern pick with a clean, straightforward sound.

Wren

Origin: English
Meaning: “Small songbird”
Soft, nature-inspired, and beautifully simple.

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Unisex Modern Baby Names

These gender-neutral baby names are modern, stylish, and versatile — perfect if you love names that break traditional boundaries and feel fresh for boys, girls, or any child.

Alex

Origin: Greek
Meaning: “Defender of the people”
A classic, flexible name with a friendly, modern feel.

Jordan

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Flowing down”
Strong and smooth — inspired by the River Jordan and popular across generations.

Sage

Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Wise; healthy”
Soft, earthy, and meaningful — a modern favorite for its calm simplicity.

Taylor

Origin: English
Meaning: “Tailor; to cut cloth”
A polished, versatile surname name with a contemporary vibe.

Rowan

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Little red-haired one” or “Rowan tree”
Nature-inspired with a gentle strength — works beautifully for any child.

Reese

Origin: Welsh
Meaning: “Ardor; enthusiasm”
Sleek and upbeat with a modern simplicity parents love.

Avery

Origin: English
Meaning: “Ruler of the elves”
A stylish, airy-sounding favorite that feels both modern and timeless.

Morgan

Origin: Welsh
Meaning: “Sea-born” or “bright sea”
Strong and calm, with a cool Celtic heritage.

Skyler

Origin: Dutch
Meaning: “Scholar”
A light, breezy name with a forward-thinking feel.

Cameron

Origin: Scottish
Meaning: “Crooked nose”
A well-loved unisex classic with a warm, steady presence.

Riley

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Courageous; valiant”
Playful and modern — a great choice for energetic little ones.

Quinn

Origin: Irish
Meaning: “Descendant of Conn”
Short, stylish, and one of the most popular contemporary unisex picks.

Drew

Origin: English
Meaning: “Strong and manly”
A cool, crisp name with artistic flair.

Kai

Origin: Hawaiian / Japanese / Scandinavian
Meaning: “Sea; forgiveness; earth” (varies by culture)
A strong and gentle international favorite.

Eli

Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Ascend; uplifted”
Short, sweet, and warm — increasingly used as a gender-neutral choice.

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Choosing the perfect modern name for your baby boy is a meaningful part of preparing for his arrival, and I hope this list helped spark ideas and inspiration. Whether you’re drawn to classic-with-a-twist names, strong and bold choices, nature-inspired options, or something more unique, there’s a modern boy name here to fit every style.

If you’d like even more ideas, you can explore hundreds of baby names by meaning, theme, and style in our full Baby Naming Guide. The right name is the one that feels special to you and carries a sense of personal significance for your little one.

Wishing you joy, clarity, and excitement as you choose the name that feels just right.

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