Female and male first names beginning with the letter “B”..
BOSWELL
MaleScottish surname derived from the Old Norse word 'búi', meaning 'dweller at the farmstead'. It likely originated as an occupational name for farmers who lived on land owned by the Bui family. First recorded in the 13th century, notable early bearers include Sir Alexander Boswell of Auchinleck, Sheriff of Ayrshire around 1296. Prominent figures associated with this surname include James Boswell (1740-1795), biographer of Samuel Johnson, and his son Alexander Boswell (1762-1840), a lawyer known for his wit and eloquence.
BOU
MaleUnique Chinese name with a rich history dating back to the Han Dynasty. Its meaning varies but often includes "pure," "clear," and "peaceful." It has been associated with notable figures such as Bou Tujian, a renowned painter, and Bou Xidao, a prominent Ming dynasty general.
BOUBACAR
MaleUnique, West African name from the Fulani people, meaning "Father of Generosity," reflecting respect for elders and generosity as virtues.
BOUDICA
FemaleBoudica, a British queen and warrior, derived her name from the Celtic word "bouda," meaning "victory.
BOUDREAUX
MaleUnique Cajun French given name with unclear but possible agricultural origins, believed to mean 'large or strong ox'.
BOULDER
MaleUnusual American given name derived from the term for large, rounded rocks, originally used as a place name for Boulder, Colorado.
BOUN
MaleLao origin, means 'full moon' and celebrates unity and prosperity.
BOURNE
MaleThe name Bourne is an English surname originating from the town of Bourn in Cambridgeshire, translating to 'one who lives by the stream'.
BOUVIER
MaleFrench surname originating from the Old French word "bouviers," meaning "oxherds" or "cowherds," given to those who managed cattle during medieval France.
BOW
MaleUnconventional and unique name with unknown origins, no specific meaning, but has gained popularity recently for its distinctive sound and short length.
BOW
FemaleEnglish origin, meaning 'branch' or 'bow shape', and is gender-neutral despite its initial masculine connotations. It was originally a surname given to those living near river bends or with bow-like land, but has since become a popular first name for both boys and girls, particularly in recent years among parents seeking unique names.
BOWAN
MaleRare Scottish name derived from 'Mac an Bháin', meaning 'son of the white or fair-haired one'.
BOWDEN
MaleRare English given name, possibly derived from an Old English habitational surname meaning 'bow-shaped valley' or an anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic surname Ó Buadáin. Its exact origin and significance are unclear due to its rarity.
BOWDIE
MaleRare Scottish name derived from the occupational surname 'Bowdie', signifying skill in archery.
BOWDRIE
MaleRare American given name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'baothair' meaning 'little mouth'.
BOWDY
MaleRare, American name likely created by combining "Bobby" and "Buddy", with no clear historical record or assigned meaning. Some interpret it as "bold" or "courageous".
BOWE
MaleRare and distinctive name of unknown origin, potentially derived from Welsh names Bowen or Bowden, meaning "little one" or "archer," respectively. Despite its uncertain beginnings, Bowe has a rich historical legacy, appearing in medieval Welsh literature like "The Mabinogion." Today, it's associated with strength and independence, adding to its unique charm.
BOWEN
FemaleCaptivating Welsh name originally derived from "ap Owen," meaning "son of the noble one" or "son of the young warrior." It has evolved into a unisex first name with a rich history in Wales, associated with notable figures like Sir Richard Bowen and Thomas Bowen. Though rare, Bowen continues to gain popularity as a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents.
BOWEN
MaleWelsh given name and surname that means "son of Owen," with Owen derived from Old Welsh for "noble" or "young warrior.
BOWER
MaleEnglish name derived from 'boghe', meaning 'bow'. Traditionally associated with archery, it has evolved to signify strength and agility.
BOWIE
FemaleEnglish origin, means 'little' or refers to the color 'yellow'/'blond', popularized by figures such as Alexander Bowie, Jim Bowie, and musician David Bowie.
BOWIE
MaleThe name Bowie originates from Scotland and signifies 'blond', derived from the Gaelic word 'buidhe'.
BOWIN
MaleDistinctive male name of English origin, believed to be derived from the Old English word 'bow', meaning 'archer'.
BOWMAN
MaleEnglish surname dating back to at least the 13th century, derived from 'bowman', meaning archer or fletcher, and often given to skilled archers or craftsmen.
BOWYN
MaleEnglish given name that means "archer". It originates from the Old English word "boga" meaning bow, and the suffix "-yn" denoting association or belonging to something. This unisex name has been popular among archers and warriors in ancient Britain and has gained recent popularity as a unique choice for parents appreciating its connection to archery.
BOWYN
FemaleEnglish origin, derived from the Old English word 'boga', meaning 'bow' or 'arc'. It originally served as a surname before evolving into a given name.
BOY
MaleEnglish name derived from 'boy', meaning young male or servant, popularized by figures like Boy George.
BOYAN
MaleSlavic name meaning "young" or "youthful," popular in Bulgaria and other Slavic nations. It's associated with Bulgarian folklore's legendary "Boyan Man" musician.
BOYCE
FemaleEnglish given name of Norman origin, derived from the Middle English word 'bois', meaning 'wood'.
BOYCE
MaleEnglish name derived from Old French "bois," meaning "of the woods." Originally a surname for those living or working near forests, Boyce gained popularity during the Middle Ages and has maintained steady presence throughout history.
BOYD
MaleScottish name derived from the Old Gaelic word "Boid," meaning "yellow-haired" or "fair-haired.
BOYD
FemaleAncient Scottish name, originating from Old English 'boie', meaning 'little brown-haired boy'. It's been used as a given name since the 19th century but was previously more common as a surname for the prominent Boyd clan, who trace their lineage back to the Hebrides and ancient Scottish kings. Notable Bearers include Robert Boyd, a knight of Bannockburn, and Richard Boyd, Virginia's colonial governor. Today, Boyd remains globally recognized, carrying historical significance.
BOYDE
MaleEnglish name derived from the Scottish surname Boyd, which means "yellow" or "fair-haired.
BOYDEN
MaleEnglish name derived from Old English "bóþ" meaning 'village', with "-den" indicating place or area.
BOYED
MaleDistinctive African name of Yoruba origin, meaning 'Born on Monday'.
BOYER
MaleThe surname Boyer originates from France, meaning "musical instrument player," derived from the Old French word "boyere". It was historically used for musicians during the Middle Ages.
BOYKIN
MaleUncommon English given name derived from the Old English word "boia," meaning "warrior" or "army." Originally a surname for those connected to warfare, it has evolved into a first name with a distinctive charm and historical significance.
BOYNTON
MaleEnglish given name derived from Old English words "boia" meaning 'bowman' and "-ton" signifying 'town', interpreted as 'the town of archers'.
BOYSIE
MaleRare African-derived name meaning 'child', popularized by South African cricketer Hanif Mohammad, despite lacking specific symbolism beyond its origin.
BOYU
MaleDistinctive Chinese name meaning 'protection' and 'universe', popularized by historical figures like Boyu, the virtuous minister of King Wu of Zhou.