You know what they say… When looking for a unique and meaningful first name for your soon-to-be son, sometimes the answer is right in front of you – or, in this case, right in front of most people’s first names.
We’re talking about a person’s last name, of course.
It might sound a little odd at first, but there’s nothing wrong with using last names for boys as inspiration for your child’s first name – especially when you think about all the different last names being used today.
RELATED: 100 Most Common Last Names for Boys and Girls Found in the US Today
Just think about all the options you have – including classic last names for boys (such as Jackson), last names for boys that end in ‘er’ (such as Hunter), and last names for boys that end in ‘s’ (such as Oakes).
So, whether you’re inspired by a family surname, a favorite author’s last name, or simply a last name that catches your ear, don’t hesitate to consider it for your son’s first name – it’s a popular trend for a reason!
And if you’re looking for some good baby name ideas of last names for boys, then don’t worry – because we’ve got you covered! Continue reading below to see 50 last names for boys hand-picked just for you!
Classic Last Names for Boys That Need a Unique First Name
Traditionally used to signify family lineage, last names for boys carry with them a unique sense of history, identity, and often, a touch of sophistication that conventional first names don’t (and usually can’t) provide.
In fact, they tend to offer a rich pool of possibilities that make your child’s first name stand out in a crowd.
Of course, that’s probably why, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of using last names as first names. And we don’t know when, where, or why it started, but we’re totally and absolutely here for it!
With that said, let’s take a quick look at some classic last names for boys that make a good first name!
10. Bennett
Origin: Bennett is of Latin and English origin.
Derivation: The name Bennett is derived from the Latin name Benedictus, meaning “blessed.” It was later anglicized to Bennett.
Meaning: The name Bennett translates to “blessed.”
9. Spencer
Origin: Spencer is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Spencer is derived from the Old French word despensier, meaning “steward” or “dispenser of provisions.” It originally referred to someone who was responsible for managing the household.
Meaning: The name Spencer translates to “steward” or “provider.”
8. Sullivan
Origin: Sullivan is of Irish origin.
Derivation: The name Sullivan is derived from the Irish surname Ó Súileabháin, meaning “descendant of Súileabhán,” with Súileabhán meaning “little dark eye.”
Meaning: The name Sullivan translates to “little dark eye.”
7. Marshall
Origin: Marshall is of French and English origin.
Derivation: The name Marshall is derived from the Old French word mareschal, meaning “horse servant” or “stable keeper,” which later evolved into a title for a high-ranking officer.
Meaning: The name Marshall translates to “horse servant” or “steward.”
6. Walker
Origin: Walker is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Walker is derived from the occupational surname for someone who walked on woolen cloth to clean and thicken it, from the Old English word wealcere.
Meaning: The name Walker translates to “one who processes cloth.”
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5. Ellis
Origin: Ellis is of Welsh and English origin.
Derivation: The name Ellis is derived from the Hebrew name Elias, which is a form of Elijah, meaning “Yahweh is my God.”
Meaning: The name Ellis translates to “Yahweh is my God.”
4. Grayson
Origin: Grayson is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Grayson is derived from the English surname meaning “son of the steward,” with “Gray” being a nickname for a steward or bailiff.
Meaning: The name Grayson translates to “son of the steward.”
3. Everett
Origin: Everett is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Everett is derived from the Old English name Eoforheard, meaning “brave as a wild boar.”
Meaning: The name Everett translates to “brave as a wild boar.”
2. Lawson
Origin: Lawson is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Lawson is derived from the English surname meaning “son of Lawrence,” with Lawrence derived from the Latin name Laurentius, meaning “from Laurentum” or “crowned with laurel.”
Meaning: The name Lawson translates to “son of Lawrence.”
1. Weston
Origin: Weston is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Weston is derived from the Old English words west (west) and tun (settlement or town), meaning “western town” or “settlement.”
Meaning: The name Weston translates to “western town.”
Last Names for Boys Inspired By Famous Celebrities
When it comes to naming your baby boy, drawing inspiration from the last names of famous celebrities can be a great way to find a name that’s both stylish and recognizable – albeit a bit unconventional.
It can be your favorite author, a respected actor, talented artist, or even a future Hall of Fame athlete…
You’d be surprised at some of the baby name ideass you’ll find or think of if you’re open to looking in unexpected places – and last names for boys can sometimes be the perfect hiding spot for a first name.
And if you don’t believe us, then take a quick moment to consider the following last names for boys…
10. Hendrix
Origin: Hendrix is of Dutch and German origin.
Derivation: The name Hendrix is derived from the surname Hendrik, which is a variant of the name Henry, meaning “ruler of the household” or “home ruler.”
Who Is Jimi Hendrix? Jimi Hendrix was an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter, widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in the history of rock music. Known for his electrifying performances and innovative use of the electric guitar, Hendrix’s most famous works include Purple Haze, All Along the Watchtower, and Voodoo Child (Slight Return). His impact on music and culture remains profound, despite his brief career.
9. Lennon
Origin: Lennon is of Irish origin.
Derivation: The name Lennon is derived from the Irish surname Ó Leannáin, meaning “descendant of Leannán,” with Leannán meaning “lover” or “sweetheart.”
Who Is John Lennon? John Lennon was an English musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as a founding member of The Beatles. He was a key figure in the global spread of rock and pop music in the 1960s and 1970s. Beyond his work with The Beatles, Lennon had a successful solo career with hits like Imagine. He was also an outspoken advocate for peace and social change before his untimely death in 1980.
8. Beckham
Origin: Beckham is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Beckham is derived from the Old English words beo (bee) and ham (homestead), meaning “homestead by the stream” or “bee homestead.”
Who Is David Beckham? David Beckham is a retired English footballer known for his exceptional skill, especially his free-kick accuracy, and his time playing for clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and LA Galaxy. Beyond his football career, Beckham became a global icon, famous for his style, philanthropy, and marriage to pop star Victoria Beckham. He is also known for his significant influence in the sports and fashion worlds.
7. Jagger
Origin: The name “Jagger” is of English origin.
Derivation: The name “Jagger” originally comes from the Old English word “jag” or “jagger,” meaning “carter” or “peddler.”
Who Is Mick Jagger? Mick Jagger is an English singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead vocalist and a founding member of The Rolling Stones. Jagger’s charismatic stage presence, distinctive voice, and enduring energy have made him one of rock’s most iconic figures. The Rolling Stones have produced numerous hits, including Satisfaction and Paint It Black, contributing to their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
6. Presley
Origin: Presley is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Presley is derived from the Old English words preost (priest) and leah (clearing), meaning “priest’s meadow.”
Who Is Elvis Presley? Elvis Presley, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” was an American singer and actor who became one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. With hits like Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, and Can’t Help Falling in Love, Elvis revolutionized music and pop culture. His style, voice, and stage presence made him a global superstar and a lasting symbol of the rock and roll era.
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5. Ford
Origin: Ford is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Ford is derived from the Old English word ford, meaning “river crossing” or “ford.”
Who Is Harrison Ford? Harrison Ford is an American actor best known for his iconic roles as Han Solo in the Star Wars franchise and Indiana Jones in the Indiana Jones series. Ford’s career has spanned decades, with significant roles in films like Blade Runner, The Fugitive, and Witness. He is one of Hollywood’s most successful and enduring leading men, known for his charismatic screen presence and versatility.
4. Cruise
Origin: Cruise is of Irish and French origin.
Derivation: The name Cruise is derived from the Irish surname Ó Cruadhlaoich, meaning “descendant of the brave or hardy warrior.” It also has French origins, where it could be associated with the word croisé, meaning “cross.”
Who Is Tom Cruise? Tom Cruise is an American actor and producer who has been one of the world’s highest-paid actors since the 1980s. He is best known for his roles in blockbuster films like Top Gun, Mission: Impossible, Jerry Maguire, and Rain Man. Cruise is recognized for his intense dedication to his roles, often performing his own stunts, and for his enduring appeal as an action star.
3. Stone
Origin: Stone is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Stone is derived from the Old English word stan, meaning “stone” or “rock.” It was often used as a topographical surname for someone who lived by a prominent stone.
Who Is Emma Stone? Emma Stone is an American actress known for her versatility and charm in both comedic and dramatic roles. She gained widespread recognition for her performances in films like Easy A, La La Land, and The Help. Stone won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in La La Land and is celebrated for her talent, humor, and down-to-earth personality.
2. Stewart
Origin: Stewart is of Scottish and English origin.
Derivation: The name Stewart is derived from the Old English words stig (household) and weard (guardian), meaning “household guardian.” It became a title for an officer in charge of a household or estate.
Who Is Jon Stewart? Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, producer, and former television host best known for his long-running stint as the host of The Daily Show. Stewart used the show as a platform to blend satire and news commentary, becoming a significant voice in American political discourse. He is also known for his activism, particularly in advocating for 9/11 first responders and veterans.
1. Reagan
Origin: Reagan is of Irish origin.
Derivation: The name Reagan is derived from the Irish surname Ó Riagáin, meaning “descendant of Riagán,” with Riagán meaning “little king.”
Who Is Ronald Reagan? Ronald Reagan was the 40th President of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989. Before his political career, he was a Hollywood actor and the Governor of California. Reagan is remembered for his conservative policies, his role in ending the Cold War, and his “Reaganomics” economic policies. His presidency marked a significant shift in American politics, and he remains a highly influential figure in American history.
Last Names for Boys Inspired By Former Presidents
I don’t know what it is about former Presidents, but their last names often make good first names – and it consistently shows when you look at the Social Security Administration’s list of top baby names in the US.
For example, the name Jackson was the 28th most popular boy name in 2023 with 7,284 births recorded – and Andrew Jackson was the seventh President of the US, serving two terms between 1829 and 1837.
Not only that, but Lincoln was the 64th most popular boy name in 2023 – which could be drawn from the 16th President of the US, Abraham Lincoln, who served just one term in office between 1861 and 1865.
If you like the idea of using last names for boys’ first names, don’t forget about these former presidents!
10. Madison
Origin: Madison is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Madison is derived from the English surname meaning “son of Maud” or “son of Matthew.”
Who Is James Madison? James Madison was the fourth President of the United States, serving from 1809 to 1817. Known as the “Father of the Constitution,” he played a crucial role in drafting the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. His presidency was marked by the War of 1812, during which the United States faced significant challenges but ultimately emerged with a stronger sense of national identity.
9. Monroe
Origin: Monroe is of Scottish origin.
Derivation: The name Monroe is derived from the Scottish Gaelic Maol Ruadh, meaning “red-haired servant.” It also refers to a place name meaning “mouth of the Roe River.”
Who Is James Monroe? James Monroe was the fifth President of the United States, serving from 1817 to 1825. His presidency is best known for the Monroe Doctrine, a key foreign policy statement that opposed European colonialism in the Americas. Monroe’s tenure, often referred to as the “Era of Good Feelings,” was marked by national unity and territorial expansion.
8. Jackson
Origin: Jackson is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Jackson is derived from the English surname meaning “son of Jack,” where Jack is a diminutive of John.
Who Is Andrew Jackson? Andrew Jackson was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837. A war hero from the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, Jackson is known for his populist approach, expanding presidential power, and his controversial policies, including the Indian Removal Act, which led to the Trail of Tears. He is also the founder of the Democratic Party.
7. Harrison
Origin: Harrison is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Harrison is derived from the English surname meaning “son of Harry” or “son of Henry,” with Henry meaning “home ruler.”
Who Is William Henry Harrison? William Henry Harrison was the ninth President of the United States, serving in 1841. He holds the distinction of having the shortest presidency in U.S. history, dying of pneumonia just 31 days after taking office. Prior to his presidency, Harrison was a military leader known for his victory at the Battle of Tippecanoe.
6. Tyler
Origin: Tyler is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Tyler is derived from the English occupational surname for a person who made or laid tiles, from the Old English word tigele (tile).
Who Is John Tyler? John Tyler was the tenth President of the United States, serving from 1841 to 1845. He was the first Vice President to ascend to the presidency following the death of a sitting president, William Henry Harrison. Tyler’s presidency is noted for his staunch defense of states’ rights, leading to conflicts with his own Whig Party, and his eventual expulsion from the party.
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5. Taylor
Origin: Taylor is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Taylor is derived from the Old French word taillour, meaning “cutter of cloth,” an occupational surname for a tailor.
Who Is Zachary Taylor? Zachary Taylor was the 12th President of the United States, serving from 1849 until his death in 1850. A career military officer, Taylor was a national hero for his role in the Mexican-American War. His presidency was marked by debates over the expansion of slavery into new territories, but he died before he could make a significant impact on these issues.
4. Lincoln
Origin: Lincoln is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Lincoln is derived from the Old English and Brythonic words lindo (lake, pool) and colonia (settlement), referring to the city of Lincoln in England.
Who Is Abraham Lincoln? Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. He is best known for leading the country through the Civil War, preserving the Union, and abolishing slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. Lincoln is often regarded as one of the greatest U.S. presidents for his leadership during one of the nation’s most challenging periods.
3. Grant
Origin: Grant is of Scottish and English origin.
Derivation: The name Grant is derived from the Old French word grand, meaning “large” or “tall.”
Who Is Ulysses S. Grant? Ulysses S. Grant was the 18th President of the United States, serving from 1869 to 1877. A Civil War hero and commanding general of the Union Army, Grant’s presidency focused on Reconstruction and efforts to protect the rights of newly freed African Americans. However, his administration was marred by numerous scandals involving corruption among his associates.
2. Arthur
Origin: Arthur is of Celtic and English origin.
Derivation: The name Arthur is derived from the Celtic word artos, meaning “bear,” or it may have Roman origins from the name Artorius.
Who Is Chester A. Arthur? Chester A. Arthur was the 21st President of the United States, serving from 1881 to 1885. He ascended to the presidency following the assassination of President James Garfield. Arthur is known for his civil service reform efforts, particularly the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, which aimed to curb corruption by establishing a merit-based system for federal employment.
1. Cleveland
Origin: Cleveland is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Cleveland is derived from the Old English words clif (cliff) and land (land), meaning “land of cliffs.”
Who Is Grover Cleveland? Grover Cleveland was the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms (1885–1889 and 1893–1897). He is known for his integrity, opposition to political corruption, and efforts to restore the independence of the executive branch. Cleveland’s second term was marked by economic challenges, including the Panic of 1893.
Last Names for Boys That End In an ‘ER’
In your search for surnames that make good first names, you’ll come across a wide variety of unique names – each with their own sound, meaning, significance, and spelling that sets it apart from the rest.
One common trend has parents opting for last names that end in ‘er’ when naming their son.
Oliver was the third most popular baby name in 2023, but is also a common last name (like John Oliver). And in that same list, Carter (like the former President Jimmy Carter) was the 48th most popular name.
Here are some of the other most popular examples of last names for boys that end in an ‘er.’
10. Parker
Origin: Parker is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Parker is derived from the English occupational surname for a gamekeeper or park keeper, from the Old French word parquier.
Meaning: The name Parker translates to “park keeper.”
9. Carter
Origin: Carter is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Carter is derived from the English occupational surname for a person who transported goods by cart, from the Old English word caret (cart).
Meaning: The name Carter translates to “cart driver” or “transporter of goods.”
8. Hunter
Origin: Hunter is of English and Scottish origin.
Derivation: The name Hunter is derived from the English and Scottish occupational surname for a hunter, from the Old English word hunta.
Meaning: The name Hunter translates to “one who hunts.”
7. Fletcher
Origin: Fletcher is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Fletcher is derived from the English occupational surname for a person who made arrows, from the Old French word fleche (arrow).
Meaning: The name Fletcher translates to “arrow maker.”
6. Cooper
Origin: Cooper is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Cooper is derived from the English occupational surname for a barrel maker, from the Middle English word couper.
Meaning: The name Cooper translates to “barrel maker.”
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5. Porter
Origin: Porter is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Porter is derived from the Old French word portier, meaning “gatekeeper” or “doorkeeper,” an occupational surname for someone who guarded an entrance.
Meaning: The name Porter translates to “gatekeeper” or “doorkeeper.”
4. Sawyer
Origin: Sawyer is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Sawyer is derived from the English occupational surname for someone who sawed wood, from the Old English word sagu (saw).
Meaning: The name Sawyer translates to “woodcutter” or “sawer of wood.”
3. Foster
Origin: Foster is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Foster is derived from the Old French word forstier, meaning “forester,” an occupational surname for someone who managed a forest.
Meaning: The name Foster translates to “forester” or “forest guardian.”
2. Archer
Origin: Archer is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Archer is derived from the Old French word archier, meaning “bowman,” an occupational surname for an archer.
Meaning: The name Archer translates to “bowman.”
1. Tucker
Origin: Tucker is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Tucker is derived from the Old English word tucian, meaning “to torment” or “to full cloth,” an occupational surname for someone who processed cloth.
Meaning: The name Tucker translates to “cloth fuller.”
Last Names for Boys That End In an ‘S’
Another common trend we see when using last names as first names is the growing popularity of surnames ending in an ‘s’ – which can give your son’s first name a distinctive edge over other names.
Charles, James, Thomas, Miles, and Brooks are perfect examples of this.
Each of those five names were featured in the Social Security Administration’s list of the 100 most popular boy names of 2023 (in the United States) – representing more than 30,000 babies last year.
Here are some other popular examples of last names for boys that end in an ‘s.’
10. Brooks
Origin: Brooks is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Brooks is derived from the Old English word broc, meaning “stream” or “brook,” often used as a topographical surname for someone who lived near a brook.
Meaning: The name Brooks translates to “stream” or “brook.”
9. Hayes
Origin: Hayes is of English and Irish origin.
Derivation: The name Hayes is derived from the Old English word haes (brushwood) or the Irish surname Ó hAodha, meaning “descendant of Aodh.”
Meaning: The name Hayes translates to “brushwood” or “descendant of Aodh.”
8. Davis
Origin: Davis is of English and Welsh origin.
Derivation: The name Davis is derived from the English and Welsh surname meaning “son of David,” with David meaning “beloved” in Hebrew.
Meaning: The name Davis translates to “son of David” or “beloved.”
7. Miles
Origin: Miles is of Latin and English origin.
Derivation: The name Miles is derived from the Latin name Milo, which means “soldier” or “merciful.” It also has ties to the Old German word milo (gracious).
Meaning: The name Miles translates to “soldier” or “merciful.”
6. Rhodes
Origin: Rhodes is of English and Greek origin.
Derivation: The name Rhodes is derived from the Old English word rodd, meaning “clearing in the woods,” and also refers to the Greek island of Rhodes.
Meaning: The name Rhodes translates to “clearing in the woods” or “from the island of Rhodes.”
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5. Harris
Origin: Harris is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Harris is derived from the English surname meaning “son of Harry,” with Harry being a form of Henry, meaning “home ruler.”
Meaning: The name Harris translates to “son of Harry” or “home ruler.”
4. Banks
Origin: Banks is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Banks is derived from the Old English word banke, meaning “bank of a river” or “hill,” often used as a topographical surname.
Meaning: The name Banks translates to “bank” or “riverbank.”
3. Morris
Origin: Morris is of English and Welsh origin.
Derivation: The name Morris is derived from the Latin name Mauricius, meaning “dark-skinned” or “Moorish.” It is also an anglicized form of the Welsh name Morys.
Meaning: The name Morris translates to “dark-skinned” or “Moorish.”
2. Anders
Origin: Anders is of Scandinavian origin.
Derivation: The name Anders is derived from the Scandinavian form of the Greek name Andreas, meaning “man” or “warrior.”
Meaning: The name Anders translates to “man” or “warrior.”
1. Hollis
Origin: Hollis is of English origin.
Derivation: The name Hollis is derived from the Old English word holegn, meaning “holly tree,” often used as a topographical surname for someone who lived near a holly tree.
Meaning: The name Hollis translates to “dweller by the holly tree.”
Did You Like Any of Those Last Names for Boys?
As you can see from our extensive list above, last names for boys can make for a unique first name, when used correctly – and it shows with names like Oliver, James, and Jackson ranking so high today.
But don’t sell it short – last names can also be a great source of inspiration for a girl’s name.
Madison was the 36th most popular girls name in the US last year, which reminds me of the 4th president of the US (James Madison) or the character ‘Billy Madison,’ who was played by actor Adam Sandler.
Kennedy was the 72nd most popular girls name last year – a nod to former President John F. Kennedy.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Check Out Our Baby Name Generator for an Endless Supply of Ideas!
Whether you’re expecting a baby boy or a baby girl (or both), we hope you find the perfect name for your little bundle of joy! And if you’re having trouble, check out our blog for thousands of other name ideas!