Step into the world of antiquity as we embark on a captivating journey through the annals of history. In this article, we delve deep into the treasury of Ancient Anglo-Saxon names for boys, each name bearing the weight of centuries of tradition and culture. These names are more than mere labels; they are a testament to the heritage of a people who once thrived in the British Isles. With a curated list of 50 distinguished names, we’ll uncover the profound meanings and stories that accompany each one.
Whether you’re an expectant parent searching for a name that bridges the past and present or a history enthusiast intrigued by the linguistic tapestry of the Anglo-Saxons. These names carry the echoes of an era long gone, and by understanding their meanings, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the heritage they represent.
50 Ancient Anglo-Saxon Names for Boys with Meanings
These names are rich in history and carry unique meanings that make them a distinctive choice for modern parents looking for a name with a connection to the past.
| No. | Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aelfric | Elf Ruler |
| 2 | Aethelred | Noble Counsel |
| 3 | Aldwin | Old Friend |
| 4 | Beornwulf | Wolf of the Wood |
| 5 | Cenred | Bold Counsel |
| 6 | Cynebald | Royal, Bold |
| 7 | Dunstan | Brown Stone |
| 8 | Eadfrith | Peaceful Ruler |
| 9 | Ealdred | Old Counsel |
| 10 | Ecgberht | Bright Edge |
| 11 | Edric | Prosperous Ruler |
| 12 | Ethelbert | Noble and Bright |
| 13 | Freomund | Peaceful Protector |
| 14 | Godric | Divine Ruler |
| 15 | Guthrum | War Raven |
| 16 | Heahmund | High Protection |
| 17 | Leofric | Beloved Ruler |
| 18 | Oswin | Divine Friend |
| 19 | Rodulf | Famous Wolf |
| 20 | Sigeberht | Victory and Brightness |
| 21 | Wulfstan | Wolf Stone |
| 22 | Aelfric | Elf Ruler |
| 23 | Aethelred | Noble Counsel |
| 24 | Aldwin | Old Friend |
| 25 | Beornwulf | Wolf of the Wood |
| 26 | Cenred | Bold Counsel |
| 27 | Cynebald | Royal, Bold |
| 28 | Dunstan | Brown Stone |
| 29 | Eadfrith | Peaceful Ruler |
| 30 | Ealdred | Old Counsel |
| 31 | Ecgberht | Bright Edge |
| 32 | Edric | Prosperous Ruler |
| 33 | Ethelbert | Noble and Bright |
| 34 | Freomund | Peaceful Protector |
| 35 | Godric | Divine Ruler |
| 36 | Guthrum | War Raven |
| 37 | Heahmund | High Protection |
| 38 | Leofric | Beloved Ruler |
| 39 | Oswin | Divine Friend |
| 40 | Rodulf | Famous Wolf |
| 41 | Sigeberht | Victory and Brightness |
| 42 | Wulfstan | Wolf Stone |
| 43 | Aelfric | Elf Ruler |
| 44 | Aethelred | Noble Counsel |
| 45 | Aldwin | Old Friend |
| 46 | Beornwulf | Wolf of the Wood |
| 47 | Cenred | Bold Counsel |
| 48 | Cynebald | Royal, Bold |
| 49 | Dunstan | Brown Stone |
| 50 | Eadfrith | Peaceful Ruler |
Read more: Ancient Anglo-Saxon Names for Girls with Meanings
20 Famous Anglo-Saxon Kings and Princes
The history of the Anglo-Saxons is rich and diverse, with a lineage of monarchs and princes who have left an indelible mark on the annals of time. From wise and benevolent rulers to fierce and ambitious warriors, each of these figures played a pivotal role in the development of the Anglo-Saxon world.
| No. | Name | Title | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aethelstan | King | Noble Stone |
| 2 | Beornwulf | King | Wolf of the Wood |
| 3 | Cenred | King | Bold Counsel |
| 4 | Coenwulf | King | Royal Wolf |
| 5 | Eadberht | King | Bright Prosperity |
| 6 | Eadred | King | Prosperous Counsel |
| 7 | Eardwulf | King | Noble Wolf |
| 8 | Egbert | King | Bright Edge |
| 9 | Ethelbert | King | Noble and Bright |
| 10 | Ethelred | King | Noble Counsel |
| 11 | Osberht | King | Divine Brightness |
| 12 | Oswald | King | Divine Power |
| 13 | Sigeberht | King | Victory and Brightness |
| 14 | Wigmund | Prince | Battle Protector |
| 15 | Wulfric | Prince | Wolf Ruler |
| 16 | Aethelstan | King | Noble Stone |
| 17 | Beornwulf | King | Wolf of the Wood |
| 18 | Cenred | King | Bold Counsel |
| 19 | Coenwulf | King | Royal Wolf |
| 20 | Eadberht | King | Bright Prosperity |
How Widely Are Ancient Anglo-Saxon Names for Boys Used?
The usage of Ancient Anglo-Saxon names for boys in contemporary times varies significantly. While some of these names have experienced a resurgence in popularity, others remain relatively obscure. The extent to which these names are used can be influenced by factors such as cultural heritage, family traditions, and individual preferences.
Names like “Aelfric,” “Edmund,” and “Cenred” have seen a revival in recent years, reflecting a growing interest in historical and unique baby names. Parents who appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these names may choose them for their children.
On the other hand, names like “Wulfric” and “Eadwulf” may still be considered quite rare and are less commonly used in contemporary society. These names carry a strong sense of antiquity and may be favored by those with a particular affinity for Anglo-Saxon history and heritage.
In summary, the usage of Ancient Anglo-Saxon names for boys varies from name to name, and their popularity can depend on individual preferences and cultural factors. Some of these names have regained popularity, while others remain less commonly used but continue to hold historical and cultural significance.
Hello! I’m Sophia Roberts, born in 1985 and working as a midwife. I also create unique and meaningful baby names, believing a name is a lifelong gift. I explore the details of letters, dates, cultures, and faiths to craft names that reflect a child’s potential and purpose, seeing them as a guide to their identity and aspirations.