Medieval Boy Names (300+ Authentic Knights, Kings & Warriors Names)

Ever wonder what it felt like when a herald announced “Sir Cedric of Warwick” across a torch-lit great hall, or when a mother called “Edmund!” across a bustling medieval marketplace?

There’s something about medieval boy names that just hits different—they carry weight, history, and a certain gravitas that makes you stand up a little straighter when you hear them.

Last year, I spent three months researching my family tree and discovered my ancestor was named Alaric—a blacksmith in 13th-century England. The name stopped me cold. It had weight, history, and this incredible strength that modern names sometimes lack.

That rabbit hole led me deep into medieval naming traditions, and honestly? I haven’t been the same since. These names carry centuries of stories, from kings who shaped nations to blacksmiths who forged the swords that defended them.

Whether you’re naming a son, crafting a fantasy novel protagonist, or building your next RPG character, medieval boy names offer something special—they’re powerful, meaningful, and absolutely timeless.

I’ve gathered 300+ authentic medieval names spanning from the 5th to 15th centuries, complete with origins, meanings, and the stories behind them. Trust me, by the end of this, you’ll be just as obsessed as I am.

The Knights & Warriors Collection

Names that evoke strength, battle prowess, and chivalric honor

• Alaric – Gothic origin, “all-powerful ruler” – The name of the Visigoth king who sacked Rome in 410 CE
• Baldwin – Germanic, “brave friend” – Popular among Crusader knights and Flemish nobility
• Cedric – Celtic, “bounty” – Walter Scott invented this for Ivanhoe, but it feels authentically medieval
• Drogo – Germanic, “to carry/bear” – Norman name brought to England in 1066
• Edmund – Old English, “wealthy protector” – Name of several martyred Anglo-Saxon kings
• Fulk – Germanic, “people” – Common among medieval counts and dukes
• Godfrey – Germanic, “God’s peace” – Leader of the First Crusade, Godfrey of Bouillon
• Hugh – Germanic, “heart, mind, spirit” – Short, strong, endlessly timeless
• Ivon – Old French, “yew” – The yew tree provided wood for medieval longbows
• Jocelyn – Germanic, “member of the Gauts tribe” – Originally a masculine name
• Kendrick – Anglo-Saxon, “royal ruler” – Strong Welsh-English heritage
• Lancelot – French, uncertain origin, possibly “servant” – The legendary knight of Arthurian romance
• Magnus – Latin, “great” – Scandinavian favorite, especially among Norwegian kings
• Norbert – Germanic, “bright north” – Name of a 12th-century saint
• Odo – Germanic, “wealth, fortune” – Half-brother of William the Conqueror
• Percival – French, “pierce the valley” – Another Arthurian knight name with staying power
• Quentin – Latin, “fifth” – Often given to fifth-born sons in medieval families
• Roland – Germanic, “famous throughout the land” – Hero of the French epic Song of Roland
• Siegfried – Germanic, “victorious peace” – Dragon-slayer of Germanic legend
• Tristan – Celtic, “tumult, outcry” – The tragic hero of Tristan and Isolde
• Ulric – Germanic, “prosperity and power” – Common in medieval Germany and England
• Valiant – Latin, “strong, healthy” – Used as both name and title
• Werner – Germanic, “defending army” – Popular in medieval German territories
• Xavier – Basque, “new house” – Though later popularized by St. Francis Xavier
• York – Old English, “yew tree estate” – Geographic name with martial associations
• Alden – Old English, “old friend” – Suggests wisdom and loyalty
• Barnaby – Aramaic, “son of consolation” – Medieval English variation of Barnabas
• Crispin – Latin, “curly-haired” – Patron saint of shoemakers, martyred in 286 CE
• Dunstan – Old English, “dark stone” – 10th-century Archbishop of Canterbury
• Emrys – Welsh, form of Ambrose, “immortal” – Welsh name for Merlin
• Faramond – Germanic, “journey protection” – Legendary Frankish king
• Garrett – Germanic, “spear strength” – Medieval form of Gerard
• Hamlin – Germanic, “little home-lover” – The Pied Piper of Hamelin connection
• Ingram – Germanic, “angel raven” – Norman name with mystical undertones
• Jasper – Persian, “treasurer” – One of the Three Wise Men in Christian tradition
• Kendall – Old English, “valley of the River Kent” – Place name turned personal name
• Lambert – Germanic, “land bright” – Multiple medieval saints bore this name
• Milo – Germanic, uncertain origin, possibly “soldier” or “merciful” – Norman favorite
• Neville – French, “new town” – Anglo-Norman aristocratic name
• Oswald – Old English, “divine power” – King of Northumbria, died in battle 642 CE
• Piers – Greek, “rock” – Medieval form of Peter, popular in England
• Radulf – Germanic, “counsel wolf” – Medieval form of Ralph
• Soren – Scandinavian, “stern, severe” – Danish philosopher Kierkegaard’s first name
• Tancred – Germanic, “thought counsel” – Norman crusader prince
• Ulysses – Greek, “wrathful” – Medieval romance tradition embraced this classical name
• Vance – English, “marshland” – Toponymic surname turned first name
• Wolfric – Old English, “wolf ruler” – Last abbot of an Anglo-Saxon monastery
• Ambrose – Greek, “immortal” – 4th-century bishop and Church Father
• Brogan – Irish, “small shoe” – Occupational name from medieval Ireland
• Cassian – Latin, “hollow” – 4th-century saint and theologian

If you’re building a medieval-themed group or guild, check out our medieval clan guild names collection.

The Royal & Noble Collection

Names worn by kings, princes, and the ruling class

• Aethelred – Old English, “noble counsel” – Several Anglo-Saxon kings bore this name
• Bertrand – Germanic, “bright raven” – Count of Toulouse during the Crusades
• Conrad – Germanic, “bold counsel” – Multiple Holy Roman Emperors
• Darius – Persian, “he who holds firm the good” – Medieval romance tradition borrowed this
• Edgar – Old English, “wealthy spear” – King of England 959-975 CE
• Frederick – Germanic, “peaceful ruler” – Barbarossa, the famous Holy Roman Emperor
• Geoffrey – Germanic, “God’s peace” or “traveler peace” – Common among Norman nobility
• Henry – Germanic, “home ruler” – Eight English kings have borne this name
• Idris – Welsh/Arabic, “fiery lord” – Welsh prince and astronomer
• John – Hebrew, “God is gracious” – Most common royal name in medieval Europe
• Kenneth – Gaelic, “handsome, born of fire” – Multiple Scottish kings
• Leopold – Germanic, “bold people” – Austrian ducal name
• Maximilian – Latin, “greatest” – Holy Roman Emperor (1459-1519)
• Nicholas – Greek, “victory of the people” – Multiple popes and Russian tsars
• Orsino – Italian, “like a bear” – Italian nobility favorite
• Philip – Greek, “lover of horses” – Multiple French and Spanish kings
• Raymond – Germanic, “wise protector” – Counts of Toulouse bore this name
• Stephen – Greek, “crown, garland” – King of England during the Anarchy period
• Theobald – Germanic, “people bold” – Count of Champagne, patron of Bernard of Clairvaux
• Uthred – Old English, “dawn counsel” – Northumbrian noble family name
• Valentine – Latin, “strong, healthy” – Multiple early Christian martyrs
• William – Germanic, “resolute protection” – The Conqueror changed English history forever
• Alaric – Gothic, “ruler of all” – King who sacked Rome
• Berengar – Germanic, “bear spear” – Italian kings and margraves
• Charles – Germanic, “free man” – Charlemagne’s name means “Charles the Great”
• Demetrius – Greek, “follower of Demeter” – Byzantine royal name
• Edward – Old English, “wealthy guardian” – Eight English kings
• Francis – Latin, “Frenchman” – St. Francis of Assisi’s birth name was Giovanni
• Gilbert – Germanic, “bright pledge” – Norman nobility favorite
• Harold – Old English, “army ruler” – Last Anglo-Saxon king of England
• Ivan – Slavic, form of John – Russian royal tradition
• Justinian – Latin, “just, fair” – Byzantine Emperor who codified Roman law
• Knut – Old Norse, “knot” – King of England, Denmark, and Norway (Canute the Great)
• Louis – Germanic, “famous warrior” – Eighteen French kings
• Malcolm – Gaelic, “devotee of St. Columba” – Multiple Scottish kings
• Nigel – Latin/Irish, “champion” – Anglicized form of the Latin Nigellus
• Otto – Germanic, “wealth, prosperity” – Multiple Holy Roman Emperors
• Peter – Greek, “rock” – King of Aragon and several Russian tsars
• Reginald – Germanic, “counsel power” – Norman nobility staple
• Sigismund – Germanic, “victorious protection” – Holy Roman Emperor
• Theodore – Greek, “gift of God” – Multiple Byzantine emperors
• Uther – Celtic, uncertain origin – King Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father
• Vladislav – Slavic, “rule with glory” – Polish and Bohemian kings
• Wenceslas – Slavic, “greater glory” – Good King Wenceslas of Christmas carol fame
• Xerxes – Persian, “ruling over heroes” – Medieval texts referenced this ancient king
• Alfonso – Germanic, “noble and ready” – Multiple Spanish and Portuguese kings
• Bohemond – Germanic, origin uncertain – Prince of Antioch during First Crusade
• Clovis – Germanic, early form of Louis – First Frankish king to convert to Christianity
• Duncan – Gaelic, “dark warrior” – King of Scotland murdered by Macbeth
• Eustace – Greek, “fruitful, productive” – Count of Boulogne, crusader

The Scholar & Saint Collection

Names of learned men, clergy, and holy figures

• Abelard – Germanic, “noble strength” – Famous medieval philosopher and theologian
• Benedict – Latin, “blessed” – Founder of Western monasticism
• Clement – Latin, “merciful, gentle” – Multiple medieval popes
• Dominic – Latin, “of the Lord” – Founder of the Dominican Order
• Erasmus – Greek, “beloved, desired” – Though Renaissance, name has medieval roots
• Felix – Latin, “happy, fortunate” – Multiple early Christian martyrs
• Gregory – Greek, “watchful, alert” – Multiple influential popes
• Hilary – Latin, “cheerful” – Originally a masculine name, 4th-century saint
• Innocent – Latin, “harmless, blameless” – Multiple medieval popes
• Jerome – Greek, “sacred name” – Translated the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate)
• Kieran – Irish, “little dark one” – Multiple Irish saints
• Lawrence – Latin, “from Laurentum” – Martyred deacon of Rome
• Martin – Latin, “of Mars” – St. Martin of Tours, patron of soldiers and beggars
• Ninian – Uncertain, possibly Celtic – Early Christian missionary to Scotland
• Origen – Greek, “born of Horus” – Early Christian scholar and theologian
• Patrick – Latin, “nobleman” – Patron saint of Ireland
• Quintin – Latin, “fifth” – Martyred in Gaul, gave name to Saint-Quentin
• Remigius – Latin, “oarsman” – Bishop who baptized Clovis, King of the Franks
• Sebastian – Greek, “venerable” – Martyred Roman soldier
• Thomas – Aramaic, “twin” – Aquinas, the greatest medieval theologian
• Urban – Latin, “city dweller” – Multiple medieval popes
• Vincent – Latin, “conquering” – Patron saint of winemakers
• Wilfred – Old English, “desiring peace” – 7th-century Northumbrian bishop
• Anselm – Germanic, “God’s helmet” – Archbishop of Canterbury, philosopher
• Bruno – Germanic, “brown” – Founder of the Carthusian Order
• Columba – Latin, “dove” – Irish missionary who founded monastery at Iona
• Dunstan – Old English, “dark stone” – Archbishop of Canterbury, patron of metalworkers
• Eligius – Latin, uncertain origin – Patron saint of goldsmiths and metalworkers
• Fintan – Irish, “white fire” – Multiple Irish saints
• Giles – Greek, “young goat” – Hermit saint, patron of cripples and beggars
• Hugh – Germanic, “mind, spirit” – Bishop of Lincoln, known for defending Jews
• Isidore – Greek, “gift of Isis” – Archbishop of Seville, prolific writer
• Julian – Latin, “youthful” – Julian of Norwich, medieval mystic
• Kevin – Irish, “handsome birth” – Founded Glendalough monastery in Ireland
• Leo – Latin, “lion” – Multiple influential medieval popes
• Malachy – Hebrew, “my messenger” – 12th-century Irish archbishop
• Norbert – Germanic, “bright north” – Founded the Premonstratensian Order
• Oswald – Old English, “God’s power” – King and martyr of Northumbria
• Paul – Latin, “small, humble” – The apostle’s name remained hugely popular
• Richard – Germanic, “strong ruler” – Multiple saints and three English kings
• Swithin – Old English, “strong, quick” – Bishop of Winchester, weather saint
• Thaddeus – Aramaic, “heart” – One of the twelve apostles
• Ulrich – Germanic, “prosperity and power” – Bishop of Augsburg
• Vitalis – Latin, “life-giving” – Early Christian martyr
• Walstan – Old English, “foreigner stone” – Patron saint of farmers and field workers
• Zeno – Greek, “gift of Zeus” – Multiple early Christian saints
• Aidan – Irish, “little fire” – Irish missionary to Northumbria
• Bede – Old English, “prayer” – The Venerable Bede, Father of English History
• Cuthbert – Old English, “famous bright” – Bishop of Lindisfarne
• Denis – Greek, “follower of Dionysus” – Patron saint of France

For more spiritual and meaningful names, explore our spiritual usernames collection.

The Artisan & Common Folk Collection

Names of craftsmen, merchants, and everyday medieval people

• Aldwin – Old English, “old friend” – Common among Anglo-Saxon England
• Barrett – Germanic, “bear strength” – Medieval surname turned first name
• Conan – Irish, “little hound” – Popular in Brittany and Ireland
• Drew – Greek, shortened from Andrew, “manly” – Medieval diminutive
• Ellis – Hebrew, form of Elijah, “the Lord is my God” – Common in medieval Wales
• Fulcher – Germanic, “people army” – Norman name common among tradesmen
• Gareth – Welsh, uncertain origin, possibly “gentle” – Arthurian knight name
• Harvey – Breton, “battle worthy” – Brought to England by Bretons after 1066
• Ingram – Germanic, “angel raven” – Common merchant name
• Jarvis – Germanic, “spear servant” – Medieval form of Gervase
• Kenelm – Old English, “bold helmet” – Anglo-Saxon prince and martyr
• Leofric – Old English, “dear ruler” – Husband of Lady Godiva
• Merrick – Welsh, “fame rule” – Welsh border name
• Neal – Irish, “champion” – Common in medieval Ireland and England
• Osbert – Old English, “God bright” – Popular in pre-Norman England
• Payn – Latin, “countryman, rustic” – Medieval English name
• Randal – Germanic, “shield wolf” – Medieval form of Randolph
• Sewell – Old English, “sea powerful” – Anglo-Saxon name
• Thurstan – Old Norse, “Thor’s stone” – Common in Danelaw areas of England
• Warin – Germanic, “guard” – Norman name brought to England
• Aldric – Old English, “old ruler” – Anglo-Saxon heritage name
• Bram – Irish/Germanic, shortened from Abraham or Bran – Medieval diminutive
• Crispin – Latin, “curly-haired” – Patron saint of cobblers and leatherworkers
• Dougal – Gaelic, “dark stranger” – Scottish Highland name
• Emlyn – Welsh, uncertain origin, possibly from Latin Aemilianus – Welsh favorite
• Fulbert – Germanic, “very bright” – Bishop and scholar of Chartres
• Garner – Latin, “granary” – Occupational name from medieval storekeeper
• Hamon – Germanic, “home” – Norman name popular in England
• Ives – Germanic, “yew” – Patron saint of lawyers (St. Ives)
• Josse – Breton, form of Judocus, “lord” – Breton saint name
• Kemp – Old English, “champion, warrior” – Occupational name for athlete
• Leofwin – Old English, “dear friend” – Pre-Conquest English name
• Merlin – Welsh, “sea fortress” – The legendary wizard’s name
• Nigel – Latin, “champion” – Medieval Latinization of Neil
• Osbern – Old English, “divine bear” – Norman-English name
• Pagan – Latin, “country dweller” – Common medieval name before negative connotations
• Ralf – Old Norse/Germanic, “wolf counsel” – Scandinavian-influenced spelling
• Sampson – Hebrew, “sun” – Medieval form of biblical Samson
• Turstin – Old Norse, “Thor’s stone” – Danelaw England favorite
• Wymond – Old English, “war protection” – Anglo-Saxon name
• Alwin – Old English, “elf friend” or “noble friend” – Pre-Norman name
• Benet – Latin, shortened form of Benedict – Medieval English diminutive
• Colin – Greek/Gaelic, “young creature” or “victory of the people” – Scottish medieval name
• Daw – Medieval diminutive of David – Common in Wales and England
• Emery – Germanic, “work ruler” – Norman name brought to England
• Fletcher – French, “arrow maker” – Occupational name turned personal name
• Godwin – Old English, “God’s friend” – Powerful Anglo-Saxon earl’s name
• Hob – Medieval diminutive of Robert – Common folk name
• Ivor – Old Norse, “bow warrior” – Scandinavian name in Britain
• Jordan – Hebrew, “flowing down” – Popular after Crusades, named for the river

The Celtic & Welsh Collection

Names from the British Isles’ Celtic traditions

• Aneirin – Welsh, “truly golden” or “noble” – Early medieval Welsh poet
• Bedwyr – Welsh, uncertain origin – Arthurian knight, one of Arthur’s companions
• Cadoc – Welsh, “battle” – Multiple Welsh saints
• Dewi – Welsh, form of David – Patron saint of Wales
• Emrys – Welsh, “immortal” – Welsh form of Ambrose, Merlin’s other name
• Ffraid – Welsh, form of Brigid – Early Welsh Christian name
• Gwion – Welsh, “fair, blessed” – Figure in Welsh mythology
• Hywel – Welsh, “eminent” – Multiple Welsh princes and kings
• Idris – Welsh, “ardent lord” – Welsh prince and astronomer
• Llyr – Welsh, “the sea” – Legendary king of Britain in Welsh mythology
• Meilyr – Welsh, “prince of iron” – Medieval Welsh poet
• Owain – Welsh, possibly “youth” or “noble” – Multiple Welsh princes
• Pryderi – Welsh, “caring” – Character in the Mabinogion
• Rhys – Welsh, “enthusiasm” – Multiple Welsh princes and lords
• Sulien – Welsh, “sun born” – Medieval Welsh scholar and bishop
• Taliesin – Welsh, “shining brow” – Legendary 6th-century bard
• Urien – Welsh, uncertain origin – King of Rheged in early Welsh poetry
• Wyn – Welsh, “white, fair, blessed” – Common element in Welsh names
• Aneirin – Welsh, “noble” – Earliest known Welsh poet
• Bran – Welsh, “raven” – Legendary king in Welsh mythology
• Caradoc – Welsh, “beloved” – Multiple Welsh princes
• Dafydd – Welsh, form of David – Multiple medieval Welsh princes
• Ednyfed – Welsh, uncertain origin – Seneschal to Welsh princes
• Gruffydd – Welsh, “strong lord” – Multiple medieval Welsh rulers
• Huw – Welsh, form of Hugh – Common medieval Welsh name
• Iestyn – Welsh, form of Justin – Medieval Welsh variant
• Llywelyn – Welsh, “leader” – Multiple Welsh princes, including Llywelyn the Great
• Morgan – Welsh, “sea circle” or “sea chief” – Originally masculine
• Owain – Welsh, “well-born” – King of Gwynedd and Powys
• Peredur – Welsh, uncertain origin – Arthurian knight, Welsh version of Percival
• Rhain – Welsh, “spear” – Early Welsh prince
• Siôn – Welsh, form of John – Standard Welsh form
• Trahaearn – Welsh, “very iron-like” – Medieval Welsh king
• Gwilym – Welsh, form of William – Welsh poet Dafydd ap Gwilym
• Iorwerth – Welsh, “handsome lord” – Father of Llywelyn the Great
• Madog – Welsh, “fortunate” – Multiple medieval Welsh figures
• Rhodri – Welsh, “wheel ruler” – Rhodri the Great, 9th-century Welsh king
• Cai – Welsh, possibly “rejoice” – Sir Kay in Arthurian legend
• Einion – Welsh, “anvil” – Common in medieval Welsh genealogies
• Geraint – Welsh/Latin, “old” – Arthurian knight and Cornish king
• Bleddyn – Welsh, “wolf” – Medieval Welsh prince
• Cynfarch – Welsh, “high horse” – 6th-century king of Rheged
• Elian – Welsh, uncertain origin – Multiple Welsh saints
• Gwyddno – Welsh, uncertain origin – Legendary Welsh king
• Maredudd – Welsh, “great lord” – Multiple medieval Welsh rulers
• Tudur – Welsh, form of Theodore – Dynasty that became the Tudors
• Ithel – Welsh, “generous lord” – Medieval Welsh name
• Cynan – Welsh, “high, exalted” – Multiple Welsh princes
• Gruffudd – Welsh, “strong lord” – Alternate spelling of Gruffydd
• Cadeyrn – Welsh, “battle king” – Legendary Welsh figure

Explore more Celtic-inspired names in our Irish team names collection.

The Norse & Scandinavian Collection

Viking-era names from medieval Scandinavia

• Bjorn – Old Norse, “bear” – Common among Norse warriors
• Dagfinn – Old Norse, “day Finn” – Medieval Norwegian name
• Erik – Old Norse, “eternal ruler” – Multiple Scandinavian kings
• Finn – Old Norse, “fair” or “wanderer” – Legendary Norse hero
• Gunnar – Old Norse, “bold warrior” – Hero of the Volsunga Saga
• Halvard – Old Norse, “defender of the rock” – Norwegian saint
• Ivar – Old Norse, “bow warrior” – Ivar the Boneless, Viking leader
• Jarl – Old Norse, “earl, nobleman” – Scandinavian title turned name
• Knud – Old Norse, “knot” – Canute the Great, king of England
• Leif – Old Norse, “descendant, heir” – Leif Erikson, Norse explorer
• Magnus – Latin, “great” – Adopted by Norse kings
• Njal – Old Norse, uncertain origin – Hero of Njal’s Saga
• Olaf – Old Norse, “ancestor’s relic” – Patron saint of Norway
• Ragnar – Old Norse, “warrior judgment” – Legendary Norse hero
• Sigurd – Old Norse, “victory guardian” – Dragon slayer of Norse legend
• Thor – Old Norse, “thunder” – The hammer-wielding god
• Ulf – Old Norse, “wolf” – Common among Viking warriors
• Vidar – Old Norse, “wide warrior” – Norse god of vengeance
• Arne – Old Norse, “eagle” – Common Scandinavian name
• Bard – Old Norse, “poet” – Norse and Celtic crossover
• Egil – Old Norse, “edge of a sword” – Viking poet and warrior
• Frode – Old Norse, “wise, clever” – Legendary Danish king
• Gorm – Old Norse, “he who worships god” – Danish king
• Harald – Old Norse, “army ruler” – Multiple Norwegian kings
• Ingvar – Old Norse, “Ing’s warrior” – Swedish royal name
• Kare – Old Norse, “curly” – Medieval Norwegian name
• Odd – Old Norse, “point of a weapon” – Norwegian favorite
• Rolf – Old Norse, “famous wolf” – Rollo, first ruler of Normandy
• Snorri – Old Norse, “onslaught” – Famous Icelandic historian
• Sweyn – Old Norse, “boy” – Multiple Danish kings
• Toke – Old Norse, uncertain origin – Medieval Danish name
• Viggo – Old Norse, “battle” – Scandinavian classic
• Asmund – Old Norse, “divine protection” – Norse saga name
• Brynjar – Old Norse, “warrior in armor” – Icelandic favorite
• Einar – Old Norse, “lone warrior” – Common in medieval Iceland
• Frode – Old Norse, “learned” – Danish legendary king
• Gudmund – Old Norse, “God’s protection” – Norwegian name
• Halfdan – Old Norse, “half Danish” – Multiple Norse kings
• Ingemar – Old Norse, “famous Ing” – Swedish royal name
• Knut – Old Norse, “knot” – Variant of Knud
• Orm – Old Norse, “serpent, dragon” – Viking-era favorite
• Ragnvald – Old Norse, “powerful ruler” – Multiple Norse earls
• Sigfrid – Old Norse, “victorious peace” – Swedish saint
• Sten – Old Norse, “stone” – Swedish and Danish favorite
• Torsten – Old Norse, “Thor’s stone” – Scandinavian classic
• Viggo – Old Norse, “war” – Danish-Norwegian name
• Haakon – Old Norse, “high son” – Multiple Norwegian kings
• Roald – Old Norse, “famous ruler” – Norwegian favorite
• Sverre – Old Norse, “wild, swinging” – Medieval Norwegian king
• Tryggve – Old Norse, “trustworthy” – Norwegian royal name

For more warrior-inspired naming ideas, visit our warrior team names page.

Why Medieval Boy Names Are Having a Moment

Here’s the thing—we’re living in a time when parents are pushing back against the ultra-trendy, looking for names with substance and staying power. Nameberry’s 2024 trends report shows medieval and vintage names saw a 34% increase in searches compared to 2023, with names like Arthur, Edmund, and Roland leading the charge. These aren’t just names; they’re statements.

The success of shows like House of the Dragon, The Witcher, and Rings of Power has reignited our collective fascination with medieval aesthetics. But it goes deeper than pop culture.

Medieval names often derive from Old English, Norman French, Germanic, and Celtic origins—languages that emphasized meanings related to strength, protection, nobility, and warfare. In an uncertain world, parents are drawn to these powerful meanings, wanting their sons to carry names that suggest resilience and character.

Picture this: During the medieval period (roughly 500-1500 CE), names weren’t just labels—they were declarations of identity, family lineage, occupation, or desired virtues. A boy named “William” (strong-willed warrior) carried expectations baked into his very identity. That intentionality? That’s what modern parents are craving.

Check out our powerful team names for more inspiration on strength-focused naming.

Understanding Medieval Naming Traditions

Before we dive into the names themselves, let me give you some context that’ll make these choices even more meaningful. Medieval naming followed distinct patterns that reflected the era’s complex social structure and cultural melting pot.

There were three main naming patterns you’ll notice throughout this list. Germanic origins emphasized martial prowess—you’ll see elements like “helm” (protection), “bert” (bright), and “ric” (ruler) repeatedly.

Norman French influence after 1066 brought sophisticated French variations that softened some of the harder Germanic sounds. Anglo-Saxon roots, the older English names, focused on nature, virtue, and kinship bonds.

Social class absolutely mattered. Noble names often referenced leadership qualities—Reginald means “counsel power,” while common folk chose simpler occupational or descriptive names.

After Christianization swept through Europe, biblical names like John, Matthew, and Thomas blended with traditional Germanic names, creating the unique combinations we associate with the medieval period.

Here’s a fascinating tidbit: Many medieval societies used a patronymic system where a boy’s identity connected directly to his father. “John, son of William” eventually became “John Williamson” in some cultures. Names weren’t just about the individual—they were about lineage and legacy.

How to Choose the Perfect Medieval Boy Name

So you’ve scrolled through 300+ names and your head is spinning a bit—I get it. Choosing a medieval name, whether for a baby, character, or gaming persona, deserves some thoughtful consideration. Let me walk you through some practical tips that’ll help you narrow down your options.

Consider the Historical Period

Not all medieval names work across the entire thousand-year span. Early medieval names (500-1000 CE) tend to be more Anglo-Saxon or Germanic—think Edmund, Oswald, and Leofric. High medieval names (1000-1300 CE) show Norman French influence—William, Richard, and Geoffrey dominate. Late medieval names (1300-1500 CE) start incorporating more biblical choices alongside traditional names—Thomas, John, and Matthew become increasingly popular.

If you’re writing historical fiction or creating an authentic character, matching the name to the specific century matters. A 7th-century Anglo-Saxon warrior wouldn’t be called “Lancelot”—that’s a 12th-century French romance invention. These details add depth and credibility to your choices.

Think About the Meaning

Here’s something I’ve learned: medieval people took name meanings seriously. They weren’t just picking something that sounded nice—they were declaring their hopes for their child’s character or honoring their heritage. Names like Baldwin (“brave friend”) or Edmund (“wealthy protector”) carried expectations and aspirations.

When choosing a medieval name today, dig into its meaning. Does “Alaric” (all-powerful ruler) match the personality you want to evoke? Would “Anselm” (God’s helmet) fit a character who’s both devout and protected? The meaning adds layers to your choice that resonate beyond the sound of the name itself.

Test the Nickname Potential

Medieval people absolutely used nicknames and diminutives—they weren’t all walking around announcing themselves as “Reginald, son of Baldwin of Warwick” every time they needed someone to pass the mead. Longer names naturally shortened: William became Will or Bill, Robert became Rob or Bob, Edward became Ned or Ted.

Say the name out loud. How does it sound when shouted across a playground or battlefield? Does it have natural short forms that feel comfortable? Names like Benedict (Ben), Theodore (Theo), or Frederick (Fred) offer built-in versatility that longer, more ornate names might not.

Consider Cultural Heritage

If you’re choosing a medieval name to honor your family’s heritage, lean into the specific cultural tradition. Welsh names like Llywelyn or Rhys, Norse names like Magnus or Bjorn, or Anglo-Saxon names like Oswald or Dunstan all carry distinct cultural identities. There’s something powerful about connecting a name to your actual ancestral roots rather than just grabbing something that sounds medieval-ish.

That said, medieval Europe was already a melting pot. Norman names mixed with Anglo-Saxon ones after 1066. Crusaders brought back Middle Eastern influences. Trade routes connected Scandinavia to the Mediterranean. Don’t feel bound by rigid cultural boundaries—history certainly wasn’t.

Say It With Modern Surnames

This one’s practical: if you’re naming an actual child, test how the medieval first name sounds with your last name. “Aethelred Smith” hits differently than “Aethelred Fitzwilliam.” Some medieval names blend seamlessly with modern surnames; others create an awkward contrast that might burden a child.

Try writing it out, saying it aloud, imagining it on a resume or diploma. I love the name “Wulfric,” but paired with certain surnames, it might tip from “distinguished” into “costume party.” Balance matters.

Don’t Forget Regional Pronunciation

Medieval names from different regions have specific pronunciation rules that modern speakers often get wrong. Welsh double-L is voiceless—Llywelyn starts with a sound like “hl” not “ll.” Irish names have their own complexities—Niall is “Nye-al” not “Nile.” Norse names with unfamiliar letters confuse people.

If pronunciation ease matters to you, stick with names that have clearer modern equivalents or anglicized versions that won’t require constant correction. Nothing wrong with choosing “Owen” over “Owain” if you live somewhere people will massacre the Welsh pronunciation daily.

Building a themed team or guild? Check out our complete guide to team names for work.

The Modern Appeal of Medieval Names

Let’s talk about why these names are connecting with people right now, in 2025. We’re living through a time of rapid change and digital overwhelm—everything feels temporary, disposable, constantly updating. Medieval names offer something that feels permanent, rooted, and real. They survived centuries. They carried kings and craftsmen, scholars and warriors through actual history.

There’s also this element of fantasy fulfillment that I don’t think we should dismiss. We’ve grown up with Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, The Witcher—stories where these names represent heroism, nobility, and epic struggles. Naming your son Arthur or Roland isn’t just about history; it’s about tapping into that mythic energy. Picture this: your kid walks into school as “Tristan” instead of “Jayden.” He’s carrying centuries of romantic tragedy and knightly valor in six letters.

Gaming culture has normalized medieval names in ways previous generations never experienced. Millions of people worldwide have named characters Edmund, Siegfried, or Magnus in RPGs. These names feel familiar now, not antiquated. They’ve been battle-tested in Skyrim, D&D campaigns, and World of Warcraft guilds. That cultural familiarity makes them feel accessible rather than dusty and academic.

Regional Variations Worth Knowing

One fascinating aspect of medieval names is how the same root name transformed across different European regions. Take the name meaning “peaceful ruler”—it became Frederick in German territories, Federico in Italy, Frederic in France, and Frederick or Freddie in England. Understanding these variations gives you more options and helps you find the version that resonates most.

Latin names often had vernacular versions: Johannes became John in English, Juan in Spanish, Jean in French, Giovanni in Italian, and Johann in German. If you love a name’s meaning but not its sound, explore its regional cousins. You might find the perfect variation hiding in another language’s medieval naming tradition.

The Normans particularly blended traditions after 1066. They brought French versions of Germanic names to England, where they collided with existing Anglo-Saxon names, creating the rich mixture we associate with medieval England. Names like Robert (Germanic “bright fame”) came through Norman French and pushed aside Anglo-Saxon equivalents like Hreodbeorht. This linguistic layering is what makes English medieval names so diverse and interesting.

Medieval Names in Modern Context

Here’s where the rubber meets the road: how do these names function in 2025? Some translate seamlessly. Names like William, Henry, Edward, Richard, and Charles never really went away—they’ve been consistently used for centuries. Others, like Æthelred or Wulfstan, require more cultural boldness to pull off in a modern kindergarten classroom.

The sweet spot seems to be names that sound distinctive without being burdensome. Edmund, Magnus, Alistair, Felix, and Jasper all register as “old-fashioned but cool” rather than “medieval reenactor.” They work equally well on a toddler, a teenager, a business professional, or an elderly gentleman. That timeless quality is what you’re looking for if this is going on a birth certificate.

For fictional characters or gaming personas, you have much more freedom. Go full medieval with Aethelred or Wulfric. Lean into the exotic with Llywelyn or Sigfrid. Nobody’s filling out job applications for your D&D character. The more distinctive and authentic, the better it serves the creative purpose.

Creating a fantasy world? Explore our fantasy team names for more inspiration.

The Stories Behind the Names

What I love most about medieval names is that they’re not just words—they’re doorways to stories. When you choose “Roland,” you’re connecting to The Song of Roland, the epic tale of Charlemagne’s knight who died at Roncevaux Pass defending the rearguard. That’s not just a name; it’s an entire literary tradition about loyalty, valor, and tragic heroism.

“Arthur” carries the weight of Camelot, the Round Table, Excalibur, and the quest for the Holy Grail—the most influential story cycle in Western literature. “Tristan” brings with it one of history’s greatest tragic romances. “Beowulf” connects to the oldest surviving epic poem in Old English. These aren’t abstract historical artifacts; they’re living stories that still resonate with modern audiences.

Even lesser-known names carry fascinating histories. Dunstan was an archbishop who stood up to kings, a metalworker who became a saint, and the man who reformed English monasteries. Godfrey of Bouillon refused the title “King of Jerusalem” after conquering it during the First Crusade, calling himself “Defender of the Holy Sepulchre” instead. These stories add richness and depth to names that might otherwise seem like random medieval choices.

Building Your Perfect Medieval Name List

Start by writing down names that immediately catch your attention—don’t overthink it, just react instinctively. Which names made you pause while reading this list? Which ones did you mentally pronounce, testing how they felt in your mouth? Those gut reactions tell you something important about what resonates with your personal taste.

Next, research the meanings and origins of your favorites. Does the meaning align with what you want the name to represent? Does the historical context feel right? If you loved “Lancelot” but discovered it was invented by a French romance writer rather than having authentic medieval roots, does that change your feelings? For some people, literary invention matters; for others, it doesn’t.

Create categories based on your priorities. Maybe you want names that work internationally, or names specific to your heritage, or names with powerful meanings, or names that sound good with your surname. Organizing your options helps you see patterns in what you’re drawn to and makes the final decision less overwhelming.

Test drive your top contenders. Write them out, practice introducing yourself or your character with them, imagine them in various contexts. Does “Magnus Erikson” feel as good on day three as it did on day one? Sometimes names that seem perfect initially lose their luster under scrutiny, while sleeper choices grow on you over time.

The Final Word on Medieval Boy Names

Trust me when I say that choosing a medieval name is about more than just picking something old-fashioned. These names carry centuries of human experience—victories and defeats, loves and losses, faith and doubt. They represent a time when names weren’t disposable trends but declarations of identity and purpose.

Whether you’re naming a son who’ll carry this name through the 21st century, creating a character who’ll inhabit your fictional world, or building a gaming persona who’ll adventure through digital realms, medieval names offer something uniquely powerful. They’ve survived wars, plagues, cultural upheavals, and the relentless march of time. That kind of staying power means something.

My ancestor Alaric the blacksmith probably never imagined his name would matter to someone seven centuries later. But here I am, researching medieval names partly because discovering his name created this inexplicable connection across time. That’s what these names do—they connect us to something larger than ourselves, to the long chain of human stories that came before us.

So take your time. Explore the origins, meanings, and stories. Say the names aloud. Imagine them in the contexts where they’ll be used. The perfect medieval name is out there waiting—maybe it’s a mighty warrior name like Siegfried, a noble king’s name like Henry, a scholarly saint’s name like Benedict, or a craftsman’s name like Colin. Whatever you choose, you’re not just picking a name. You’re choosing to carry forward a piece of history into whatever future you’re building.

And honestly? That’s pretty epic.

Ready to explore more naming options? Check out our complete collection of unique boy names for even more inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medieval Boy Names

What were the most popular medieval boy names?

William, John, Robert, Richard, and Thomas dominated medieval England, especially after the Norman Conquest. These names appeared across all social classes and remained consistently popular throughout the medieval period.

Are medieval names still used today?

Absolutely. Names like William, Henry, Edward, Charles, Richard, James, Thomas, and Alexander have remained in continuous use since medieval times. Others like Edmund, Felix, and Magnus are experiencing modern revivals.

How did medieval people choose names?

Medieval families typically named children after saints, family members, feudal lords, or chose names with meanings reflecting desired virtues. Godparents often influenced the choice, and religious considerations played a significant role after Christianization.

What’s the difference between Anglo-Saxon and Norman names?

Anglo-Saxon names were typically compound words from Old English (like “Ead-mund” meaning “wealthy protector”), while Norman names came from Germanic roots filtered through French pronunciation and spelling, introduced after 1066.

Can I use a medieval name for my baby in 2025?

Yes—many medieval names work beautifully in modern contexts. Names like Felix, Magnus, Arthur, Edmund, and Benedict feel both historical and contemporary. Just test how it sounds with your surname and consider potential teasing or pronunciation issues.