Choosing the perfect name for your baby boy is a significant decision. If you’re drawn to names that evoke a sense of history, refinement, and enduring elegance, then exploring Old Money Boy Names is an excellent starting point. These names carry an inherent sophistication, whispering tales of tradition and established legacy. For generations, they have been associated with nobility, intellect, and a distinguished style that transcends fleeting trends.
Whether you envision your son embodying a quiet dignity, a bold confidence, or simply possessing a name with a touch of old-world charm, this curated list of old money boy names offers a wealth of inspiration. Let’s delve into these distinguished appellations, uncovering their captivating origins, rich meanings, and the timeless appeal that makes them eternally stylish.
Old money boy names pin
1. Alexander
- Meaning: Defender of mankind
- Origin: Greek
Alexander, a name of undeniable power and prestige, boasts Greek origins and a robust meaning: “defender of mankind.” Throughout history, Alexanders have been leaders, conquerors, and artists, cementing this name’s place among the most classic and enduring. The approachable nickname “Alex” adds to its versatility.
2. Alfred
- Meaning: Wise counselor, elf counsel
- Origin: Old English
Alfred is a stately old money boy name with Old English roots, signifying “wise counselor” or “elf counsel.” Evoking images of learned scholars and respected figures, Alfred carries an air of intelligence and thoughtful consideration. The charming diminutive “Alfie” lends a touch of warmth to this distinguished name.
A toddler boy dressed in a suit in front of a grand estate showcasing old money style
3. Archibald
- Meaning: Truly brave, most bold
- Origin: Germanic
Archibald, a name of Germanic origin, conveys strength and sincerity, meaning “truly brave” or “most bold.” With its distinguished sound and rich history, Archibald projects an image of unwavering resolve and genuine character. The endearing nickname “Archie” provides a more casual alternative. Its recent royal association further enhances its classic appeal.
4. Arthur
- Meaning: Bear, noble, courageous
- Origin: Celtic
Arthur, a name steeped in legend and Celtic mystique, carries meanings of “bear,” “noble,” and “courageous.” Instantly recognizable for its connection to King Arthur and his round table, this name embodies chivalry, bravery, and a timeless sense of honor.
5. Bartholomew
- Meaning: Son of the furrow, son of Talmai
- Origin: Hebrew
Bartholomew, a distinctive and classic boy name of Hebrew origin, translates to “son of the furrow” or “son of Talmai.” While less common than some names on this list, Bartholomew possesses a unique gravitas and a refined, almost literary quality. Nicknames like “Barty” or “Bart” offer more informal options.
6. Bernard
- Meaning: Brave as a bear, strong and brave bear
- Origin: Germanic
Bernard, another strong and traditional old money boy name of Germanic origin, means “brave as a bear” or “strong and brave bear.” This name evokes resilience, courage, and a steadfast nature, making it a solid and dependable choice.
7. Charles
- Meaning: Free man, warrior
- Origin: Germanic
Charles, undeniably a royal name of utmost significance, is of Germanic origin and means “free man” or “warrior.” As the name of kings and emperors throughout history, and currently borne by the King of England, Charles exudes authority, tradition, and a timeless regal air. The familiar nickname “Charlie” adds a touch of youthful charm.
A well-groomed boy in a suit in a library embodying the classic old money aesthetic
8. Clarence
- Meaning: Clear, bright, famous
- Origin: Latin
Clarence, a refined and traditional name for boys with Latin origins, signifies “clear,” “bright,” or “famous.” With its smooth sound and sophisticated feel, Clarence carries an understated elegance and a sense of quiet confidence.
9. Cyril
- Meaning: Lordly, master, of the Lord
- Origin: Greek
Cyril, pronounced “SI-RUL,” is a Greek name meaning “lordly,” “master,” or “of the Lord.” This name possesses a distinguished and somewhat uncommon charm, suggesting a natural leadership and a refined demeanor.
10. Edgar
- Meaning: Wealthy spear, rich spear
- Origin: Old English
Edgar, a strong old money boy name of Old English origin, means “wealthy spear” or “rich spear.” Evoking images of strength and prosperity, Edgar has a classic, almost literary feel, reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe. The nickname “Eddie” provides a more casual option.
11. Edmund
- Meaning: Wealthy protector, rich protector
- Origin: Old English
Edmund, another distinguished Old English boy name, means “wealthy protector” or “rich protector.” Similar to Edgar, Edmund conveys strength and security, with a historical and dignified resonance. It too can be shortened to the friendly “Eddie.”
12. Edward
- Meaning: Wealthy guardian, rich guardian
- Origin: Old English
Edward, sharing Old English roots with Edmund, means “wealthy guardian” or “rich guardian.” A name of kings and nobles, Edward is a cornerstone of classic old money names, embodying strength, responsibility, and a steadfast nature.
13. Elias
- Meaning: My God is the Lord, Yahweh is my God
- Origin: Hebrew
Elias, pronounced “EH-LIE-AS,” is a Hebrew old money boy name meaning “My God is the Lord” or “Yahweh is my God.” This name carries a biblical significance and a timeless spiritual depth, suggesting piety and a strong connection to faith.
14. Ernest
- Meaning: Serious, resolute, battle to the death
- Origin: Germanic
Ernest, a classic boy name of Germanic roots, signifies “serious,” “resolute,” or “battle to the death.” This name conveys determination, sincerity, and a no-nonsense approach, making it a strong and reliable choice. “Ernie” is a common and endearing nickname.
15. Eugene
- Meaning: Well-born, noble
- Origin: Greek
Eugene, pronounced “YU-JEAN,” is a Greek name meaning “well-born” or “noble.” This name inherently suggests aristocracy and refinement, evoking images of cultured gentlemen and sophisticated tastes.
16. Frederick
- Meaning: Peaceful ruler, calm ruler
- Origin: Germanic
Frederick, a versatile old money boy name of German origin, means “peaceful ruler” or “calm ruler.” Despite its regal meaning, Frederick also has a gentle and approachable quality. Nicknames like “Freddie” or “Fred” further enhance its versatility.
17. Geoffrey
- Meaning: Peaceful pledge, peace-loving
- Origin: Germanic
Geoffrey, meaning “peaceful pledge” or “peace-loving,” is a classic Germanic name for boys. It suggests a gentle nature and a commitment to harmony, while still retaining a strong and traditional feel. “Geoff” is a common and casual shortening.
18. George
- Meaning: Farmer, earth-worker
- Origin: Greek
George, another undeniably royal name with Greek origins, means “farmer” or “earth-worker.” While its meaning is humble, George has been borne by kings and saints, imbuing it with a timeless dignity and a steadfast, grounded quality. It is also the name of Prince William and Princess Catherine’s eldest son, further cementing its royal pedigree.
19. Gilbert
- Meaning: Bright pledge, shining promise
- Origin: Germanic
Gilbert, often shortened to “Gill,” is a Germanic name meaning “bright pledge” or “shining promise.” This name conveys optimism, intelligence, and a dependable nature, making it a cheerful yet classic choice.
20. Gregory
- Meaning: Watchful, vigilant, alert
- Origin: Greek
Gregory, a Greek name meaning “watchful,” “vigilant,” or “alert,” suggests attentiveness, intelligence, and a protective nature. The nickname “Greg” offers a more informal and approachable alternative.
A well dressed boy in a suit walking outside in a formal garden demonstrating old money fashion
21. Harold
- Meaning: Army ruler, power of the army
- Origin: Old English
Harold, a traditional name for boys with Old English roots, means “army ruler” or “power of the army.” This name evokes strength, leadership, and a commanding presence, with historical ties to Viking and English royalty.
22. Henry
- Meaning: Home ruler, estate ruler
- Origin: Germanic
Henry, a name with royal connections stretching back centuries, is of German origin and means “home ruler” or “estate ruler.” Synonymous with English kingship, Henry embodies authority, tradition, and a timeless sense of nobility.
23. Herbert
- Meaning: Bright army, glorious warrior
- Origin: Germanic
Herbert, a Germanic name meaning “bright army” or “glorious warrior,” conveys strength, intelligence, and a distinguished air. While less common today, Herbert retains a classic charm and a solid, dependable feel.
24. Humphrey
- Meaning: Peaceful warrior, peace-loving warrior
- Origin: Germanic
Humphrey, a traditional boy’s name of Germanic origin, means “peaceful warrior” or “peace-loving warrior.” This name presents a unique combination of strength and gentleness, suggesting a balanced and thoughtful nature.
25. James
- Meaning: Supplanter, he who supplants
- Origin: Hebrew
James, a quintessential old money boy name with Hebrew origins, means “supplanter” or “he who supplants.” A name of biblical significance and borne by numerous kings and historical figures, James is a timeless classic that exudes strength, reliability, and enduring appeal.
26. Jasper
- Meaning: Bringer of treasure, treasurer
- Origin: Persian
Jasper, with Persian roots, means “bringer of treasure” or “treasurer.” This name has a sophisticated and slightly exotic flair, suggesting refinement, artistic sensibility, and a touch of worldly charm.
27. Laurence
- Meaning: From Laurentum, bright one, laurelled
- Origin: Latin
Laurence, with Latin roots, means “from Laurentum,” “bright one,” or “laurelled.” Associated with the laurel wreath, a symbol of victory and honor, Laurence evokes achievement, intelligence, and a classic, sophisticated style.
28. Leonard
- Meaning: Brave lion, lion strength
- Origin: Germanic
Leonard, pronounced “LEN-UHD,” is a Germanic name meaning “brave lion” or “lion strength.” This name embodies courage, strength, and a noble spirit, making it a powerful and distinguished choice.
29. Louis
- Meaning: Famous warrior, renowned fighter
- Origin: Germanic
Louis, another old money boy name with strong royal connections, is of German origin and means “famous warrior” or “renowned fighter.” Borne by French kings and recently chosen for Prince William and Princess Catherine’s second son, Louis is a name that exudes European elegance, tradition, and quiet strength.
30. Maurice
- Meaning: Dark-skinned, Moorish
- Origin: Latin
Maurice, pronounced “MUH-REECE,” has Latin origins and means “dark-skinned” or “Moorish.” This name possesses a sophisticated and continental charm, suggesting worldly experience and a refined aesthetic.
A toddler boy dressed in a suit showcasing classic old money attire
31. Nicholas
- Meaning: Victory of the people, people’s victory
- Origin: Greek
Nicholas, an old money boy name of Greek origin, has a powerful meaning: “victory of the people” or “people’s victory.” Associated with St. Nicholas, the precursor to Santa Claus, this name embodies generosity, kindness, and a timeless, benevolent spirit.
32. Oliver
- Meaning: Olive tree, olive branch
- Origin: Latin
Oliver, a consistently popular name with Latin origins, means “olive tree” or “olive branch.” Evoking peace, fruitfulness, and natural beauty, Oliver is a charming and sophisticated choice with a gentle strength. It’s also often considered a refined nature-inspired name.
33. Percival
- Meaning: Pierce the vale, pierce the valley
- Origin: French
Percival, which can be shortened to “Percy,” means “pierce the vale” or “pierce the valley” and has French origins. This name carries a romantic and slightly Arthurian air, suggesting bravery, chivalry, and a questing spirit.
34. Philip
- Meaning: Lover of horses, friend of horses
- Origin: Greek
Philip, a classic name for boys of Greek origin, means “lover of horses” or “friend of horses.” Associated with royalty and nobility throughout history, Philip evokes images of grace, athleticism, and a refined, equestrian lifestyle.
A young boy riding a horse embodying the equestrian elegance associated with old money
35. Quentin
- Meaning: Fifth, born fifth
- Origin: Latin
Quentin, a more unusual boy name with Latin origins, simply means “fifth” or “born fifth.” Despite its numerical meaning, Quentin has a distinctive and sophisticated sound, suggesting intelligence, individuality, and a slightly artistic temperament.
36. Reginald
- Meaning: Counsel power, advice ruler
- Origin: Latin
Reginald, a classic boy name that can be shortened to “Reggie,” has Latin origins and means “counsel power” or “advice ruler.” This name conveys wisdom, leadership, and a thoughtful, strategic mind.
37. Rupert
- Meaning: Bright fame, renowned glory
- Origin: Germanic
Rupert, a classic name for boys of German origin, means “bright fame” or “renowned glory.” With a cheerful yet distinguished sound, Rupert suggests charisma, talent, and a naturally bright and optimistic personality.
Boy dressed in a suit in front of a grand house exemplifying old money style and affluence
38. Theodore
- Meaning: Gift of God, God-given
- Origin: Greek
Theodore, a name that can be charmingly shortened to “Theo,” is of Greek origin and means “gift of God” or “God-given.” This name carries a spiritual significance and a sense of blessedness, making it a meaningful choice for religious families.
39. Walter
- Meaning: Army ruler, power of the army
- Origin: Germanic
Walter, a German name meaning “army ruler” or “power of the army,” is less common in the US today but retains a strong, classic appeal. It evokes images of steadfastness, leadership, and a traditional, no-nonsense character.
40. Wilfred
- Meaning: Desires peace, will for peace
- Origin: Old English
Wilfred, with Old English roots, means “desires peace” or “will for peace.” This classic old money name for boys suggests a gentle strength, a thoughtful nature, and a commitment to harmony and diplomacy.
41. Oscar
- Meaning: Deer-loving, God’s spear, champion warrior
- Origin: English and Irish
Oscar, a classic name of both English and Irish origin, can mean “deer-loving,” “God’s spear,” or “champion warrior.” This versatile name combines a love of nature with connotations of strength and prowess, making it a well-rounded and sophisticated choice.
42. Chester
- Meaning: Fort, fortress, camp of soldiers
- Origin: Latin and English
Chester, a timeless old money boy name with both English and Latin origins, means “fort,” “fortress,” or “camp of soldiers.” This name conveys strength, security, and a steadfast, reliable character that works well throughout life.
43. Hugh
- Meaning: Heart, mind, spirit
- Origin: German and English
Hugh, with a beautiful and simple meaning – “heart,” “mind,” or “spirit” – is a cute yet timeless name for boys of English and German origin. It suggests warmth, intelligence, and a genuine, heartfelt nature.
44. Hugo
- Meaning: Mind, intellect, spirit
- Origin: German
Hugo, with German roots, is a classic old money boy name that exudes sophistication. Meaning “mind,” “intellect,” or “spirit,” Hugo suggests intelligence, thoughtfulness, and a refined, intellectual character.
45. Rufus
- Meaning: Red-haired, ruddy
- Origin: Latin
Rufus, a charming old money boy name with Latin origins, simply means “red-haired” or “ruddy.” While its meaning is descriptive, Rufus has a playful yet sophisticated charm, suggesting warmth and a distinctive personality.
A toddler boy in a suit in front of a stately home radiating old money charm
46. Cecil
- Meaning: Blind, sixth, home ruler
- Origin: Welsh
Cecil, a Welsh name for boys pronounced “SEH-SUL,” can mean “blind,” “sixth,” or “home ruler.” While the meaning “blind” might seem unusual, Cecil has evolved into a sophisticated and classic name, particularly popular in England.
47. Abraham
- Meaning: Father of multitudes, father of nations
- Origin: Hebrew
Abraham, a sophisticated and versatile old money boy name of Hebrew origin, means “father of multitudes” or “father of nations.” A name of immense biblical significance and associated with figures like Abraham Lincoln, this name embodies leadership, wisdom, and a foundational strength. It can be affectionately shortened to “Abe.”
48. Claude
- Meaning: Lame, enclosure, strong-willed
- Origin: Latin
Claude, with Latin roots, carries meanings of “lame,” “enclosure,” or “strong-willed.” Despite the less desirable meaning “lame,” Claude has become associated with artistry, sophistication, and a quiet strength. It’s also considered a name that subtly suggests perseverance.
49. Franklin
- Meaning: Free landholder, free man
- Origin: English
Franklin, another versatile name on this list, has English origins and means “free landholder” or “free man.” Associated with Benjamin Franklin and Franklin D. Roosevelt, this name embodies independence, intellect, and a distinguished American heritage. Cute nicknames include “Frank” or “Frankie.”
50. Orson
- Meaning: Bear cub, bear strength
- Origin: Latin and French
Orson, a classic name for boys with a sophisticated feel, has Latin and French roots and means “bear cub” or “bear strength.” This name combines a touch of nature-inspired charm with connotations of strength and gentleness, making it a unique and appealing choice.
A smart looking boy dressed in a suit outside in a park embodying the elegance of old money style
A smart looking toddler boy dressed in a suit outside a grand house showcasing old money fashion
Selecting a name for your baby boy is a deeply personal and important endeavor. However, you truly can’t go wrong with an old money boy name. Each traditional name on this curated list carries an inherent aura of sophistication, prestige, and enduring strength, perfectly suited for every stage of your little one’s life.
Whether you find inspiration in royal names like Louis and George, or gravitate towards names linked with victory and resilience such as Nicholas and Leonard, all the old money boy names presented here are guaranteed to stand the test of time. They offer a connection to history, a whisper of tradition, and an undeniable elegance that will serve your son well throughout his life.
We trust that you will discover the ideal name for your little prince within this collection. And for further exploration, we encourage you to explore our curated lists of vintage names, classic Southern baby names and names that mean light.
Wishing you the very best in your name-finding journey, from our family to yours.
Related Posts
Top 100 Names That Can Be Shortened: Name Origins & Meanings
Top 100 Names That Can Be Shortened: Name Origins & Meanings
40 Unusual Irish Girl Names With Meanings
40 Unusual Irish Girl Names With Meanings
How to choose a name for your baby, whether you’re starting from scratch, or already have a list!
