201 Unique Vintage Names That Stand the Test of Time
Choosing the perfect name can feel like a big decision, whether it’s for a new baby, a beloved pet, or even a special project. That’s where the charm of vintage names comes in. These names carry a sense of timelessness and nostalgia, offering a connection to the past while still feeling relevant today.
If you’re drawn to names that have stood the test of time, you’re in the right place. We’ve gathered a variety of vintage names that are perfect for boys, girls, cats, and dogs, ensuring you’ll find the ideal match for your needs.
Vintage Names for Boys
Vintage names for boys have a timeless appeal that never goes out of style. These names often carry a sense of strength, tradition, and history, making them perfect for parents who want something classic yet distinctive. Whether you’re looking for a name that evokes a sense of nobility or one that simply feels like it’s been around for generations, this list offers a range of options to consider.
- Arthur – A name with royal connections, meaning “bear king.”
- Henry – A strong and regal name, meaning “ruler of the household.”
- Edward – A classic name meaning “wealthy guardian.”
- William – A timeless name meaning “resolute protector.”
- Charles – A name of noble origins, meaning “free man.”
- George – A solid name with a royal history, meaning “farmer.”
- Frederick – A name that exudes strength, meaning “peaceful ruler.”
- James – A popular classic, meaning “supplanter.”
- Theodore – A name with a vintage charm, meaning “gift of God.”
- Samuel – A timeless name meaning “God has heard.”
- Albert – A name with a royal touch, meaning “noble and bright.”
- Louis – A name with French roots, meaning “renowned warrior.”
- Oscar – A name of Irish origin, meaning “God’s spear.”
- Harold – A strong and traditional name, meaning “army ruler.”
- Walter – A sturdy name meaning “ruler of the army.”
- Vincent – A classic name meaning “conquering.”
- Edmund – A name with a rich history, meaning “fortunate protector.”
- Leonard – A name of German origin, meaning “brave lion.”
- Alfred – A name that evokes wisdom, meaning “wise counselor.”
- Cecil – A name with an old-world charm, meaning “blind.”
- Hugh – A simple and strong name, meaning “mind or intellect.”
- Percy – A name with literary ties, meaning “pierce valley.”
- Ralph – A solid and dependable name, meaning “wolf counsel.”
- Sidney – A vintage name with a sophisticated feel, meaning “wide meadow.”
- Lawrence – A name of Roman origin, meaning “from Laurentum.”
- Reginald – A name with an air of authority, meaning “ruler’s advisor.”
- Clarence – A noble name meaning “bright or clear.”
- Bernard – A strong name, meaning “brave as a bear.”
- Francis – A name with religious roots, meaning “Frenchman or free man.”
- Rupert – A charming name with a royal flair, meaning “bright fame.”
Vintage Names for Girls
Vintage names for girls exude elegance, grace, and a touch of nostalgia. These names have a timeless quality that makes them just as lovely today as they were generations ago. If you’re looking for a name that combines classic charm with enduring appeal, this list offers a variety of beautiful options.
- Eleanor – A regal name meaning “bright, shining one.”
- Beatrice – A name with a joyful meaning, “bringer of happiness.”
- Clara – A simple and sweet name meaning “bright, clear.”
- Lillian – A classic name, meaning “lily flower.”
- Violet – A floral name with a vintage twist, meaning “purple.”
- Margaret – A strong, traditional name meaning “pearl.”
- Rose – A timeless floral name symbolizing beauty and love.
- Edith – A name with old-world charm, meaning “prosperous in war.”
- Josephine – A classic name with French origins, meaning “God will add.”
- Hazel – A vintage name with nature roots, meaning “the hazel tree.”
- Matilda – A name with a warrior spirit, meaning “battle-mighty.”
- Florence – A name of Latin origin, meaning “flourishing, prosperous.”
- Agnes – A name with a saintly history, meaning “pure, holy.”
- Dorothy – A classic name meaning “gift of God.”
- Evelyn – A name with a soft sound, meaning “desired.”
- Frances – A name meaning “free” or “from France.”
- Gwendolyn – A name with Welsh roots, meaning “white ring.”
- Helena – A name of Greek origin, meaning “shining light.”
- Louise – A name with French origins, meaning “renowned warrior.”
- Miriam – A biblical name with a timeless feel, meaning “wished-for child.”
- Nora – A short and sweet name meaning “light.”
- Ophelia – A Shakespearean name meaning “help.”
- Penelope – A name with Greek origins, meaning “weaver.”
- Sylvia – A nature-inspired name meaning “from the forest.”
- Winifred – A name with an old-world charm, meaning “blessed peacemaking.”
- Esther – A biblical name meaning “star.”
- Gertrude – A name with a strong, traditional feel, meaning “spear of strength.”
- Emmeline – A name with French origins, meaning “work.”
Vintage Names for Cats
Vintage names for cats can give your feline friend a sense of sophistication and charm. These names often evoke a sense of elegance and old-world grace, perfect for a beloved pet that carries themselves with poise.
- Mittens – A cozy, old-fashioned name for a cat with white paws.
- Whiskers – A classic name highlighting one of a cat’s defining features.
- Tabitha – A name with biblical origins, perfect for a graceful cat.
- Felix – A name meaning “happy,” ideal for a cheerful feline.
- Marmalade – A sweet name for an orange-colored cat.
- Missy – A quaint and proper name for a well-behaved kitty.
- Percival – A knightly name for a noble and dignified cat.
- Esmeralda – A vintage name with a touch of mystery, meaning “emerald.”
- Whisper – A soft, elegant name for a quiet and mysterious cat.
- Buttons – A charming name for a small, cute cat.
- Peaches – A sweet name for a light-colored or affectionate cat.
- Chester – A name with vintage charm, perfect for a friendly cat.
- Gatsby – A name inspired by the roaring twenties, perfect for a stylish cat.
- Willow – A nature-inspired name for a graceful and serene cat.
- Jasper – A classic name for a cat with a strong personality.
- Muffin – A sweet name for a cuddly and affectionate cat.
- Winston – A dignified name for a wise and stately cat.
- Tobias – A name with biblical roots, perfect for a wise and gentle cat.
- Maisie – A charming, old-fashioned name for a sweet cat.
- Basil – A vintage name with a touch of sophistication.
- Oliver – A classic name for a curious and adventurous cat.
- Ginger – A perfect name for an orange or fiery-spirited cat.
- Smokey – A fitting name for a gray or mysterious cat.
- Tilly – A cute, old-fashioned name for a playful and active cat.
- Baxter – A distinguished name for a clever and curious cat.
Vintage Names for Dogs
Vintage names for dogs bring a sense of loyalty, nobility, and history to your furry friend. These names are perfect for dogs with a proud bearing or those who seem to embody a timeless spirit.
- Maxwell – A strong and noble name, meaning “great stream.”
- Rufus – A classic name for a red-coated dog, meaning “red-haired.”
- Duke – A regal name, perfect for a dog with a commanding presence.
- Lassie – An iconic name, meaning “young girl,” perfect for a loyal dog.
- Bentley – A distinguished name, ideal for a dog with a refined demeanor.
- Archie – A charming name, meaning “genuine and bold.”
- Sadie – A sweet name with vintage appeal, meaning “princess.”
- Rex – A strong name, meaning “king,” for a dog with a regal bearing.
- Roscoe – A classic name with a rugged feel, meaning “deer forest.”
- Molly – A sweet and old-fashioned name, meaning “bitter.”
- Buster – A playful and energetic name for a lively dog.
- Lady – A refined and elegant name for a graceful dog.
- Hugo – A name with a noble air, meaning “mind or intellect.”
- Fido – A classic name meaning “faithful,” perfect for a loyal dog.
- Daisy – A cheerful name, symbolizing innocence and purity.
- Bruno – A strong and traditional name, meaning “brown.”
- Ellie – A sweet name with a vintage feel, meaning “shining light.”
- Monty – A noble name, short for Montgomery, meaning “mountain.”
- Benny – A cheerful and classic name, meaning “blessed.”
- Otis – A name with a rustic charm, meaning “wealthy.”
- Bella – A timeless name, meaning “beautiful,” perfect for a graceful dog.
- Harvey – A classic name, meaning “battle worthy.”
- Annie – A sweet and traditional name, meaning “grace.”
- Lola – A playful and vintage name, meaning “sorrow.”
- Fergus – A strong and noble name, meaning “man of strength.”
Unique Vintage Names
Unique vintage names are perfect for those who want something distinctive and rare. These names have a timeless charm but aren’t commonly heard today, making them ideal for anyone looking to stand out with a touch of old-world elegance.
- Leopold – A regal name meaning “brave people.”
- Eulalia – A melodic name of Greek origin, meaning “well-spoken.”
- Odette – A name with French origins, meaning “wealthy.”
- Clement – A gentle name meaning “merciful, mild.”
- Elspeth – A Scottish variant of Elizabeth, meaning “pledged to God.”
- Zelda – A unique name with German origins, meaning “gray fighting maid.”
- Hiram – A biblical name meaning “exalted brother.”
- Althea – A Greek name meaning “healer.”
- Ianthe – A rare name of Greek origin, meaning “purple flower.”
- Thaddeus – A name with an ancient feel, meaning “courageous heart.”
- Imogen – A Shakespearean name, meaning “maiden.”
- Wilhelmina – A strong name with German roots, meaning “resolute protector.”
- Cyril – A name of Greek origin, meaning “lordly.”
- Seraphina – A celestial name, meaning “fiery.”
- Eudora – A Greek name meaning “good gift.”
- Lysander – A name with Greek roots, meaning “liberator.”
- Genevieve – A name of French origin, meaning “woman of the race.”
- Orson – A unique name meaning “bear cub.”
- Melisande – A name of French origin, meaning “strength.”
- Augustus – A Roman name meaning “great, magnificent.”
- Theodora – A classic name meaning “gift of God.”
- Phineas – A name with Hebrew roots, meaning “oracle.”
- Araminta – A unique name meaning “defender.”
- Sylvester – A name of Latin origin, meaning “wooded.”
- Lavender – A nature-inspired name, symbolizing grace and calm.
- Montgomery – A name with Norman roots, meaning “mountain hunter.”
Cute Vintage Names
Cute vintage names are sweet, endearing, and carry a sense of timeless charm. These names have a playful and innocent quality that makes them perfect for children or pets.
- Dottie – A diminutive form of Dorothy, meaning “gift of God.”
- Bobby – A cute and classic name, meaning “bright fame.”
- Millie – A sweet name short for Millicent or Amelia, meaning “industrious.”
- Pippin – A playful name with old-world charm, meaning “traveler.”
- Lottie – A diminutive of Charlotte, meaning “free man.”
- Teddy – A cute, cuddly name, often short for Theodore, meaning “gift of God.”
- Minnie – An adorable name meaning “of the sea” or “beloved.”
- Alfie – A cute name meaning “wise counselor.”
- Penny – A diminutive of Penelope, meaning “weaver.”
- Hattie – A sweet name short for Harriet, meaning “estate ruler.”
- Elsie – A cute name with Scottish roots, meaning “pledged to God.”
- Winnie – A playful name meaning “fair one” or “holy peacemaking.”
- Frankie – A spunky and cute name, short for Frances or Franklin, meaning “free.”
- Lulu – A whimsical name meaning “famous warrior.”
- Nellie – A diminutive of Eleanor or Helen, meaning “light.”
- Georgie – A charming name, short for George or Georgina, meaning “farmer.”
- Mabel – An old-fashioned name meaning “lovable.”
- Bessie – A diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning “pledged to God.”
- Rosie – A sweet floral name, meaning “rose.”
- Gus – A short and strong name, meaning “great.”
- Flossie – A playful name, short for Florence, meaning “flourishing.”
- Fifi – A playful and cute name, often short for Josephine, meaning “God will add.”
- Cleo – A short and chic name, meaning “glory.”
- Gigi – A lively and playful name, often short for Georgina, meaning “farmer.”
- Ivy – A nature-inspired name, symbolizing fidelity.
- Bertie – A diminutive of Albert or Bertha, meaning “bright.”
- Pippa – A playful name, short for Philippa, meaning “lover of horses.”
Old Vintage Names
Old vintage names carry a deep sense of history and nostalgia. These names have been around for centuries and evoke a sense of the past, making them perfect for those who appreciate a truly classic name.
- Agatha – An ancient Greek name meaning “good.”
- Edgar – A name of English origin, meaning “wealthy spear.”
- Mildred – An old-fashioned name meaning “gentle strength.”
- Bertram – A name with Germanic roots, meaning “bright raven.”
- Ethel – A classic name meaning “noble.”
- Herbert – A name meaning “bright army.”
- Beulah – A biblical name meaning “married.”
- Horace – A name of Latin origin, meaning “timekeeper.”
- Myrtle – A nature-inspired name, symbolizing victory.
- Wilfred – An old English name meaning “desires peace.”
- Blanche – A French name meaning “white, fair.”
- Clyde – A Scottish name meaning “from the riverbank.”
- Dorcas – A biblical name meaning “gazelle.”
- Ambrose – A name of Latin origin, meaning “immortal.”
- Maude – An old German name meaning “battle-mighty.”
- Humphrey – A name meaning “peaceful warrior.”
- Ida – An old German name meaning “industrious one.”
- Arnold – A strong name meaning “ruler, strong as an eagle.”
- Edna – A biblical name meaning “pleasure, delight.”
- Millicent – A name meaning “strong in work.”
- Orville – A name of French origin, meaning “gold town.”
- Sophronia – A Greek name meaning “self-controlled.”
- Oswald – An old English name meaning “God’s power.”
- Hester – A name with ancient roots, meaning “star.”
Modern Vintage Names
Modern vintage names have a timeless quality but also fit seamlessly into contemporary settings. These names offer the best of both worlds: the charm of the past and the appeal of the present.
- Amelia – A name with vintage charm, meaning “work.”
- Liam – A modern favorite with vintage roots, meaning “resolute protector.”
- Charlotte – A timeless name meaning “free man.”
- Sophia – A name with Greek origins, meaning “wisdom.”
- Grace – A name symbolizing elegance and kindness.
- Ella – A short and sweet name, meaning “light.”
- Sebastian – A name with Greek roots, meaning “venerable.”
- Jack – A strong and simple name, meaning “God is gracious.”
- Ruby – A vibrant name, symbolizing the precious gem.
- Leo – A short, strong name, meaning “lion.”
- Harper – A name meaning “harp player,” with both modern and vintage appeal.
- Atticus – A literary name with ancient roots, meaning “man of Attica.”
- Milo – A short, strong name meaning “soldier or merciful.”
- Ada – A simple yet elegant name, meaning “noble.”
- Finn – A name with Irish roots, meaning “fair.”
- Stella – A bright and shining name, meaning “star.”