Those legendary gunslingers, rugged cowboys, and iron-willed frontier men didn’t just leave their mark with six-shooters and cattle drives—they left behind some mighty fine names too.

Tough western boy names from the 1800s transport us back to dusty saloons, sprawling ranches, and lawless towns where a man’s name carried as much weight as the iron on his hip.

These weren’t fancy city names with complicated spellings. They were short, strong, and easy to holler across the prairie when trouble came calling. Names like Wyatt, Jesse, and Clint didn’t just sound good; they built reputations that echo through history books today.

Ready to uncover names that pack more punch than a Colt revolver? Let’s ride into the sunset of 1800s naming traditions that shaped American frontier legends.

What Makes a Name Sound Tough and Western?

Western names from the 1800s carry a strong sense of grit, honesty, and courage. These names were common among cowboys, pioneers, lawmen, and settlers who shaped the Old West.

Most of these names are short, bold, and easy to say and are the kind of names you’d hear in a gunfight or a dusty saloon. They often come from English, Hebrew, Latin, or German roots, and carry meanings tied to battle, strength, leadership, nature, and family.

Some are classic first names, others are surnames turned into first names as both styles were common on the frontier. If you’re looking for a name that feels rugged but timeless, these 1800s picks won’t disappoint.

Tough Western Boy Names from the 1800s

Tough Western Boy Names from the 1800s

1. Abner

Pronunciation: AB-ner
Meaning: Father of light and wisdom
Origin: Hebrew

2. Abraham

Pronunciation: AY-bruh-ham
Meaning: Father of many nations and peoples
Origin: Hebrew

3. Ace

Pronunciation: AYS
Meaning: Unity, highest rank in its class
Origin: Latin

4. Adam

Pronunciation: AD-um
Meaning: Man of the earth or soil
Origin: Hebrew

5. Addison

Pronunciation: AD-ih-sun
Meaning: Son of Adam, child of earth
Origin: English

6. Adler

Pronunciation: AD-ler
Meaning: Eagle, symbol of strength and freedom
Origin: German

7. Aiken

Pronunciation: AY-kin
Meaning: Made of oak, strong as timber
Origin: Scottish

8. Ajax

Pronunciation: AY-jaks
Meaning: Eagle warrior of great strength
Origin: Greek

9. Alaric

Pronunciation: AL-ah-rik
Meaning: Ruler of all, all-powerful king
Origin: Germanic

10. Albert

Pronunciation: AL-bert
Meaning: Noble, bright, and illustrious warrior
Origin: Germanic

11. Alden

Pronunciation: AWL-den
Meaning: Old wise friend, elder statesman
Origin: English

12. Aldous

Pronunciation: AL-dus
Meaning: Old house, keeper of traditions
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

13. Alexander

Pronunciation: al-ig-ZAN-der
Meaning: Defender of mankind against all odds
Origin: Greek

14. Alfred

Pronunciation: AL-fred
Meaning: Wise counselor, elven peace bringer
Origin: Old English

15. Algernon

Pronunciation: al-JUR-nun
Meaning: Wearer of mustaches, distinguished gentleman
Origin: Norman-French

16. Alistair

Pronunciation: AL-ih-ster
Meaning: Defender of mankind, protective warrior
Origin: Scottish

17. Aloysius

Pronunciation: al-oh-ISH-us
Meaning: Famous warrior, renowned in battle
Origin: Germanic

18. Alphonse

Pronunciation: AL-fonz
Meaning: Noble and ready for battle
Origin: Germanic

19. Alton

Pronunciation: AWL-tun
Meaning: From the old town, ancient
Origin: English

20. Alvin

Pronunciation: AL-vin

Meaning: Friend of the elves, magical ally
Origin: Old English

21. Ambrose

Pronunciation: AM-brohz
Meaning: Immortal one who never dies
Origin: Greek

22. Amos

Pronunciation: AY-mus
Meaning: Bearer of burden, strong carrier
Origin: Hebrew

23. Anderson

Pronunciation: AN-der-sun
Meaning: Son of Andrew, manly one
Origin: Scandinavian

24. Andrew

Pronunciation: AN-droo
Meaning: Strong, manly, and brave warrior
Origin: Greek

25. Angus

Pronunciation: ANG-gus
Meaning: One choice, exceptional strength bestowed
Origin: Scottish/Irish

26. Ansel

Pronunciation: AN-sel
Meaning: Divine protection, god’s helmet bearer
Origin: Germanic

27. Archer

Pronunciation: AR-cher
Meaning: Bowman, skilled hunter and marksman
Origin: English

28. Archibald

Pronunciation: AR-chi-bald
Meaning: Truly bold, genuine and courageous
Origin: Germanic

29. Arlo

Pronunciation: AR-loh
Meaning: Fortified hill, defender of land
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

30. Armstrong

Pronunciation: ARM-strong
Meaning: Strong in the arm, powerful
Origin: Scottish

31. Arnold

Pronunciation: AR-nold
Meaning: Eagle power, strength of eagles
Origin: Germanic

32. Arthur

Pronunciation: AR-thur
Meaning: Bear king, noble and courageous
Origin: Celtic

33. Asher

Pronunciation: ASH-er
Meaning: Fortunate, blessed one who prospers
Origin: Hebrew

34. Ashton

Pronunciation: ASH-tun
Meaning: From the ash trees town
Origin: English

35. Atticus

Pronunciation: AT-ih-kus
Meaning: From Attica, man of honor
Origin: Latin

36. Augustus

Pronunciation: aw-GUS-tus
Meaning: Great, venerable, worthy of respect
Origin: Latin

37. Austin

Pronunciation: AW-stin
Meaning: Magnificent, dignified, and respected one
Origin: Latin

38. Avery

Pronunciation: AY-vuh-ree
Meaning: Ruler of the elves, supernatural
Origin: Old English

39. Axel

Pronunciation: AK-sul
Meaning: Father of peace, bringer of calm
Origin: Scandinavian

40. Baird

Pronunciation: BAIRD
Meaning: Bard, storyteller of great tales
Origin: Scottish

41. Baker

Pronunciation: BAY-ker
Meaning: Bread maker, provider of sustenance
Origin: English

42. Baldwin

Pronunciation: BAWLD-win
Meaning: Bold friend, courageous companion always
Origin: Germanic

43. Bancroft

Pronunciation: BAN-kroft
Meaning: Bean field, fertile land owner
Origin: English

44. Barnabas

Pronunciation: BAR-nuh-bus
Meaning: Son of encouragement and comfort
Origin: Aramaic

45. Barnaby

Pronunciation: BAR-nuh-bee
Meaning: Son of consolation and comfort
Origin: Aramaic

46. Barret

Pronunciation: BAR-et
Meaning: Bear strength, power like wildlife
Origin: Germanic

47. Bartholomew

Pronunciation: bar-THOL-uh-myoo
Meaning: Son of Talmai, furrow maker
Origin: Aramaic

48. Barton

Pronunciation: BAR-tun
Meaning: From the barley town, provider
Origin: English

49. Basil

Pronunciation: BAZ-il
Meaning: Royal, kingly in manner and bearing
Origin: Greek

50. Beauregard

Pronunciation: BOH-ruh-gard
Meaning: Beautiful gaze, one who watches
Origin: French

51. Becker

Pronunciation: BEK-er
Meaning: Baker, provider for the community
Origin: German

52. Bedford

Pronunciation: BED-ford
Meaning: From the ford by meadows
Origin: English

53. Benedict

Pronunciation: BEN-e-dikt
Meaning: Blessed one, receiver of good
Origin: Latin

54. Benjamin

Pronunciation: BEN-juh-min
Meaning: Son of the right hand
Origin: Hebrew

55. Bennett

Pronunciation: BEN-it
Meaning: Blessed one, little blessed child
Origin: Latin

56. Benson

Pronunciation: BEN-sun
Meaning: Son of Ben, blessed child
Origin: English

57. Bentley

Pronunciation: BENT-lee
Meaning: Clearing covered with bent grass
Origin: English

58. Bernard

Pronunciation: ber-NARD
Meaning: Strong and brave as a bear
Origin: Germanic

59. Bertram

Pronunciation: BUR-truhm
Meaning: Bright raven, illustrious guardian bird
Origin: Germanic

60. Blaine

Pronunciation: BLAYN
Meaning: Slender, lean yet incredibly strong
Origin: Scottish/Irish

61. Blake

Pronunciation: BLAYK
Meaning: Dark one, mysterious and powerful
Origin: Old English

62. Bolivar

Pronunciation: BOL-ih-var
Meaning: From the mill town, grinder
Origin: Spanish

63. Bolton

Pronunciation: BOWL-tun
Meaning: From the manor farm settlement
Origin: English

64. Booker

Pronunciation: BOOK-er
Meaning: Scribe, one who writes truth
Origin: English

65. Boone

Pronunciation: BOON
Meaning: Blessing, good and fortunate one
Origin: French

66. Booth

Pronunciation: BOOTH
Meaning: Dwelling place, secure home builder
Origin: Old English

67. Bowie

Pronunciation: BOH-ee
Meaning: Yellow-haired, fair and striking appearance
Origin: Scottish

68. Boyd

Pronunciation: BOYD
Meaning: Blonde, fair-haired strong man
Origin: Scottish/Irish

69. Bradford

Pronunciation: BRAD-ford
Meaning: Broad river crossing, path maker
Origin: English

70. Bradley

Pronunciation: BRAD-lee
Meaning: Broad meadow, wide open land
Origin: English

71. Braddock

Pronunciation: BRAD-uk
Meaning: Broad oak, strong as timber
Origin: English

72. Brady

Pronunciation: BRAY-dee
Meaning: Broad island, expansive territory holder
Origin: Irish

73. Bramwell

Pronunciation: BRAM-well
Meaning: Broom well, cleansing spring finder
Origin: English

74. Brandon

Pronunciation: BRAN-dun
Meaning: Fire marked hill, beacon carrier
Origin: English

75. Breckenridge

Pronunciation: BREK-in-rij
Meaning: From the bracken-covered ridge
Origin: Scottish

76. Brewer

Pronunciation: BROO-er
Meaning: Ale maker, provider of drink
Origin: English

77. Brewster

Pronunciation: BROO-ster
Meaning: Beer maker, brewer of fine drinks
Origin: English

78. Brigham

Pronunciation: BRIG-um
Meaning: From the bridge town, connector
Origin: English

79. Brock

Pronunciation: BROK
Meaning: Badger-like, tenacious and persistent fighter
Origin: English

80. Broderick

Pronunciation: BROD-er-ik
Meaning: Brother ruler, family leader always
Origin: Germanic

81. Bronson

Pronunciation: BRON-sun
Meaning: Son of the dark one
Origin: English

82. Brooks

Pronunciation: BROOKS
Meaning: From the brook, water provider
Origin: English

83. Brown

Pronunciation: BROWN
Meaning: The brown-haired or brown-skinned one
Origin: English

84. Bruce

Pronunciation: BROOS
Meaning: From the brushwood thicket, survivor
Origin: Scottish

85. Bruno

Pronunciation: BROO-noh
Meaning: Brown one, dark and mysterious
Origin: Germanic

86. Bryant

Pronunciation: BRY-ant
Meaning: Strong, noble, and virtuous one
Origin: Celtic

87. Buck

Pronunciation: BUK
Meaning: Male deer, wild and free
Origin: English

88. Buford

Pronunciation: BYU-ford
Meaning: By the ford, river crosser
Origin: English

89. Burke

Pronunciation: BURK
Meaning: From the fortress, steadfast defender
Origin: Anglo-Norman

90. Burleigh

Pronunciation: BUR-lee
Meaning: From the woodland meadow clearing
Origin: English

91. Burns

Pronunciation: BURNZ
Meaning: From the stream, water navigator
Origin: Scottish

92. Burton

Pronunciation: BUR-tun
Meaning: From the fortified settlement, protector
Origin: English

93. Butler

Pronunciation: BUT-ler
Meaning: Bottle servant, provider of plenty
Origin: Norman French

94. Byron

Pronunciation: BY-run
Meaning: From the barn, sheltering protector
Origin: English

95. Cadmus

Pronunciation: KAD-mus
Meaning: From the east, bringer of knowledge
Origin: Greek

96. Cain

Pronunciation: KAYN
Meaning: Acquired one, possessed with strength
Origin: Hebrew

97. Caldwell

Pronunciation: KALD-well
Meaning: Cold spring, source of refreshment
Origin: English

98. Caleb

Pronunciation: KAY-leb
Meaning: Faithful, wholehearted, loyal to core
Origin: Hebrew

99. Calhoun

Pronunciation: kal-HOON
Meaning: From the narrow forest, pathfinder
Origin: Scottish

Calhoun

100. Calvin

Pronunciation: KAL-vin
Meaning: Little bald one, humble fighter
Origin: Latin

101. Camden

Pronunciation: KAM-den
Meaning: From the winding valley, explorer
Origin: English

102. Cameron

Pronunciation: KAM-er-un
Meaning: Crooked nose, distinctive strong fighter
Origin: Scottish

103. Campbell

Pronunciation: KAM-bel
Meaning: Crooked mouth, unique and memorable
Origin: Scottish

104. Cannon

Pronunciation: KAN-un
Meaning: Church official, powerful weapon namesake
Origin: English

105. Carlisle

Pronunciation: kar-LYL
Meaning: From the protected fortress city
Origin: English

106. Carlos

Pronunciation: KAR-lohs
Meaning: Free man, warrior of strength
Origin: Spanish

107. Carmichael

Pronunciation: kar-MY-kul
Meaning: Friend of Michael, loyal companion
Origin: Scottish

108. Carson

Pronunciation: KAR-sun
Meaning: Son of the marsh-dwellers, adaptable
Origin: Scottish

109. Carter

Pronunciation: KAR-ter
Meaning: Cart driver, transporter of goods
Origin: English

110. Cassius

Pronunciation: KASH-us
Meaning: Empty, vain yet impressively strong
Origin: Latin

111. Castor

Pronunciation: KAS-ter
Meaning: Beaver, industrious and clever builder
Origin: Greek

112. Cecil

Pronunciation: SES-il
Meaning: Blind one with inner sight
Origin: Latin

113. Cedric

Pronunciation: SED-rik
Meaning: Chief, kindly and beloved ruler
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

114. Chauncey

Pronunciation: CHAWN-see
Meaning: Chancellor, leader of great importance
Origin: Norman French

115. Chester

Pronunciation: CHES-ter
Meaning: From the Roman fort, military man
Origin: Latin/English

116. Christian

Pronunciation: KRIS-chun
Meaning: Follower of Christ, faithful believer
Origin: Greek

117. Christopher

Pronunciation: KRIS-tuh-fer
Meaning: Christ-bearer, carrier of faith always
Origin: Greek

118. Clarence

Pronunciation: KLAIR-ence
Meaning: Clear, bright, illustrious and famous
Origin: Latin

119. Clark

Pronunciation: KLARK
Meaning: Clerk, scholarly and educated man
Origin: English

120. Clay

Pronunciation: KLAY
Meaning: Earth worker, malleable but strong
Origin: English

121. Clayton

Pronunciation: KLAY-tun
Meaning: From the clay settlement, adaptable
Origin: English

122. Cleburne

Pronunciation: KLEE-burn
Meaning: From the clover stream, lucky
Origin: English

123. Clement

Pronunciation: KLEM-ent
Meaning: Merciful, gentle yet firm leader
Origin: Latin

124. Cletus

Pronunciation: KLEE-tus
Meaning: Called forth, chosen for greatness
Origin: Greek

125. Cleveland

Pronunciation: KLEEV-land
Meaning: From the cliff land, elevated mind
Origin: English

126. Clifford

Pronunciation: KLIF-erd
Meaning: From the ford by cliff
Origin: English

127. Clifton

Pronunciation: KLIF-tun
Meaning: From the settlement near cliff
Origin: English

128. Clint

Pronunciation: KLINT
Meaning: Fenced settlement, protector of boundaries
Origin: English

129. Clovis

Pronunciation: KLOH-viss
Meaning: Famous warrior, renowned in battle
Origin: Germanic

130. Clyde

Pronunciation: KLYD
Meaning: Heard from afar, powerful voice
Origin: Scottish

131. Cody

Pronunciation: KOH-dee
Meaning: Helpful companion, loyal assistant always
Origin: Irish/Gaelic

132. Coen

Pronunciation: KOH-en
Meaning: Priest, wise counsel giver always
Origin: Hebrew

133. Coleman

Pronunciation: KOHL-man
Meaning: Coal worker, provider of heat
Origin: English

134. Colt

Pronunciation: KOHLT
Meaning: Young horse, wild and spirited
Origin: English

135. Colter

Pronunciation: KOHL-ter
Meaning: Colt herder, handler of horses
Origin: English

136. Colton

Pronunciation: KOHL-tun
Meaning: From the coal town, resourceful
Origin: English

137. Compton

Pronunciation: KOMP-tun
Meaning: From the enclosed settlement valley
Origin: English

138. Conrad

Pronunciation: KON-rad
Meaning: Brave counsel, wise and daring
Origin: Germanic

139. Cooper

Pronunciation: KOO-per
Meaning: Barrel maker, skilled craftsman always
Origin: English

140. Cordell

Pronunciation: kor-DEL
Meaning: Rope maker, binds things together
Origin: Latin

141. Cornelius

Pronunciation: kor-NEE-lee-us
Meaning: Horn-colored, distinctive and noticeable always
Origin: Latin

142. Cortland

Pronunciation: KORT-land
Meaning: Court land, place of judgment
Origin: English

143. Crockett

Pronunciation: KROK-it
Meaning: From the crooked river, adaptable
Origin: English

144. Cullen

Pronunciation: KUL-en
Meaning: Handsome, good-looking strong lad
Origin: Irish

145. Culver

Pronunciation: KUL-ver
Meaning: Dove, peaceful yet resilient spirit
Origin: English

146. Custer

Pronunciation: KUS-ter
Meaning: Temple worker, dedicated and faithful
Origin: Latin

147. Cutler

Pronunciation: KUT-ler
Meaning: Knife maker, sharp tool craftsman
Origin: English

148. Cyrus

Pronunciation: SY-rus
Meaning: Sun, radiant and powerful one
Origin: Persian

149. Dabney

Pronunciation: DAB-nee
Meaning: From the estate farm, landowner
Origin: French

150. Dade

Pronunciation: DAYD
Meaning: Flowing, generous with endless resources
Origin: English

151. Dallas

Pronunciation: DAL-us
Meaning: From the waterfall meadow, majestic
Origin: Scottish

152. Dalton

Pronunciation: DAWL-tun
Meaning: From the valley town, lowland
Origin: English

153. Damon

Pronunciation: DAY-mun
Meaning: To tame, one who overcomes
Origin: Greek

154. Daniel

Pronunciation: DAN-yul
Meaning: God is my judge, righteous
Origin: Hebrew

155. Darby

Pronunciation: DAR-bee
Meaning: Free from envy, pure heart
Origin: English/Irish

156. Darius

Pronunciation: duh-RY-us
Meaning: Upholder of good, maintains order
Origin: Persian

157. Dashiell

Pronunciation: duh-SHEEL
Meaning: Page boy, servant of greatness
Origin: French

158. Davenport

Pronunciation: DAV-en-port
Meaning: From the port town, traveler
Origin: English

159. David

Pronunciation: DAY-vid
Meaning: Beloved, cherished by all around
Origin: Hebrew

160. Davis

Pronunciation: DAY-vis
Meaning: Son of David, beloved one
Origin: Welsh

161. Dawson

Pronunciation: DAW-sun
Meaning: Son of David, beloved child
Origin: English

162. Deacon

Pronunciation: DEE-kun
Meaning: Servant, one who serves others
Origin: Greek

163. Dean

Pronunciation: DEEN
Meaning: Valley, leader of church chapter
Origin: English

164. Decker

Pronunciation: DEK-er
Meaning: Roofer, builder of protective coverings
Origin: German

165. Delano

Pronunciation: duh-LAY-noh
Meaning: Of the night, mysterious one
Origin: French

166. Delaney

Pronunciation: duh-LAY-nee
Meaning: From the dark defiant one
Origin: Irish

167. Dempsey

Pronunciation: DEMP-see
Meaning: Proud one, fighter with pride
Origin: Irish

168. Dennison

Pronunciation: DEN-ih-sun
Meaning: Son of Dennis, divinely inspired
Origin: English

169. Denver

Pronunciation: DEN-ver
Meaning: Green valley, lush and fertile
Origin: English

170. Desmond

Pronunciation: DEZ-mund
Meaning: From South Munster, man of world
Origin: Irish

171. Dexter

Pronunciation: DEK-ster
Meaning: Right-handed, skillful and dexterous one
Origin: Latin

172. Digby

Pronunciation: DIG-bee
Meaning: From the ditch farm, persistent
Origin: English

173. Dillard

Pronunciation: DIL-erd
Meaning: Faithful, devoted and true always
Origin: English

174. Dixon

Pronunciation: DIK-sun
Meaning: Son of Richard, powerful ruler
Origin: English

175. Dodge

Pronunciation: DOJ
Meaning: Dodger, agile and quick mover
Origin: English

176. Dolan

Pronunciation: DOH-lun
Meaning: Dark challenger, formidable opponent always
Origin: Irish

177. Dominic

Pronunciation: DOM-ih-nik
Meaning: Belonging to the Lord, faithful
Origin: Latin

178. Donovan

Pronunciation: DON-uh-vun
Meaning: Dark warrior, fierce in battle
Origin: Irish

179. Douglas

Pronunciation: DUG-lus
Meaning: Dark water, deep river dweller
Origin: Scottish

180. Dover

Pronunciation: DOH-ver
Meaning: Water, from the crossing place
Origin: English

181. Doyle

Pronunciation: DOYL
Meaning: Dark stranger, mysterious foreigner always
Origin: Irish

182. Drake

Pronunciation: DRAYK
Meaning: Dragon, fierce and powerful creature
Origin: English

183. Driscoll

Pronunciation: DRIS-kul
Meaning: Interpreter, messenger of great importance
Origin: Irish

184. Drummond

Pronunciation: DRUM-und
Meaning: Ridge dweller, high ground protector
Origin: Scottish

185. Dryden

Pronunciation: DRY-den
Meaning: Dry valley, endures harsh conditions
Origin: English

186. Dubois

Pronunciation: doo-BWAH
Meaning: From the woods, forest dweller
Origin: French

187. Dudley

Pronunciation: DUD-lee
Meaning: From the people’s meadow, common
Origin: English

188. Duke

Pronunciation: DOOK
Meaning: Leader, commander of great respect
Origin: Latin

189. Duncan

Pronunciation: DUN-kun
Meaning: Dark warrior, brown fighter always
Origin: Scottish

190. Durango

Pronunciation: dur-ANG-go
Meaning: Enduring one, resilient and tough
Origin: Spanish

191. Durant

Pronunciation: dur-ANT
Meaning: Enduring, lasting through hardships always
Origin: Latin/French

192. Dustin

Pronunciation: DUS-tin
Meaning: Thor’s stone, valiant fighter always
Origin: Norse

193. Dutton

Pronunciation: DUT-un
Meaning: From the hill town, elevated
Origin: English

194. Dwight

Pronunciation: DWYT
Meaning: White or blonde one, fair
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

195. Eamon

Pronunciation: AY-mun
Meaning: Wealthy protector, guardian of riches
Origin: Irish

196. Earl

Pronunciation: URL
Meaning: Nobleman, warrior chief of distinction
Origin: English

197. Eastwood

Pronunciation: EEST-wood
Meaning: From the eastern woods, sunrise
Origin: English

198. Eaton

Pronunciation: EE-tun
Meaning: River town, settlement by water
Origin: English

199. Ebenezer

Pronunciation: eb-uh-NEE-zer
Meaning: Stone of help, reliable aid
Origin: Hebrew

199. Ebenezer

200. Edison

Pronunciation: ED-ih-sun
Meaning: Son of Edward, wealthy guardian
Origin: English

201. Edmund

Pronunciation: ED-mund
Meaning: Prosperous protector, wealthy guardian always
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

202. Edward

Pronunciation: ED-werd
Meaning: Wealthy guardian, prosperous protector always
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

203. Edwin

Pronunciation: ED-win
Meaning: Wealthy friend, prosperous companion always
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

204. Egbert

Pronunciation: EG-bert
Meaning: Bright edge, sharp-minded warrior
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

205. Elbridge

Pronunciation: EL-brij
Meaning: Old bridge, ancient connection maker
Origin: English

206. Eldridge

Pronunciation: EL-drij
Meaning: Old ruler, wise elder statesman
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

207. Elias

Pronunciation: ih-LY-us
Meaning: Yahweh is God, devout believer
Origin: Hebrew

208. Elijah

Pronunciation: ih-LY-juh
Meaning: My God is Yahweh, faithful
Origin: Hebrew

209. Ellington

Pronunciation: EL-ing-tun
Meaning: Ellis’s town, settlement of prosperity
Origin: English

210. Elliott

Pronunciation: EL-ee-ut
Meaning: Jehovah is God, faithful believer
Origin: Hebrew

211. Ellis

Pronunciation: EL-is
Meaning: Benevolent, kind and generous one
Origin: Welsh

212. Elmer

Pronunciation: EL-mer
Meaning: Noble and famous, renowned warrior
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

213. Elmore

Pronunciation: EL-mor
Meaning: Noble and famous, renowned always
Origin: English

214. Elroy

Pronunciation: EL-roy
Meaning: The king, royal and majestic
Origin: French

215. Elton

Pronunciation: EL-tun
Meaning: From the old town, ancient
Origin: English

216. Elvis

Pronunciation: EL-vis
Meaning: All wise, knowledgeable about everything
Origin: Scandinavian

217. Emerson

Pronunciation: EM-er-sun
Meaning: Son of Emery, brave and powerful
Origin: German

218. Emmanuel

Pronunciation: ih-MAN-yu-el
Meaning: God is with us, divinely protected
Origin: Hebrew

219. Emmett

Pronunciation: EM-it
Meaning: Universal, complete and whole person
Origin: Hebrew

220. Enoch

Pronunciation: EE-nuk
Meaning: Dedicated, devoted to higher purpose
Origin: Hebrew

221. Ensley

Pronunciation: ENZ-lee
Meaning: From the solitary meadow, independent
Origin: English

222. Ephraim

Pronunciation: EF-ray-im
Meaning: Fruitful, productive in all endeavors
Origin: Hebrew

223. Erasmus

Pronunciation: ih-RAZ-mus
Meaning: Beloved, worthy of great affection
Origin: Greek

224. Eric

Pronunciation: ER-ik
Meaning: Ever ruler, eternal king always
Origin: Norse

225. Ernest

Pronunciation: UR-nest
Meaning: Serious, determined in all pursuits
Origin: Germanic

226. Erwin

Pronunciation: UR-win
Meaning: Friend of the sea, ocean ally
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

227. Esmond

Pronunciation: EZ-mund
Meaning: Graceful protector, elegant guardian always
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

228. Ethan

Pronunciation: EE-thun
Meaning: Strong, firm, and enduring always
Origin: Hebrew

229. Eugene

Pronunciation: yoo-JEEN
Meaning: Well-born, noble and aristocratic one
Origin: Greek

230. Eustace

Pronunciation: YOO-stis
Meaning: Fruitful, productive in all endeavors
Origin: Greek

231. Evan

Pronunciation: EV-un
Meaning: Young warrior, youthful and strong
Origin: Welsh

232. Everett

Pronunciation: EV-er-et
Meaning: Brave as a wild boar
Origin: Germanic

233. Ezekiel

Pronunciation: ih-ZEE-kee-ul
Meaning: God will strengthen, divinely empowered
Origin: Hebrew

234. Ezra

Pronunciation: EZ-ruh
Meaning: Helper, one who aids others
Origin: Hebrew

235. Fairfax

Pronunciation: FAIR-faks
Meaning: Fair-haired, blonde and distinctive
Origin: English

236. Fallon

Pronunciation: FAL-un
Meaning: Leader, superior and commanding presence
Origin: Irish

237. Farley

Pronunciation: FAR-lee
Meaning: From the bull meadow, strong
Origin: English

238. Felix

Pronunciation: FEE-liks
Meaning: Happy, fortunate, and blessed one
Origin: Latin

239. Ferguson

Pronunciation: FUR-guh-sun
Meaning: Son of Fergus, first choice
Origin: Scottish

240. Fergus

Pronunciation: FUR-gus
Meaning: Man of vigor, energetic warrior
Origin: Scottish/Irish

241. Ferris

Pronunciation: FAIR-is
Meaning: Rock, solid and immovable one
Origin: Gaelic

242. Fielding

Pronunciation: FEEL-ding
Meaning: Dweller in open fields, expansive
Origin: English

243. Finch

Pronunciation: FINCH
Meaning: Bird-like, free and spirited one
Origin: English

244. Finlay

Pronunciation: FIN-lay
Meaning: Fair warrior, blonde-haired fighter
Origin: Scottish

245. Fisher

Pronunciation: FISH-er
Meaning: Fisherman, provider of sustenance
Origin: English

246. Fitzgerald

Pronunciation: fits-JER-uld
Meaning: Son of Gerald, spear ruler
Origin: Irish

247. Fitzroy

Pronunciation: fits-ROY
Meaning: Son of the king, royal blood
Origin: Norman

248. Flannery

Pronunciation: FLAN-er-ee
Meaning: Red-haired, fiery and passionate one
Origin: Irish

249. Fletcher

Pronunciation: FLECH-er
Meaning: Arrow maker, skilled craftsman
Origin: English

250. Floyd

Pronunciation: FLOYD
Meaning: Gray-haired, distinguished elder fighter
Origin: Welsh

251. Flynn

Pronunciation: FLIN
Meaning: Son of the red-haired one
Origin: Irish

252. Forbes

Pronunciation: FORBZ
Meaning: Field dweller, man of outdoors
Origin: Scottish

253. Ford

Pronunciation: FORD
Meaning: River crossing, path maker always
Origin: English

254. Forrest

Pronunciation: FOR-est
Meaning: Forest dweller, woodsman and hunter
Origin: French

255. Foster

Pronunciation: FOS-ter
Meaning: Forest guardian, protector of woodland
Origin: English

256. Fox

Pronunciation: FOKS
Meaning: Cunning as a fox, clever
Origin: English

257. Francis

Pronunciation: FRAN-sis
Meaning: Free one, unbounded by constraints
Origin: Latin

258. Franklin

Pronunciation: FRANK-lin
Meaning: Free landowner, independent spirit
Origin: English

259. Fraser

Pronunciation: FRAY-zer
Meaning: Strawberry field, fertile land owner
Origin: Scottish

260. Frederick

Pronunciation: FRED-er-ik
Meaning: Peaceful ruler, tranquil leadership always
Origin: Germanic

261. Freeman

Pronunciation: FREE-mun
Meaning: Free man, not bound by servitude
Origin: English

262. Fremont

Pronunciation: FREE-mont
Meaning: Free mountain, unbounded highlands
Origin: French

263. Frost

Pronunciation: FROST
Meaning: Frozen, cool under pressure always
Origin: English

264. Fuller

Pronunciation: FUL-er
Meaning: Cloth worker, textile craftsman
Origin: English

265. Fulton

Pronunciation: FUL-tun
Meaning: From the foul town, overcomer
Origin: English

266. Gage

Pronunciation: GAYJ
Meaning: Pledge, oath-bound and honorable
Origin: French

267. Gaines

Pronunciation: GAYNZ
Meaning: Ingenious, clever problem solver always
Origin: English

268. Gallagher

Pronunciation: GAL-uh-her
Meaning: Eager helper, willing and able
Origin: Irish

269. Galloway

Pronunciation: GAL-oh-way
Meaning: Foreign stranger, unique outsider always
Origin: Scottish

270. Garfield

Pronunciation: GAR-feeld
Meaning: Triangle field, geometric land shape
Origin: English

271. Garland

Pronunciation: GAR-lund
Meaning: From the spear land, warrior
Origin: English

272. Garner

Pronunciation: GAR-ner
Meaning: Grain keeper, protector of harvest
Origin: English

273. Garrett

Pronunciation: GAIR-et
Meaning: Spear strength, brave with weapons
Origin: Germanic

274. Garrison

Pronunciation: GAIR-ih-sun
Meaning: Stronghold, fortified place defender
Origin: English

275. Garth

Pronunciation: GARTH
Meaning: Enclosed yard, protected garden space
Origin: Norse

276. Garvin

Pronunciation: GAR-vin
Meaning: Spear friend, loyal comrade
Origin: Germanic

277. Gates

Pronunciation: GAYTS
Meaning: Gateway keeper, controller of access
Origin: English

278. Gaylord

Pronunciation: GAY-lord
Meaning: High-spirited, lively and joyful leader
Origin: French

279. Gentry

Pronunciation: JEN-tree
Meaning: Noble birth, high class standing
Origin: English

280. George

Pronunciation: JORJ
Meaning: Farmer, worker of the earth
Origin: Greek

281. Gerald

Pronunciation: JER-uld
Meaning: Spear ruler, weapon wielding leader
Origin: Germanic

282. Gerard

Pronunciation: juh-RARD
Meaning: Brave with the spear, courageous
Origin: Germanic

283. Gibbs

Pronunciation: GIBZ
Meaning: Bright pledge, shining oath taker
Origin: Anglo-Saxon

284. Gibson

Pronunciation: GIB-sun
Meaning: Son of Gilbert, bright pledge
Origin: English

285. Gideon

Pronunciation: GID-ee-un
Meaning: Feller, mighty warrior and destroyer
Origin: Hebrew

286. Gilbert

Pronunciation: GIL-bert
Meaning: Bright pledge, shining oath taker
Origin: Germanic

287. Giles

Pronunciation: JYLZ
Meaning: Shield bearer, protector in battle
Origin: Greek

288. Gillespie

Pronunciation: gil-ES-pee
Meaning: Servant of the bishop, faithful
Origin: Scottish

289. Glen

Pronunciation: GLEN
Meaning: Valley dweller, from the dale
Origin: Scottish

290. Glenn

Pronunciation: GLEN
Meaning: Valley dweller, from the dale
Origin: Scottish

291. Godfrey

Pronunciation: GOD-free
Meaning: God’s peace, divine tranquility bringer
Origin: Germanic

292. Gordon

Pronunciation: GOR-dun
Meaning: From the spacious fort, defender
Origin: Scottish

293. Gorman

Pronunciation: GOR-mun
Meaning: Blue-eyed, distinctive gaze always
Origin: Irish

294. Grady

Pronunciation: GRAY-dee
Meaning: Noble, dignified in all actions
Origin: Irish

295. Graham

Pronunciation: GRAY-um
Meaning: Gravelly homestead, rough terrain dweller
Origin: Scottish

296. Grant

Pronunciation: GRANT
Meaning: Great, large and imposing presence
Origin: English

297. Grayson

Pronunciation: GRAY-sun
Meaning: Son of the bailiff, official
Origin: English

298. Greene

Pronunciation: GREEN
Meaning: From the green place, lush
Origin: English

299. Gregg

Pronunciation: GREG
Meaning: Watchful, vigilant guardian always
Origin: Scottish

 Gregg

300. Gregory

Pronunciation: GREG-uh-ree
Meaning: Watchful, vigilant guardian always
Origin: Latin

301. Gresham

Pronunciation: GRESH-um
Meaning: Grazing homestead, pastoral dwelling
Origin: English

302. Griffin

Pronunciation: GRIF-in
Meaning: Strong lord, powerful and fierce
Origin: Welsh

303. Griggs

Pronunciation: GRIGS
Meaning: Son of Gregory, vigilant one
Origin: English

304. Grissom

Pronunciation: GRIS-um
Meaning: Gray-haired, distinguished elder man
Origin: English

305. Grover

Pronunciation: GROH-ver
Meaning: Grove dweller, forest inhabitant
Origin: English

306. Gunner

Pronunciation: GUN-er
Meaning: Bold warrior, brave fighter always
Origin: Scandinavian

307. Guthrie

Pronunciation: GUTH-ree
Meaning: Windy place, stormy weather dweller
Origin: Scottish

308. Guy

Pronunciation: GUY
Meaning: Guide, leader of men always
Origin: French

309. Hackett

Pronunciation: HAK-it
Meaning: Little hacker, small woodcutter
Origin: English

310. Hadley

Pronunciation: HAD-lee
Meaning: Heather field, wild meadow
Origin: English

311. Hale

Pronunciation: HAYL
Meaning: Hero, brave and noble warrior
Origin: English

312. Hall

Pronunciation: HAWL
Meaning: Dweller at the manor hall
Origin: English

313. Hamilton

Pronunciation: HAM-il-tun
Meaning: From the beautiful mountain, majestic
Origin: English

314. Hamlin

Pronunciation: HAM-lin
Meaning: Little home lover, domestic one

Origin: English

315. Hammond

Pronunciation: HAM-und
Meaning: Home protector, defender of shelter
Origin: Germanic

316. Hampton

Pronunciation: HAMP-tun
Meaning: From the home town, settlement
Origin: English

317. Hancock

Pronunciation: HAN-kok
Meaning: Han’s cottage, small homestead owner

Origin: English

318. Hannibal

Pronunciation: HAN-ih-bul
Meaning: Grace of Baal, blessed warrior
Origin: Carthaginian

319. Hardin

Pronunciation: HAR-din
Meaning: Valley of the hares, fast
Origin: English

320. Harding

Pronunciation: HAR-ding
Meaning: Tough, brave and strong one
Origin: English

321. Hardy

Pronunciation: HAR-dee
Meaning: Bold, brave and courageous one
Origin: English

322. Harlan

Pronunciation: HAR-lun
Meaning: Army land, territory of warriors
Origin: Germanic

323. Harley

Pronunciation: HAR-lee
Meaning: Hare clearing, swift open field
Origin: English

324. Harlow

Pronunciation: HAR-loh
Meaning: Army hill, military high ground
Origin: English

325. Harper

Pronunciation: HAR-per
Meaning: Harp player, musical talent always
Origin: English

326. Harris

Pronunciation: HAR-is
Meaning: Son of Harry, home ruler
Origin: English

327. Harrison

Pronunciation: HAR-ih-sun
Meaning: Son of Harry, home ruler
Origin: English

328. Hart

Pronunciation: HART
Meaning: Stag, noble deer-like strength
Origin: English

329. Harvey

Pronunciation: HAR-vee
Meaning: Battle worthy, deserving of battle
Origin: French

330. Hatcher

Pronunciation: HACH-er
Meaning: Hatch maker, door craftsman
Origin: English

331. Hawk

Pronunciation: HAWK
Meaning: Hawk-like, keen-eyed and sharp
Origin: English

332. Hayes

Pronunciation: HAYZ
Meaning: Hedged area, enclosed protected space
Origin: English

333. Hayward

Pronunciation: HAY-werd
Meaning: Fence guardian, boundary protector always
Origin: English

The Bottom Line

Tough western boy names aren’t just collections of letters; they’re time machines to an era when America was wild and untamed.

These names carry stories of courage, grit, and frontier spirit that modern parents still seek today. From quiet lawmen to notorious outlaws, these names commanded respect.

Each name paints a picture of leather-worn hands, sun-beaten faces, and the kind of determination that built a nation. The legacy of these powerful names lives on in films, books, and family trees across America.

So grab your hat and saddle up with a name that’s weathered dust storms, shootouts, and the test of time because these tough western boy names aren’t just history, they’re heritage worth passing down.

Michael Anderson

As a seasoned educator with an MA in History from Yale University, Michael Anderson has been a part of our team since 2021. His experience spans 22 years in secondary and higher education, emphasising interactive learning techniques. Michael’s articles often explore the intersection of technology and education. He is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and frequently volunteers as a guest lecturer. Outside academia, he is an avid gardener and history buff.

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