Bears are powerful and courageous animals, often representing strength and bravery. Many cultures have names that mean “bear,” symbolizing these traits. Choosing a name that means bear for a boy can be a unique way to celebrate these qualities.
Today, we’ll look at some of the best male names that mean bear. From classic options to more modern choices, you’ll find a variety that brings a sense of strength and character. Whether you’re naming a baby or a pet, these names will make a memorable and meaningful choice. Let’s get started!
Names That Mean Bear Male
1. Arthur
The name Arthur is of Celtic origin and means “bear.” This classic name has been associated with legendary kings, making it a strong choice for a boy.
2. Bernard
Bernard is of German origin and means “brave as a bear.” It’s a traditional name that has a strong, dignified feel, perfect for a courageous child.
3. Orson
With a Latin origin, Orson means “bear cub.” It references the young of the bear and gives a softer take on the powerful nature of bears.
4. Bjorn
Bjorn is a popular name in Scandinavia and directly translates to “bear.” This name is ideal for parents looking for something unique yet classic.
5. Amos
The name Amos has Hebrew roots, meaning “carried by God,” but it also has ties to the word for bear. It brings a sense of strength and protection.
6. Gurgen
This Armenian name translates to “bear,” embodying the strength and courage associated with this magnificent animal.
7. T bear
A modern twist on more traditional names, T bear has an affectionate feel while carrying the meaning of a strong bear.
8. Morphey
The name Morphey sounds modern but it means “bear.” It’s a unique name choice that still holds a strong root.
9. Ulf
Ulf is a Nordic name that means “wolf,” but in some cultures, it has connections to strength and bears as well. It’s a cool name for animal lovers.
10. Osbear
A blend of old and modern, the name Osbear refers to a “divine bear” and is unique in today’s naming landscape.
11. Dobryin
This Slavic name translates to “brave bear,” making it a strong choice for a boy who you hope grows to be courageous.
12. Berengar
This ancient German name means “bear spear.” It combines strength and a warrior-like quality.
13. Ferenc
Meaning “brave bear,” Ferenc is a name rooted in Hungarian culture and symbolizes fearless characteristics.
14. Louvardis
Louvardis means “bear,” and is a powerful name evoking strength and pride.
15. Beorn
This Old English name means “bear,” used in literature, giving it a classic and strong connotation.
16. Bennett
While Bennett means “blessed,” it is derived from the Latin word for bear, making it both meaningful and rugged.
17. Bertrand
This French name translates to “bright raven,” but can also mean “bear strength,” making it quite fitting.
18. Murdock
The name Murdock, of Scottish origin, means “sea bear” and symbolizes bravery and adventure.
19. Channing
Channing means “young wolf,” but in different cultures can also be translated to imply strength akin to a bear.
20. Thbear
A modern sounding name, Thbear plays on the word “bear” and gives it a personal twist.
21. Arcturus
Based on the Greek word for “bear guard,” Arcturus is the name of a bright star, symbolizing guidance and strength.
22. Ake
This Scandinavian name means “ancestor” but has ties to “bear,” making it a unique yet historical name for a boy.
23. Dareth
The name Dareth translates to “bear,” putting a modern twist on a traditional theme.
24. Urian
Urian, which means “bear,” is of Gaelic origin and brings to mind qualities associated with strength and leadership.
25. Artur
Similar to Arthur, the name Artur also means “bear” in its own right, connecting to both nature and historical legacies.
26. Balor
This Celtic name means “the blue one” but is informally associated with a powerful bear identity.
27. Koda
Koda is a name of Native American origin meaning “friend,” but it is often translated to imply bear, emphasizing a strong bond.
28. Koda-Bear
This playful take on Koda integrates the bear theme while keeping the essence of friendship intact.
29. Taran
Of Welsh origin, Taran means “thunder,” and is metaphorically linked to the mighty characteristics of bears.
30. Krakus
This name means “tiger” in some cultures but is often assimilated with the bear as a symbol of strength and valor.
31. Tobby
This diminutive form means “God is good,” but its charm can remind one of the gentle side of bear cubs.
32. Bertrum
With meaning related to “bright raven,” Bertrum also has connections to “bear strength” in certain cultures.
33. Teodore
Teodore means “gift of God” but represents a strong sense of protection similar to that of a bear.
34. Anton
This name means “priceless” but also reflects strong qualities, similar to the symbolism of a bear.
35. Thadeus
While Thadeus generally translates to “courageous heart,” it embodies the bravado associated with bears.
36. Faron
This name means “adventurer” but suggests the strength and fearlessness of a bear on its journey.
37. Oswin
Meaning “divine friend,” Oswin also evokes the strength of a bear, highlighting protective friendships.
38. Doran
Doran means “stranger” but can also symbolize the bravery of a bear in facing the unknown.
39. Gaurav
Although it translates to “honor,” it is often regarded as a strong name reflecting the majesty of the bear.
40. Harvey
This name means “battle worthy” yet carries a gentle connotation reminiscent of bear amicability.
41. Keagan
Keagan translates to “descendant of the laid-back one” but can also symbolize a protective, strong bear inheritance.
42. Paxton
Meaning “peace town,” Paxton symbolizes strength through peaceful presence, akin to nature’s bears.
43. Llewellyn
This name means “lion like,” yet embodies the bravery of the bear, making it a suitable name choice.
44. Elmo
Elmo means “helmet” but adds an effective layer of protection akin to the strength exuded by bears.
45. Darius
Darius means “possessor of goodness,” but links to the reliability and power attributed to bears as well.
46. Barin
This name is of Russian origin, meaning “bear,” making it a straightforward yet robust choice.
47. Gaius
Though the name means “to rejoice,” its sound carries an assured strength that can be likened to bears.
48. Reymund
This name means “wise protector,” suggesting the guardianship qualities seen in nature’s bears.
49. Baird
Baird translates to “bard,” a storyteller, and can be viewed as a strong symbol of bear-like wisdom.
50. Nash
Nash means “by the ash tree” but can symbolize a grounded strength akin to that of a bear’s presence.
51. Vardon
This name can mean “fortified place,” suggesting strength and robustness much like the bear.
52. Kieran
Kieran means “little dark one,” but also has roots connecting it to strength metaphorically represented by bears.
53. Calloway
Your boy may grow to be a “brave warrior,” like a bear protecting its territory, as implied by Calloway.
54. Elias
Elias means “my God is Yahweh,” but implies strength and protection typically represented by bears.
55. Aric
Aric means “noble ruler,” drawing parallels to the strong leadership traits associated with bears.
56. Ulric
The name Ulric translates to “wolf ruler,” but also signifies strength and courage, like that of a bear.
57. Tarzan
This adventurous name embodies the wild spirit of nature, symbolic of the bear’s freedom and strength.
58. Randell
Randell means “shield” and symbolizes a protective bear-like demeanor for parents who want strength for their child.
59. Koa
Koa is a Hawaiian name meaning “warrior,” and brings to mind the fierce strength of a bear protecting its territory.
60. Thoreau
This French name means “brave as a bear,” perfect for a boy with a bold personality.
61. Arben
Arben means “bear chief,” symbolizing leadership and strength within a community.
62. Nibal
Nibal translates to “young bear,” and can evoke a nurturing approach while resonating with strength.
63. Alaric
This regal name means “ruler of all” and shares the significance of strength and leadership often associated with bears.
64. Pilgrim
Though Pilgrim means “traveler,” it suggests the powerful journey a bear undertakes on its adventures.
65. Duran
Duran means “enduring,” a quality akin to the resilience found in bears, making it a strong name for a boy.
66. Gentry
This name refers to “aristocracy,” suggesting the noble strength and leadership comparable to bears.
67. Tyrone
The name Tyrone means “land of Eógan” but also hints at the robust strength you would find in a bear.
68. Cobalt
This name is inspired by the strong metal and symbolizes the resilience and strength paralleling that of a bear.
69. Everest
Everest, associated with the height of mountains, symbolizes the formidable nature of bears in the wild.
70. Kanan
Kanan means “the ancient one” but also embodies a deep, bear-like strength through wisdom.
71. Brookstone
This nature-inspired name implies strong roots much like those experienced in a bear’s habitat.
72. Ranger
Ranger denotes “forest guardian,” which ties closely to the protective instincts seen in bears and their territories.
73. Pharaoh
Pharaoh conveys a sense of royal authority and strength, akin to that which you’d find in a commanding bear.
74. Gibson
While it means “son of Gib,” it resonates with a boy’s rugged nature, reminiscent of a bear’s strength and independence.
75. Soren
Soren means “stern,” effectively conveying the serious and powerful nature akin to bears in their habitat.
76. Siegfried
This name means “victorious peace,” suggesting a balanced view of the bear’s powerful yet gentle side.
77. Ragnar
Ragnar translates to “warrior,” evoking the uncontrolled strength found in bears, symbolizing bravery and ferocity.
78. Larco
This name means “strong,” which hints at the traits commonly associated with bears—strength, endurance, and bravery.
79. Zander
Zander means “protector of man,” reminiscent of the way bears protect their cubs and territory.
80. Balin
Balin is of Old English origin and means “bear,” making it a straightforward homage to these fascinating animals.
81. Vidar
Vidar means “warrior” in Norse mythology, symbolizing a strong connection to the robust strength of bears.
82. Ansgar
This name blends “God” and “spear,” which can symbolize protection akin to that displayed by bears.
83. Yorrick
Yorrick means “earth” yet carries connotations of strength similar to a bear’s connection to nature.
84. Alfie
Alfie means “wise counselor,” suggestive of the guidance and strength associated with bears.
85. Cormac
This name means “son of the charioteer,” hinting at strength that recalls a bear’s independence and might.
86. Garrison
Garrison represents a “military stronghold,” echoing a bear’s capacity to defend its territory.
87. Rigby
Meaning “ridge farm,” Rigby symbolizes a strong and rugged presence akin to the bear’s natural habitat.
88. Wendell
Wendell means “wanderer,” bringing to mind the adventurous spirit of wild bears roaming their territories.
89. Rayner
This name means “counselor” but evokes the same strength and protection found in bears.
90. Tekoa
Tekoa means “trumpet,” combining the concept of celebration and strength akin to that of a bear.
91. Brian
Brian means “high” or “noble,” symbolizing strength and virtue—the essence of a bear’s character.
92. Carwyn
This Welsh name means “blessed love” but speaks to the strength of affection comparable to that of a bear.
93. Silas
Meaning “wood” or “forest,” Silas directly ties to the bear’s natural habitat, symbolizing strength and tranquility.
94. Kade
This modern name means “sturdy” and ties back to the physical nature of bears.
95. Corbin
Corbin means “raven,” but also implies a sense of strength and companionship connected to bear symbolism.
96. Quinn
While this name means “wise,” it also represents a strong, brave characteristic associated with bears.
97. Malachi
This name means “messenger” but carries a resonant strength akin to that of a bear.
98. Tyrrell
Tyrrell means “stubborn,” echoing the fierce independence often found in bears.
99. Evoque
This contemporary name means “to call forth,” suggesting the power and presence of a fierce bear.
100. Grizzly
This name refers to the grizzly bear, embodying strength and majesty, perfect for a boy with a strong spirit.
101. Luccas
Meaning “bringer of light,” Luccas suggests brightness alongside the fierce beauty of bears.
102. Grey
This name means “venerable,” which can echo the ancient wisdom and strength embodied by bears.
103. Rocco
Rocco means “rest,” subtly relating to the calm, observant nature of bears in their habitats.
104. Archer
This name means “bowman” but symbolizes the precision and strength akin to a bear’s natural instincts.
105. Stetson
Meaning “Stead’s town,” this name conveys a sense of safeguarding similar to that of a bear’s instinct to protect its cubs.
106. Bearan
A unique twist, Bearan combines the essence of bears with a strong connection to family.
107. Flint
This name means “hard stone,” paralleling the fortitude and resilience found in the bear’s spirit.
108. Dorial
This name may not have a direct meaning, but it sounds strong and reminiscent of the nature of bears.
109. Cobalt
A modern name suggesting strength and resilience, just like the mighty bear.
110. Jett
Jett symbolizes strength and speed, qualities shared with the hunting abilities of bears.
111. Reece
This name means “enthusiasm,” tying to the vibrant energy and strength of a bear.
112. Maverick
Meaning “independent,” like many bears, this name symbolizes freedom and a strong spirit.
113. Thor
Thor represents strength and bravery, making it a fitting choice as it evokes the spirit of a bear.
114. Archer
Archer relates to strength and accuracy, paralleling the keen instincts of a bear.
115. Jayden
This name means “thankful,” but also symbolizes a strong character akin to the bear.
116. Eirik
p>This Norse name means “ever-ruler,” symbolizing strength and leadership that can connect to bear-like qualities.
117. Ziven
This Hebrew name means “vigorous,” perfect for someone embodying the strength of a bear.
118. Kane
Meaning “warrior,” this name is fitting for a boy representing bravery akin to bears.
119. Alder
Alder refers to “the tree,” symbolizing strength, just like the powerful presence of a bear in its natural environment.
120. Lennox
Lennox means “with a tart,” which gives a strong and rugged nature, like that of a bear.
121. Colby
This name roots itself in “from the coal town,” symbolizing strength and depth found in bears.
122. Theo
Theo means “divine gift,” representing the protective qualities found in bears.
123. Ramsay
This name means “home island,” evoking the nurturing protection similar to how a bear cares for its cubs.
124. Quillon
This strong name implies “crossed swords,” capturing the power and protection typically associated with bears.
125. Bodhi
Bodhi means “awakening,” hinting at the fierce yet protective spirit of nature’s bears.
126. Caius
Caius means “rejoice,” but embodies a spirit of strength and resilience akin to that of a bear.
127. Kendrick
This name means “royal ruler,” much like a powerful bear ruling its territory.
128. Declan
Declan means “full of goodness.” This reflects the dual nature of bears as both loving guardians and fierce protectors.
129. Jagger
Meaning “to carry a small load,” Jagger evokes images of bears in their natural habitat.
130. Lionel
Lionel translates to “little lion,” a term which can reference the strength found in bears as well.
131. Ayden
This name means “fiery,” representing the powerful nature of a bear.
132. Barrett
Barrett means “noble as a bear,” tying together power and grace in one strong name.
133. Ronan
This name translates to “little seal,” but many cultures link it with the strength and protector characteristics seen in bears.
134. Draven
Draven is a contemporary name evoking strong images and personalities akin to those of bears.
135. Kingston
Thirdly associated with might, Kingston implies a strong origin that matches bear characteristics.
136. Lio
Lio means “lion,” but carries qualities of strength and leadership also present in bears.
137. Tadeo
Tadeo means “heart,” capturing an affectionate side twinned with bear-like strength and loyalty.
138. Beckett
This name means “bee cottage,” evoking the natural world, similar to the great outdoors where bears thrive.
139. Magnus
Meaning “great,” Magnus embodies the powerful presence of a bear.
140. Davy
This name means “beloved,” yet carries a strength that can reflect that of bears.
141. Alderan
Alderan can mean “noble,” symbolizing the strength and honor associated with bears.
142. Thorne
This name means “thorn bush,” suggesting the protective nature found in bears as they guard their territories.
143. Ashby
This name means “ash tree farm,” tying it back to the nature often akin to that where bears reside.
144. Bentley
Bentley means “from the bent grass meadow” and evokes images of a bear’s territory.
145. Carden
Meaning “the field of boars,” Carden can also be metaphorically linked to the bear’s hunting instincts.
146. Ealdred
This Old English name means “elder strength,” resonating well with the qualities shown in bears.
147. Gage
The name Gage means “pledge,” suggesting a strong sense of loyalty typical of bears.
148. Crew
This name speaks to a group of people operating in unity, akin to how bears coexist in their habitats.
149. Orion
Orion means “rising in the sky,” pairing strength with the bear’s powerful form in nature.
150. Asher
Asher means “happy” or “blessed,” but can symbolize the joy and strength that comes from the bond shared with a bear.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name that means bear for a boy can celebrate strength, courage, and protection. The names listed provide a range of choices from traditional to modern, evoking the spirit of one of nature’s most powerful creatures. Each name has its unique meaning while connecting to the traits we associate with bears. Whether you’re looking for something classic like Arthur or modern like Koda-Bear, there’s a perfect choice on this list.
These names not only carry traditional significance but also resonate with the traits of bravery and strength that bears symbolize. Explore even more options by checking out names that mean bear or boy names that mean bear to find the perfect name for your child or pet.