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Every parent wants their child to grow up smart and intelligent. They want their children to achieve big in life and make them proud parents. So, if you are looking for baby names that mean smart or intellectual, your search ends here. This post features a carefully curated list of names meaning ‘wise,’ picked from multiple trusted websites, online databases, dictionaries, religious texts, and renowned baby name books.
Choosing a name meaning ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ can motivate a child to take an interest in learning from an early age. Smartness and intelligence can increase a child’s prospects and guide them to success. It can make your child stand out from others, help them make a mark for themselves, and prepare them for the path to victory. Below are names meaning intelligent that can be a perfect fit for your baby.
Key Pointers
- Giving your baby a name connoting intellect or wisdom may inspire them to build such virtues.
- Dara, Favian, Apollo, Michiko, and Sophia are wisdom-related names.
- Names such as Alberta, Bertha, Zakiya, and Cato signify intelligence.
- Some popular options, such as Quinn, Shannon, and Sage, mean wise, smart, or intelligent.
Intelligent, Clever, Genius, Wise And Smart Boy Names
Numerous cultures around the world value smartness and intelligence, and parents wish for these traits in their babies. The following are some of the most well-known boy names connoting smartness, and each with its cultural significance.
1. Albert
Albert is a German name, meaning ‘intelligent.’ This name has remained stylish for over eight decades now, but with a studious and serious image. The effect of this name was also seen in Albert Einstein, the world genius.
2. Alden
Alden is an English name, meaning ‘wise friend.’ We think it would make a distinctive alternative to names like Holden and Aidan. Alden Caleb Ehrenreich, the American actor, is its famous user.
3. Alfred
The numbers may not be favoring this British name, meaning ‘wise counselor’, but we are quite confident that it will rise soon. Keep Fred as the nickname. It will give a cool sound to your child’s name.
Trivia4. Aldo
Aldo is a spirited German name, popular in Italy and occasionally heard in America. It means ‘old and wise’ and would sound better with an Anglo surname.
5. Alvis
Alvis is an Old Norse name, meaning ‘all-wise.’ It is inspired by Norse mythology, which involves the dwarf Alviss who falls in love with Thor’s daughter. In the United States, the name stands #595.
6. Apollo
Apollo is the Greco-Roman god of wisdom and knowledge (1). NASA’s Apollo program would also make a cool association with this name. It was also chosen by Gwen Stefani for her son.
7. Benedict
The masculine name Benedict means ‘well spoken’ or ‘blessed,’ and it is connected with the wise Italian monk who founded the Benedictines or the Western Christian monasticism in the 6th century. It was also used by over 16 Popes and is popular among Christians.
8. Beowulf
Beowulf is an Old English name, meaning ‘intelligent wolf.’ Its bearer is the hero of the epic poem, “Beowulf”, which is believed to be the oldest poem ever.
9. Bertrand
Bertrand is a French name, meaning ‘intelligent, glorious.’ It belongs to the famous mathematician, philosopher, and Nobel laureate Bertrand Russell. Another bearer is Bertrand Tavernier, a French director.
10. Cato
Cato is a Latin origin name, meaning ‘intelligent,’ ‘wise,’ and ‘all-knowing.’ In Roman history, Cato the Elder, born as Marcus Portius, was a discerning, perceptive, and shrewd Roman diplomat living during the time of Julius Caesar.
11. Charles
Charles is another genius name for baby boys. It means ‘free man.’ This old-school masculine name is associated with multiple intelligent men, including the naturalist Charles Darwin and the astronomer Charles Thoms Bolton.
12. Chokmah
The name Chokmah has Hebrew roots and means ‘wisdom.’ It represents the initial divine wisdom emanating from Keter, which played a pivotal role in the unfolding of the universe in Kabbalah, a Jewish school of thought.
13. Conrad
Conrad means ‘wise counsel’ and has a masculine image to it. It has consistently been on the popularity list since the year 1920.
14. Conroy
Conroy is an Irish name, meaning ‘wise advisor.’ This ‘con’ beginning name may feel slightly dated but would be worthy of consideration if you think Connor is too widely used. It is a good choice for a gifted and ingenious child. Conroy Black, the American football player, is its famous namesake.
15. Dante
Dante is the short version of the first name Durante, a Latin name meaning ‘enduring.’ It is associated with wisdom and intelligence due to the famous bearer Dante Alighieri, an Italian poet and writer.
16. Dara
Dara is a Hebrew name meaning ‘pearl of wisdom.’ In the Old Testament, Dara was the name of Judah’s descendant noted for his wisdom. While it belonged to a man, we think it feels slightly more feminine to modern English speakers. You can even opt for its alternative, Darda.
17. Ethan
In the Old Testament, Ethan the Ezrahite was a man noted for his intelligence and wisdom (2). Its literal meaning is ‘enduring,’ overflowing,’ or ‘strong.’ Ethan Allen, the American patriot and Revolutionary War leader was a renowned bearer of this name.
18. Favian
Favian is a Latin variation of the name Fabian and means ‘man of wisdom.’ The name was brought to the Latin countries by the Englishmen in the 17th century. Except for the earlier scattered appearances, Favian has stayed solidly on the European baby name list.
19. Frode
Frode is an Old Norse name, derived from the Old Norse word Fróði and means ‘wise.’ This name was borne by many Danish kings in several texts, including the famous Anglo-Saxon poetry, Beowulf.
20. Hugo
Hugo is the Latinized form of the name Hugh and means ‘mind, intellect.’ We think that Hugo has more energy and heft than the original. And it ends with ‘o’, which makes it even more appealing. And it’s backed with a solid history as well.
21. John
The fact that John is one of the most common names could be the reason for it being the top name for boy geniuses. Among the 352 genius Johns, there is John Locke, the philosopher who influenced our Founding Fathers.
22. Kendry
It’s rare we come across a name from Madagascar that is so wearable in English. Meaning ‘wise man’. Kendry could also make a great pick for children born during Christmas.
23. Mendel
Mendel is a Yiddish variation of the name Menachem and means ‘wisdom and learning.’ Its famous bearer, Gregor Mendel, was not just the father of modern genetics, but also the 19th-century Austrian priest. It was also borne by the U.S. Congressman from South Carolina.
24. Mika
Mika is a multicultural name with the shine and sparkle of the metallic Mica. It originated in Scandinavia but is popular in Germany and the Netherlands. Mika means ‘intelligent raccoon.’
25. Nester
Nester was the legendary wise ruler who helped the Greeks win the Trojan War. This adventurous name is also related to the Lester-Hester family. The meaning of Nester is ‘he who brings (his people) home (3).’
26. Prudentius
Prudentius is a masculine given name. It is derived from the Latin term prudens, meaning ‘wise’ or ‘skilled.’ One of the famous bears of this name is Aurelius Prudentius Clemens, a Roman Christian poet.
27. Quinn
Quinn, meaning ‘counselor and intelligent man,’ is on the rise for both genders, though still used more for boys. Sharon Stone also named her son Quinn. The other famous Quinns include Quinn Alman, the American guitarist and Quinn Marcus, the football player.
28. Raghnall
Raghnall is a Latin name, meaning ‘wise and powerful.’ It brings to mind a boy in a smoking jacket in a 30s drawing room. You can use the nickname Reggie for Raghnall too!
29. Raymond
Does anybody still love Raymond? Yes, parents who love classic names still do. Even though Raymond has been long dormant, some parents, including Jack Nicholson are still finding it cool, especially for its nickname, Ray. This name was introduced by Normans in England.
30. Redmond
Redmond is the Irish variation of the name Raymond and means ‘wise protector.’ Redmond O’Hanlon, the charismatic outlaw, would make a cool modern namesake. You can use Mundy for the nickname.
31. Reginald
The name Reginald has been on the United States popularity list since the year 1880. In its full form, Reginald was common throughout the Middle Ages. But in the modern era, it is more popular for its nickname Reggie. Reginald Owen, the English actor, is its namesake.
32. Ronald
Ronald, the Norse name, meaning ‘wise counselor’ was one of the top 10 names from the late 1930s to mid-1940s. It is strongly associated with U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Its current ranking is #433. Ron and Ronnie would work best as the nickname.
33. Senan
Also spelled as Seanan, Senan is an Irish name meaning ‘old and wise’. Since this name is unknown in the States, it would make a nice update to Sean.
34. Shannon
Shannon is the name of an Irish river, Irish county, and Irish airport. The relatively uncommon variation Shanahan can also be considered. It sounds a lot more bouncy and masculine than Shannon does. Both mean ‘old and wise.’
35. Solomon
Solomon is a popular Hebrew name. Although its literal meaning is ‘peace,’ it is often associated with the Biblical king Solomon, renowned for his wit and wisdom. He succeeded his father David as the king of Israel (4).
36. Solon
The name Solon, meaning ‘wise one’ gained a reputation via the sagacious Greek Lawmaker. It may not be widely familiar, but neither is it entirely unheard of. Solon Bixler, the musician, is another namesake.
37. Socrates
Socrates is a Greek name, meaning ‘wisdom.’ It also belongs to one of the most famous philosophers of all time. The name is still quite popular with the Greek families, but the Americans would feel slightly apprehensive to use this name.
38. Zeno
The short name Zeno is derived from the Greek term zenon, which in turn is derived from the name of the Greek God Zeus. In Greek mythology, Zeus is a wise character who rules as king of the gods on Mount Olympus. In English, this name means ‘shine.’
Intelligent, Clever, Genius, Wise And Smart Girl Names
Names meaning smart and wise are found in different languages all over the world, from English to Greek and Latin. The following are some of the most famous baby girl names closely associated with the trait of intelligence.
1. Abbey
Abbey started as a diminutive of Abigail, but what many don’t know is that it’s a standalone name, meaning ‘intelligent and beautiful’. You can even go for its spelling variation, Abby.
2. Alberta
Alberta, the feminine version of the name Albert, meaning ‘bright and intelligent’ is making a comeback, along with Ella and Josephine. In England, the name came into the mainstream via Queen Victoria’s daughter Louise Caroline Alberta.
3. Alvie
Alvie is an English name, meaning ‘intelligent and elf-friend’. Once considered the short form of Alvina, Alvie is now making a mark for itself. It currently ranks #568.
4. Anne
There are around 55 documented geniuses bearing this name. One such is Anne Sexton, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and Anne Bradstreet, the 17th-century British poet.
5. Athena
In Greek mythology, Athena was the goddess of war and wisdom and the daughter of Zeus (5). She is also recognized as the Roman goddess Minerva. The meaning of Athena is ‘wise’ and it would appeal to enlightened parents who prize intellect.
6. Cassidy
Cassidy is a fun baby boy name, meaning ‘clever.’ This lanky and lean Irish cowboy name is now being primarily used by girls. And it sounds feminine too!
7. Berit
Berit is a variation of the Scandinavian name Brighid and means ‘wise’. It is well-used in northern Europe but is unknown in American and Asian countries.
8. Bernadette
Bernadette is a pleasant and strong name, meaning ‘intelligent’. Even though names ending in ‘ette’ have been around for quite some time now, Bernadette does not feel dated.
9. Cassidy
Cassidy is a fun baby boy name, meaning ‘clever.’ This lanky and lean Irish cowboy name is now being primarily used by girls. And it sounds feminine too!
10. Ethelind
Image: IStock
Ethelind is a German name, meaning ‘intelligent’. We think it would sound better as a middle name than the first name. What about you?
11. Felisberta
Felisberta is a German name, meaning ‘intelligent’. This name is old enough to be ripe for reconsideration. It was popular in the 1920s, but has been in limbo since then.
12. Galena
Galena is a Spanish name, meaning ‘small, intelligent’. It’s originally a form of Galen. Besides, this name is also related to a mineral, a type of lead.
13. Huberta
The meaning of Huberta is ‘brilliant mind’. This name was in the top 20 in Germany in the 1920s and stayed in the top 50 for over a decade. It dropped off the list a few years back.
14. Juno
Juno is the name of a Roman goddess, the protector of the nation and women (6). The name means ‘youth’ but due to its connection with the goddess, it is often taken as a symbol of intelligence and wisdom.
15. Kyna
Kyna is a Gaelic name, meaning ‘intelligent’. We think it could be a novel name for your daughter.
16. Leora
The modern-sounding name Leora is the feminine version of the masculine name Lior. Lior has Hebrew roots and means ‘my light’ or ‘I have light.’
17. Mackenzie
Mackenzie is an Irish or Gaelic origin name, meaning ‘son of the wise ruler’. The name was reserved for boys all this time, but actress Mackenzie Philips brought it to the female territory. Now it’s up to you to whom you want to give this name.
18. Mary
Mary takes the top spot at being a genius baby name, with over 140 prominent, intelligent figures bearing this name. Mary Shelly, the polymath is one of the notable bearers of this name.
19. Minda
The name Minda was originally a short form of the given name Melinda and means ‘love and knowledge’. In the 18th century, it was a fad to use names with ‘inda’ sound, along with Dorinda, Florinda, Belinda, and Melinda.
20. Minerva
Minerva is a Latin name, meaning ‘the mind or intellect.’ In Roman mythology, Minerva was the name of the Roman goddess of wisdom and war. She is also equivalent to Athena, the Greek god. It was also the name of a character in Dickens’s novel.
21. Monique
This French version of the name Monica is gaining widespread favor in European countries. It has been used by several people, including Monique Jacobson van Vooren, the Belgian-American singer, and actor. It means ‘wise counsel,’
22. Pallas
Pallas is a Greek origin name, meaning ‘wisdom.’ Pallas is another name of Athena, the Goddess of wisdom in Greek mythology. We believe this name would appeal to literary-minded parents.
23. Prudence
Prudence is an English word name, meaning ‘cautious and intelligent’. This name has charm and sensitivity and is slowly returning to favor.
24. Saffi
Saffi is a Greek variation of the name Sophia and means ‘wisdom.’ The name has gained widespread favor of late, not just in Greece, but in English-speaking countries as well. People are mostly attracted to it for its feminine quality and beautiful meaning.
25. Sage
Sage is a Latin name, meaning ‘wise’. It’s also an evocative herb name connoting wisdom. Sage entered the top 100-baby name list in the early 1990s as a baby boy name but pulled ahead for the girls. The name is also associated with cowboys, and of course, the Wild West.
26. Sonia
This European import hit the spotlight in the 1940s when it was featured in the Norwegian skating movie. Unfortunately, this moniker has sailed back to the Atlantic, despite the rising popularity of Russian names. The meaning of Sonia is ‘wisdom’.
27. Sorcha
Sorcha, meaning ‘bright,’ is a popular Irish name with a pronunciation far from obvious. It is pronounced as ‘Sor-Ca’ or ‘sur-aka’. It is the name of a major resourceful character in the movie “Willow.”
28. Sophia
Sophia is a Greek name, meaning ‘wisdom’. This moniker held the top position for the years 2011 to 2013. It has been chosen by several celeb parents as well. You can also opt for its French variation, Sophie.
Did you know?29. Veta
If you want an exotic name for your girl, go with Veta, which means ‘intelligent’ in English. It’s used quite frequently in America.
30. Wisdom
For parents who do not just want to suggest the meaning, but want to come right out and say it, Wisdom would make a good pick. It’s exceedingly rare too.
Having an intelligent and wise child is every parent’s dream. Choosing one of these inspirational names for babies reflects your desire and means that your baby is smart, intelligent, and wise. These names also indicate that your precious baby is quick-witted, scholarly, erudite, and astute. From this list of unique baby names that mean smart, pick a few names that suit your little one’s personality, and shortlist one name you and your partner like. Giving your baby a unique name with such a special meaning is the best gift you can give to your child for life. We hope this list can help you find the best name for your little bundle of joy!
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it important to consider the cultural and social context when choosing a name that means smart?
Yes, your child’s name may mean smart in your native language, but if it means otherwise in another language or is associated with a person who is known for their negative deeds, then it can become embarrassing for your child.
2. Are there potential negative consequences to labeling a child as “smart”?
Family or friends may expect your child to be learned, brainy, or knowledgeable since their name means the same. Giving them one of the geeky baby names may also associate them with the stereotypes linked with brainy people or fictional characters. Having such a name for your child is usually the only potential drawback.
3. How do names influence a child’s personality and future?
A meaningful name can give your child a sense of identity and inspire them to build their personality and future careers around it. Names related to intelligence, smartness, wisdom, success, and wealth are common, and parents often choose these names that represent their dreams and aspirations for their child.
4. Is it fair to pressure a child to live up to their name’s meaning?
Parents can name their children anything, but expecting them to turn out like their name is irrational. Instead, they can support their child to excel in any field of the child’s choice and succeed.
Having an intelligent and wise child is every parent’s dream. Choosing one of these inspirational names for babies reflects your desire and means that your baby is smart, intelligent, and wise. These names also indicate that your precious baby is quick-witted, scholarly, erudite, and astute. From this list of unique baby names that mean smart, pick a few names that suit your little one’s personality, and shortlist one name you and your partner like. Giving your baby a unique name with such a special meaning is the best gift you can give to your child for life. We hope this list can help you find the best name for your little bundle of joy!
Infographic: Intelligent And Smart Boy And Girl Names
Do you want your child’s name to be as smart and unique as they are? If yes, this infographic has compiled some of the most intelligent, clever, and wise names shared by geniuses and famous figures of history. So, explore the list and pick the perfect name for your little one. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Apollo
https://www.worldhistory.org/apollo/ - Ethan
https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200001434#h=1 - The Myth of Return in Early Greek Epic
https://chs.harvard.edu/chapter/4-nestor/ - Solomon
https://www.worldhistory.org/solomon/ - Athena
https://www.worldhistory.org/athena/ - Juno
https://www.worldhistory.org/Juno/ - Popular Baby Names, Social Security Administration
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
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