US Popularity Rank: 8913

Origin: Norse

Meaning: Wand elf, staff elf, magic elf

Here’s one name to rule them all! Most famously associated with the iconic wizard from J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, this masculine moniker is perfect for parents who want baby’s life to be nothing short of an adventure. Derived from the Old Norse Gandálfr, Gandalf aptly means “wand elf,” which comes from the elements gandr, meaning "wand,” “staff,” or “magic,” and alfr, meaning "elf". Gifting baby with this, shall we say, precious name will mean that they are in amazing company, with Gandalf the Grey, later known as Gandalf the White. A source of both knowledge and comfort, Gandalf leads Frodo and the rest of the Fellowship of the Ring in their quest to rid Middle Earth of Sauron’s evil grip. This much-loved character will surely inspire your little one to stand up for goodness and truth in all things, making this a choice that you shouldn’t pass. Pair this with the likes of Galadriel, Aragorn, or Gimli, and you can start your very own family fellowship.