There is a world of discovery behind boy names that start with B. From old standards to funky variations and spellings, you could easily be overwhelmed by all the stunning variety on offer. You may locate a million possibilities but never settle on the right one.
Our cute guide to B names for boys is here to help. We’ve got the history and meanings for various male names that start with B. There’s also information about famous namesakes and pronunciation for these fun names you can choose for your little guy.
100 Popular Male Names That Start with B
Dive into the realm of boy names that start with B for the coolest boy you know.
Babu
Babu comes from the Hindi “bappa,” a term of respect for a man. It’s also a term of endearment for little boys with the cutest male names that start with B.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Father
- Pronunciation: Baa-BUUW
- Variations: Baboo, Babou
- Namesakes: Babu Antony, an Indian-American actor appearing in the film Chilampu (1986). Babu Mandial, an Indian politician and member of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly.
- Popularity: Babu ranked 859th worldwide and is mostly used in India, ranking 107th in 2014.
Bacchio
Bacchio is also a “B” surname derived from the Latin “baculum,” meaning “staff scepter” and “rod.” It’s also a nickname for any stick your little man plays with.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Walking stick
- Pronunciation: BAHCK-iy-Oh
- Namesakes: Baccio d’Agnolo (born Bartolomeo Baglioni), an Italian wood carver for the church of Santa Maria Novella. Baccio Baldini, an Italian Renaissance engraver with works in the British Museum.
- Popularity: Bacchio is extremely rare worldwide and primarily used in Italy.
Bacchus
Bacchus is also found in medieval England as an occupational name for “someone who works in a bakehouse.” Bacchus means “to shout” in Greek, but it may be better to describe the joys of bread and wine.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: God of wine
- Pronunciation: BAEK-ahs
- Variations: Baccus, Backus
- Popularity: Bacchus is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Bailey
Bailey comes from the Old English “bailiff,” the name for a “court official.” It also means “agent of the law” or “debt collector” when your little guy is super serious about life.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Bailiff
- Pronunciation: BEY-Liy
- Variations: Baily, Bayley
- Namesakes: Bailey Hodgson, an English rugby league footballer for the Newcastle Knights. Bailey Luetgert, an American actor, known for the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
- Popularity: Bailey ranked 974th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,096th in 2022.
Baker
Baker is based on the Old English “baecere,” meaning “to dry with heat.” It was an occupational name for a breadmaker and is currently the 740th most popular surname in the world.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Baker (occupation)
- Pronunciation: BEY-Ker
- Variations: Bakr
- Namesakes: Baker Mayfield, an American football player for the Carolina Panthers. Baker Terry, an American actor, appearing in the TV series Angry Birds on The Run (2018).
- Popularity: Baker is rare worldwide and mainly used in Uganda, where it ranked 542nd in 2014.
Baldassare
Baldassare is the Italian form of the Hebrew name Balthazaar. It was originally one of the three wise men and offers some Italian flair for your wise guy.
- Origin: Italian, Hebrew
- Meaning: God protect the king
- Pronunciation: Baal-dah-SAA-Rey
- Variations: Baldassarre
- Namesakes: Baldassare Croce, a 16th-century Italian painter, and director of the Academy of St. Luke in Rome. Baldassare Di Maggio, a member of the Sicilian Mafia who helped police capture the head of Cosa Nostra.
- Popularity: Baldassare is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Italy, ranking 840th in 2014.
Baldur
Baldur also means “prince” and “courageous army” in Norse. Baldur is a Norse god associated with everything your boy could want, from light and beauty, to love and happiness.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Lord
- Pronunciation: BAAL-Duwr
- Variations: Baulder
- Namesakes: Baldur Bragason, an Icelandic footballer for the Iceland national football team. Baldur Hönlinger, an Austrian chess master who competed in the 1928 Chess Olympiad.
- Popularity: Baldur is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 98th in Iceland in 2014.
Balfour
Balfour was once a Scottish place name based on the Gaelic “bail(e),” meaning “’village farmhouse” and “pór,” meaning “pasture grass.” Balfour means “pasture ground” and “castle of security” for the most pastoral B names for boys.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Grazing land
- Pronunciation: Bael-FAOR
- Variations: Balfor, Ballfour
- Popularity: Balfour is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Jamaica, where it ranked 1,292nd in 2014.
Balthasar
Balthasar is a modern spelling of Balthazaar. It originated from the Babylonian Belsharrausur, based on the ancient god Baal who ruled over all.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God protect the king
- Pronunciation: BAEL-thaa-Zaar
- Variations: Balthasaar, Balthazar
- Namesakes: Balthasar Regis, an English Chaplain to the King from 1727 to 1757. Balthasar Glättli, a Swiss politician and member of the National Council since 2020.
- Popularity: Balthasar is very rare worldwide, primarily used in Germany, and ranked 895th in Austria in 2014.
Bambam
Bambam literally means the “noise of a hard slam.” It’s common in India but is one of the coolest names for boys that start with B, based on the little boy in the Flintstones cartoon.
- Origin: Indian, Maori
- Meaning: Yellow
- Pronunciation: BAAM-BAAM
- Namesakes: Kunpimook Bhuwakul (known as BamBam), a Thai rapper and member of the Korean boy band Got7. Scott “Bam Bam” Bigelow, an American wrestler for the World Wrestling Federation.
- Popularity: Bambam is very rare worldwide and mostly used in India.
Bao
Bao is also known as a Chinese and Vietnamese surname. It also means “bundle,” “package,” and “guarantee” for your special little delivery.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Treasure, jewel
- Pronunciation: BAOW
- Namesakes: Bao Gong, a Chinese politician during China’s 11th-century Song Dynasty. Bao Vo, a Vietnamese-American musician, associated with the band Ming & Ping.
- Popularity: Bao ranked 1900th worldwide and is mainly used in Vietnam, ranking 57th in 2014.
Baptiste
Baptiste is a shorter version of Jean-Baptiste, the French name for John the Baptist. He is best known in the New Testament for baptizing Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. This fantastic name sure brings the old into the modern world.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Baptist
- Pronunciation: Baap-TIYST
- Variations: Baptist
- Namesakes: Baptiste Amar, a French ice hockey player for the France National men’s ice hockey team. Baptiste Giabiconi, a French male model for Karl Lagerfeld.
- Popularity: Baptiste is rare worldwide and primarily used in Haiti, where it ranked 5th in 2014.
Barak
Barak comes from the Hebrew root “B-R-K,” meaning “blessed.” It originally meant “to kneel down” and is best associated with Barack Obama, the first black American president of the U.S.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Lightning
- Pronunciation: Baa-RAHK
- Variations: Barrack, Barak
- Namesakes: Barack Adama, a French rapper with the hip-hop band 3ème Prototype. Barack Obama, the 44th U.S. President from 2008 to 2017.
- Popularity: Barak is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Kenya, ranking 1,468th in 2014.
Baranan
Baranan is also an Indian name since the ram is treasured in Hindu mythology. It’s not used much outside of Pakistan, but sounds far less funny than naming your baby boy “Ram.”
- Origin: Russian
- Meaning: Ram
- Pronunciation: Bah-RAH-naan
- Popularity: Baranan is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in Pakistan.
Barnaby
Barnaby is based on the Hebrew Barnabas. It’s also an English surname meaning “young warrior.” Barnaby barely cracks the top 5,000 names for boys in the U.S.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Son of consolation
- Pronunciation: BAAR-naa-Biy
- Variations: Barnabey
- Namesakes: Barnaby Edwards, a British actor known for the sci-fi TV series Doctor Who. Barnaby Joyce, the 17th deputy prime minister of Australia from 2021 to 2022.
- Popularity: Barnaby is very rare worldwide and primarily used in England, ranking 1,464th in 2014.
Barney
Barney is a diminutive of either Barnaby or Barnard. When based on Bernard, it means “strong like a bear.” When based on Barnard, it means “son of the prophet.”
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Brave like a bear
- Pronunciation: BAAR-Niy
- Variations: Barnie, Barny
- Namesakes: Barney Poole, an American football player for the New York Giants. Barney Kessel, an American jazz guitarist and member of the musician’s group called the Wrecking Crew.
- Popularity: Barney is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Baron
Baron was a title given to noble English landowners. It may be associated with the similar Israeli surname “Bar-On,” meaning “son of strength,” for the noblest of boy names that start with B.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Nobleman
- Pronunciation: BAH-Raen
- Variations: Barron
- Namesakes: Baron Frederick von Geisler, a Filipino actor and winner of the Best Actor award in the 2008 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival. Baron Waqa, the 14th President of Nauru from 2013 to 2019.
- Popularity: Baron is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 940th in Jamaica in 2014.
Barrett
Barrett is based on the English surname, meaning “strife.” It was also an Irish surname meaning “warlike people.” Barrett may also associate with the German Beroald, made up of “bera,” meaning “bear” and “wald,” meaning “rule.”
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Bear rule
- Pronunciation: BAA-Reht
- Variations: Barett, Barette
- Namesakes: Barrett Brown, an American journalist and founder of Project PM, a group similar to Wikileaks. Barrett Foa, an American actor known for the NCIS: Los Angeles TV series.
- Popularity: Barrett is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 19th for boys in 2021.
Barry
Barry originally comes from the Irish Bearrach, a derivative meaning “spear.” Barry ranked in the top 200 U.S. boys’ names for 50 years until the 1980s but may make a comeback.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Fair-haired
- Pronunciation: BEHR-iy
- Variations: Barrey, Bary
- Namesakes: Barry Gibb, a British-Australian musician, and member of the Bee Gees. Barry Williams, an American actor, best known for the TV series The Brady Bunch.
- Popularity: Barry ranked 1,576th worldwide, is mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 54th in New Zealand in 2014.
Bartholomew
Bartholomew also means “son of Talmai” in Hebrew. It peaked at 38th in the 14th-century, so it has plenty of room to grow.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Son of the furrow
- Pronunciation: Baar-THAA-lah-Myuw
- Variations: Bartholemew
- Namesakes: Bartholomew Columbus, an Italian explorer and younger brother of Christopher Columbus. Bartholomew Roberts (born John Roberts), a Welsh pirate in the 18th-century known as Black Bart.
- Popularity: Bartholomew is rare worldwide, mostly used in Nigeria, and ranked 380th in the Solomon Islands in 2014.
Bartley
Bartley comes from the English Bartle, a nickname for Bartholomew. It may also be a variation of Barclay, perfect for boys who like to play in the meadow.
- Origin: Gaelic, English
- Meaning: Birch tree meadow
- Pronunciation: BAART-Liy
- Variations: Bart
- Namesakes: Bartley Gorman, a Welsh-Irish boxer called “the King of the Gypsies.” Bartley Griffith, an American surgeon, performing the first successful transplantation of a genetically modified pig heart to a human in 2022.
- Popularity: Bartley is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 822nd in Ireland in 2014.
Bartolo
Bartolo was originally an Italian surname based on the first name Bartolomeo (Bartholomew). It also means “bright power” and has come full circle as a unique way to call your little one Bart.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: Son of a farmer
- Pronunciation: BAAR-Tow-low
- Variations: Bartholo
- Namesakes: Bartolo Musil, an Austrian composer awarded the First Prize at the “Concours de la Mélodie française” competition. Bartolo Colón, a Dominican-American baseball player for the Boston Red Sox.
- Popularity: Bartolo is rare worldwide, primarily used in Mexico, and ranked 403rd in Guatemala in 2014.
Baruch
Baruch is based on the biblical Barukh, Jeremiah’s scribe. Baruch also means “goodly” in Greek, representing boy names with B for your well-mannered young boy.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Blessed
- Pronunciation: BAAR-uwk
- Variations: Baruchy
- Namesakes: Baruch Shemtov, an American anchor on Good Day New York on Fox 5 from 2017 to 2019. Baruch Feinberg, an Israeli javelin thrower and a bronze medalist at the 1958 Asian Games.
- Popularity: Baruch is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Basil
Basil means “royal” in Greek and “brave” in Arabic. It’s more common in Britain than in the U.S., but you can call your little one Bas, Baz, or Bassy.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Kingly
- Pronunciation: BAEZ-ihl
- Variations: Basel
- Namesakes: Basil O’Connor, the chairman, and president of the American Red Cross from 1944 to 1949. Basil Brooke, the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland from 1943 to 1963.
- Popularity: Basil is rare worldwide and mainly used in England, where it ranked 751st in 2014.
Basim
Basim originated as the Arabic name Bassem, meaning “one who smiles.” It also means “happy,” for the luckiest baby boy you love most.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Smile
- Pronunciation: Baa-SIYM
- Variations: Bahsim, Baseem
- Namesakes: Basim Bello, the longest-serving mayor of Tel Keppe District, Iraq. Basim Al-Rajaibi, an Omani footballer for Al-Nahda.
- Popularity: Basim is rare worldwide and primarily used in Iraq, where it ranked 114th in 2014.
Bassey
Bassey derives from the African Ibibio word “abassi,” meaning God. It’s also an English surname for those short of stature that could have sprung from the Latin “bassus,” meaning “thickset.”
- Origin: African
- Meaning: God in Ibibio
- Pronunciation: BAES-iy
- Popularity: Bassey is rare worldwide and mainly used in Nigeria, ranking 253rd in 2014.
Bastien
Bastien is a nickname for Sebastien or Sebastian. It also refers to a “person from the ancient city of Sebastia.” Bastien was a famous Mozart opera, super impressive among guy names that start with B.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Venerable, revered
- Pronunciation: BAHZ-tiy-Ehn
- Variations: Bastian
- Namesakes: Bastien Coriton, a French politician and a Member of Parliament in 2020. Bastien Midol, a French skier and silver medalist at the 2013 FIS Freestyle World Ski Championships.
- Popularity: Bastien is rare worldwide and primarily used in France, ranking 512th in 2014.
Baudouin
Baudouin originated during France’s Dark Ages as a surname. It’s composed of “bald,” meaning “brave,” and “wine,” meaning “friend,” for your best buddy.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Bold, brave friend
- Pronunciation: BOWD-Wahn
- Variations: Baudoin
- Namesakes: Baudouin, King of the Belgians from 1951 until 1993. Baron Baudouin Michiels, the Belgian Executive Vice President of the Kraft Jacobs Suchard group.
- Popularity: Baudouin is rare worldwide and mostly used in DR Congo, where it ranked 304th in 2014.
Baylen
Baylen is another version of the French Bayard, meaning “bailiff.” When spelled Baylin, it means “mighty warrior” in Hindu, just in case your baby boy isn’t a redhead.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Auburn-haired
- Pronunciation: BEY-Lahn
- Variations: Baylan
- Popularity: Baylen is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Baylor
Baylor comes from the Anglo-Norman “bailleor” for a “delivery person.” It’s an English version of the German Bailer. Baylor ranked in the top 1,000 names in the U.S. in 2014.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: One who delivers goods
- Pronunciation: BEY-Ler
- Variations: Bayler
- Namesakes: Baylor Scheierman, an American college basketball player for the Creighton Bluejays.
- Popularity: Baylor is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 408th for boys in 2021.
Baz
Baz is one of the B names for boys that has been a surname, given name, and nickname. It’s typically a short form of Barry, Basilios, Bazyli, or any form of Basil. Baz also means “falcon,” so it comes with power beneath its wings.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: King
- Pronunciation: BAEZ
- Variations: Bas
- Namesakes: Baz Luhrmann, an Australian film director known for the 2022 film Elvis. Baz Khan, a member of the Senate of Pakistan.
- Popularity: Baz is rare worldwide and mostly used in Afghanistan, ranking 210th in 2014.
Bear
Bear is based on the Old English “bera,” meaning “bear.” It also means “the brown one,” ranked among England’s top 900 boys’ names.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Strong and brave bear
- Pronunciation: BEHR
- Variations: Ber
- Namesakes: Edward “Bear” Grylls, a British adventurer and host of the TV series Man vs. Wild (2006 to 2011). Bear McCreary, an American music composer for The Walking Dead.
- Popularity: Bear is rare worldwide, mainly used in Lebanon, and ranked 826th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Beckett
Beckett derives from the Old English “beo,” meaning “bee” and “cot,” meaning “shelter.” It also means “little brook.” Samuel Beckett is the most famous Beckett, but your little Beckett can buzz anywhere he likes.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Beehive
- Pronunciation: BEH-Kaht
- Popularity: Beckett is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 198th for boys in 2021.
Bedros
Bedros is an Eastern Armenian name for “hard as a rock.” Bedrosian is the version used as a surname, but both are based on Peter, originally “Petros.”
- Origin: Armenian
- Meaning: Stone
- Pronunciation: BEH-Draos
- Namesakes: Bedros Keresteciyan, a Turkish-Armenian writer of the first Turkish language dictionary. Bedros Kirkorov, a Bulgarian-Russian-Armenian singer, given the People’s Artist of Russia title.
- Popularity: Bedros is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Bellamy
Bellamy is based on the French “beau,” meaning “handsome,” and “ami,” meaning “friend.” Bellamy is getting more popular as a girl’s name, but it’s still the friendliest among names for boys that start with B.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Beautiful friend
- Pronunciation: BEHL-ah-Miy
- Variations: Bellamie
- Popularity: Bellamy is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it’s ranked in the top 1,000 names since 2020.
Benedict
Benedict is based on the Latin Benedictus, made up of “bene,” meaning “good” and “dicte,” meaning “speak.” It’s the Anglo version of the French Benoît, Italian Benedetto, and Spanish Benito, but your Benedict is his own man.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Blessed
- Pronunciation: BEHN-eh-Dihkt
- Variations: Bennedict, Bennedikt
- Namesakes: Benedict Wong, a British actor appearing in the Marvel film Doctor Strange (2016). Benedict McCarthy, a South African footballer for the South Africa national team.
- Popularity: Benedict is rare worldwide, primarily used in Nigeria, and ranked 991st for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Benicio
Benicio originated as a Spanish form of Benedict, from the Latin Benedictus, meaning “blessed.” Saint Benedict founded the Benedictine Order of Monks, but your Benicio could have a lot more flair.
- Origin: Latin, Italian
- Meaning: Kind one
- Pronunciation: Bey-NIY-Siy-ow
- Variations: Benecio
- Namesakes: Benicio del Toro, a Puerto Rican actor, and Silver Bear winner for the film Traffic (2000).
- Popularity: Benicio is rare worldwide, mostly used in Brazil, and ranked 774th for boys in the U.S. in 2020.
Benjamin
In the Old Testament of the Bible, Benjamin was the youngest of 12 sons. Today, the youngest sibling may be called the “Benjamin of the family.” It also means “son of my days,” but your little Ben or Benny is your top son, without a doubt.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Son of the right hand
- Pronunciation: BEHN-jhah-Mihn
- Variations: Benjimen, Benjamen
- Namesakes: Benjamin Netanyahu, the ninth prime minister of Israel from 2009 to 2021. Benjamin Britten, an English composer of The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra (1945).
- Popularity: Benjamin ranked 258th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 20th for boys in 2021.
Bennett
Bennett may be an English variation of the Latin Benedictus, meaning “blessed.” It’s currently one of the most popular boy names with B in the U.S. Bennett is also ranked 78th among American surnames.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Blessed
- Pronunciation: BEHN-eht
- Variations: Benette
- Namesakes: Bennett Miller, an American film director of Capote (2005). Bennett Cohen, the American co-founder of the ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s.
- Popularity: Bennett is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 90th in 2021.
Beppe
Beppe is a nickname for Giuseppe, the Italian version of Joseph. It also means “God will increase” in Hebrew. Beppe is a term for “grandmother” in Dutch, with your Beppe the cutest “Joey” around.
- Origin: Italian
- Meaning: God will add
- Pronunciation: BEY-Pey
- Variations: Bepe
- Namesakes: Beppe Severgnini, an Italian journalist for The New York Times from 2013 to 2021. Giuseppe “Beppe” Carletti, an Italian musician and founder of the band I Nomadi.
- Popularity: Beppe is very rare worldwide, primarily used in Italy, and ranked 529th in Malta in 2014.
Bernard
Bernard comes from the German Berinhard, made up of “berin,” meaning “bear” and “hard,” meaning “stern.” It started as the Old English surname Beornheard, also meaning “noble,” for your little bear cub.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Brave bear, strong
- Pronunciation: BEHR-Nahrd
- Variations: Barnhard, Bernhard
- Namesakes: Bernard Ładysz, a Polish singer appearing in Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Bernard McCullough (known as Bernie Mac), an American comedian and creator of the Bernie Mac show from 2001 to 2006.
- Popularity: Bernard ranked 322nd worldwide and is mainly used in France, where it ranked 11th in 2014.
Bertram
Bertram originated from the German Berahthraben, made up of “berhta,” meaning “bright” and “hraben,” meaning “raven.” Ravens were symbols of wisdom, so this could be the most symbolic of guy names that start with B.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Bright, famous raven
- Pronunciation: BEHR-Trahm
- Variations: Bertrem, Bertrum
- Namesakes: Bertram Heyn, a Sri Lankan Commander of the Ceylon Army. Bertram Stevens, the 25th Premier of New South Wales from 1932 to 1939.
- Popularity: Bertram is rare worldwide and primarily used in Germany, ranking 757th in 2014.
Bethel
Bethel is a biblical name used for the place where Abraham built an altar. It’s also a Welsh surname based on Ithel, which originally meant “son of,” for your sacred baby boy.
- Origin: Hebrew, Welsh
- Meaning: House of God
- Pronunciation: BEH-Thahl
- Variations: Betel
- Namesakes: Bethel Johnson, an American football player for the New England Patriots. Bethel Solomons, an Irish international rugby player for Ireland.
- Popularity: Bethel is rare worldwide and mostly used in Nigeria.
Betserai
Betserai is rarely used outside of Zimbabwe, where it originated. It also means “rescue” for the young guy who’s your little hero.
- Origin: Zimbabwean
- Meaning: Help
- Pronunciation: Beht-seh-RAAIY
- Popularity: Betserai is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Zimbabwe, where it ranked 1,288th in 2014.
Bevin
Bevin is based on the Welsh Evan. As a surname, it began as Befionn, meaning “melodious woman.” In Irish mythology, Bebinn is the goddess of birth, yet Bevin also means “young soldier” for boys with the name.
- Origin: Gaelic, Latin
- Meaning: Fair lady
- Pronunciation: BEH-Vihn
- Variations: Bevyn
- Namesakes: Bevin Hough, a New Zealand sportsman and silver medalist at the 1950 British Empire Games. Bevin Alexander, an American author of the book Korea: The First War We Lost.
- Popularity: Bevin is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Bido
Bido is based on the Welsh Ap-Eddow. It may also be associated with a French word meaning “little bird.” Bido is an anime Dragon Ball Z character, which makes it more popular among the coolest boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Bead
- Pronunciation: BUY-Doh
- Popularity: Bido is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Egypt.
Bilal
Bilal was used as a first name and surname, meaning “water” and “victorious.” Bilal is known as Muhammad’s companion who first called Muslims to prayer. It also means “chosen one” for your special little guy.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Full moon
- Pronunciation: Bih-LAAL
- Variations: Bilaal, Billal
- Namesakes: Bilal Gülden, a Turkish footballer for Kırşehir Belediyespor. Bilal Maqsood, a Pakistani guitarist and member of the group Strings.
- Popularity: Bilal ranked 1,518th worldwide, is mainly used in Pakistan and ranked 45th in Lebanon in 2014.
Bill
Bill is most commonly known as the four-letter nickname for William. William ranked in the top 20 U.S. boy’s names for over 100 years, but Bill stands on its own.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Resolute protector
- Variations: Billy
- Namesakes: Bill Burr, an American stand-up comedian nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for Paper Tiger. Bill Irwin, an American actor best known as Mr. Noodle on Sesame Street.
- Popularity: Bill ranked 1,967th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S.
Bima
Bima comes from the Sanskrit “bhima,” meaning “formidable.” It’s found in Yiddish and Greek surnames but remains cute and strong among male names that start with B.
- Origin: Indonesian
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: BUY-mah
- Namesakes: Bima Bharti, an Indian Minister of Sugarcane Industries. Bima Sugiarto, the mayor of Bogor, Indonesia since 2014.
- Popularity: Bima is rare worldwide and mostly used in Indonesia.
Birch
Birch was an Old English surname for anyone living near a birch wood. The birch tree is a common symbol of new beginnings for your “bright” and “shining” baby boy.
- Origin: English, Celtic
- Meaning: Birch tree
- Pronunciation: BERTCH
- Variations: Birche
- Namesakes: Birch Wilson, an American political activist and editor of the weekly newspaper, The Labor Advocate.
- Popularity: Birch is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.,
Bjorn
Bjorn was a Swedish nickname taken from the Old Norse “bjǫrn,” meaning “bear.” It’s one of the most recognizable boy names that start with B in Sweden but can grow in popularity elsewhere too.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Bear
- Pronunciation: Biy-OHRN
- Variations: Bjoern, Bjorne
- Namesakes: Björn Borg, a Swedish tennis player and the first man to win 11 Grand Slam singles titles between 1974 and 1981. Björn Ulvaeus, a Swedish singer and a member of the musical group ABBA.
- Popularity: Bjorn is rare worldwide, mainly used in the Netherlands, and ranked 784th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Blaise
Blaise originated from the Latin Blasius, meaning “stammerer.” The surname was first found in the French region of Languedoc, but your little boy can still speak up strong.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: To lisp, stammer
- Pronunciation: BLEHZ
- Variations: Blaese, Blais, Blase
- Namesakes: Frédéric-Louis Sauser (known as Blaise Cendrars), a Swiss novelist in the European modernist movement. Blaise Sonnery, a French road bicycle racer for UCI ProTour team Ag2r–La Mondiale.
- Popularity: Blaise is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in DR Congo, and ranked 987th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Blake
Blake may be based on the Old English “blaac,” used as a nickname for someone having pale hair or skin. The surname Blake was one of the Galway Tribes in Ireland, but your Blake can be a blond or brunette.
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: Fair-haired
- Variations: Blaeke
- Namesakes: Blake Shelton, an American country music singer, and coach on NBC’s The Voice. Blake Govers, an Australian field hockey player for the Australian national team.
- Popularity: Blake is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 226th for boys in 2022.
Blessing
Today, Blessing is a surname most used in Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and other African countries. Though Blessing is a unisex name, it’s typically given to girls, but it makes an awesome middle name for your boy.
- Origin: Latin, English
- Meaning: Divine gift
- Pronunciation: BLEH-Sihng
- Variations: Blesing
- Namesakes: Blessing Afrifah, an Israeli track and field athlete and gold medallist at the World Athletics U20 Championships in 2022. Blessing Chebundo, a Zimbabwean member of parliament.
- Popularity: Blessing ranked 659th worldwide and is mainly used in Nigeria, where it ranked 12th in 2014.
Blythe
Blythe is based on the Old English “bliðe,” meaning “merry” or “cheerful.” It’s more common for girls, but it also means “gentle” and “kind” – ideal for a young man with great character.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Joyful
- Pronunciation: BLIHYDH
- Variations: Blithe, Blyth
- Popularity: Blythe is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Bo
Bo is taken from the Old Norse “búi,” meaning “bear.” In Chinese, Bo means “wave” and “precious.” It circles back to mean “living” in Slavic, so it’s got every meaning you could ask for.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: To live
- Pronunciation: BOW
- Variations: Boe
- Namesakes: Bo Carpelan, a Finnish-Swedish poet and winner of the Swedish Academy Nordic Prize in 1997. Bo Persson, a Swedish table tennis player and bronze medalist at the 1967 World Table Tennis Championships.
- Popularity: Bo is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Myanmar, and ranked 17th in Sweden in 2014.
Boaz
In Hebrew, Bo means “strength is within him,” based on “bo,” meaning “in him,” and “az,” meaning “strength.” Boaz was Ruth’s husband in the Bible and offers a unique take on modern names for swift boys.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Swiftness
- Pronunciation: BOW-aez
- Variations: Boaze
- Namesakes: Boaz Merenstein, an Israeli tennis player and gold medalist at the 1989 Maccabiah Games. Boaz Yakin, an Israeli-American screenwriter known for the film Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time.
- Popularity: Boaz is rare worldwide, primarily used in Kenya, and ranked 1,020th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Bobby
Bobby has stayed on the top 100 boys’ names in the U.S. for 50 years. It peaked in the 1930s and 1940s at #30. Bobby is an adorable nickname for Robert that stands alone.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Bright fame
- Pronunciation: BAAB-iy
- Variations: Bobbie
- Namesakes: Bobby Cannavale, an American actor appearing on the TV series Will & Grace. Piyush “Bobby” Jindal, the 55th Governor of Louisiana from 2008 to 2016.
- Popularity: Bobby is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 824th for boys in 2018.
Bodhi
Bodhi is aSanskrit name meaning “awakening.” The bodhi tree symbolizes nirvana, a great way to show how your baby boy makes you feel.
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: Enlightenment
- Pronunciation: BOW-Diy
- Variations: Bodi
- Namesakes: Bodhi Elfman, an American actor known for the Fox TV series Touch.
- Popularity: Bodhi is rare worldwide, mainly used in Egypt, and ranked 284th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Bodo
Bodo is an example of Germanic names with the prefix “Bod-,” meaning “to bid.” Bodo also means “God protect the king” in Hungarian, and it commands just as much for boy names with B.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Commander
- Pronunciation: BOW-Dow
- Variations: Botho
- Namesakes: Bodo Battenberg, a German equestrian who competed at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Bodo Kox, a Polish director known for the film The Man with the Magic Box (2017).
- Popularity: Bodo is rare worldwide, primarily used in Germany, and ranked 251st in Madagascar in 2014.
Bogdan
Bogdan is made up of the Slavic “bog,” meaning “God,” and “dan,” meaning “given.” It’s one of the offshoots that began with the Greek Theodōtos, also meaning “given by God.”
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: God’s gift
- Pronunciation: BAOG-Daan
- Variations: Bohdan
- Namesakes: Bogdan Bogdanović, Serbian basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks and the Serbian national basketball team. Bogdan Borusewicz, the Marshal in the Polish Senate from 2005 to 2015.
- Popularity: Bogdan is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Romania, where it ranked 19th in 2014.
Bogomir
Bogomir comes from the Old Slavic “bog,” meaning “God,” and “mirŭ,” meaning “peace.” It also means “peaceful ruler,” making it ideal for your little peacemaker.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: God’s peace
- Pronunciation: BOW-gow-Mihr
- Namesakes: Bogomir Korsov, a Russian opera singer who performed at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Bogomir Bogdanovic, a Serbian-American artist, known for landscape still-life paintings.
- Popularity: Bogomir is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Serbia, and ranked 360th in Slovenia in 2014.
Bolin
Bolin was also a Scottish surname based on location. In Swedish, Bolin is composed of “bo,” meaning “farm” and the suffix “-lin,” meaning “relating to.” Whether the Scottish countryside, a Chinese rain, or a Swedish farm, Bolin has all lands covered.
- Origin: Chinese
- Meaning: Elder brother, rain
- Pronunciation: BOW-Lin
- Popularity: Bolin is rare worldwide and primarily used in India.
Bongani
Bongani means to “be thankful” in the African Zulu and Swati languages. It can refer to “the grateful one,” which is a brilliant start for your baby on the way.
- Origin: African
- Meaning: Give thanks
- Pronunciation: Bohn-GAHN-iy
- Namesakes: Bongani Mwelase, a South African boxer, and the 2006 Commonwealth welterweight champion. Bongani Msomi, a South African politician and secretary general of the United Democratic Movement.
- Popularity: Bongani is rare worldwide, mostly used in South Africa, and ranked 10th in Swaziland in 2014.
Bonifacio
Bonifacio derives from the Latin name Bonifatius, based on “bonum,” meaning “good” and “fatum,” meaning “fate.” It also means “auspicious” for the luckiest little boy you love most.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Fortunate
- Pronunciation: Bow-niy-FAA-siy-Ow
- Variations: Bonifaco
- Namesakes: Bonifacio Rivera, the Deputy of the LXI Legislature of the Mexican Congress from 2009 to 2012. Bonifacio Ávila, a Colombian boxer who competed at the 1972 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Bonifacio is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the Philippines, ranking 210th in 2014.
Booker
Booker has remained in the top 1,000 boys’ names in the U.S. from the 1890s until 1966. It was an occupational surname for bookbinders representing both the literary and the Wild West for your well-rounded boy.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Scribe
- Pronunciation: BUW-Ker
- Variations: Bookur
- Namesakes: Booker T. Washington, one of the African-American founders of the National Negro Business League. Booker Brown, an American football player with the San Diego Chargers.
- Popularity: Booker is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,498th for boys in 2022.
Boone
Boone was once a Dutch surname based on “boene,” meaning “someone who farmed beans.” In English, Boone refers to any “lucky blessing,” which fits the bill for the arrival of your gorgeous boy.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Blessing
- Pronunciation: BUWN
- Variations: Boon
- Namesakes: Boone Jenner, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Boone Logan, an American baseball player for the New York Yankees.
- Popularity: Boone is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,498th for boys in 2022.
Boris
Boris comes from the Slavic name Barys, also meaning “small.” It may relate to the Turkish “böri,” meaning “wolf.” Boris can also mean “snow leopard” and “famous battle,” which is the most traditional masculine choice.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Battle glory
- Pronunciation: BOWR-ihs
- Variations: Boriss
- Namesakes: Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2019 to 2022. William Henry Pratt (known as Boris Karloff), an English actor best known for the horror film Frankenstein (1931).
- Popularity: Boris ranked 1,882nd worldwide, is mainly used in Russia, and ranked 59th in Croatia in 2014.
Borja
Like Boris, Borja is also Slavic for “small.” It’s also a Spanish surname for a town in Spain but is a strong choice for your little ruler.
- Origin: Slavic, Spanish
- Meaning: Battle glory
- Pronunciation: BAOR-Yah
- Variations: Borgia
- Namesakes: Borja Menéndez, a Spanish racing driver and the 2004 Spanish Formula Three champion. Borja Eguillor, a Spanish film director, known for his 2005 film One Too Many.
- Popularity: Borja is rare worldwide and primarily used in Spain, ranking 214th in 2014.
Bosa
As a Colombian name, Bosa means “enclosure of the guard and defender of cornfields.” It’s also an African surname and a Slavic diminutive of Bogdan and Bogoljub, so it has plenty to offer up.
- Origin: Slavic, Colombian
- Meaning: Daring
- Pronunciation: BOH-sah
- Popularity: Bosa is rare worldwide and mostly used in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where it ranked 335th in 2014.
Boston
Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts, taken from an English town in Lincolnshire. It originally meant “Botwulf’s tun (hamlet).” Botolph was the English saint of travelers who could watch over your little one.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Botwulf’s stone
- Pronunciation: BAOS-Tahn
- Variations: Bosten, Bostun
- Namesakes: Boston Charley, an Indian warrior in the Modoc War of 1872. Boston Scott, an American football player for the Philadelphia Eagles.
- Popularity: Boston is rare worldwide, mainly used in Zambia, and ranked 601st for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Boswell
Boswell specifically means “dweller by the spring where the cattle are watered.” It was a British-Norman surname referring to someone “from Beuzeville” in France, but it has more of an English ring.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Well near the woods
- Pronunciation: BOWZ-Wehl
- Variations: Boswelle
- Namesakes: Boswell Williams, a Saint Lucian politician in the national legislature from 1974 to 1979.
- Popularity: Boswell is rare worldwide and primarily used in Zambia, ranking 1,568th in 2014.
Bowen
Bowen comes from the Welsh name Owain. It ranked in the top 1,000 U.S. names starting in 2011. Bowen is a common Chinese-Hawaiian surname meaning “plum,” for your baby boy.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Small, victorious one
- Pronunciation: BOW-ehn
- Variations: Bowyn
- Namesakes: Bowen Yang, the first Chinese-American cast member on Saturday Night Live. Bowen Byram, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Colorado Avalanche.
- Popularity: Bowen is rare worldwide, mostly used in Taiwan, and ranked 394th for boys in the U.S. in 2020.
Boyd
Boyd derives from the Scottish “boid,” a Gaelic term for someone with blond hair. The Boyd family originated in the 13th-century, but within today’s B names for boys, Boyd isn’t just for blonds.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Yellow
- Namesakes: Boyd Gordon, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Washington Capitals. Boyd Irwin, an English actor, appearing in the silent film For Australia in 1915.
- Popularity: Boyd is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,528th for boys in 2021.
Brad
Brad is based on the Old English word “brad,” meaning “wide.” When appearing as Bradley, it means “broad clearing in the wood.” Brad is one of the most casual guy names that start with B, thanks to modern celebs like Brad Pitt.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Broad
- Pronunciation: BRAED
- Variations: Bradd
- Namesakes: Brad Pitt, an American actor known for the film Ocean’s Eleven (2001). Brad Gilbert, an American tennis player and gold medalist at the 1981 Maccabiah Games.
- Popularity: Brad is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Brady
Brady can also mean “rogue” in English. It was originally an Irish surname based on Brádaigh, meaning “descendant of Brádach.” Brady was given to those both “large-chested” and with “broad eyes.”
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Handsome
- Pronunciation: BREY-Diy
- Variations: Bradey, Braydy
- Namesakes: Brady Hicks, an American journalist, and Pro Wrestling Illustrated writer. Brady Kennett, a New Zealand race driver and winner of the 1995 New Zealand Grand Prix.
- Popularity: Brady is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 69th for boys in the U.S. in 2020.
Bram
Bram is a Dutch and English nickname for Abraham and sometimes Bertram. Few Brams are as famous as Bram Stoker, who wrote Dracula, but your little guy can surely make a name for himself.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew
- Meaning: Father of a multitude
- Pronunciation: BRAEM
- Variations: Bramm
- Namesakes: Bram Stoker, an Irish author known for his 1897 Gothic horror novel Dracula. Bram Gay, a British trumpet player for the Royal Opera House in London.
- Popularity: Bram is rare worldwide and mainly used in the Netherlands, ranking 165th in 2014.
Brandon
Brandon comes from the Old English “brōm,” meaning “gorse-bush,” and “dūn,” meaning “hill.” It tends to be associated with Brendan but is special on its own.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Fire hill
- Pronunciation: BRAEN-Dahn
- Variations: Branden
- Namesakes: Brandon Allen, an American football player for the Cincinnati Bengals. Brandon Lee, an American actor, and son of Bruce Lee.
- Popularity: Brandon is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 181st for boys in 2021.
Branston
Branston is a less common English surname for those from Brandeston, England. It’s composed of “brant” and “tun,” meaning “a farmstead” or “village where Brant lived.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son of Brand
- Pronunciation: BRAEN-Stahn
- Variations: Bransten, Branstun
- Popularity: Branston is extremely rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Brecken
Brecken is the modern spelling of the Irish Breccan. The Gaelic Breacán originally meant “little freckled one.” Brecken also means “speckled,” but your baby boy doesn’t need freckles to enjoy this cute name.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Freckled
- Pronunciation: BREH-Kahn
- Variations: Breckin
- Namesakes: Brecken Palmer, an American actor appearing in the 2005 film Yours, Mine, and Ours.
- Popularity: Brecken is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 921st for boys in 2021.
Brendon
Brendon comes from the Gaelic Breandán and Irish Brénainn. The Welsh “breenhin,” means “prince,” “king,” and “brave” for the sovereign baby boy you love.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Prince, king
- Pronunciation: BREHN-Dahn
- Variations: Brenden
- Namesakes: Brendon McCullum, a New Zealand cricket coach for the England Cricket test team. Brendon Urie, an American singer, and member of the band Panic! at the Disco.
- Popularity: Brendon is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 181st for boys in 2021.
Brett
Brett refers to the Celtic people found in Briton or Brittany, the northwest area of France. Brett consists of the French Bret, for Breton, which also refers to someone from Brittany.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Of Briton
- Pronunciation: BREHT
- Variations: Bret
- Namesakes: Brett Ratner, an American film director known for the Rush Hour film series. Brett Moffitt, an American stock car driver and winner of the 2018 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Championship.
- Popularity: Brett is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,060th for boys in 2021.
Briggs
Briggs comes from the English “brigge” meaning “from the village near a bridge.” It was in the top 1,000 U.S. names in 2012 for male names that start with B.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Bridges
- Pronunciation: BRIHGZ
- Namesakes: Adam Briggs (known as Briggs), an Indigenous Australian rapper who co-founded the hip-hop duo A.B. Original in 2016.
- Popularity: Briggs is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 372nd for boys in 2021.
Brighton
Brighton is based on the Old English Beorhthelmes tūn, meaning “Beorhthelm’s farmstead.” It’s a resort town on the south coast of England, celebrated by boys named Brighton.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Bright town
- Pronunciation: BRIY-Tahn
- Variations: Brighten
- Popularity: Brighton is rare worldwide and primarily used in Zimbabwe.
Britten
Britten is the term for someone from Brittany, in northwest France. It also means “from Great Britain,” but your young man can enjoy the name wherever he calls home.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: From Brittany
- Pronunciation: BRIH-Tahn
- Variations: Briten, Britton
- Popularity: Britten is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Brixton
Brixton is a neighborhood in London that initially meant “Stone of Brixi.” It was named after a Saxon lord, so it’s got much history among names for boys that start with B.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Brock’s town
- Pronunciation: BRIHK-Stahn
- Namesakes: Brixton Karnes, an American actor known for the 2000 TV movie The Mary Kay Letourneau Story.
- Popularity: Brixton is extremely rare worldwide and primarily used in the Philippines.
Brock
Brock is a medieval English surname used as a nickname for anyone considered “badger-like.” It may be a short form of Brockert, but it makes a very cute choice when considering surnames for little boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Badger
- Pronunciation: BRAAK
- Variations: Brocke
- Namesakes: Brock Brower, an American writer for The New York Times Magazine. Brock Ingram, an Australian Paralympic rower who competed at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
- Popularity: Brock is rare worldwide, mostly used in the U.S., and ranked 976th in Australia in 2014.
Brogen
Brogen was also the Irish surname McBrogan, meaning “son of Brogan.” It could be based on the Irish King Breogán. Brogen is the name for any “heavy ankle-high shoe” that gets your little boy from one place to the next.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Small shoe
- Pronunciation: BROW-Gahn
- Popularity: Brogen is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in India.
Bronson
Bronson also means “son of the dark man.” It originated in 9th-century Devon, England, but has a rough n’ ready ring for the baby boy you’re expecting.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son of the brown-haired one
- Pronunciation: BRAHN-Sahn
- Variations: Bronsen, Bronsun
- Namesakes: Bronson Pinchot, an American actor known for the ABC sitcom Perfect Strangers (1986 to 1993). Bronson Arroyo, an American baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- Popularity: Bronson is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Bronx
Bronx is based on a New York City borough named after the Bronx River. Jonas Bronck founded the area in 1639, but nowadays, you can make Bronx as popular as Brooklyn for baby names.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Bronck’s land
- Pronunciation: BRONCKS
- Popularity: Bronx is extremely rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Bruno
Bruno’s German root “brun” also means “armor,” It was used as a nickname for someone with brown hair, skin, or clothes. Bruno is quite popular as the 11th most common surname in Italy.
- Origin: German, Italian
- Meaning: Brown
- Pronunciation: BRUW-Now
- Variations: Bruino, Brunoh
- Namesakes: Bruno Giacomelli, an Italian race car driver and winner of the 1978 Formula Two championship. Bruno Kirby (born Bruno Quidaciolu), an American actor known for the film Donnie Brasco.
- Popularity: Bruno ranked 277th worldwide, is mostly used in Brazil and ranked 679th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Bryan
Bryan comes from the Irish “briíg, “ meaning “might” or “power.” It’s the Anglo version of the Irish surname O’Brien. Since 1959, Bryan has ranked in the top 100 U.S. boys’ names for over 50 years, so it’s a keeper.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Hill
- Pronunciation: BRIY-aen
- Variations: Brian
- Namesakes: Bryan Adams, a Canadian musician who’s sold between 75 million and 100 million records worldwide. Bryan Cranston, an American actor, known for the AMC drama series Breaking Bad.
- Popularity: Bryan ranked 1,422nd worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S.
Bryce
Bryce derives from the Celtic “brych,” meaning “blemish.” It’s based on the Latin Bricius, meaning “spotted.” Bryce entered the top 100 list for boys’ names in the U.S. in 1998 and remains quite popular today.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Speckled
- Pronunciation: BRIHS
- Variations: Brice
- Namesakes: Bryce Stringam, a Canadian politician in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta from 1955 to 1959. Bryce Alderson, a Canadian footballer for Portugal FC in the Canadian Soccer League.
- Popularity: Bryce is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 250th for boys in 2021.
Bryn
Bryn is an offshoot of Bryan and a short form of Brynmor and Brynley. It’s more common for girls, but your Bryn can climb his mountain too.
- Origin: Welsh, Gaelic
- Meaning: Hill
- Pronunciation: BRIHN
- Variations: Bryne
- Namesakes: Bryn Merrick, a Welsh musician, and member of the rock band The Damned. Bryn Vaile, an English sailor and gold medalist at the 1988 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Bryn is rare worldwide, mainly used in England, and ranked 420th in Wales in 2014.
Buck
Buck is based on the Old English “bucca,” meaning “male deer” or “male goat.” It’s better known as American slang for a dollar bill or a cowboy, so saddle up for your little partner.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Male deer
- Variations: Buc
- Namesakes: Buck Owens, an American country musician first known for the Bakersfield sound of country music. Buck Houghton, an American TV producer known for The Twilight Zone series.
- Popularity: Buck is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,858th for boys in 2022.
Buddy
Buddy is a common diminutive for “comrade” and “brother.” It ranked in the top 1,000 boys’ names in the U.S. between 1900 to 1988, peaking in 1935.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Friend, mate
- Pronunciation: BUH-Deey
- Variations: Budy
- Namesakes: Simmie Sims III (known as Buddy), an American rapper and member of the hip-hop group Zoink Gang. Buddy Rich, an American jazz band leader of the Buddy Rich Orchestra between 1945 and 1948.
- Popularity: Buddy is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 982nd in 2014.
Budimir
Budimir is composed of the Slavic “budi,” meaning “to be,” and “mir,” meaning “peace.” It also refers to “the one who awakens peace,” offering a wonderful gift for your baby boy.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: To make peace
- Pronunciation: BUW-dih-Mihr
- Namesakes: Budimir Lončar, a Croatian Minister of Foreign Affairs of Yugoslavia from 1987 until 1991. Budimir Jolović, a Macedonian-Serbian basketball player for Nikol Fert.
- Popularity: Budimir is rare worldwide, mainly used in Serbia, and ranked 171st in Montenegro in 2014.
Bunyan
Bunion comes from the Welsh Enion, a nickname for someone with a hump. For boy names that start with B, you might prefer its meaning of a “puffed-up fruit tart” instead.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Swelling
- Pronunciation: BUHN-Yaen
- Variations: Bunyon
- Namesakes: Bunyan Joseph, the first elected Bishop in Anantapur-Kurnool Diocese, India. Bunyan Vijayam, an Indian geologist, known for his 1959 Technical Report of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research.
- Popularity: Bunyan is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Burke
Burke was an English surname composed of “burh.” It also means “from the fortified settlement.” It came to Ireland via the Normans but could make sense for your strong little boy too.
- Origin: Norman-Irish, English
- Meaning: Stronghold
- Pronunciation: BERK
- Variations: Burk
- Namesakes: Burke Hanford, an American Naval Medal of Honor recipient during the Boxer Rebellion. Burke Shelley, a Welsh musician, and bassist for the rock band Budgie.
- Popularity: Burke is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Byron
Byron began with the Old English phrase “æt ðǽm bȳrum,” meaning “place by the cowsheds.” It was used as a surname for cattle herders but also belonged to one of the most famous poets around, Lord Byron.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Barn for cows
- Pronunciation: BUY-Raan
- Variations: Byrone
- Namesakes: Byron Krieger, an American fencer and gold medalist at the 1951 Pan American Games. Byron Brown II, the current mayor of Buffalo, New York.
- Popularity: Byron is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 751st for boys in 2021.
B Names for Boys FAQs
What Are Rare Boy Names That Start With B?
Some less common boy names that start with B include Breaux, Bane, and Baden. Others sound like more common names with slight differences, like Braven (Raven), Branton (Brandon), and Benjiman (Benjamin). You can also search far and wide for more exotic B names for boys, like Bartosz, Baruch, and Bitalo.
What Is the Most Popular B Name for a Boy?
Benjamin is the most popular B name for boys in the U.S. It ranked 7th in 2021 and 18th in 2022. Benjamin has Hebrew origins and means “son of the right hand.” Benjamin is a biblical classic and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon in popularity.
