If your heart is set on finding boy names that start with S, you may think it easy from here on out! That’s until you discover how many S names for boys there are in the world. From the popular to the unfamiliar, these names can have almost too many meanings and variations to figure out.
Let our easy-to-understand guide help you find the best male names that start with S for your little lad. Discover the individual stories behind each name, plus uncover fun facts you didn’t know. You’ll be excited to find the perfect name for your S guy-in-training.
100 Cool Male Names That Start with S
From the fancy to the funny, these boy names that start with S will make you smile in no time.
Saad
Saad also means “good luck” in Arabic and “friend or companion.” It comes from the Arabic “sa’ada,” meaning “to be happy” and “lucky.” Saad is the name of multiple companions of the Prophet Muhammed.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Happiness
- Pronunciation: SAHD
- Variations: Sad, Sadd
- Namesakes: Saad Hariri, the Lebanese-Saudi prime minister of Lebanon from 2009 to 2011 and 2016 to 2020. Saad Salman, an Iraqi-French film director of the documentary Baghdad On/Off.
- Popularity: Saad ranked 1,297th worldwide and is mostly used in Iraq, where it ranked 25th in 2014.
Sabbath
Sabbath originated with the Hebrew “shabat,” meaning “to cease” or “to rest.” It’s a biblical symbol for the 7th day when God rested. Sabbath is also famous for Ozzy Osbourne’s band Black Sabbath, so your little guy can choose.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: Day of rest
- Pronunciation: SAB-Uhth
- Variations: Sabath
- Popularity: Sabbath is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Nigeria.
Sabir
Sabir also means “enduring person” in Arabic. It carries the same original meaning of “patient” in Urdu and Hindi among names for boys that start with S.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Patient
- Pronunciation: SAA-Bihr
- Variations: Sabeer
- Namesakes: Sabir Khan, an Indian cricketer who played for Bihar in the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy. Sabir Khan is an Indian sarangi player with music in the film Chameli.
- Popularity: Sabir is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Pakistan, and ranked 149th in Azerbaijan in 2014.
Sachin
Sachin is based on the Sanskrit Shachindra. It was a name given to the Hindu god Indra, meaning “Shachi’s Indra.” Sachin is also the name of the Hindu god Shiva and means “pure existence” with a thoughtful aesthetic.
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: Saa-CHIHN
- Variations: Sachen, Sashin
- Namesakes: Sachin Ahir, an Indian politician and a current member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Sachin Tendulkar, the Indian cricket captain of the Indian national team.
- Popularity: Sachin ranked 1,138th worldwide and is mostly used in India, ranking 133rd in 2014.
Sage
Sage also means “healthy,” perhaps because it’s also the name of an aromatic spice. It also means “prophet” and was once an ancient Greek honorary title for the wisest of men.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Wise
- Pronunciation: SEYJH
- Variations: Saege, Saige
- Namesakes: Sage Karam, an American racing driver and the 2013 Indy Lights champion. Sage Brocklebank, a Canadian actor in the series Psych.
- Popularity: Sage is rare worldwide, mainly used in DR Congo, and ranked 426th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Sailor
Sailor also means acrobat when based on the English “sailor.” It was an occupational surname for a “dancer” or “entertainer,” not just the kind who sailed the seven seas.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Dancer
- Pronunciation: SEY-Ler
- Variations: Sailar, Sailer
- Namesakes: Bryan “Sailor” Roberts, the American winner of the 1975 World Series of Poker Main Event. Sailor Art Thomas, an American wrestler inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016.
- Popularity: Sailor is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Egypt.
Saint
Saint originated with the Latin Sanctus, once a nickname for a “pious person.” It also derives from the Middle English “saint(e),” meaning “blameless holy,” as your baby boy will always be.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Holy
- Pronunciation: SEYNT
- Variations: Saent, Sainte
- Namesakes: Saint West, the son of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian.
- Popularity: Saint is rare worldwide, mostly used in India, and ranked 175th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Sakarias
Sakarias is also an Indian girl’s name meaning “one who is cute and sweet.” It comes from the Hebrew “Zekaryâh,” meaning “God has remembered.” Zechariah is one of the Twelve Biblical Prophets, but your little Sakarias could stand out among boy names with S like this.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: The Lord has remembered
- Pronunciation: Saa-KAH-riy-Ahz
- Variations: Zacharias
- Popularity: Sakarius is very rare worldwide, mainly used in Indonesia, and ranked 377th in Greenland in 2014.
Salem
Salem has more than one meaning, including “peaceful” and “perfect.” It was the biblical name for the city of Jerusalem. Salem was also the formerly witch-phobic, now witch-tourist-friendly, town in Massachusetts.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Safe
- Pronunciation: SEY-Lehm
- Variations: Salim
- Namesakes: Salem Poor, an enslaved African-American war hero in the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution. Salem Chalabi, an Iraq-American lawyer and the first General Director of the Iraqi Special Tribunal in 2003.
- Popularity: Salem ranked 1,737th worldwide, is primarily used in the United Arab Emirates, and ranked 715th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Salinger
Salinger was first a Norman surname based on Saint-Léger-aux-Bois. It was a French town dedicated to a 7th-century bishop, Saint Leger. As mainly a surname, it’s best associated with J.D. Salinger, the American writer of Catcher in the Rye.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: A saint leger
- Pronunciation: SAH-lihn-Ger
- Variations: Sallinger
- Popularity: Salinger is extremely rare worldwide, with only 22 occurrences in 2014, mostly in Indonesia.
Salvador
Salvator was a powerful way to refer to Christ, which was very popular in Hispanic culture. It’s based on the Latin “salvator,” meaning “savior,” for the holiest of boy names that start with S.
- Origin: Latin, Spanish
- Meaning: Savior
- Pronunciation: SAEL-vaa-Daoer
- Variations: Salvadore, Salvodor, Salvatore
- Namesakes: Salvador Dalí, a Spanish surrealist artist best known for The Persistence of Memory. Salvador Narváez, a Mexican boxer and The Ring featherweight champion from 1980 to 1982.
- Popularity: Salvador ranked 877th worldwide, is mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 37th in El Salvador in 2014.
Samer
Samer more poetically means “evening talk under the moonlight.” It has mixed meanings, like the simple “companion” to the elegant “congregation of those who spend the evening in pleasant conversation.”
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Night talk
- Pronunciation: Saa-MIHR
- Variations: Samir, Sameer
- Namesakes: Samer Raimouny, a Jordanian poet and a children’s rights advocate. Samer Saeed, an Iraqi football manager for Al-Diwaniya.
- Popularity: Samer is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Egypt, and ranked 80th in Lebanon in 2014.
Sammy
Sammy is a nickname for Samuel, from the Greek Samoue and the Hebrew Shmuel. It derives from “shěmū’ē’l,” meaning “name of God” and “asked of God.”
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: God has heard
- Pronunciation: SAEM-iy
- Variations: Sammey, Sammi, Sammie
- Namesakes: Sammy Davis Jr., an American entertainer and member of the Rat Pack in 1959. Sammy Hagar, an American musician and the second lead vocalist of Van Halen.
- Popularity: Sammy is rare worldwide and mostly used in Kenya, ranking 139th in 2014.
Samson
Samson comes from the Hebrew Shimshon, meaning “of the sun.” Samson was a famous biblical hero known for his strength (until Delilah came along). It also means “sun child” for your little sunshine boy.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Sun
- Pronunciation: SAEM-Sahn
- Variations: Sampson
- Namesakes: Samson Mwita Marwa, a Kenyan politician in the National Assembly of Kenya from 1969 until 1974. Samson Ebukam, a Nigerian–American football player for the San Francisco 49ers.
- Popularity: Samson ranked 1,173rd worldwide, is mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 103rd for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Samuel
Samuel originated with the Hebrew Shemu’el, meaning “name of God.” It means “God has placed” and has been a top 100 U.S. boys’ name since 1900, so it’s here to stay.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: God has heard
- Pronunciation: SAEM-Yahl
- Variations: Sammuel, Samuele
- Namesakes: Samuel Clemens (known as Mark Twain), an American writer best known for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876). Samuel L. Jackson, an American actor and the third highest-grossing actor of all time.
- Popularity: Samuel ranked 69th worldwide, is primarily used in Nigeria and ranked 23rd for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Samwise
Samwise is based on the Old English “samwís,” meaning “simple.” It’s made up of “sam,” meaning “semi,” and “wise,” meaning “wisdom.” Though meaning “half-wit,” Samwise can refer to the funny but sophisticated Samwise Gamgee from Lord of the Rings.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Half-wise
- Pronunciation: SAM-Wiyse
- Namesakes: Sam “Samwise” Didier, an American art director at Blizzard Entertainment for video games like Warcraft.
- Popularity: Samwise is extremely rare worldwide, with only 16 occurrences in 2014, mostly in the U.S.
Sanjay
Sanjay also means “conquering” or “victory. It’s another name for Lord Shiva, which makes sense since it’s most common in countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
- Meaning: Triumphant
- Pronunciation: SAEN-Jhey
- Variations: Sanjey
- Namesakes: Sanjay Gupta, the American chief medical correspondent for CNN. Sanjay Khan, an Indian actor/director of the series The Sword of Tipu Sultan.
- Popularity: Sanjay ranked 135th worldwide and is mainly used in India, ranked 7th in 2014.
Santiago
Santiago was inspired by Saint James the Great, who traveled to the Iberian Peninsula. It’s composed of the Spanish “saint,” for “a saint,” and “yago,” meaning James or Jacob in Spanish. Santiago entered the top 100 U.S. boys’ names in 2017.
- Origin: Latin, Spanish
- Meaning: Saint James
- Pronunciation: Saen-tiy-YAA-Gow
- Variations: Santeago, Santyago
- Namesakes: Santiago Palavecino, an Argentinian boxer and bronze medalist at the 1995 Pan American Games. Santiago Rodriguez, a Cuban-American pianist and winner of the Rosette Award in The Penguin Guide to Recorded Classical Music.
- Popularity: Santiago ranked 1,211th worldwide, is primarily used in Mexico and ranked 63rd for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Sasha
Sasha is a short form for Alexander, meaning “helper of mankind.” It comes from the Greek “alexo,” meaning “to defend,” and “andros,” meaning “man.” Sasha is an often-used Russian nickname for boys but is more popular in the U.S. as a girl’s name.
- Origin: Slavic, Russian
- Meaning: Defender
- Pronunciation: SAA-Shaa
- Variations: Sacha, Sascha, Saša
- Namesakes: Sasha Issenberg, an American journalist and contributing editor at George Magazine. Sasha Victorine, an American soccer player with the U.S. national team.
- Popularity: Sasha is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Russia, and ranked 1,560th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Saul
Sol derives from the Hebrew “shaul,” meaning “prayed for” or “demanded.” It also means to “ask” or “question.” In the Bible, Saul was the first king of Israel, but he’s now one of the oldest guy names that start with S.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Prayed for
- Pronunciation: SAOL
- Variations: Sawl, Sol
- Namesakes: Saul Katz, the American former president of the New York Mets baseball team. Saul Robbins, an American toy maker and co-founder of the Remco toy company.
- Popularity: Saul is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 961st for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sawyer
Sawyer was first famous because of Mark Twain’s Adventures of Tom Sawyer. It was an occupational last name for “one who cuts timber” and is common for both boys and girls today.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Woodcutter
- Pronunciation: SOY-er
- Variations: Sawyar, Sawyere
- Namesakes: Sawyer Fredericks, an American singer/songwriter and winner of the 8th season of The Voice in 2015. Jacob Southwick, an American wrestler known as Madman Fulton for Impact Wrestling.
- Popularity: Sawyer is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 190th for boys in 2023.
Sax
Sax comes from the Middle English Saxe and Old Norse Saxi. The root “sax” means “one-edged sword.” It was also a nickname for a knifemaker or knife thrower.
- Origin: English, Norse
- Meaning: Knife
- Pronunciation: SAEKS
- Variations: Saxe
- Namesakes: Arthur Ward (known as Sax Rohmer), an English novelist known for his Dr. Fu Manchu novels.
- Popularity: Sax is very rare worldwide and mostly used in DR Congo.
Scipio
Scipio was an early Roman nickname meaning “stick scepter” or “walking stick.” Scipio Africanus was a Roman general who defeated Hannibal in the Punic Wars, but your Scipio can do whatever he likes.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Staff
- Pronunciation: SKIY-piy-Ow
- Variations: Scipiyo, Scypio, Scypiyo
- Namesakes: Scipio Spinks, an American pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals. Scipio Colombo, an Italian opera singer appearing in Poulenc’s Dialogues des Carmélites in 1957.
- Popularity: Scipio is very rare and mainly used in the U.S.
Scorpio
Scorpio is incredibly rare as a name but is a well-known zodiac sign. It’s represented by a scorpion for those born in late October and early November.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Scorpion
- Pronunciation: SKAOR-piy-OW
- Variations: Skorpio
- Namesakes: Schuyler Andrews (ring name Scorpio Sky), an American wrestler with All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
- Popularity: Scorpio is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.,
Scott
Scott’s name also means “painted warrior,” as inspired by Scottish warriors. It’s also based on the Latin “scutum,” meaning “a shield.” Scott also refers to being “from Scotland” when spelled “Scot.”
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Warrior
- Pronunciation: SKAHT
- Variations: Skot, Scot
- Namesakes: Scott Bakula, an American actor known for the series Quantum Leap. Scott Stapp, an American singer of the rock band Creed.
- Popularity: Scott ranked 412th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 190th for boys in 2023.
Seamus
Seamus is the Irish version of the English James. It actually first appeared as the Hebrew Yaakov, which became Jacob.
- Origin: Irish, Hebrew
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Pronunciation: SHEY-Mahs
- Variations: Seamas, Shamus, Shemus
- Namesakes: Seamus Heaney, an Irish playwright, and winner of the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature. Seamus Hoare, an Irish Gaelic footballer for the Donegal county team.
- Popularity: Seamus is rare worldwide and mainly used in Ireland, where it ranked 34th in 2014.
Sean
Sean is the classically Irish variation of the Hebrew Yohanan, known as John in English. It sometimes appears as Séan in Ireland, but the accent disappears for most American Seans.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: SHAON
- Variations: Shawn, Shaun
- Namesakes: Sean Penn, an American actor and winner of two Academy Awards. Sean Spicer, the 30th White House Press Secretary for President Donald Trump in 2017.
- Popularity: Sean ranked 1,376th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., ranking 363rd for boys in 2021.
Sebastian
Sebastian derives from the Greek “sebastos,” meaning “honorable.” It also appeared as the Latin Sebastianus, meaning “from Sebastia,” a place in modern-day Turkey.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Venerable
- Pronunciation: Sah-BAES-Chahn
- Variations: Sebastien, Sebastion
- Namesakes: Sebastian Bach, an American singer of the hard rock band Skid Row.
- Popularity: Sebastian ranked 889th worldwide, is mostly used in Poland and ranked 18th for boys in 2022.
Selasi
Selasi has mostly African origins and often appears as Selassi. It also means “one that refers to a trinity,” considered one of the more obscure S names for boys.
- Origin: Ghanaian
- Meaning: God hears me
- Pronunciation: Seh-LAES-iy
- Variations: Selassie
- Namesakes: Selasi Adjei, a Ghanaian footballer with Nakambala Leopards. Selasi Gbormittah, a British baker appearing on season 7 of the Great British Bake Off.
- Popularity: Selasi is rare worldwide and mainly used in Ghana.
Selim
Selim also means “healthful” in Arabic. It was originally Salim and is based on the Arabic “salima,” meaning “undamaged” – ideal for keeping your little one safe.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Safe
- Pronunciation: Seh-LIYM
- Variations: Saleem, Salim
- Namesakes: Selim Giray, a Turkish-American violinist and concertmaster of The Ohio Light Opera. Selim Giray, the Ottoman khan of the Crimean Khanate from 1671 to 1704.
- Popularity: Selim is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Turkey, and ranked 148th in Kosovo in 2014.
Selwyn
Selwyn is based on the Old English Seleƿine. It’s made up of “sele,” meaning “hall,” and “ƿine,” meaning “sea friend,” perfect for your number one buddy.
- Origin: Old English
- Meaning: Manor friend
- Pronunciation: SAHL-Wihn
- Variations: Selwinn, Selwynne
- Namesakes: Selwyn Raab, an American journalist for The New York Times. Selwyn Jones, an American football player with the Seattle Seahawks.
- Popularity: Selwyn is rare worldwide, mostly used in South Africa, and ranked 130th in the Solomon Islands in 2014.
Seraphim
Seraphim are God’s highest-ranking angels, referred to in the Bible. It also means “burning” and “fiery.” Seraphim is rare but better known as the inspiration for Serafina.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Burning ones
- Pronunciation: Seh-raa-FIYM
- Variations: Serafim
- Popularity: Seraphim is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Brazil.
Seren
Seren is unisex but one of Wales’s most popular girls’ names. It’s also a Polish boy’s name based on the Latin Serenus, meaning “serene.” Seren is both a Turkish surname and a girl’s name too.
- Origin: Welsh, Polish
- Meaning: Star
- Pronunciation: SEH-Rehn
- Namesakes: Seren Waters, a Kenyan cricketer for Surrey who scored with the Kenya national team at the One Day International in 2008.
- Popularity: Seren is rare worldwide and primarily used in Turkey, where it ranked 1,185th in 2014.
Serge
Serge also means “attendant” and “shepherd.” It began as the Roman family name Sergius, meaning “servant.” It’s better known as a Russian name that’s been a French sensation since the 1920s.
- Origin: French, Russian
- Meaning: Servant
- Pronunciation: SEHRG
- Variations: Serg
- Namesakes: Serge Grouard, a member of the National Assembly of France from 2002 to 2017. Serge Lamothe, a French-Canadian writer and vice president of the Quebec Writers Union in 2005.
- Popularity: Serge ranked 1,106th worldwide and is mostly used in France, ranking 50th in 2014.
Set
In Egyptian mythology, Set was the Son of Seb and brother to Osiris. He was the Egyptian god of war, chaos, and storms, but his name is more commonly seen as Seth.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: God of war
- Pronunciation: SEHT
- Variations: Seth
- Popularity: Set is rare worldwide and mainly used in Cambodia, where it ranked 220th in 2014.
Seth
Seth is one of the male names that start with S with biblical beginnings. In the Bible, Seth was the third son of Adam and Eve. It appeared as the Hebrew Šēt, but is still going strong as Seth today.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Placed, appointed
- Pronunciation: SEHTH
- Variations: Sethe
- Namesakes: Seth Meyers, an American comedian and host of the Late Night with Seth Meyers on NBC. Seth Jarvis, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Carolina Hurricanes.
- Popularity: Seth is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Ghana, and ranked 167th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Seven
Seven also means “loving one” in Turkish, using the root “sevmek,” meaning “to love.” It’s more recognizable as the number seven, based on the Old English “seofon.” Seven famously appeared in the TV series Seinfeld, so someone ran with the idea since then.
- Origin: English, Turkish
- Meaning: Number Seven
- Pronunciation: SEH-Vahn
- Variations: Sevin, Sevyn
- Popularity: Seven is very rare worldwide, mostly used in Indonesia, and ranked 642nd for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Severus
Severus was an ancient Roman family name meaning “stern.” It also means “grave” and “serious,” as the name used by several saints. Severus Snape is a more modern fictional character in the Harry Potter series.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Stern
- Pronunciation: SEHV-eh-Rahs
- Variations: Severin
- Popularity: Severus is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Namibia, where it ranked 1,216th in 2014.
Seymour
Seymour was first based on a place named Saint-Maur in northern France. Those who emigrated from there to the UK used it as a surname. Seymour also means “marshy land near the sea” when describing what it must have looked like.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: From Saint-Maur
- Pronunciation: SIY-Maor
- Variations: Seymoure
- Namesakes: Seymour Hersh, an American investigative journalist and winner of the 1970 Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting. Seymour Nurse, a Barbadian cricketer for the West Indies between 1960 and 1969.
- Popularity: Seymour is rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 420th in Jamaica in 2014.
Shane
Shane is the Irish form of John and is a less common one than Sean. It originated as Seaghán, with Shane being the phonetic pronunciation of the Northern Irish Ulster dialect.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: SHEYN
- Variations: Shaene, Shaine, Shayne
- Namesakes: Shane MacGowan, an Irish musician with the punk band the Pogues. Shane Meadows, an English director known for This Is England (2006).
- Popularity: Shane is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 437th for boys in 2022.
Shaquille
Shaquille is a modern version of the Arabic Shakil, meaning “handsome.” It also means “well-developed.” Shaquille is an Islamic name meaning “little,” which doesn’t fit its most famous bearer, American basketball player Shaquille O’Neal.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Handsome
- Pronunciation: Shah-KEEL
- Variations: Shaquill, Shaquil
- Namesakes: Shaquille O’Neal, an American basketball player and a four-time NBA champion. Shaquille Vance, an American Paralympic sprint runner, and silver medalist at the 2012 Paralympic Games.
- Popularity: Shaquille is very rare worldwide and mainly used in Trinidad and Tobago, ranking 394th in 2014.
Shelby
Shelby also means “from the ledge estate.” It’s based on the Old Norse surname Selby, composed of “selja,” meaning “willow,” and “byr,” meaning “estate.” Shelby is more common for girls than with names for boys that start with S.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Willow
- Pronunciation: SHEHL-Biy
- Variations: Shelbey, Shelbie, Shellby
- Namesakes: Shelby Harrison, the American director of the Russell Sage Foundation for the Babe Ruth Foundation. Shelby Westbrook, an African-American Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
- Popularity: Shelby is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it was mildly uncommon in 2022.
Sheldon
Sheldon also means “from the shield farm” and “flat-topped hill.” As a surname, it was inspired by the British seaside town of Sheldon in Devonshire.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Steep-sided valley
- Pronunciation: SHEHL-Dahn
- Variations: Sheldan, Sheldun
- Namesakes: Sheldon Brookbank, a Canadian ice hockey player and assistant coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. Sheldon Whitehouse, an American politician and junior senator from Rhode Island since 2007.
- Popularity: Sheldon is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Shepherd
Shepherd was first a surname given to shepherds, meaning “guardian of the sheep” or “one who tends sheep.” It comes from the Old English “sceaphierde,” meaning “sheep herder.” Shepherd also refers to a “pastor” of a congregation or “flock.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Sheep-herder
- Pronunciation: SHEHP-ehrd
- Variations: Shephard, Sheppard
- Namesakes: Shepherd Clark, an American figure skater and Champion of The World Figure Sport Society. Shepherd Dawson, a British psychologist, and president of the Psychological section of the British Medical Association.
- Popularity: Shepherd is rare worldwide, mainly used in Zimbabwe, and ranked 632nd for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sheridan
Sheridan is an English spelling of the Irish O’Sirideáin, originally a surname. It means “descendant of Sheridan” and also means “untamed” for your little wild child.
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Searcher
- Pronunciation: SHEH-rih-Dahn
- Variations: Sheridun, Sheridyn, Sherridan
- Namesakes: Sheridan Le Fanu, an Irish writer of gothic tales in the Victorian era. Sheridan Morley, an English author and the official biographer of Sir John Gielgud.
- Popularity: Sheridan is rare worldwide, primarily used in the U.S., and ranked 876th in Australia in 2014.
Sherwin
Sherwin also means “bright friend” and “quick as the wind.” It derives from the Middle English “schere,” meaning “bright,” and “wine,” meaning “friend.” Sherwin is one of the many guy names that start with S, which began as a formal surname.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Swift runner
- Pronunciation: SHER-Wihn
- Variations: Sherwen, Sherwynn
- Namesakes: Sherwin Vries, a South African sprinter who competed at the 2006 African Championships in Athletics. Sherwin Burickson, the first Jewish-American editor of the New Catholic Encyclopedia.
- Popularity: Sherwin is rare worldwide, mostly used in the Philippines, and ranked 119th in Guyana in 2014.
Shia
Shia first appeared in Hebrew as “shay Yah,” meaning “gift of God.” It also means “praise God” and is still super rare, other than American actor Shia LeBeouf.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Gift from God
- Pronunciation: SHIY-ah
- Namesakes: Shia LaBeouf, an American actor appearing in the 2007 film Disturbia.
- Popularity: Shia is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,267th for boys in 2021.
Sheikh
Sheikh represents an Arabic title equivalent to Caesar or King. It also means “chief,” “head,” or “teacher” and is more known in the UK than the U.S.
- Origin: Arabid
- Meaning: Leader
- Pronunciation: SHEEK
- Variations: Shiekh, Sheik
- Popularity: Sheikh ranked 914th worldwide, is primarily used in Bangladesh, and ranked 2nd in the United Arab Emirates in 2014.
Shiloh
Shiloh also means “tranquil,” “abundance,” and “his gift” in Hebrew. It was first the place name for where Israelites gathered. Shiloh became famous as a battle site during the American Civil War.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Peaceful one
- Pronunciation: SHAEY-Low
- Variations: Shilo, Shyloh
- Namesakes: Shiloh Fernandez, an American actor appearing in the remake of Evil Dead (2013). Shiloh Keo, an American football player for the Houston Texans.
- Popularity: Shiloh is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 602nd for boys in 2022.
Shin
Ahin is also a Korean girl’s name, meaning “belief.” It relates to the Chinese family name Shēn and Xin, which means “genuine.”
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Real, true
- Pronunciation: SHIHN
- Namesakes: Shin Saburi, a Japanese actor known for Late Autumn (1960). Shin Tsuchida, a Japanese politician in the House of Representatives since 2021.
- Popularity: Shin is rare worldwide and mainly used in Japan, ranking 205th in 2014.
Shlomo
Shlomo is an unusual variation of the Hebrew Solomon, from “shĕlōmōh,” meaning “peaceful.” Shlomo is the biblical son of King David and ranks with S names for boys who sound like older men.
- Origin: Hebrew, Yiddish
- Meaning: His peace
- Pronunciation: SHLOW-Mow
- Namesakes: Shlomo Lipetz, an Israeli baseball player on the Israel national team. Shlomo Lahat, the mayor of Tel Aviv from 1974 to 1993.
- Popularity: Shlomo is rare worldwide and primarily used in Israel, ranking 16th in 2014.
Shoto
Shoto is directly made up of the Japanese “sho,” meaning “burning,” and “to,” meaning “freeze.” If written using the Kanji dialect, it refers to a person who is “bright,” “happy,” or “blessed.”
- Origin: Japanese
- Meaning: Burn, freeze
- Pronunciation: SHOW-Tow
- Popularity: Shoto is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Japan.
Si
Si is a common nickname for everything from Sidney and Silas to Simon. It means “God has heard.” Si is also a Western way to say various Chinese surnames.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: To hear
- Pronunciation: SAIY
- Namesakes: Si Genaro, a British musician appearing on BBC’s The Voice UK in 2015. Si Phyo, a Burmese actor in the 2018 film Killing Field.
- Popularity: Si is rare worldwide and mainly used in Myanmar, where it ranked 119th in 2014.
Siddharth
Siddharth is the childhood name for Buddha and is associated with Lord Shiva. It’s made up of the Sanskrit “siddha,” meaning “accomplished,” and “artha,” meaning “goal.” If Buddha and Lord Shiva are too lofty, you can call your little guy Sid.
- Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
- Meaning: One who has accomplished a goal
- Pronunciation: Sid-HAARTH
- Variations: Siddhart, Sidharth
- Namesakes: Siddharth Suryanarayan, an Indian actor appearing in the film Boys (2003).
- Popularity: Siddharth is rare worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 1,972nd for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Sidney
Sidney is composed of the Old English “sidan,” meaning “wide,” and “eg,” meaning “island in a river.” Sidney was also a Norman name referencing Saint-Denis in France.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Wide meadow
- Pronunciation: SIHD-Niy
- Variations: Sydnie, Sydney
- Namesakes: Sidney Carroll, an American screenwriter of The Hustler (1961). Sidney McKnight, a Canadian boxer who competed at the 1976 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Sidney is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Brazil, and ranked 190th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Siegfried
Siegfried is made up of the Germanic “sig,” meaning “victory,” and “frithu,” meaning “protection.” It’s associated with the Norse Sigfrøðr. Siegfried was a German folk hero in the Nibelungenlied legend.
- Origin: German, Scandinavian
- Meaning: Victory, peace
- Pronunciation: ZEEK-Fruit
- Variations: Siegfred, Sigfreid, Sigfrid, Sigfried
- Namesakes: Siegfried Translateur, a German conductor known for the Wiener Praterleben waltz. Siegfried Flesch, an Austrian sabre fencer who competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Siegfried is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in Germany, ranking 65th in 2014.
Silo
Silo relates to the Latin “silos, meaning “of the forest.” A “silo” is a “vertical building for storing grain,” but you might prefer the shadowy black forest for your lad.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Of the forest
- Pronunciation: SAEY-Low
- Namesakes: Silo, an 8th-century king of Asturias on the Iberian peninsula from 774 to 783.
- Popularity: Silo is very rare worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 1,022nd in Fiji in 2014.
Silus
Silus has multiple origins, including Aramaic, Latin, and Greek. It’s based on the Latin “silos,” meaning “prayed for” and “forest dweller.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Of the forest
- Pronunciation: SAEY-Lahs
- Variations: Silas, Sylus
- Popularity: Silus is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Kenya.
Silver
Silver derives from the Anglo-Saxon “siolfur.” It’s the English word for the shiny gray metal, but other versions include Anargyros in Greek and Argento in Latin.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Metal element
- Pronunciation: SIHLV-er
- Variations: Silvar, Sylver
- Namesakes: Silver Eensaar, an Estonian adventure racer and gold medalist at the 10th World Rogaining Championships. Silver Cameron, a Canadian journalist whose book The Living Beach (1998) is in Atlantic Canada’s 100 Greatest Books.
- Popularity: Silver is rare worldwide, mainly used in Uganda, and ranked 187th in Estonia in 2014.
Simon
Simon comes from the Hebrew “Šimʻôn,” meaning “listen” or “hearing.” When based on Greek, Simon means “flat-nosed.” Jewish men in 1st-century Judea used Simon more than any other name.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: He has heard
- Pronunciation: SAEY-Mahn
- Variations: Simmon, Symon
- Namesakes: Simon Webbe, a British singer and member of the boy band Blue. Simon Sjödin, a Swedish swimmer who competed at the 2016 Olympic Games.
- Popularity: Simon ranked 194th worldwide, is primarily used in England and ranked 302nd for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sinbad
Sinbad is the famous adventurer in the “Arabian Nights” tale. It has lesser-known meanings, including “lord of sages” and “dweller from Sind” for your seafaring boy.
- Origin: Arabic, Persian
- Meaning: Prince
- Pronunciation: SIHN-Baed
- Variations: Synbad
- Namesakes: David Adkins (known as Sinbad), an American stand-up comedian appearing on A Different World (1987 to 1991).
- Popularity: Simon is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Egypt.
Sinclair
Sinclair was a surname used for any person “from Saint Clair sur Elle” in France. It first appeared as Saint-Clair, but has also been occasionally seen as “Santoclair,” “de St. Clair,” and “Sainclair.”
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: From Saint-Clair
- Pronunciation: Sihn-KLAEYR
- Variations: Sinclaire, Sinclare, Synclair
- Namesakes: Sinclair Lewis, an American writer and Nobel Prize winner in Literature in 1930. Mathieu Blanc-Francard (known as Sinclair), a French musician who wrote the soundtrack for the 2002 film Mon Idole.
- Popularity: Sinclair is very rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 865th in Scotland in 2014.
Sindri
Sindri also means “blacksmith.” It uses the Old Norse root “sindra,” meaning “to sparkle,” or “sindr,” meaning “spark.” In Norse mythology, Sindri was a place for the virtuous, so it’s the most badass of boy names with S.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Sparkle
- Pronunciation: SIHN-Driy
- Variations: Sindre
- Namesakes: Sindri Freysson, an Icelandic novelist and winner of the Halldór Laxness Literature Prize in 1998.
- Popularity: Sindri is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Iceland, where it ranked 111th in 2014.
Sinjin
Sinjin is an Old English spelling for St John, one of the most famous of Jesus’ twelve Apostles. It also aptly means “holy man” and is by far the best spelled among male names that start with S.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: SIHN-Jhihn
- Variations: Sinjun, St. John
- Namesakes: St. John “Sinjin” Smith, an American beach volleyball player and winner of two World championships.
- Popularity: Sinjin is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Skylar
Skyler first appeared as the surname Schuyler, meaning “student” and “scholar.” Dutch immigrants brought it to America in the 17th-century. Skylar also means “eternal life” and is used with boy names that start with S (and girls’ names too).
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Scholar
- Pronunciation: SKAEY-Laar
- Variations: Skyler, Skylyr
- Namesakes: Skylar Thomas, a Canadian soccer player for Memphis 901 in the USL Championship. Skylar Astin, an American actor known for the musical Pitch Perfect (2012).
- Popularity: Skylar is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,470th for boys in 2022.
Slade
Slade comes from the Old English “slæd,” meaning “valley.” Slade also refers to “a forest glade” or “slope of a hill.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Valley
- Pronunciation: SLEYD
- Variations: Slaed, Slaede, Slaide, Slayde
- Namesakes: Slade Bolden, an American football player for the Baltimore Ravens.
- Popularity: Slade is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,258th in 2022.
Solomon
Solomon originated with the Hebrew “shalom,” meaning “peace.” In the Bible, King Solomon is known for his wisdom and ability to make magic, just as your boy can.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Peace
- Pronunciation: SAAL-ah-Mahn
- Variations: Soloman
- Namesakes: Solomon Burke (born James Solomon McDonald), an American singer called the “King of Rock ‘n’ Soul.” Solomon Busendich, the Kenyan winner of the 2006 Amsterdam Marathon.
- Popularity: Solomon ranked 823rd worldwide, is mostly used in Nigeria and ranked 190th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Sonny
Sonny originated as a nickname for boys named Salvatore, Santino, or Emerson. It also became a term of endearment for a young boy, so get inspired for your little Sonny today.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Son
- Pronunciation: SAHN-iy
- Variations: Sonni, Sonnie
- Namesakes: Salvatore “Sonny” Bono, an American musician and half of the duo Sonny & Cher. George “Sonny” Perdue III, the 31st U.S. Secretary of Agriculture from 2017 to 2021.
- Popularity: Sonny is rare worldwide, mainly used in the Philippines, and ranked 454th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sören
Sören also means “strict” or “severe.” It’s based on the Latin “severus,” meaning “stern.” Severus was also a Roman family name and is a place in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
- Origin: Danish
- Meaning: Stern
- Pronunciation: SAOR-ehn
- Variations: Soran, Sorun, Soryn
- Namesakes: Sören Johansson, a Swedish ice hockey player for the Kansas City Scouts. Sören Wibe, a Swedish member of the Riksdag between 2002 and 2006.
- Popularity: Sören is rare worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 537th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Sorrel
Sorrel is a word to describe a brown chestnut color. It’s the name of a plant once called “surele,” from “sur,” meaning “sour” in German. Sorrel may not taste super smooth, but it’s an ultra-earthy example among names for boys that start with S.
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Reddish-brown
- Pronunciation: SAOR-ehl
- Variations: Sorel, Sorell, Sorelle
- Popularity: Sorrel is very rare worldwide and mostly used in England.
Spartacus
Spartacus was a Roman slave famous for an ancient uprising. It’s based on the Greek “Spártakos,” meaning “rope” and “cord made from Spartos.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: From Sparta
- Pronunciation: SPAHR-tih-Kuhs
- Variations: Sparticus
- Popularity: Spartacus is rare worldwide and mainly used in Egypt.
Spencer
Spencer also means “administrator.” It derives from the Middle English “spense,” meaning “larder.” Spencer refers to a “dispenser of provisions” in a noble household.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Steward
- Pronunciation: SPEHNS-er
- Variations: Spensar, Spenser
- Namesakes: Spencer Herbert, a Canadian politician in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Canada. Spencer Ross, an American sportscaster for every New York team apart from the New York Mets.
- Popularity: Spencer is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 103rd for boys in 2023.
Spike
Spike is a more modern 20th-century nickname for boys named Shelton. In sports, to “spike” a ball is a term that feels as strong as it sounds for little tough guys.
- Origin: English, American
- Meaning: Long, heavy nail
- Pronunciation: SPAEYK
- Variations: Spyke
- Namesakes: Spike Lee, an American filmmaker best known for Do the Right Thing (1989). Lindley “Spike” Jones, an American bandleader of Spike Jones and His City Slickers from the 1940s to 1950s.
- Popularity: Spike is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Stanislav
Stanislav means “someone who achieves glory or fame.” It comes from the Slavic “stati,” meaning “to stand,” and “slava,” meaning “glory.” Stanislav is quite common in Central and Eastern Europe but hasn’t made a splash elsewhere yet.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Glory, fame
- Pronunciation: Staa-niy-SLAAF
- Variations: Stanislas, Stanislaus, Stanislaus
- Namesakes: Stanislav Bartůšek, a Czech TV journalist who directed the 2000 documentary For the Emperor. Stanislav Genchev, a Bulgarian football manager of Lokomotiv Sofia.
- Popularity: Stanislav ranked 1,247th worldwide, is mainly used in Russia and ranked 33rd in Slovakia in 2014.
Stanley
Stanley also means “near the stony clearing.” It’s based on the Old English “stan,” meaning “stone,” and “lah,” meaning “wood.” Stanley was first an English surname but is now a name for a boy as cute as a button.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Stony field
- Pronunciation: STAEN-Liy
- Variations: Stanely, Stanlie
- Namesakes: Stanley Tucci, an American actor and filmmaker known for the comedy Big Night. Stan Lee, an American comic book writer who founded Marvel Comics.
- Popularity: Stanley ranked 1,118th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 997th for boys in 2022.
Stavros
Stavros also means “crowned with wreath.” It’s the Greek form for Stephen, but it isn’t used outside of Greece as much as Stephen or Steven.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Cross
- Pronunciation: STAHV-Rowz
- Namesakes: Stavros Karampelas, current President of the Greek political party. Stavros Konstantinou, a Greek Cypriot singer appearing on the Super Idol reality series in 2004.
- Popularity: Stavros is rare worldwide, mostly used in Greece, and ranked 34th in Cyprus in 2014.
Steele
Steele began as a surname based on Scottish place names in Ayr, Berwick, and Dumfries. It derives from the English “stele” and is one of the strongest male names that start with S for boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Strong
- Pronunciation: STIYL
- Variations: Steel
- Namesakes: Steele Johnson, an American diver and silver medalist at the 2016 Rio Games. Steele Savage, an American illustrator known for Edith Hamilton’s Mythology.
- Popularity: Steele is very rare and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,548th in 2021.
Stefan
Stefan is the German variation of Stephen. It’s based on the Greek Stephanos and also means “honor” and “fame.” Stefan is commonly used in Russia and Poland but is less popular than Steven in the U.S.
- Origin: German, Greek
- Meaning: Crown
- Pronunciation: STEY-Faan
- Variations: Steffen, Stefen, Steven
- Namesakes: Stefan Brzózka, the first Polish chess player given the title of Correspondence Chess Grandmaster (1985). Stefan Olsdal, a Swedish-Luxembourgish musician with the rock band Placebo.
- Popularity: Stefan ranked 886th worldwide, is primarily used in Germany and ranked 203rd for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Stellan
Stellan comes from the Swedish “stilla” and the Old Norse “stilling.” Both origins denote “calm,” just in time for the baby boy you’ve been waiting for.
- Origin: Scandinavian, German
- Meaning: Peaceful, calm
- Pronunciation: STEH-Lahn
- Variations: Stellen, Stehlin
- Namesakes: Stellan Skarsgård, a Swedish actor known for multiple movies made with director Lars von Trier. Stellan Brynell, a Swedish chess grandmaster and Swedish champion in 1991 and 2005.
- Popularity: Stellan is very rare worldwide and mostly used in Sweden, where it ranked 732nd in 2014.
Sterling
Sterling was born out of the Old English Stirling, meaning “little star.” It was a surname possibly based on Easterling. Sterling is also a nickname for a “coin,” as in a “pound sterling.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Little star
- Pronunciation: STER-Lihng
- Variations: Stirling
- Namesakes: Sterling Hayden (born Sterling Walter, an American actor known for The Asphalt Jungle (1950). Sterling Morrison, an American guitarist and member of the Velvet Underground rock group.
- Popularity: Sterling is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 382nd for boys in 2021.
Stetson
Stetson originated with the Anglo-Saxon Stytt, a nickname for a boxer. It’s more recognizable when taken from the Old English Stott, meaning “cattle dealer” or “wild, young person.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Cattle dealer
- Pronunciation: STEHT-Sahn
- Variations: Stetsen, Stettson
- Namesakes: Stetson Bennett IV, an American football player for the Georgia Bulldogs. Stetson Kennedy, an American author famous for infiltrating the Ku Klux Klan in the 1940s.
- Popularity: Stetson is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 232nd for boys in 2022.
Steven
Steven is a more commonly seen spelling of the English Stephen and Germanic Stefan. It still means “wreath.” Steven has ranked in the top 10 U.S. boys’ names for 70 years and remains popular today.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Garland, crown
- Pronunciation: STIY-Vahn
- Variations: Stephen
- Namesakes: Steven Spielberg, an American filmmaker and the most commercially successful director of all time. Steven Tyler, an American singer for the rock band Aerosmith.
- Popularity: Steven ranked 155th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 111th for boys in 2023.
Stig
Stig is an offshoot of the Old Norse Stian. It’s composed of “stiga,” meaning “wanderer.” Stig is an easier form of the Norse Stigandr and is a pretty cool sample of unusual S names for boys.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Voyager
- Pronunciation: STIYG
- Variations: Stigr
- Namesakes: Stig Anderson, a Swedish music manager for the pop band ABBA. Stig Asmussen, an American video game developer who worked on the God of War series.
- Popularity: Stig is rare worldwide and mainly used in Sweden, where it ranked 31st in 2014.
Stone
Stone also means “dweller by the rocks.” It was first a surname for someone who lived near stones or rocks and is as hardy as ever.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rock
- Pronunciation: STOWN
- Variations: Stoen
- Namesakes: Stone Phillips, a former American co-anchor of Dateline NBC. Stone Forsythe, an American football player for the Seattle Seahawks.
- Popularity: Stone is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,152nd for boys in 2022.
Storm
Storm is the English word for “tempest” or “violent weather.” It’s also associated with the Norse “stormr,” which likely has gale-force winds behind it.
- Origin: English, Norse
- Meaning: Tempest
- Pronunciation: STOHRM
- Variations: Storme
- Namesakes: Storm Roux, a New Zealand footballer for the New Zealand national team. Storm Thorgerson, an English graphic designer known for his work with Pink Floyd.
- Popularity: Storm is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Stoyan
Stoyan comes from the Bulgarian “stoya” meaning “to stand.” Its variation Stoian is the Romanian version, found in Northern Greece as Stogiannis. Stoyan also means “he who stands firmly” for the powerful baby boy you love.
- Origin: Bulgarian
- Meaning: Stand, stay
- Pronunciation: STOY-ahn
- Variations: Stoian
- Namesakes: Stoyan Ivanov, a Bulgarian wrestler who competed in the 1980 Summer Olympics. Stoyan Zagorchinov, a Bulgarian writer of Last Day, God’s Day.
- Popularity: Stoyan is rare worldwide and mainly used in Bulgaria, where it ranked 13th in 2014.
Struan
Struan uses the Scottish-Gaelic root “sruthan” meaning “small stream.” In Old English, Struan means “steward,” but your young man can play in the water with this fanciful name.
- Origin: Scottish
- Meaning: Stream
- Pronunciation: STRUW-ahn
- Variations: Struann
- Namesakes: Struan Rodger, a British actor known for Chariots of Fire (1981). Struan Dewar, a Scottish rugby union player on the Scotland national rugby team.
- Popularity: Struan is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Northern Ireland, ranking 537th in 2014.
Stuart
Stuart is made up of “stig,” meaning “household,” and “weard,” meaning “guardian.” Stuart also means “steward of the estate or castle” and is a typical Scottish surname.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Steward
- Pronunciation: STUW-ert
- Variations: Stewart
- Namesakes: Stuart Adamson, a Scottish musician and member of the band Big Country. Stuart Bingham, an English snooker player and the 1996 World Amateur Championship.
- Popularity: Stuart is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in England, and ranked 32nd in Scotland in 2014.
Styles
Style also means “steep hill” in English. It may be famous as Harry Styles’ surname, but you can pull off one of the first Styles as a first name for your cute climber.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Steps
- Pronunciation: STAEY-Ehlz
- Variations: Stiles
- Popularity: Styles is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Sufjan
Sufjan also means “comes with a sword.” Abu Sufyan was an early Islamic bearer of the name. It may be associated with Sufism, the mystical Islamic tradition.
- Origin: Armenian, Arabic
- Meaning: Slender
- Pronunciation: Suwf-YAEN
- Variations: Sufyan
- Namesakes: Sufjan Stevens, an American musician and winner of the 2018 International Online Cinema Award for Best Original Song.
- Popularity: Sufjan is extremely rare worldwide, with only 66 occurrences, primarily in Indonesia.
Suleyman
Suleyman is the Arabic variation of Solomon. It also means “man of peace” for your extraordinary boy to cherish.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Peace
- Pronunciation: SUW-ley-Mahn
- Variations: Suleiman
- Namesakes: Süleyman Demirel, the President of Turkey from 1993 to 2000. Süleyman Çelebi, co-ruler of the Ottoman Empire from 1402 to 1411.
- Popularity: Suleyman is rare worldwide and mostly used in Turkmenistan, where it ranked 37th in 2014.
Sulien
Sulien is composed of the Welsh “sul,” meaning “sun” and “geni,” meaning “born.” In Celtic mythology, Sulien is a powerful solar deity to shine on everyone.
- Origin: Welsh
- Meaning: Sun-born
- Pronunciation: SUHL-Yehn
- Namesakes: Saint Sulien, the 6th-century founder of the Luxulyan monastery in Cornwall, England.
- Popularity: Sulien is extremely rare worldwide and mainly used in Colombia.
Sullivan
Sullivan comes from the Irish “súildhubhán.” It’s composed of “súil,” meaning “eye,” and “dubh,” meaning “black.” As a surname, it’s based on O’Súilleabháin, meaning “hawk-eyed.”
- Origin: Gaelic
- Meaning: Dark eyes
- Pronunciation: SUH-lih-Vahn
- Variations: Sullavan, Sullevan
- Popularity: Sullivan is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 459th for boys in 2022.
Sully
Sully also means “stain” in French. It’s more commonly a nickname for someone with the last name Sullivan or O’Sullivan. Sully also means “from the south field” and remains one of the most adorable boy names that start with S.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: South meadow
- Pronunciation: SUHL-iy
- Variations: Sulley
- Namesakes: Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger III, an American fighter pilot known for safely landing US Airways Flight 1549 in 2009. Salvatore “Sully” Erna, an American musician with the rock band Godsmack.
- Popularity: Sully is very rare worldwide, mostly used in France, and ranked 1,804th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sultan
Sultan means “strength” and “authority” in Arabic. It’s based on “sulṭah,” meaning “power.” Sultan was used as a title for Muslim sovereigns as far back as the 11th-century.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Ruler
- Pronunciation: SUHL-Taen
- Variations: Sultaan, Sultun
- Namesakes: Sultan Ibragimov, a Russian Dagestani boxer and the WBO world heavyweight champion from 2007 to 2008. Sultan Munadi, an Afghan journalist for The New York Times.
- Popularity: Sultan ranked 555th worldwide, is mainly used in Pakistan and ranked 3rd in Oman in 2014.
Sunny
Sunny represents everything “happy” in a boy’s (or girl’s) name, from “cheery” to “optimistic.” It’s popular in India as a nickname for Sunil, Sundeep, and Sunita. Sunny is a bright shining example of cheerful boy names with S.
- Origin: Hindi
- Meaning: Happy, radiant
- Pronunciation: SUHN-Niy
- Variations: Sunnie, Sunnye, Sunni
- Namesakes: Sunny Fong, a Canadian fashion designer and winner of the second season of Project Runway Canada in 2009. Sunny Hundal, a British journalist and the founder of the blog Liberal Conspiracy.
- Popularity: Sunny is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 1,072nd for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Sven
Sven also means “young man” in Swedish. It’s inspired by the ancient Swedish Sviars tribe who named the land Svealand, which became Sweden.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Young warrior
- Pronunciation: SVEHN
- Variations: Svein, Sveinn, Svenn
- Namesakes: Sven Romanus, the Acting Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden from 1978 to 1979. Sven Wollter, a Swedish actor best known for The Sacrifice.
- Popularity: Sven is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 11th in Sweden in 2014.
Sverre
Sverre also means “swinging” and “spinning.” It’s derived from the Old Norse Sverrir and is most popular in Norway. Sverre also means “wild child,” so watch out for your little guy.
- Origin: Norse
- Meaning: Wild
- Pronunciation: SVEHR
- Namesakes: Sverre Farstad, a Norwegian speed skater and bronze medalist at the European Championship 1947. Sverre Seeberg, president of the Norwegian Sled Dog Racing Association.
- Popularity: Sverre is rare worldwide and mainly used in Norway, where it ranked 113th in 2014.
Sybren
Sybren was formed from the Old German Sigbern and Sigbrand. It’s a Frisian Dutch version of these two names, meaning “victory bear” (Sigbern) and “victory sword” (Sigbrand).
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Victorious bear
- Pronunciation: SEE-Brehn
- Variations: Sibren
- Namesakes: Sybren Polet, a Dutch writer and winner of the 2003 Constantijn Huygens Prize. Sybren Sybrandi, a Dutch Mennonite member of the Teylers First Society.
- Popularity: Sybren is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the Netherlands, ranking 1,564th in 2014.
Sylvester
Sylvester was first the Latin “silvestris,” meaning “overgrown with trees.” It also means “wild” since it’s based on the Roman god Silvanus. Few other boy names that start with S have a nickname as short and sweet as Syl.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Wooded
- Pronunciation: Sihl-VEHST-er
- Variations: Silvester, Sylvestor
- Namesakes: Sylvester Stewart (known as Sly Stone), an American musician and member of the group Sly and the Family Stone. Sylvester Graham, an American Presbyterian minister who inspired graham crackers.
- Popularity: Sylvester is uncommon worldwide, mostly used in Nigeria, and ranked 79th in Sierra Leone.
S Names for Boys FAQs
What are Unique S Names for Boys?
Some unique boy names that start with S include Saad, Sabbath, and Sabir. Saad means “good luck” in Arabic, while Sabbath refers to the “day of rest,” and Sabir means “patient.” Saad is a more popular name, while Sabir is uncommon. Sabbath is very rare and was mostly used in Nigeria in 2014.
Other unusual S names include Stavros and Steele. Stavros isn’t used as much outside Greece, and Steele ranked 1,548th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
What Is the Most Popular Boy Name That Starts with S?
Two names for boys that start with S are the most popular in the U.S. They are Samuel and Steven. Samuel ranked 69th worldwide and 23rd in 2021 in the U.S. Steven ranked 155th worldwide and is also primarily used in the U.S., ranking 123rd in 2023. Samuel means “name of God” in Hebrew, while Steven means “crown.”
