Have you decided not to burden your baby boy with long, complicated names? Sometimes, the best names come in small packages. One syllable boy names are just as memorable as their longer counterparts. How can you ensure you don’t make a rash, one-syllable decision you’ll regret?
Don’t make mistakes when choosing the right single-syllable boy names for your young man. Our comprehensive guide has many variations, famous namesakes, and meanings to help you make the best choice.
100 Best Single-Syllable Boy Names
Keep reading to find out why one syllable boy names remain popular for little boys everywhere.
Ace
Ace is based on the Latin “as,” meaning “unit.” It also referred to “the lowest number” in Middle English. In English, Ace also means “highest rank” and means “defending men” in Macedonian.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: One, unity
- Pronunciation: EYZ
- Variations: Ase, Ayce
- Namesakes: Ace Loomis, an American football player for the Green Bay Packers. Ace Atkins, an American author of Crossroad Blues (1998).
- Popularity: Ace ranked 156th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 163rd in 2023.
Art
Art is a diminutive of Arthur, often used in the mid-20th century. It also means “champion” in Irish. In Irish mythology, Art Oenfer was the son of Conn Cetchathach.
- Origin: English, Celtic
- Meaning: Noble one
- Pronunciation: AART
- Variations: Arte
- Namesakes: Art Carney, an American actor on The Honeymooners sitcom (1955 and 1956). Art Pepper Jr., an American saxophonist playing in Stan Kenton’s big band.
- Popularity: Art is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,323rd in 2022.
Ash
Ash derives from the Hebrew Asher, meaning “fortunate.” It’s a nickname for Asher, the son of Jacob in the Bible. Ash also refers to the ash tree, a symbol of protection and purity.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: Happy
- Pronunciation: AESH
- Variations: Ashe
- Namesakes: Ash Baron-Cohen, an English filmmaker who directed Bang. Ash Atalla, an Egyptian-British TV producer of The Office.
- Popularity: Ash is rare worldwide, primarily used in India, and ranked 247th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Beau
Beau means “beautiful” in French and “admirer” or “sweetheart” in English. It’s also associated with the Latin “bellus,” meaning “beautiful” for your gorgeous baby boy.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Handsome
- Pronunciation: BOW
- Variations: Beaux
- Namesakes: Beau Waters, an Australian rules footballer for the West Coast Eagles. Lloyd “Beau” Bridges, an American actor and a two-time Screen Actors Guild Award nominee.
- Popularity: Beau is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 258th for boys in 2023.
Birch
Birch is one of the least-utilized one syllable boy names and one of the most interesting. The birch tree symbolizes rebirth and is thought to be sacred in Celtic mythology.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: White, shining
- Pronunciation: BERCH
- Variations: Birche, Burch, Byrch
- Popularity: Birch is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Blaine
Blaine also means “slender” and “angular.” It’s an Anglo version of the Gaelic Bláan, itself a nickname given to a blond man. St. Bláan was a 6th-century saint, but your Blaine can enjoy this modern-sounding example of single-syllable boy names.
- Origin: Gaelic, Scottish
- Meaning: Yellow
- Pronunciation: BLAYNE
- Variations: Blain, Blane
- Namesakes: Blaine Pedersen, a Canadian member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba since 2007. Blaine Harrison, an English musician, and member of the indie rock band Mystery Jets.
- Popularity: Blaine is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 458th for boys in 2014.
Blake
Blake comes from the Old English “blac,” originally a nickname for someone with dark hair. As a surname, Blake also represents the 14 Tribes of Galway in Irish history.
- Origin: English, Irish
- Meaning: Pale
- Pronunciation: BLAYKE
- Variations: Blaeke, Blaike, Blayk, Blayke
- Namesakes: Blake Shelton, an American country music singer, and coach on the NBC series The Voice. Blake Windred, an Australian golfer and winner of the 2021 Victorian PGA Championship.
- Popularity: Blake is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 205th for boys in 2021.
Blaze
Blaze represents the English spelling of Blaise, from the Latin “blaesus,” meaning “stutter” or “lisp.” When the Old English “blæse,” it means “bright flame” and “fire.”
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Fire, flame
- Pronunciation: BLAYZE
- Variations: Blaez, Blaiz
- Namesakes: Blaze Riorden, an American lacrosse player for Chaos Lacrosse Club of the Premier Lacrosse League. Blaze Jordan, an American baseball player in the Boston Red Sox organization.
- Popularity: Blaze is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 775th for boys in 2021.
Bob
Bob is based on the Germanic Robert, meaning “bright fame.” In the Middle Ages, Bob found company with names like Rob, Dob, and Hob, which were used for Robert.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Bright, famed
- Pronunciation: BAAB
- Variations: Bobb
- Namesakes: Bob Carr, the 39th Premier of New South Wales from 1995 to 2005. Bob Rafelson, an American film director who helped create the TV series The Monkees.
- Popularity: Bob ranked 1,208th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 432nd for boys in 2023.
Boone
Boone comes from the Old French “bon,” meaning “good.” It’s also a Dutch surname meaning “bean.” Boone is most famous for American frontiersman Daniel Boone, but your little guy can be the best Boone you know.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Benefit, 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 Chicago White Sox.
- Popularity: Boone is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 436th for boys in 2023.
Brant
Brant means “fiery torch” and “beacon.” It’s also based on the Old Norse Brandr, meaning “firebrand,” a good nickname for your baby boy.
- Origin: German, Norse
- Meaning: Sword
- Pronunciation: BRAHNT
- Variations: Brandt, Brante
- Namesakes: Brant Hansen, an American radio host on the national Christian radio WAY-FM Network. Brant Woodward, a New Zealand sport shooter who competed at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Brant is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Briggs
Briggs derives from the Middle English “brigge,” meaning “bridges.” It means “dweller by the bridge” and is associated with the Old Norse “bryggja,” also meaning ‘bridge.” It entered the top 1,000 U.S. boy’s names in 2012 and may be meant for more than just surnames.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Bridges
- Pronunciation: BRIHGZ
- Namesakes: Adam Briggs (known as Briggs), an Indigenous Australian rapper who co-founded the hip-hop duo, A.B. Original.
- Popularity: Briggs is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 372nd for boys in 2021.
Brooks
Brooks is traditionally an English surname meaning “water.” It’s also related to the Swedish surname Bäckland. In the Middle Ages, Brooks appeared as Ate-Broc and Atte-Broc. It reached the top 1,000 U.S. boys’ names in the 1920s.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Small stream
- Pronunciation: BRUWKS
- Variations: Brookes, Broox
- Namesakes: Brooks Foster, an American football player for the St. Louis Rams. Brooks Wackerman, an American musician and drummer of the heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold.
- Popularity: Brooks is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 134th in 2023.
Bryce
Bryce is a unisex name meaning “speckled” or “freckled” in Scottish. It uses the Celtic root “brych,” meaning “blemish.” Bryce goes back to the Latin Bricius, likely given to a little boy or girl with freckles.
- Origin: Celtic
- Meaning: Speedy
- Pronunciation: BRIEHS
- Variations: Bryse, Brice
- Namesakes: Bryce Jacobs, an Australian composer for the film Happy Feet (2006). Bryce Salvador, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
- Popularity: Bryce is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 250th for boys in 2021.
Buzz
Buz is a vintage-sounding name used for a boy named Busby. You may know Buzz Lightyear best from Toy Story. Buzz isn’t common, but it could be a fun return to the good old days for the coolest boy around.
- Origin: English, Norwegian
- Meaning: Village in the woods
- Pronunciation: BUHZ
- Variations: Buz, Buzze
- Namesakes: J. Buzz Von Ornsteiner (known as Dr. Buzz), an American psychologist who does commentary for the TV show CopyCat Killers. Harry Bissinger III (known as Buzz Bissinger), an American author best known for the book Friday Night Lights (1990).
- Popularity: Buzz is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Cade
Cade comes from the 12th-century surname Cade, “barrel.” It may also be related to the German Cada, meaning “lumpy.” Cade is super unique among one syllable male names that feel modern.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Round
- Pronunciation: KEYD
- Variations: Cadell
- Namesakes: Cade Cunningham, an American basketball player for the Detroit Pistons. Christopher “Cade” Courtley, an American TV host of Spike TV’s Surviving Disaster.
- Popularity: Cade is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 340th for boys in 2021.
Cain
Cain is based on the biblical Cain, the son of Adam and Eve. It also means “life” in Hebrew and “honor” and “tribute” in Irish.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Possessed, spear
- Pronunciation: KEYN
- Variations: Caine, Cane
- Namesakes: Cain Madden, an American football player with the University of Notre Dame. Caín Velasquez, an American wrestler for Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide.
- Popularity: Cain is rare worldwide, mainly used in Mexico, and ranked 401st for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Cale
Cale is a variation of the Hebrew Kelev, meaning “dog.” It means “ridge” in Old Norse as well, so it’s loaded with meanings.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Dog
- Pronunciation: KEYN
- Variations: Cael, Caelan, Caele
- Namesakes: Cale P. Keable, a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives since 2011. Cale Simmons, an American track and field athlete who competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
- Popularity: Cale is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Chad
Chad is a classic nickname for both Charles and Chadwick. It also comes from the Old English Ceadda, meaning “defender,” for powerful boys who take care of business.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Protector
- Pronunciation: CHAED
- Variations: Chaad, Chadd, Chade
- Namesakes: Chad Smith, an American musician, and drummer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers since 1988. Chad Lowe, an American actor appearing in Life Goes On.
- Popularity: Chad is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,221st for boys in 2021.
Chase
Chase was first an English surname used as a nickname for “huntsmen.” Chase is also short for Chauncey and feels a lot less like an old man’s name.
- Origin: French
- Meaning: To hunt
- Pronunciation: CHAYS
- Variations: Chace, Chaise
- Namesakes: Chase Clark, the 18th governor of Idaho from 1941 to 1943. Chase Parker, an American golfer who finished 64th at the 2016 U.S. Open.
- Popularity: Chase is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 173rd for boys in 2022.
Clay
Clay is based on the Old English “clæg,” meaning “sticky earth.” It also means “mortal.” Clay was given to someone who lived or worked in a clay settlement as an occupational surname. It’s also an old-fashioned nickname for Clayton.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Of the earth
- Pronunciation: KLEY
- Variations: Clae, Clai, Claye
- Namesakes: Clay Walker, an American country music artist whose single “What’s It to You” topped the Billboard Hot Country chart in 1993. Clay Buchholz, an American baseball player for the Boston Red Sox.
- Popularity: Clay is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 423rd for boys in 2023.
Cole
Coal also means “swarthy” in Old English, taken from Cola and “victorious people” in Greek. Cole ranked in the top 100 U.S. boy’s names every year of the 21st-century.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Coal-black
- Pronunciation: KOWL
- Variations: Coal, Coale, Col
- Namesakes: Cole Dewhurst, an American soccer player for the Providence Friars. Colin Wilson, a New Zealand musician with the group Cole Wilson And His Tumbleweeds.
- Popularity: Cole is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 132nd for boys in 2021.
Colt
Colt also means “lame” in Latin. Colt grew in popularity in the 1980s when a character was named Colt in The Fall Guy TV series.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Young horse
- Pronunciation: KOWLT
- Variations: Coltun
- Namesakes: Colt Anderson, an American assistant special teams coach for the Cincinnati Bengals football team. Colt Walker, an American artistic gymnast and gold medalist at the 2022 Pan American Championships.
- Popularity: Colt is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 221st for boys in 2021.
Cruse
Cruse is a great nickname based on the Middle English “crouse,” meaning “bold.” It also referred to the French place name Cruys-Staëte. Cruse means “cross” in Spanish as Cruz.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Hollow
- Pronunciation: KRUWZ
- Variations: Cruise, Cruz
- Popularity: Cruse is extremely rare worldwide, with 91 known occurrences in 2014, primarily in the U.S.
Dale
Dale derives from the Old English “dæl,” meaning “valley” and “dweller in a valley between hills.” Dale occurs more often as a surname than a 1 syllable boy name.
- Origin: English, Scottish
- Meaning: Valley
- Pronunciation: DEYL
- Variations: Daile, Dalle, Dayle
- Namesakes: Dale Earnhardt, an American stock car driver in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. Dale Winton, an English TV host of Dale’s Supermarket Sweep from 1993 to 2001.
- Popularity: Dale ranked 1,756th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,582st for boys in 2022.
Dane
Dane also refers to a person “from Denmark.” Dane is quite popular as the best nickname for Daniel (as Danijel) in south Slavic culture.
- Origin: Scandinavian, English
- Meaning: God is my judge
- Pronunciation: DEYN
- Variations: Daen, Dayne
- Namesakes: Dane Cook, an American stand-up comedian whose 2006 album Retaliation went platinum. Dane Kuprešanin, a Bosnian-Herzegovinian footballer for FK Sarajevo.
- Popularity: Dane is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 845th for boys in 2021.
Dean
Dean comes from the Greek word “dekanos,” meaning “monk” and dignitary.” As an English surname, Dean comes from the Old English “denu,” meaning “valley.”
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Valley
- Pronunciation: DEEN
- Variations: Deane
- Namesakes: Dean Martin (born Dino Crocetti),an American entertainer who performed with Jerry Lewis as Martin and Lewis in 1946. Dean Koontz, an American author with books on The New York Times Best Seller list.
- Popularity: Dean is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 165th for boys in 2021.
Dirk
Dirk is a diminutive of the Dutch Diederik, made up of “þeud,” meaning “people,” and “ric,” meaning “power.” Dirk also means “gifted ruler” in German.
- Origin: Dutch, German
- Meaning: People’s ruler
- Pronunciation: DIHRK
- Variations: Dirck, Dirke
- Namesakes: Dirk Jan de Geer, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1926 to 1929 and 1939 to 1940. Dirk Benedict (born Dirk Niewoehner), an American actor in the series Battlestar Galactica.
- Popularity: Dirk is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Germany, and ranked 19th in Belgium in 2014.
Drake
Drake was first an English surname made up of the Middle English “drake.” When based on the Old Norse Draki, it means “dragon.” Hip-hop musician Drake may be the most famous person using this monosyllabic name.
- Origin: English, Norse
- Meaning: Male duck
- Pronunciation: DRAYK
- Variations: Draik, Draike
- Namesakes: Drake Doremus, an American film director of Like Crazy (2011). Drake Berehowsky, a Canadian ice hockey player for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
- Popularity: Drake is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 567th for boys in 2021.
Drew
Drew is an uncommon nickname for Andrew from the old Greek “andreios.” It also means “wise” in Welsh and isn’t used much for girls.
- Origin: English, Greek
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: DRUW
- Variations: Druw
- Namesakes: Drew Goddard, an American filmmaker who wrote the script for Cloverfield (2008). Drew Houston, an American entrepreneur and the co-founder of Dropbox.
- Popularity: Drew is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 270th for boys in 2023.
Finn
Finn also refers to a “person from Finland.” It’s based on the Old Norse “finnr” and the Irish “fionn.” Finn MacCool was a famous Irish warrior in Celtic folklore.
- Origin: Irish, Norse
- Meaning: White, fair
- Pronunciation: FIHN
- Variations: Fin, Fynn
- Namesakes: Finn Isaksen, the Norwegian Minister of Agriculture from 1983 to 1985. Finn Pedersen, a Danish rower who competed in the 1956 Summer Olympics.
- Popularity: Finn is rare worldwide, mostly used in Denmark, and ranked 83rd for boys in 2023.
Flint
Flint was first an English surname for a person “born near an outcrop of flint.” The German Flint was a nickname for someone considered “tough” and “hard-hearted.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Flint rock
- Pronunciation: FLINT
- Variations: Flintt, Flynt
- Namesakes: Flint Rhem, an American pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals. Flint Rasmussen, an American rodeo barrel man and most famous bull-riding rodeo clown.
- Popularity: Flint is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it’s slightly uncommon.
Flynn
Flynn is an Anglo spelling of the Irish Ó’Floinn, also meaning “descendant of Flann.” Flynn was given to the “son of the red-haired one” for the best of red one syllable guy names.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Red complexion
- Pronunciation: FLIHN
- Variations: Flinn, Flyn
- Namesakes: Flynn Appleby, an American college football punter with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Flynn Gower, an Australian musician and former frontman of the rock band Cog.
- Popularity: Flynn is very rare and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 650th for boys in 2021.
Ford
In Old English, a “ford” referred to “a shallow place where water can cross.” It more simply means “river crossing.” The most famous Ford was Henry Ford, the creator of the first automobile.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Passing, crossing
- Pronunciation: FAORD
- Variations: Forde
- Namesakes: Ford Madox Ford, an English novelist, and editor for The English Review. Ford Quint Elvidge, the Governor of Guam from 1953 to 1956.
- Popularity: Ford is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 194th for boys in 2023.
Frank
Frank has been in use since the 16th-century. It’s a nickname for Francis but is also related to the Old German Franco, meaning “a Frank.” Francis ranked in the top 100 U.S. boy’s names for over a century.
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Free man
- Pronunciation: FRAENGK
- Variations: Francke
- Namesakes: Frank Sinatra, an American singer and best-selling artist with 150 million records sold. Frank McCourt, an Irish-American writer, and winner of a Pulitzer Prize for Angela’s Ashes.
- Popularity: Frank ranked 157th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 562nd for boys in 2022.
Gabe
Gabe is based on the Hebrew Gavriel, meaning “man of God.” The archangel Gabriel was the messenger to the Virgin Mary. Gabe is an English nickname for Gabriel and was most popular in the U.S. between 1880 and 1905.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Man of God
- Pronunciation: GEYB
- Variations: Gab
- Namesakes: Gabe Levin, an American-Israeli basketball player for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League. Gabe Saporta, an Uruguayan-American musician and founder of the electro-pop band Cobra Starship.
- Popularity: Gabe is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,210th for boys in 2022.
Gage
As an English surname, Gage is as old as the 14th-century. It may be a character in Stephen King’s Pet Sematary, but it remains the rarest of one syllable boy names.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Oath, pledge
- Pronunciation: GAYGE
- Variations: Gaige
- Popularity: Gage is rare worldwide, mostly used in Niger, and ranked 194th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Glenn
Glenn comes from the Irish “gleann” and began use as a first name in the 19th-century. Glenn is also common in parts of Sweden due to the high Scots population.
- Origin: Irish, Scottish
- Meaning: Valley
- Pronunciation: GLEHN
- Variations: Glen
- Namesakes: Glenn Danzig, an American musician and founder of the rock band Danzig. Glenn Howerton, an American actor known for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005 to present).
- Popularity: Glenn ranked 1,752nd worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,817th for boys in 2022.
Grant
Like many single-syllable boy names, Grant began as a surname. It derives from the French “graund,” also meaning “huge.” Grant means “a promise” in English and is the surname of U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant.
- Origin: English, French
- Meaning: Tall, big
- Pronunciation: GRAHNT
- Variations: Grante
- Namesakes: Grant Achatz, an American chef, and restaurateur of the Chicago restaurant Alinea. Grant Goegan, an Italian ice hockey player who competed at the 1984 Winter Olympics.
- Popularity: Grant is uncommon worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Grey
Grey has been used as a nickname for Greyson and Grayson. It was also a surname for those who hailed from the town of Graye-sur-Mer, in Normandy.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Grey-haired
- Pronunciation: GRAY
- Variations: Grey
- Namesakes: Grey Brydges, the 16th-century Baron Chandos of Sudeley Castle in Gloucestershire, England.
- Popularity: Grey is rare worldwide and mostly used in Malawi, ranking 530th in 2014.
Gus
Gus also means “exalted” and is a diminutive of Augustus. It’s a nickname used for August and Augustine nowadays.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Majestic
- Pronunciation: GUHS
- Variations: Guss
- Namesakes: Gus Johnson, an American jazz drummer who played with McDavid’s Blue Rhythm Band. Gus Van Sant, an American filmmaker and prominent director in the New Queer Cinema movement.
- Popularity: Gus is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 1,170th for boys in 2021.
Guy
Guy comes from the Old German Wido. It’s also related to the Italian Guido, meaning “guy” or “man.” Guy was most popular in the 1950s but still makes a fine middle name today.
- Origin: French, German
- Meaning: Guide, leader
- Pronunciation: GIEY
- Variations: Gye
- Namesakes: Guy Laliberté, a Canadian businessman and co-founder of Cirque du Soleil. Guy Mollet, the French Prime Minister from 1956 to 1957.
- Popularity: Guy ranked 821st worldwide, is primarily used in France, and ranked 2nd in the Central African Republic.
Hans
Hans is a Germanic nickname for Johannes and, therefore John. It began as the Hebrew Yochanan but is the most German-sounding among one syllable male names.
- Origin: German, Scandinavian
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: HAANS
- Namesakes: Hans Christian Andersen, a Danish author known for his fairy tales. Hans Zimmer, a German film score composer on the list of Top 100 Living Geniuses by The Daily Telegraph.
- Popularity: Hans ranked 433rd worldwide, is mostly used in Germany and ranked 2nd in Switzerland in 2014.
Hayes
Hayes is a common surname in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, meaning “fence” or “enclosure.” Hayes also means “descendant of Aodh,” referring to “fire.” It’s ranked in the top 300 U.S. boys’ names since 2019.
- Origin: English, Gaelic
- Meaning: Hedged area
- Pronunciation: HHEYZ
- Variations: Hays, Hayse
- Popularity: Hayes is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 270th for boys in 2023.
Heath
Heath refers to someone “living at or near a moor or heath.” Heath peaked at 675th in 2022 for the luckiest little boy you know.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: The heathland dweller
- Pronunciation: HEETH
- Variations: Heathe, Heith
- Namesakes: Heath Ledger, an Australian actor known for Brokeback Mountain (2005). Heath Black, an Australian rules footballer for Fremantle.
- Popularity: Heath is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 936th for boys in 2018.
Hugh
Hugh also means “the intellectual one.” It comes from the German “hugu,” which can mean “mind” and “heart.” Hugh is also a variation of the names Hugues and Hugo.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Mind, intellect
- Pronunciation: HHYUW
- Variations: Hughe, Huwe
- Namesakes: Hugh Downs, an American anchor of the ABC News magazine 20/20 from 1978 to 1999. Hugh Laurie, an English actor appearing in the Fox series House from 2004 to 2012.
- Popularity: Hugh is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S.
Hyde
Hyde once referred to a “holder of a hide” as a person who worked at a farm or on the land. In Old English, a “higid” is a land measurement between 60 and 100 acres.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Land measurement
- Pronunciation: HHAYD
- Variations: Hide, Hyd
- Namesakes: Hideto Takarai (known as Hyde), a Japanese musician with the rock band L’Arc-en-Ciel.
- Popularity: Hyde is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the Philippines.
Jace
Jace is a lesser-known diminutive of Jason, meaning “lord of salvation.” Jace is likewise connected to the Hebrew Joshua, meaning “Yahweh is salvation.”
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Healer
- Pronunciation: JHEYS
- Variations: Jayce, Jase
- Namesakes: Jace Bugg, an American golfer and the 1997 Kentucky Golf Association Player of the Year. Jace Richdale, an American co-executive producer for seasons 5 and 6 of The Simpsons.
- Popularity: Jace is very rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 102nd for boys in 2023.
Jack
Jack is one of the best-known nicknames for John. Its origins exist in medieval England, which went from Johnkin and Jankin to Jackin and Jack. In Celtic cultures, Jack also means “healthy” and “strong” for your special little guy.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHAHK
- Variations: Jaac, Jaak, Jacke
- Namesakes: John Gillis (known as Jack White), an American musician who formed the duo the White Stripes. Jack Abel, an American comic book artist for Marvel Comics.
- Popularity: Jack ranked 778th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 5th for boys in 2023.
Jake
Jake is a modern diminutive for Jacob. It also means “one who follows” in Hebrew for Jacob, a patriarch of the tribes in Israel. Jake is used more in the U.S. than elsewhere in the world.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Pronunciation: JHEYK
- Variations: Jaike, Jayk, Jayke
- Namesakes: Jake Gyllenhaal, an American actor appearing in Donnie Darko (2001). Jake Dobkin, an American journalist and co-founder of Gothamist.
- Popularity: Jake is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 335th for boys in 2021.
James
James is based on the Hebrew Jacob, also meaning “supplanter.” It’s ranked in the top 20 U.S. boy’s names for over 100 years.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Supplanter
- Pronunciation: JHEYMZ
- Variations: Jaemes, Jaimes, Jamse, Jaymes
- Namesakes: James Franco, an American actor in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilog., James Carville, an American political consultant and lead strategist in Bill Clinton’s winning 1992 Presidential campaign.
- Popularity: James ranked 27th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 5th for boys in 2021.
Jett
Jett refers to the black mineral Jet. It originated with the Latin “gagitis,” meaning “stone from Gagai.” It also means “excellence” and is perfect for cool boys and girls like Joan Jett.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Black stone
- Pronunciation: JHEHT
- Variations: Jet, Jette
- Namesakes: Jett Howard, an American college basketball player for the Michigan Wolverines. Jett Pangan (born Reginald Pangan), a Filipino musician and member of the rock band the Dawn.
- Popularity: Jett is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 244th for boys in 2021.
Joel
Joel comes from the Hebrew Yoʾel. Joel was a Hebrew prophet, but despite its long history, it’s still common today for little boys – a stunning pick for a male name that starts with J.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: Yahweh is God
- Pronunciation: JHOWL
- Variations: Joell, Jole
- Namesakes: Joel Hodgson, an American comedian and creator of the program Mystery Science Theater 3000. Joel Waterman, a Canadian soccer player for the Canadian national team.
- Popularity: Joel ranked 246th worldwide, is mainly used in the Philippines and ranked 211th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
John
John is the ultimate winner among 1 syllable boy names. It’s got many variations, like the Hebrew Johanan, Greek Ionnes, German Johan, Irish Sean, and English Ian.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: JHAAN
- Variations: Jon, Jhon
- Namesakes: John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the U.S. from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. John Cage, an American composer and prominent musician in the post-war avant-garde music movement.
- Popularity: John ranked 12th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 5th for boys in 2023.
Judd
Judd is a modern derivative of Jordan that began in medieval times. It also means “praised” in Hebrew, so it covers a lot of ground with its four letters.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: To flow down
- Pronunciation: JHUDD
- Variations: Jud
- Namesakes: Judd Apatow, an American director of the film The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005). Judd Nelson, an American actor known for the film The Breakfast Club.
- Popularity: Judd is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,477th for boys in 2022.
Jude
Jude is a diminutive of Judas and Judah. It refers to the biblical Judas and also means “servant of Jesus Christ.” Jude is old and currently popular among one syllable guy names, best associated with The Beatle’s song, “Hey Jude.”
- Origin: Greek, Hebrew
- Meaning: Praised
- Pronunciation: JHUWD
- Variations: Jud
- Namesakes: Jude Law, an English actor and recipient of an Honorary César in 2007. Jude Aneke, a Nigerian footballer for Ikorodu United F.C.
- Popularity: Jude is uncommon worldwide, mainly used in Nigeria, and ranked 150th for boys in the U.S. in 2021.
Kai
Kai means “king” in Persian. Kai may also be a Dutch nickname for Kaimbe, meaning “warrior.” It’s loaded with meanings that include “keeper of the keys” and only grows in popularity for boys.
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Meaning: Sea
- Pronunciation: KAEY
- Variations: Kae, Kaie, Kye
- Namesakes: Kai Compagner, a Dutch rower who competed at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Kai Lehtinen, a Finnish actor in the Finnish TV series Raid.
- Popularity: Kai ranked 173rd worldwide, is primarily used in China, and ranked 16th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Kane
Kane means “little battler” in Irish. In Hawaiian, Japanese, and Welsh, it means “man of the Eastern sky” and “golden” to adorn your handsome baby boy.
- Origin: Welsh, Japanese
- Meaning: Warrior
- Pronunciation: KAYN
- Variations: Kaen, Kayne
- Namesakes: Kane Hodder, an American actor known for portraying Jason Voorhees in the film franchise, Friday the 13th. Kane Ferdinand, an Irish footballer for Maidenhead United.
- Popularity: Kane is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 262nd for boys in 2023.
Kent
Kent also means “chief” in Gaelic and “radiant” in Old English. It derives from the Celtic “cant,” meaning “bordering of a circle,” which likely defined the borders for many Celtic tribes.
- Origin: English, Irish
- Meaning: Edge
- Pronunciation: KEHNT
- Variations: Kennt
- Namesakes: Kent Nagano, an American conductor and Music Director of the Hamburg State Opera since 2015. Kent McCord, an American actor appearing in the TV series Adam-12.
- Popularity: Kent is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,395th for boys in 2021.
Kurt
Kurt was first the short Germanic form of Conrad, meaning “advisor.” It also means “courteous” and “polite.” In Turkish, Kurt stands out, meaning “wolf,” the ultimate animal guide.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Counselor
- Pronunciation: KURDT
- Variations: Curt
- Namesakes: Kurt Cobain, an American musician and founder of the rock band Nirvana. Kurtis Loder, an American journalist best known as an anchor for MTV News.
- Popularity: Kurt ranked 1,329th worldwide, is primarily used in Germany, and ranked 25th in Switzerland in 2014.
Lev
Lev is a uniquely Russian form of Leo. It’s sometimes associated with the German surname Löwe and has been used by German Levite Jews.
- Origin: Russian, Hebrew
- Meaning: Lion
- Pronunciation: LEHV
- Variations: Liev
- Namesakes: Lev Polugaevsky, a Soviet chess player, made an International Grandmaster by FIDE in 1962. Lev Yashin, a Soviet footballer and the deputy chairman of the Football Federation of the Soviet Union.
- Popularity: Lev is rare worldwide, mostly used in Russia, and ranked 187th in Ukraine in 2014.
Luke
Luke is the most English version of the Latin Lucas, originally meaning “man from Lucania.” It peaked in the late 1970s and early 1980s because of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Man from Lucania
- Pronunciation: LUWK
- Variations: Lucc, Luk
- Namesakes: Luke Kelly, an Irish musician who helped found The Dubliners band. Luke Perry, an American actor known for the Beverly Hills series 90210 (1990 to 1995).
- Popularity: Luke is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 31st for boys in 2020.
Mack
Mack was an early Latin attempt at one syllable boy names, meaning “greatest.” It’s short for Maximillian and is also used for Irish and Scottish surnames, meaning “son of.”
- Origin: Celtic, Irish
- Meaning: Son of
- Pronunciation: MAEK
- Variations: Mak, Mac
- Namesakes: Mack Jones, an American baseball player for the Cincinnati Reds. Mack David, an American songwriter known for Alice in Wonderland.
- Popularity: Mack is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 470th for boys in 2021.
Mark
Mark is one of the most common single-syllable boy names with both a Roman and Christian history. It’s associated with Mars, the Roman god of war. Mark also wrote one of the four gospels in the Bible.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: War-like
- Pronunciation: MAARK
- Variations: Marc, Markk
- Namesakes: Mark McKinney, a Canadian actor and member of The Kids in the Hall comedy troupe between 1989 to 1995. Mark McGrath, an American singer for the band Sugar Ray.
- Popularity: Mark ranked 76th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Max
Max is the easiest nickname for the Latin Maximilian. Its root, Maximus, means “the greatest.” Max is also used for Maxwell, meaning “stream of Maccus.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Greatest
- Pronunciation: MAEKS
- Variations: Maxx
- Namesakes: Max Schreck, a German actor known for the film Nosferatu (1922). Max Mathiasin, a French member of the National Assembly since 2017.
- Popularity: Max ranked 1,655th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranking 159th for boys in 2021.
Mitt
Mitt also means “settlement with a mill.” It’s a nickname for Milton and was used as a surname for a person “from a mill town.”
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Mill town
- Pronunciation: MIHT
- Namesakes: Mitt Romney, an American senator representing Utah since 2019. Mitt Romney, an American football player for the Chicago Bears from 1925 to 1928.
- Popularity: Mitt is very rare worldwide and primarily used in Cambodia, where it ranked 912th in 2014.
Nash
Nash comes from the Middle English term “atten ash,” meaning “at or by the ash tree.” It also means “dweller at the ash tree,” which is why it was originally Ash.
- Origin: Hebrew, English
- Meaning: By the ash tree
- Pronunciation: NAESH
- Variations: Nashe
- Namesakes: Nash Edgerton, an Australian film director with the movie-making collective Blue-Tongue Films. Nash Turner, an American jockey and winner of the 1900 Belmont Stakes.
- Popularity: Nash is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 223rd for boys in 2021.
Neil
Neil is based on the Gaelic “niadh,” meaning “champion.” Neil is the Anglo version of the Irish Niall, said to mean everything from “cloud” to “passionate” and “victory.”
- Origin: Gaelic, Irish
- Meaning: Champion
- Pronunciation: NIYL
- Variations: Neale, Neal, Neill
- Namesakes: Neil deGrasse Tyson, an American astrophysicist, and host of the PBS TV show NOVA ScienceNow from 2006 to 2011. Neil Young, a Canadian-American musician inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.
- Popularity: Neil ranked 1,565th worldwide, is mainly used in England and ranked 50th in New Zealand in 2014.
Paul
Paul comes from the Latin “paulus,” meaning “small.” It was first famously used by the biblical apostle Paul. We’ve known many famous Pauls since, which is why it’s still wildly popular among one syllable male names.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Small
- Pronunciation: PAWL
- Variations: Paol
- Namesakes: Paul McCartney, an English musician and member of the Beatles. Paul Newman, an American actor and recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
- Popularity: Paul ranked 45th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S., where it ranked 145th for boys in 2023.
Pax
In Roman mythology, Pax is the goddess of peace. It remained mostly uncommon as both a first name and a surname. The term “Pax Romana” is Latin for “Roman peace.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Peace
- Pronunciation: PAHKS
- Popularity: Pax is very rare worldwide and mostly used in DR Congo.
Pierce
Pierce was first a surname found in the British Isles, meaning “son of Piers.” It’s also the Norman version of “Peter,” meaning “rock,” if not a more refined version.
- Origin: Irish, English
- Meaning: Rock
- Pronunciation: PIHRZ
- Variations: Pearse
- Namesakes: Pierce Brosnan, an Irish actor known for playing James Bond from 1995 to 2002. Pierce McCann, an Irish founding member of Sinn Féin in 1905.
- Popularity: Pierce is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 499th for boys in 2021.
Prince
Prince is a title used for the son of a monarch. It’s based on the Latin “princeps,” meaning “first.” Your little boy may not be as famous as rock musician Prince, but he can be just as cool with this name.
- Origin: English, Latin
- Meaning: Leader
- Pronunciation: PRIHNZ
- Variations: Prinse, Prinze
- Namesakes: Prince Amartey, a Ghanaian boxer, and bronze medalist at the 1972 Summer Olympics. Prince Ahmed Ali Ahmedzai, a member of the Provincial Assembly of Balochistan from 2013 to 2018.
- Popularity: Prince ranked 1,123rd worldwide, is primarily used in Ghana, and ranked 333rd for boys in 2021.
Reeve
Reeve also means “steward.” It was an occupational surname given to a town’s bailiff, but it can make your little guy’s life feel more formal.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Bailiff
- Pronunciation: REEYV
- Variations: Reve, Reeves
- Popularity: Reeve is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Reid
Reid also means “red-skinned.” It’s more commonly a surname used as a nickname for people with red hair or a light complexion.
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: Red-haired
- Pronunciation: REEYD
- Variations: Reade, Reede
- Namesakes: Reid Duke, an American Magic: The Gathering player and winner of the Magic: The Gathering Online Championship in 2011. Reid Detmers, an American baseball player for the Los Angeles Angels.
- Popularity: Reid is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 497th for boys in 2023.
Rex
Rex also means “mighty counselor” and “ruler.” It’s traditionally a title given to “the king,” taken from the Latin “rex.”
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: King
- Pronunciation: REHKS
- Variations: Rexe, Rexs, Rexx
- Namesakes: Rex Harrison, an English actor known for the show My Fair Lady in 1957. Rex Murphy, a Canadian host of CBC Radio One’s Cross Country Checkup.
- Popularity: Rex is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 696th for boys in 2021.
Rome
Rome is inspired by the city of Rome, derived from the Latin Romanus, and means “citizen of Rome.” As a first name, it’s more commonly Roman, but Rome sounds just as impressive.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Power
- Pronunciation: ROWN
- Variations: Roam
- Popularity: Rome is rare worldwide, mostly used in Cambodia, and ranked 549th for boys in the U.S. in 2022.
Ross
Ross originated with the Gaelic “ros,” meaning “headland.” It’s also a Norman-French surname that left the U.S. top 1,000 list in 2013. The most famous Ross is a character in the TV sitcom Friends until your young Ross comes along.
- Origin: Scottish, Gaelic
- Meaning: Upland, peninsula
- Pronunciation: RAOS
- Variations: Ros, Rosse
- Namesakes: Ross Mathews, an American TV personality appearing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno as “Ross the Intern.” Ross S. Bagdasarian (known as David Seville), an American singer who created Alvin and the Chipmunks.
- Popularity: Ross is uncommon and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 1,112th for boys in 2018.
Sam
Sam is a popular nickname for the Hebrew Samuel. It also means “told by God.” In the Old Testament, Samuel is an Israelite prophet, but boys named Sam are a bit more casual.
- Origin: English, Hebrew
- Meaning: God hears
- Pronunciation: SAEM
- Variations: Samm
- Namesakes: Sam Shepard, an American actor and playwright who won 10 Obie Awards. Sam Phillips, an American record producer and founder of Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee.
- Popularity: Sam ranked 667th worldwide and is primarily used in the U.S.
Saul
Saul derives from the Hebrew “shaul,” meaning “demanded.” It’s also the name of the first King of Israel. Saul is one of the few 1 syllable boy names that isn’t based on another name.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Prayed for
- Pronunciation: SAWL
- Variations: Sol
- Namesakes: Saul Bellow, an American writer and the only writer to win the National Book Award for Fiction three times. Saul Katz, an American entrepreneur and the former president of the New York Mets.
- Popularity: Saul is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in Mexico, ranking 528th for boys in the U.S. in 2018.
Sean
Sean is the most popular Irish form of John, meaning “gracious.” It has many variations, but Sean uses the most traditional Irish spelling.
- Origin: Irish, Gaelic
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: SHAON
- Variations: Shawn, Shaun
- Namesakes: Sean Avery, a Canadian ice hockey player for the New York Rangers. Sean Connery (born Thomas Connery), a Scottish actor and the first to play James Bond on film between 1962 and 1983.
- Popularity: Sean ranked 1,276th worldwide and is mainly used in the U.S., ranked 199th in 2023.
Seth
Seth also means “substitute” and “compensation.” In the Bible, Seth is Adam and Eve’s third son. It originally came from the Hebrew “sheth,” but has a sizable presence in modern times.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Appointed
- Pronunciation: SEHTH
- Variations: Sethe, Seath
- Namesakes: Seth Curry, an American basketball player for the Brooklyn Nets. Seth MacFarlane, an American animator and creator of the TV series Family Guy.
- Popularity: Seth is uncommon worldwide, primarily used in Ghana, and ranked 497th for boys in the U.S. in 2023.
Shane
Shane is a much lesser-used Irish form of John, based on Seán, meaning “God is gracious.” As a surname, it’s often used with the prefixes “Mac,” “Mc,” or “O.”
- Origin: Irish
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: SHEYN
- Variations: Shaene
- Namesakes: Shane Meehan, an Irish hurler for Banner. Shane Harper, an American actor appearing on the series Good Luck Charlie.
- Popularity: Shane is uncommon worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 444th for boys in 2022.
Smith
Smith is an occupational surname for a “metal worker.” It comes from the Old English “smitan,” meaning “to smite.” Smith is uncommon as a first name but is the number one American surname, with over 2.5 million Smiths.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Blacksmith
- Pronunciation: SMIHTH
- Variations: Smithe, Smythe
- Namesakes: Smith Thompson, the U.S. Secretary of the Navy from 1819 to 1823. Smith Hempstone, the U.S. ambassador to Kenya from 1989 to 1993.
- Popularity: Smith is rare worldwide, mainly used in the U.S., and ranked 270th in Haiti in 2014.
Stone
Stone was a geographical surname for someone who lived “on stony ground.” It also simply means “dweller by the rocks” and is a hardy-sounding moniker for nature-loving boys.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Rock
- Pronunciation: STOWN
- Variations: Stoen
- Namesakes: Stone Phillips, an American journalist and former co-anchor of Dateline NBC. Stone Gossard, an American musician, and member of the rock band Pearl Jam.
- Popularity: Stone is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,108th for boys in 2021.
Tai
Tai also means “vast,” “highest,” and “extreme.” In Chinese, Tai means “too much.” Tai also has Arabic roots related to the Tayy tribe, who perhaps went to “great extremes” as a clan.
- Origin: Chinese, Arabic
- Meaning: Great extreme
- Pronunciation: TAEY
- Variations: Tie, Ty, Tye
- Namesakes: Tai Tura, Speaker of the Cook Islands Parliament since 2021. Tai Nguyen, a Vietnamese-Australian actor in the series Heartbreak High.
- Popularity: Tai ranked 1,331st worldwide, is mostly used in Vietnam, and ranked 86th in Hong Kong in 2014.
Taj
Taj specifically refers to a “crown worn by a prince.” It also means “crown jewel,” which makes sense when you consider the majesty of The Taj Mahal in India.
- Origin: Sanskrit, Arabic
- Meaning: Crown
- Pronunciation: TAHJH
- Variations: Tahj, Tajh, Taji
- Namesakes: Taj Matthews, an American author of Grandpa was a Preacher: A Letter to my Grandson. Taj Burrow, an Australian surfer and the youngest surfer at 18 years old to win a national title in 1998.
- Popularity: Taj ranked 1,820th worldwide, is mainly used in Pakistan and ranked 78th in Afghanistan in 2014.
Tate
Tate has both English and Old Norse roots as a surname, meaning “cheerful.” It derives from the Old Norse “teitr,” meaning “bright” and “glad.” You can try an obscure Old English nickname for Tate, which is Tāta.
- Origin: English, Norse
- Meaning: Cheerful
- Pronunciation: TEYT
- Variations: Tait, Tayte
- Namesakes: Tate Campbell, an English footballer for Birmingham City. Tate Reeves, the 65th governor of Mississippi since 2020.
- Popularity: Tate is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 268th for boys in 2020.
Todd
Todd is based on the Middle English “todde,” meaning “fox.” It peaked at 28th on U.S. name charts between 1968 and 1970. Though Todd sounds like it’s a nickname, it stands alone.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Fox
- Pronunciation: TAAD
- Variations: Todde
- Namesakes: Todd McLellan, the Canadian head hockey coach of the Los Angeles Kings. Todd Oldham, an American designer with a clothing line associated with Batman Forever.
- Popularity: Todd ranked 1,807th worldwide and is mostly used in the U.S., ranking 1,696th for boys in 2022.
Trace
Trace is a nickname for Tracy, used more for boys. The English-Norman surname Trace is associated with the “domain belonging to Thracius.” Thracia was an ancient Roman-ruled locality in what is now modern-day Greece and Turkey.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Brave
- Pronunciation: TRAYSS
- Variations: Tracy
- Namesakes: Trace McSorley, an American football player for the Arizona Cardinals. Trace Cyrus (born Neil Helson), an American musician and member of the band Metro Station.
- Popularity: Trace is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., where it ranked 432nd for boys in 2023.
Trent
Trent was originally an English surname for someone living “near the river Trent” in England. The Celtic meaning is “trespasser,” referring to the river often flooding.
- Origin: Celtic, English
- Meaning: Flooder
- Pronunciation: TREHNT
- Variations: Trente
- Namesakes: Trent Reznor, an American musician and member of the band Nine Inch Nails. Trent Dimas, an American gymnast, and member of UNL’s 1990 NCAA Men’s Gymnastics championship team.
- Popularity: Trent is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,034th for boys in 2021.
Tripp
Tripp comes from the Old English “treap,” meaning “outpost.” It also means “one who tripped” in French. Tripp is usually an American nickname given to boys with the suffix III to mark their “triple” name.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Stronghold
- Pronunciation: TRIHP
- Variations: Trippe
- Namesakes: Tilman “Tripp” Self III, a district judge for the Middle District of Georgia. Emmet “Tripp” Tracy III, an American ice hockey goaltender and the current commentator for the Carolina Hurricanes.
- Popularity: Tripp is very rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., where it ranked 374th for boys in 2022.
Troy
Troy is based on the Irish Troightheach, meaning “foot soldier.” It also means “descendent of Troius.” Troy refers to the ancient Greek city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War.
- Origin: English, Irish
- Meaning: Foot soldier
- Pronunciation: TROYE
- Variations: Troi
- Namesakes: Troy Donockley, an English composer and member of the Finnish symphonic metal band Nightwish. Troy Duffy, an American filmmaker who directed The Boondock Saints.
- Popularity: Troy is uncommon worldwide and mainly used in the U.S., ranking 469th for boys in 2023.
Vance
Vance was an English surname given to “someone who lives near marshland.” It’s connected to the Old English “fenn,” meaning “marshland.” Vance is also a Scottish surname with Norman origins, originally appearing as de Vaux.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Marshland
- Pronunciation: VAENS
- Variations: Vanse
- Namesakes: Vance Brand, an American NASA astronaut who piloted the first U.S.-Soviet joint spaceflight in 1975. Vance Packard, an American journalist who authored The Naked Society.
- Popularity: Vance is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S.
Vince
Vince comes from the Latin Vincentius, which uses the root “vincere,” meaning “to conquer.” You can enjoy Vincent’s formality and Vince’s easygoing quality for the baby boy you’re expecting.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Victory
- Pronunciation: VIHNS
- Variations: Vinse
- Namesakes: Vince Lombardi, an American football coach of the Green Bay Packers. Vince Vaughn, an American actor who first appeared in the 1996 comedy-drama Swingers.
- Popularity: Vince is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 869th for boys in 2022.
Walt
Walt also means “commander of the army.” It comes from the German “walt,” meaning “rule,” and “heri,” meaning “army,” since it’s based on Walter.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Army ruler
- Pronunciation: WAOLT
- Variations: Walte
- Namesakes: Walt Whitman, an American poet best known for Leaves of Grass. Walt Kelly, an American cartoonist known for the comic strip Pogo.
- Popularity: Walt is rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Wes
Wes derives from the Old English “west,” for the western direction. It’s short for Wesley, which also means “wood clearing.” Wes peaked at 629th for U.S. boy’s names in 1963.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Meadow
- Pronunciation: WEHS
- Variations: Wess
- Namesakes: Wes Anderson, an American filmmaker with three films in BBC Culture’s 2016 poll of the greatest films since 2000. Wes Studi, a Cherokeee-American actor best known for Dances with Wolves (1990).
- Popularity: Wes is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 229th for boys in 2023.
Wolf
Wolf is more typical as a surname, which was a nickname for “wolf-like” people. It’s based on the Old English “wulf,” meaning a “cunning person.” In German, Wolf is a nickname for Rudolph, Randolph, and even Ralph.
- Origin: English, German
- Meaning: Wolf (animal)
- Pronunciation: WUHLF
- Variations: Wolfe, Woolf
- Namesakes: Wolf Blitzer, an American journalist for CNN since 1990. Wolf Van Halen, an American musician and son of guitarist Eddie Van Halen.
- Popularity: Wolf is rare worldwide, mostly used in Germany, and ranked 488th for boys in 2023.
Yates
Yates derives from the Middle English “yates,” meaning “gates.” It was once a geographical surname for someone who “lived near a gate.” The spelling Yeats is most popular for W.B. Yeats, but any spelling of Yates is special as a first name too.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: The gates
- Pronunciation: YEYTS
- Variations: Yeats
- Popularity: Yates is very rare worldwide and mainly used in the U.S.
Zack
Zack also means “the lord recalled.” It’s a pet form of the Hebrew Zachariah. Today, Zack is more likely to be a nickname for Zachary, but it supposedly works for Isaac too.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Laughter
- Pronunciation: ZAK
- Variations: Zach, Zak
- Namesakes: Zach Braff, an American actor appearing in the series Scrubs (2001 to 2010). Zach Whitmarsh, a Canadian track and field athlete, and bronze medalist at the 1999 Pan American Games.
- Popularity: Zack is rare worldwide and primarily used in the U.S., ranking 1,261st for boys in 2021.
Zane
Zane also means “gift from God.” It means “gracious” in Hebrew and “beauty” in Arabic. Zane may be the coolest of one syllable guy names, perfect for your superhero.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Pronunciation: ZEYN
- Variations: Zain, Zayn
- Namesakes: Zane Radcliffe, a Northern-Irish author whose book London Irish won the W H Smith People’s Choice Award for New Talent in 2003. Zane Lamprey, an American comedian and host of VH1’s reality show Motormouth.
- Popularity: Zane is rare worldwide and mostly used in the U.S., ranking 238th in 2021.
