One Syllable Names for Boys

Son is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins and meanings. In Vietnamese tradition, it's a common name meaning 'mountain,' symbolizing strength and stability. In English, while primarily recognized as a relational term, it has occasionally appeared as a given name, particularly in Southern American naming traditions or as a family surname adopted as a first name. In Korean contexts, it appears as part of longer names with various meanings depending on the Chinese character used. Son has the distinction of being one of the shortest possible names, making it strikingly minimalist. Despite its simplicity, the name carries significant meaning across cultures, representing family connection, heritage, and in some traditions, natural strength and endurance.

While patriot Thomas Paine is a worthy honoree, the mere association with the word 'pain' knocks this name out of bounds.

A new spelling of Irie, a Rastafarian word-turned-name. News correspondent Yamiche Alcindor named her son Yrie Myles in 2023.

Deante is a modern masculine name that likely developed as a variant of names like Dante or Deon, or possibly as a combination of the prefix 'De-' with another name element. The 'De-' prefix appears in many names of various origins, including French, Spanish, and Italian, often meaning 'of' or 'from.' Dante itself derives from the medieval Italian name Durante, meaning 'enduring.' Deante began appearing in naming records in the United States primarily in the late 20th century. The name shows creativity in contemporary naming practices, where prefixes and suffixes are combined to create distinctive names. While not among the most common names, Deante has maintained consistent, if limited, usage in the United States over recent decades.

Ayansh is a modern masculine name of Indian origin that has been growing in popularity in recent years. The name carries beautiful meanings, often interpreted as 'first ray of light' or 'part of God' in Sanskrit derivatives. Some sources connect it to Lord Ganesha in Hindu tradition, symbolizing new beginnings, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles. Ayansh offers parents a name that sounds contemporary while maintaining cultural significance. It features a pleasing rhythmic quality with its two syllables and soft ending. The name has been climbing birth name charts, particularly in Indian communities worldwide, as parents seek unique yet accessible names with positive connotations. Ayansh represents brightness, divine connection, and auspicious beginnings.

Murl is an uncommon masculine name with American roots, possibly originating as a variant of Merle or Muriel. Dating back to the early 20th century in the United States, Murl experienced modest popularity during the 1910s-1930s, particularly in rural communities across the Midwest and Southern states. The name has a straightforward, no-nonsense quality typical of early American naming patterns that favored short, strong-sounding names. Murl has steadily declined in usage since the mid-20th century, now considered a vintage rarity. The name's brevity and distinctive sound make it memorable, though its rarity means most people won't have personal associations with it.

Dutch road cyclist Steven Kruijswijk introduced the world to this name when he chose it for his son born in 2016. It is related to the name Perry, which also means pear tree.

Nap is an uncommon masculine name that can function as both a standalone name and a nickname. It may originate as a shortened form of Napoleon, the name of the famous French emperor, which derives from Italian elements possibly meaning 'from Naples.' Alternatively, it could be a nickname based on the English word for a short sleep. Nap has never been widely used as a given name in English-speaking countries, remaining a rare choice throughout recorded naming history. The name's brevity gives it a punchy, informal quality that might appeal to parents seeking something uniquely concise. Its unusual nature means a person named Nap would likely face both curiosity about their name and occasional word-related jokes.

Sharp and sleek, it refers to Benjamin being compared to a wolf in Genesis.

Moke is a short, distinctive masculine name with varied origins. In Polynesian languages, particularly Hawaiian, it can mean 'mist' or relate to the sea. In certain African contexts, it may be a shortened form of names containing 'moke' as an element. The name has also appeared as a nickname or diminutive in English-speaking regions. Moke remains quite rare as a given name worldwide, making it an unconventional choice. Its brevity gives it a punchy, memorable quality with a straightforward pronunciation. While lacking widespread recognition, Moke offers simplicity and cultural diversity, potentially appealing to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with natural connotations or cultural significance beyond mainstream Western naming traditions.

Moor is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon and geographical origins. Historically, it referred to a person who lived near or came from moorlands – open, uncultivated upland areas. The name also has connections to the historical term 'Moor,' which was used to describe people of North African, particularly Berber and Arab, descent. As a given name, Moor is exceptionally rare, more commonly encountered as a surname. It has a strong, concise sound with nature-based connotations of wildness and freedom. The simplicity of the name gives it a distinctive quality, though its various historical and geographical associations may influence how it's perceived across different cultures.

Layn is a modern masculine name that likely evolved as a variant spelling of Lane or Laine. With roots in Old English, the original surname referred to someone who lived near a lane or path. This streamlined, one-syllable name has a contemporary, minimalist appeal. The distinctive 'y' spelling gives Layn a modern edge while maintaining the straightforward pronunciation of its traditional counterparts. Though uncommon in historical records, Layn has gained some modest usage in recent decades as parents seek short, strong-sounding names with simple spelling. Its brevity and clarity make it practical in our fast-paced world, while the unusual spelling helps it stand out among similar-sounding names.

Shah is a masculine name of Persian origin that means 'king' or 'ruler.' Historically, it was used as a title for the monarchs of Iran (Persia) until the 20th century. As a personal name, Shah carries connotations of nobility, leadership, and authority. In Western countries, it has gained modest popularity among families with Middle Eastern, South Asian, or Persian heritage. The name is appreciated for its simplicity, strength, and cross-cultural appeal. In multicultural communities, Shah serves as a distinctive yet easily pronounced name that honors Persian cultural heritage.

Ants is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may function as a short form of Anthony or Anton in some cultures, particularly in Estonian where it is a traditional diminutive. Alternatively, it could be derived from the surname Ants, which has Germanic roots. The name might also have developed as a modern, minimalist choice based on the insect, appealing to nature-inspired naming trends. As a given name, Ants remains extremely rare in English-speaking countries, though its brevity aligns with contemporary preferences for short, punchy boys' names. The name's simplicity gives it a distinctive quality while maintaining straightforward pronunciation.

A joyful Yoruba name which would be perfect for a long-awaited baby.

If you want people to appreciate this choice, you're going to have to explain how it's not Neil.

Sarge is plausibly one of the new aggressive, militaristic names favored by parents hoping for a bossy son.

Glin is a masculine name with Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic 'gleann' meaning 'valley.' It exists both as a place name in County Limerick, Ireland (known for the Knight of Glin, a hereditary title) and as an occasional personal name. As a given name, Glin remains quite rare, offering a distinctive quality for those who bear it. Its short, crisp sound has appeal in contemporary naming trends that favor brief, strong names. The name carries connections to Irish heritage and landscape, potentially appealing to parents seeking names with Celtic roots or those looking for uncommon names that are still straightforward to pronounce and spell.