One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Feie
    • Origin:

      Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "peace"
    • Description:

      A lovely meaning and sound -- if you're fluent in Dutch.
  2. Walsh
    • Description:

      Walsh originated as an Irish and English surname derived from the Old English word 'wælisc,' meaning 'foreigner' or specifically 'Welshman.' It historically identified people of Welsh or Celtic Briton descent living in Anglo-Norman areas. As a given name, Walsh represents the modern trend of adopting surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options with historical connections. The name carries associations with Celtic heritage and conveys a sense of strength and tradition. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it has gained some traction in recent decades, particularly in families with Irish ancestry who appreciate its cultural significance and simple, strong phonetic quality.
  3. Peal
    • Description:

      Peal is an uncommon masculine name with English language origins, derived from the word meaning the ringing of bells or a loud, resonant sound. As a given name, Peal brings to mind clarity, resonance, and a distinctive voice. It may also relate to the surname Peal, which has historical roots as an occupational name connected to bell-ringing or as a topographical name. The name's brevity gives it a modern, concise quality while its sound has a certain melodic appeal. Extremely rare as a first name, Peal offers parents seeking true uniqueness an option with recognizable English word origins yet almost no naming precedent, making it an individualistic choice that still carries meaning and phonetic appeal.
  4. Kerk
    • Description:

      Kerk is a masculine name with Dutch and Germanic origins, where it literally means 'church' or 'place of worship.' This uncommon name carries a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and hard consonants. In Dutch-speaking regions, it may be used as a surname more frequently than a given name. Kerk possesses a certain commanding presence due to its brevity and distinct pronunciation. As a first name, it remains quite rare internationally, making it an option for parents seeking something truly distinctive. The name's connection to religious structures might appeal to those wanting a subtle spiritual reference without choosing a more obvious biblical or religious name.

  5. Ricke
    • Description:

      Ricke is a masculine name that likely originated as a variant of Rick, which itself is a diminutive form of Richard. The name Richard has Germanic origins meaning 'strong ruler' or 'brave power,' composed of elements meaning 'ruler' and 'strong.' The spelling variation with a terminal 'e' may reflect German or Scandinavian influence in naming traditions. Ricke remains quite uncommon in English-speaking countries, though similar forms appear more frequently in Northern European contexts. The name carries the strength and traditional appeal of Richard while offering a more distinctive presentation. Its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its connections to a name with centuries of historical use across Europe.

  6. Boice
    • Description:

      Boice is a masculine name with both Irish and French origins. As an Irish surname-turned-first-name, it derives from the Gaelic 'Buadhaigh,' meaning 'victorious' or 'triumphant.' In its French connection, it may relate to 'bois' meaning 'wood' or forest. Historically used more commonly as a family name, Boice has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage, though it remains quite rare. With its strong, single-syllable sound, Boice conveys a sense of strength and distinctiveness. The name's unusual nature makes it stand out, while its traditional surname roots give it a sense of heritage and history. For parents seeking a masculine name that is both uncommon and substantial, Boice offers a distinctive option with meaningful cultural connections.
  7. Per
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Peter
    • Description:

      So simple, yet so unique: a prime candidate for export. Pronunciation is like the English pair or pear.
  8. Lish
    • Description:

      Lish is a rare masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may function as a shortened form of English names like Elisha or Aloysius, or derive from an old English word meaning 'happy' or 'fortunate.' In some cases, it has served as a nickname before evolving into independent usage as a given name. This short, distinctive name carries a crisp, modern sound despite its historical usage dating back centuries. Lish has never been common enough to appear on mainstream popularity charts, remaining a genuinely uncommon choice. The name's brevity gives it contemporary appeal, while its historical roots provide substance. Pronunciation is straightforward (rhymes with 'fish'), making it accessible despite its rarity. Lish might appeal to parents seeking a concise, distinctive name with both traditional roots and a modern sensibility.
  9. Gun
    • Description:

      Gun is a concise masculine name with varied origins across different cultures. In Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, it functions as a short form of Gunnar, meaning 'warrior' or 'bold fighter.' In Turkish, Gun means 'day' or 'sun,' while in Chinese contexts, it may represent different characters with meanings like 'rolling,' 'military,' or 'country.' Despite its brevity, Gun carries strong masculine associations in its Nordic usage. The name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, partly due to its unfortunate homonym connection to firearms in these regions. Gun appeals primarily to those with Scandinavian heritage seeking a culturally significant yet minimal name.
  10. Vítor
    • Description:

      Vítor is a masculine name of Portuguese and Brazilian origin, equivalent to the more familiar Victor. Derived from Latin 'victor' meaning 'conqueror' or 'winner,' it carries strong associations with triumph and success. The acute accent over the 'i' indicates the stressed syllable and gives the name its distinctive pronunciation. Widely used in Portuguese-speaking countries, Vítor has maintained steady popularity in Brazil and Portugal for generations. The name conveys strength and classical virtue while having a warm, approachable quality in its Portuguese form. While less common in English-speaking countries, globalization has increased its recognition worldwide. Vítor connects a child to a rich Latin linguistic tradition while offering a slightly distinctive alternative to the more common Victor spelling.
  11. Mckee
    • Description:

      Mckee is a masculine name that originated as a Scottish and Irish surname, derived from 'Mac Aodha,' meaning 'son of Aodh' (an ancient Celtic name meaning 'fire'). As a first name, Mckee represents the growing trend of using family surnames as given names, particularly in America. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it offers a strong cultural connection to Celtic heritage while fitting into the contemporary preference for surname-style first names. Mckee has a concise, strong sound that balances traditional roots with modern appeal. Parents might choose it to honor family lineage or for its distinctive quality while still maintaining a familiar surname structure.
  12. Biel
    • Origin:

      Catalan variant of Gabriel
    • Description:

      A Top 10 boys' name in Catalonia that will likely be associated with actress Jessica Biel in the US.
  13. Priit
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Priidik, Estonian
    • Meaning:

      "peaceful ruler"
    • Description:

      Priit originated as a nickname for Priidik, the Estonian form of Frederick. These days it's more popular on its own than the original Priidik.
  14. Reyse
    • Description:

      Reyse is a masculine name with uncertain etymology, though it may be related to the Germanic name Reese or Rhys, which has Welsh origins meaning 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor.' Alternatively, it could be a creative modern spelling of 'rise' or a variant of names like Reyes, which has Spanish origins meaning 'kings.' The distinctive spelling with the 'y' gives this short name a contemporary feel. Reyse is extremely uncommon, likely emerging in recent decades as part of the trend toward unique spellings and invented names. The name has a strong, concise quality with just two syllables and an interesting combination of familiar sounds in an unfamiliar arrangement.
  15. Smyth
    • Description:

      Smyth is a masculine name that originated as an occupational surname, representing an alternative spelling of 'Smith.' The surname denoted a metalworker or blacksmith, derived from the Old English 'smið,' making it one of the most common surnames in English-speaking countries. As a first name, Smyth is extremely rare, offering a distinctive quality while maintaining familiar sounds. The 'y' spelling variation gives the name a more archaic or aristocratic appearance compared to the standard 'Smith.' Using Smyth as a first name often represents a family surname being preserved through generations or honors family heritage. Despite its rarity as a first name, its familiar sound makes it accessible while remaining unique.
  16. Trae
    • Description:

      Trae is a modern masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may have evolved as a creative spelling of Trey, which traditionally means "three" or "third" in French, often given to a third child or someone named after two predecessors. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of names like Traevon or an inventive variant of Ray or Dre. The name has gained modest popularity in the United States since the 1990s, particularly in southern states and among families seeking distinctive yet straightforward names. Its appeal lies in its brevity, contemporary sound, and versatility. Trae has connections to sports culture, with several notable athletes bringing visibility to the name. Its simple pronunciation and spelling, combined with its modern feel, have helped maintain its steady usage.

  17. Sea
    • Origin:

      English word name
    • Description:

      With River and Ocean becoming mainstream, why not consider Sea?
  18. Mats
    • Origin:

      Scandinavian diminutive of Matthias, Aramaic
    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"
    • Description:

      If you're looking for a Euro-chic alternative to Max, Mats is a strong possibility. It's a fading classic in Norway, but is popular in the Netherlands and Belgium, where short names are the height of style.
  19. Rhyce
    • Description:

      Rhyce is a modern masculine name that represents a creative spelling variation of Rice or Rhys. The traditional Welsh name Rhys means 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor,' while the English Rice derives from Old Germanic elements meaning 'powerful ruler.' The distinctive spelling with 'y' and 'c' emerged in the early 2000s as parents sought unique ways to personalize traditional names. While uncommon in historical records, Rhyce has gained modest recognition in contemporary naming trends, particularly in Australia and the United States. The name projects a strong, contemporary image while maintaining connections to ancient Welsh and Germanic traditions. The unconventional spelling gives this short, punchy name additional visual interest for parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable.

  20. Rodge
    • Description:

      Rodge is a masculine name that serves as a shortened form of Roger, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'famous spear' or 'renowned warrior.' This variation maintains the straightforward, strong character of Roger while offering a more concise, contemporary feel. Rodge has a distinctly casual, approachable quality compared to the more formal Roger. While never particularly common as a standalone name, it has been used as a nickname throughout English-speaking countries. The name has a solid, unpretentious sound that connects to traditional naming patterns while feeling refreshingly direct. For parents who appreciate vintage names but want something slightly less conventional, Rodge provides a distinctive alternative with the same historical roots and meaning as its more common original form.