One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Valle
    • Description:

      Valle is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Spanish, it means "valley," while in Scandinavian countries it originated as a short form of names containing the Old Norse element "valr" meaning "fallen warriors." The name also appears as a surname in various European traditions. With its two syllables and straightforward pronunciation (VAL-ay or VAL-eh, depending on language context), Valle offers simplicity while remaining distinctive. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it has seen periodic usage in Nordic countries and Spanish-speaking regions. The name carries natural associations with geographical features and landscapes, appealing to parents seeking a name with environmental connections and an international feel.

  2. Zente
    • Origin:

      Hungarian
    • Meaning:

      "saint; holy"
    • Description:

      Zesty Hungarian name with a coveted spiritual meaning.
  3. Royd
    • Description:

      Royd is an uncommon masculine name with English origins, primarily derived from a surname and place name meaning 'clearing in the forest' from Old English 'rod' or 'royd.' Historically, it appeared in northern English regions, particularly Yorkshire, to describe landscapes where trees had been cleared. As a given name, Royd emerged in the 20th century but has remained rare, giving it a distinctive quality. Its short, strong sound with a single syllable conveys a sense of solidity and straightforwardness. The name has occasional usage in English-speaking countries but maintains its uniqueness, making it appealing for parents seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.
  4. Hume
    • Origin:

      Scottish variation of Holmes
    • Description:

      Distinguished actor Hume Cronyn (who shared his father's name) put this unusual choice in the lexicon.
  5. Nal
    • Origin:

      Slovene invented name, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      A Slovene choice that periodically appears at the bottom of Slovenia's Top 100. It first appeared on the Slovenian charts in 2011, when parents started using Nal for its on-trend sounds. However, Nal has no etymological roots in Slovene.
  6. Yvor
    • Description:

      Yvor is a masculine name with Norse and Celtic roots, believed to be a variant of names like Ivar, Ivor, or Ivo. The name carries meanings related to 'archer', 'bow warrior', or 'yew wood' (which was traditionally used to make bows). This uncommon name has an air of strength and ancient heritage, evoking images of Norse and Celtic warriors. Yvor has never been widely popular but maintains a steady presence among families interested in names with historical depth and unique character. The distinctive spelling with 'Y' gives the name a slightly more exotic feel compared to the more traditional Ivor. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds contribute to its masculine impression.

  7. Ayan
    • Origin:

      Somali
    • Meaning:

      "fortune"
    • Description:

      The African name Ayan was first seen on the US Top 1000 for boys in 2014. It's both simple and distinctive, a winning combination.
  8. Shax
    • Description:

      Shax is a demon known as a Great Marquis of Hell, ruling over legions of demons. He is typically depicted as a stork.
  9. Falk
    • Description:

      Falk is a masculine name of Germanic origin that means "falcon." This concise, strong name has roots as both a given name and surname across Northern European countries, particularly in Germany, Sweden, and Denmark. The falcon symbolism connects the name to qualities of vision, freedom, and nobility. While never extremely common, Falk has maintained steady usage in Germanic countries for centuries. In Jewish contexts, it sometimes served as a translation of the Yiddish name Feivel. The name's single-syllable simplicity gives it a modern feel despite its ancient origins. Falk has experienced modest revivals in Scandinavian countries where straightforward, nature-based names have gained popularity, appealing to parents seeking strong, distinctive names with clear meanings.

  10. Zyair
    • Origin:

      Variation of Zaire, Kongo
    • Meaning:

      "the river that swallows all rivers"
    • Description:

      One of the many new spellings of Zaire that has been climbing the charts lately.
  11. Cos
    • Description:

      Cos is a short, distinctive masculine name with several possible origins. It may derive from the Greek island of Kos, from the Greek word "kosmos" meaning order or harmony, or as a short form of names like Cosimo or Cosmas. The latter comes from the Greek "kosmos" and was popularized by an early Christian saint. Cos could also be an Irish/Gaelic shortened form of names beginning with "Cos." As a standalone name, Cos remains uncommon internationally but offers a concise, strong sound. Its brevity makes it practical across multiple languages, while its various cultural connections give it depth despite its simplicity.
  12. Turtle
    • Origin:

      Nature name
    • Description:

      The kind of nickname name you wouldn't want your own child to get stuck with.
  13. Jaz
    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Jasmine or Jasper
    • Description:

      Unisex variation of Jazz or Jasper that couldn't say it more plainly. Used for their daughter by tennis couple Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi.
  14. Támhas
    • Description:

      Támhas is a masculine name of Scottish Gaelic origin, representing a traditional Gaelic form of Thomas. The name ultimately traces back to the Aramaic word 'ta'oma' meaning 'twin.' The distinctive spelling reflects authentic Gaelic orthography, with the accent mark (fada) over the 'a' indicating a longer vowel sound. Pronounced approximately as 'TAH-vass,' this name carries strong connections to Scottish Highland culture and heritage. While exceedingly rare outside Gaelic-speaking communities, Támhas offers a unique alternative for those seeking to honor Scottish ancestry with an authentic name. The preservation of traditional Gaelic spelling distinguishes it from the more common Thomas while maintaining the same historical and religious connections, including its biblical roots. For families with Scottish ties, it represents a way to embrace cultural heritage through naming traditions.

  15. Criss
    • Description:

      Criss is a masculine name that likely originated as a diminutive or variant of Christopher, which means 'bearer of Christ' from Greek elements. It may also function as a shortened form of names like Crispin or Cristian. The name has a concise, modern feel compared to its longer counterparts. Criss gained some recognition through figures like musician Criss Angel, giving it associations with creativity and performance. While never extremely common as a given name, its brevity makes it appealing in contemporary naming trends that favor shorter names. Criss has a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining masculine associations.

  16. Mell
    • Description:

      Mell is a masculine name with roots in various cultures. It may be a variant of 'Mel,' which is often a diminutive of names like Melvin, Melbourne, or Melchior. The name has Germanic and Latin influences, potentially deriving from elements meaning 'work' or 'labor.' In some cases, it might be related to the Latin 'mel,' meaning 'honey.' Mell remains relatively uncommon as a standalone given name, giving it a distinctive quality. In some cultures, it may be used as a surname that has transitioned to first-name usage, following a trend seen with many family names. The simplicity of the name gives it a modern, concise appeal that aligns with current naming preferences for shorter, stronger-sounding masculine names.
  17. Slayde
    • Description:

      Slayde is a contemporary masculine name with an edgy, modern feel. Likely derived as a variant spelling of "Slade," which originated as an English surname meaning "valley" or "hollow," it exemplifies the trend toward distinctive spellings of traditional names. The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades, particularly in North America, as parents seek unique names with strong sounds. The "y" spelling gives it a more distinctive appearance while maintaining the strong, single-syllable sound. Slayde projects an image of rugged individuality and strength, appealing to parents looking for names outside the mainstream but with familiar phonetics.
  18. Aang
    • Origin:

      Chinese fictional name
    • Meaning:

      "peaceful soaring"
    • Description:

      The name of the main protagonist of Avatar: The Last Airbender was coined for the movie from Chinese characters meaning "peaceful" and "rise; raise". Aang is also used as a given name in Indonesia, where it derives from akang — a word used to refer to one’s elder brother or one of his peers.
  19. Jhett
    • Description:

      Jhett is a masculine name representing a modern spelling variation of Jett, which itself emerged as a given name from the deep black gemstone and the English word describing something fast-moving. The addition of the 'h' gives the name a distinctive appearance while maintaining the same strong, concise pronunciation. Gaining momentum in the early 21st century alongside the trend for short, bold boys' names, Jhett appeals to parents seeking something contemporary with an edge. The name conveys images of speed, action, and a certain rugged elegance. While less common than the standard spelling, Jhett has found modest usage particularly in North America. Its punchy single syllable and unique spelling combination offer a name that's simultaneously straightforward and distinctive.

  20. Kye
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Kai
    • Description:

      With the rising popularity of Kai, this more phonetic spelling has been gaining traction as well. Kye debuted in the US Top 1000 in 2015, and was one of the fastest-rising names of the year in 2016.