15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names
- Barkley
Description:
Barkley is a masculine name of English origin, originally a surname derived from the Old English 'beorc' meaning 'birch tree' and 'leah' meaning 'woodland clearing' or 'meadow.' As a first name, Barkley has maintained modest usage, experiencing small peaks of popularity in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, possibly influenced by basketball star Charles Barkley. The name carries strong nature associations and a certain preppy, distinguished quality. It balances being recognizable without being common, appealing to parents looking for names with English heritage and woodland connections. Barkley also carries a friendly, approachable sound while maintaining a traditional surname-as-first-name style.
- Lughaidh
Description:
Lughaidh is an ancient Irish masculine name derived from the Celtic god Lugh, a deity associated with skill, crafts, and light in Irish mythology. Pronounced approximately as 'LOO-ee' or 'LOO-ay,' the name has deep historical roots in Irish culture, appearing in numerous ancient texts and legends. Lughaidh was borne by several high kings and notable figures in Irish history. While challenging for non-Irish speakers to pronounce, this name carries substantial cultural significance and connects a child to Ireland's rich mythological heritage. Though rare even in modern Ireland, Lughaidh represents an authentic option for parents seeking a name with genuine Gaelic origins and historical depth.
- Arath
Description:
Arath is a masculine name of multiple cultural origins. In Celtic tradition, it may relate to the word for 'bear,' symbolizing strength and courage. It also appears in Mexican usage, possibly derived from Aztec or other indigenous languages. Some connect it to Arabic origins, where similar names relate to 'land' or 'earth.' Arath has gained moderate popularity in Mexico and among Hispanic communities in the United States in recent decades, though it remains uncommon globally. The name's appeal lies in its brevity, distinctive sound, and cross-cultural resonance. Parents might choose Arath for its strong, masculine quality and uniqueness, while still being relatively straightforward to pronounce across different languages.
- Liander
Description:
Liander is an uncommon masculine name with potential roots in several naming traditions. It may be a variation of Leander, the Greek mythological figure who swam the Hellespont nightly to visit his beloved Hero. Alternatively, it could be a modern blending of elements from names like Liam and Alexander. The name has a melodic quality and projects strength through its connection to ancient heroic tales if derived from Leander, whose name means 'lion man' or 'lion-hearted.' Despite its classical connections, Liander remains rare in contemporary usage, making it an option for parents seeking a name with historical depth but little current popularity. It carries an air of sophistication and uniqueness.
- Cisco
Origin:
Diminutive of Spanish FranciscoMeaning:
"Frenchman or free man"Description:
Shortening Francisco somehow makes it sound even cooler. Cisco is also the name of a digital security company.
- Bjørn
Origin:
Danish and Norwegian variation of Bjorn, SwedishMeaning:
"bear"Description:
The slashed O form of Bjorn is standard in Norway and Denmark. The umlaut variation, Björn is used in most other languages today.
- Vallis
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Wales"Description:
Intriguing way to signal Welsh ancestry; more unusual than Wallace.
- Jose luis
Description:
José Luis is a popular masculine compound name in Spanish-speaking communities, combining two classic names with rich histories. José derives from Hebrew Yosef, meaning 'God shall add,' and has been consistently popular throughout the Hispanic world due to its biblical significance as the name of Jesus's earthly father. Luis, the Spanish form of Louis, comes from Germanic origins meaning 'famous warrior.' The combination emerged as a traditional naming pattern in Spanish culture, where compound names are common. José Luis gained particular prominence in the mid-20th century and remains widely used across Spain, Latin America, and Hispanic communities worldwide. The name carries cultural prestige while maintaining strong religious and historical connections, making it a timeless choice that spans generations.
- Haldor
Origin:
NorseMeaning:
"Thor's stone"Description:
This, like many Norse and Scandinavian names, remains icebound, though with the unexpected rise of such ancient Scandinavian mythology names as Odin, Thor, and Freya, we may see Haldor rise again.
- Finis
Description:
Finis is a masculine name derived from the Latin word meaning 'end,' 'boundary,' or 'conclusion.' Historically, this name was sometimes given to a final child in a family, signifying that parents did not plan to have more children. While relatively rare in contemporary usage, Finis has occasional historical appearances, particularly in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name carries philosophical overtones, suggesting completion and fulfillment. Though uncommon, Finis offers a distinctive classical quality with its Latin derivation and meaningful etymology. Its brevity and clear pronunciation give it accessibility despite its rarity. For parents drawn to names with clear meanings and historical depth, Finis presents an uncommon option with significant symbolic resonance.
- Haman
Origin:
PersianMeaning:
"illustrious"Description:
Whatever its merits as a name, Haman is a Biblical villain, a member of the Persian king's court who plotted to slaughter the Jews. His plan was foiled by Queen Esther and Haman was hanged. Not a role model you want for your child.
- Taye
Origin:
African, EthiopianMeaning:
"he has been seen"Description:
Taye, also used as a short form of Taylor, began to stand on its own with the emergence of actor Taye (born Scott) Diggs.
- Turin
Origin:
Italian place nameDescription:
The name of an extremely civilized, wealthy city in the north of Italy merits more notice as a first name, a la Verona and Milan. It was used as one in the Canadian sci-fi series Killjoys.
- Usti
Origin:
CherokeeMeaning:
"little"Description:
A Cherokee word name. Usti's feminine counterpart, Usdi, means "baby."
- Orcus
Origin:
Latin from GreekMeaning:
"oath"Description:
Orcus is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Hades, god of the underworld. His name is ultimately derived from the Greek word hórkos, meaning "oath,"
- Dayton
Origin:
English, variation of DeightonMeaning:
"place with a dike"Description:
If Dayton, like Trenton and Camden, is finding favor with parents, it's more because of its popular two-syllable surname feel and -on ending than the industrial city in Ohio.
- Haji
Origin:
SwahiliMeaning:
"born during the pilgrimage to Mecca"Description:
A name appropriate for boys born during the hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca every Muslim is expected to make once in his lifetime.
- Ayson
Description:
Ayson is a modern masculine name with several possible origins. It may be a variation of the English surname Aison, a contemporary spelling of the name Aidan (meaning 'little fire' in Irish), or a creative variant of names like Jason. With its sleek two-syllable structure and trendy 'son' ending, Ayson fits well with current naming patterns in English-speaking countries. Though not among the most common names, its familiarity in sound combined with distinctive spelling gives it appeal for parents seeking something recognizable yet unique. Ayson has gradually gained modest usage in recent decades, particularly in the United States, resonating with families who appreciate its contemporary feel and easy pronunciation.
- Miska
Origin:
Finnish diminutive of MikaelMeaning:
"who is like God?"Description:
Along with Mika, a nickname for Mikael.
- Kenyon
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"white haired or blond"Description:
Kenyon is a very engaging British surname name, the middle y giving it a kind of southwestern canyonesque undertone.