15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names

  1. Arséne
    • Description:

      Arséne is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Arsenius, which comes from the Greek word 'arsenikos,' meaning 'masculine' or 'virile.' The name carries a distinguished and somewhat aristocratic quality. Historically, it was popularized by early Christian saints, including Saint Arsenius the Great, a Roman tutor to emperors who later became a desert monk. In modern times, the name gained recognition through figures like Arsène Wenger, the long-serving former manager of Arsenal Football Club. While never extremely common, Arséne maintains a steady presence in French-speaking regions. The name conveys strength, dignity, and classical refinement, appealing to those who appreciate names with historical depth and European elegance.

  2. Ballard
    • Description:

      Ballard is a masculine name of English origin functioning primarily as a surname before its adoption as a given name. Derived from the Old English 'bal' (ball) and 'heard' (hard), it historically referred to a bald-headed person. As a first name, Ballard emerged in the United States during the trend of using family surnames as given names. It carries an aristocratic, distinguished quality with connections to notable landmarks like Ballard County, Kentucky, and the Ballard neighborhood in Seattle. While never extremely common, it appeals to parents seeking a name with historical gravitas and a refined sound. Ballard projects strength and stability, with a timeless quality that avoids trendy phonetic patterns.
  3. Xzavier
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Xavier
    • Description:

      With the trendiness of both X and Z, this spelling has it all. However, there's no real need for the added letter, unless you're looking for extra Scrabble points.
  4. Kierian
    • Description:

      Kierian is a masculine name that appears to be a modern spelling variation of Kieran or Ciaran. The traditional name Ciaran has Irish Gaelic origins meaning 'little dark one' or 'dark-haired,' derived from 'ciar' meaning 'dark.' This alternative spelling with the added 'i' gives the name a contemporary feel while maintaining its Celtic roots. Kierian remains relatively uncommon, offering a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with Irish heritage but a unique presentation. The name carries associations with several Irish saints named Ciaran, particularly St. Ciaran of Clonmacnoise, giving it historical and religious significance despite its modern spelling.

  5. Lazar
    • Origin:

      Russian, Bulgarian, Serbian and Macedonian variation of Lazarus, Latin from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "God is my helper"
    • Description:

      With Lazarus heating up, this slimmer Eastern European form will likely see an uptick in use.
  6. Mortin
    • Description:

      Mortin is a masculine name with Germanic origins, likely a variant of Morton or Martin. Martin, the more common form, derives from Mars, the Roman god of war, meaning 'dedicated to Mars' or 'warlike.' This variant with the 'in' ending creates a subtle distinction from the more common forms. Mortin remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, though it may be found more frequently in Germanic regions or in families with Germanic heritage. The name has a sturdy, traditional quality while still being uncommon enough to stand out. Its similarity to more familiar names makes it accessible despite its rarity. Mortin carries the strong historical associations of its root name while offering a slightly different sound and appearance for parents seeking traditional names with a twist.
  7. Osborn
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "divine bear; divine warrior"
    • Description:

      A surname style choice that could get you nicknames Bear and Ozzy, which is pretty cool. It comes from the Old English variant of the Old Norse Ásbjǫrn, which was introduced to England after the Norman conquest and used occasionally as a given name ever since. Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell used the spelling variation Osborne in her final novel, Wives and Daughters.
  8. Yago
    • Description:

      Yago is a masculine name with Spanish and Portuguese origins, functioning as a variant of James (Santiago in Spanish). Derived ultimately from the Hebrew name Ya'akov (Jacob), meaning 'supplanter,' it has biblical connections to both the apostle James and the Old Testament patriarch Jacob. The name carries a distinctive sound with its smooth flow and strong ending. Particularly popular in Galicia, Spain, and in Portuguese-speaking countries, Yago offers cultural richness while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. This gives it cross-cultural appeal with a touch of exoticism for international parents. The name's brevity and clear pronunciation make it accessible despite its relative rarity. Yago projects a vibrant, distinctive quality while connecting its bearer to ancient traditions and religious heritage.

  9. Cable
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "rope"
    • Description:

      Drop the C and arrive at an established biblical name.
  10. Bobbie
    • Description:

      Bobbie, as a masculine name, originated as a diminutive form of Robert, derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" (fame) and "beraht" (bright), meaning "bright fame" or "famous brilliance." While Bobbie is more commonly used as a feminine name in contemporary times, it has a history as a casual, friendly nickname for boys named Robert. This spelling variation with an 'ie' ending gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century. Bobbie has a warm, approachable quality that conveys a down-to-earth personality. Its usage for males has declined since the 1970s, as nickname-names became less commonly used as formal given names for boys, though it maintains some usage, particularly in Southern regions of the United States.

  11. Kaydan
    • Description:

      Kaydan is a modern masculine name that emerged in the late 20th century, blending elements of popular names like Kaden, Jayden, and Aidan. Without definitive etymological roots, it's considered a contemporary creation that follows the '-ayden' and '-aden' naming trend that became popular in the 1990s and 2000s. The prefix 'Kay-' might relate to the letter 'K' or could be influenced by names like Kai. Kaydan has gained modest popularity in the United States and other English-speaking countries, particularly for boys born after 2000. Parents are often drawn to its contemporary sound and unique quality while maintaining familiar phonetic elements. The name has a modern, energetic character that fits current naming preferences.
  12. Rajain
    • Description:

      Rajain is a masculine name with roots likely stemming from South Asian origins, particularly with connections to Hindi or Sanskrit languages. The prefix "Raj" often relates to royalty or kingship in Sanskrit, meaning "king" or "royal." The name might be interpreted as "kingly" or "of royal nature." Rajain is relatively uncommon compared to the more frequently used names like Raj or Rajiv. It has a distinctive sound that maintains connections to Indian heritage while offering a unique variation. In contemporary usage, Rajain remains rare globally but might be found in communities with South Asian diaspora or among families seeking names with regal associations.
  13. Cadok
    • Origin:

      Cornish variation of Cadoc, Welsh
    • Meaning:

      "battle"
    • Description:

      Whether you choose to end it with a C or a K, Cadok possesses an energy that many parents seek out for their child's name. Welsh Cadoc has a saintly connection, if that sways you either way.
  14. Zinov
    • Description:

      Zinov is a masculine name likely derived from the Slavic name Zinovy or Zinoviy (Зиновий), which comes from the Greek name Zenobios, meaning "life of Zeus." The name has roots in Eastern European traditions, particularly in Russian, Ukrainian, and other Slavic cultures. Zinov carries a distinguished and somewhat aristocratic quality with its uncommon sound pattern in Western contexts. The shortened form gives it a modern, concise feel while maintaining its historical connections. While rare in English-speaking countries, it may appeal to parents seeking a name with Slavic heritage or those looking for a distinctive international option. The strong consonant sounds give Zinov a bold, memorable quality that stands out while still being pronounceable.

  15. Liston
    • Description:

      Liston is a masculine name of English origin that evolved from a surname meaning 'fortified settlement' or 'boundary stone town.' The name carries a distinguished, somewhat aristocratic quality reminiscent of traditional English surnames adopted as first names. While relatively uncommon as a given name, Liston gained some recognition through association with boxing legend Sonny Liston, the powerful heavyweight champion of the early 1960s. The name combines strength and refinement with its crisp consonants and classic structure. Phonetically similar to more common names like Preston and Weston, Liston nonetheless maintains a distinctive character. It appeals particularly to parents drawn to names with subtle historical connections and traditional masculine sounds without being overly common. Liston's rarity gives it a unique quality while still feeling accessible.
  16. Vladko
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Vladimir, Slavic
    • Meaning:

      "great ruler, peaceful ruler, ruler of the world"
  17. Mcleod
    • Origin:

      Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Leod"
    • Description:

      A Scottish surname with cool nickname Mac and a cloudy sound.
  18. Arliss
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledge"
    • Description:

      Best remembered as one of the boys in "Old Yeller" and the title of a late 1990s HBO sitcom, "Arliss," featuring sports agent Arliss Michaels. Also sometimes heard as a girl's name and a surname (as in early film star George Arliss).
  19. Rostam
    • Origin:

      Persian
    • Meaning:

      "tall, strongly-built, brave"
    • Description:

      Used in Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, this strong-sounding name belonged to a hero in Persian legend. Its derivation is unclear, but the consensus seems to be that it relates to the hero’s great size and strength, possibly from Avestan raodha "to grow" and takhma "strong, brave, valiant".
  20. Maghnus
    • Description:

      Maghnus is a masculine name of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, representing the traditional Gaelic form of Magnus. The name ultimately derives from the Latin 'magnus,' meaning 'great' or 'large.' In Norse tradition, Magnus was a name used by several kings, adding a royal heritage to its meaning. The distinctive Gaelic spelling with 'gh' creates a unique visual identity while maintaining the same approximate pronunciation as Magnus. Maghnus remains rare outside of traditional Celtic-speaking regions, where it serves as a way to honor Gaelic heritage while carrying substantial historical weight. The name conveys strength and dignity, connecting its bearer to ancient Celtic and Viking traditions. Though uncommon, its similarity to the more familiar Magnus makes it accessible despite its distinctive spelling.