Six Letter Boy Names
- Hannes
Origin:
German, Dutch, Scandinavian variation of JohannesMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Johannes never caught on in the US, but popular European short form Hannes may be more accessible.
- Walken
Origin:
Australian AboriginalMeaning:
"rainbow"Description:
One of the few rainbow names that is masculine, Walken is a Noongar Aboriginal word.
- Ángel
Description:
Ángel is a masculine name with deep Latin roots, directly meaning 'angel' or 'messenger.' This spiritual name appears across numerous cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries where it ranks consistently among popular choices for boys. The accent mark in the Spanish version gives it a distinctive pronunciation emphasis on the first syllable (AHN-hel). The name carries religious significance in Christian traditions, referring to divine messengers and guardians. Beyond its spiritual connotations, Ángel suggests qualities of protection, goodness, and moral virtue. The name's cross-cultural appeal has helped maintain its popularity through generations, appealing to parents seeking a name with both spiritual meaning and international recognition. Its relatively short length combined with rich symbolic meaning contributes to its enduring charm.
- Jianni
Description:
Jianni is a masculine name with likely Italian origins, potentially derived from 'Gianni,' the Italian form of John. The name ultimately traces back to the Hebrew 'Yochanan,' meaning 'God is gracious.' The variant spelling with 'J' instead of 'G' may represent a modern adaptation or regional difference. While not among the most common male names in English-speaking countries, Jianni offers parents a melodic alternative to the more traditional Giovanni or Johnny. The name carries a contemporary feel while maintaining its classical roots, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet approachable name for their son.
- Tavian
Origin:
Romanian form of OctavianDescription:
A cool international name that could join the ranks of cool N-ending boy names. Americans may know it best from retired NFL player Tavian Banks.
- Tishka
Description:
Tishka is a masculine name with Russian or Slavic origins, typically functioning as a diminutive form of Tikhon or similar names. In Russian naming traditions, diminutives express familiarity and affection. The root name Tikhon derives from the Greek word 'tychē' meaning 'luck' or 'fortune.' Tishka maintains a warm, approachable quality while carrying cultural significance in Slavic communities. Outside these regions, the name is quite rare, giving it a distinctive quality. The soft sound and ending with 'a' might cause some gender confusion in Western countries, though it's traditionally used for males in its culture of origin. The name offers a unique option for parents seeking a name with Eastern European character and a friendly, accessible sound.
- Jarell
Description:
Jarell is a contemporary masculine given name with documented usage primarily in the United States from the late 20th century onward. The name may be a variant spelling of Jarrell, which itself could be derived from a surname of English or Norman origin. Some linguistic analyses suggest it might be related to names like Darrell or Jerald, potentially sharing Germanic roots meaning 'spear-ruler' or 'open-handed warrior.' Alternatively, it could be a creative combination of the popular prefix 'Ja-' with the suffix '-rell.' Jarell experienced modest popularity in the United States during the 1990s and early 2000s but has never been among the most common names. The name exemplifies the trend toward distinctive spellings and sound combinations that became increasingly common in American naming practices during the late 20th century.
- Wilmer
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"determined fame"Description:
The visibility of actor Wilmer (That 70s Show) Valderrama has highlighted this name, but it's not likely to spread because of its similarity to the feminine (and dated) Wilma.
- Reiner
Description:
Reiner is a traditional German masculine name derived from the Germanic elements 'ragin' meaning 'counsel' and 'heri' meaning 'army' or 'warrior.' Its origins date back to medieval Germany, where it was often spelled as Rainer or Reginhar. The name carries connotations of wisdom in battle and strong leadership. Reiner gained moderate popularity throughout German-speaking countries and has remained a steady, classic choice there. Outside of Germanic regions, the name is less common but recognized, particularly in areas with German heritage. In recent decades, Reiner has maintained its traditional appeal without becoming overly popular in international naming trends.
- Saylor
Origin:
Surname-name or spelling variation of SailorDescription:
Used much more often for girls -- about 1000 girls were named Saylor or Sailor last year, versus about 100 boys -- Saylor is a medieval German surname that means ropemaker, which is also related to the occupational name Sailor.
- Bowman
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"archer"Description:
Bowman has a lot of winning ingredients: an occupational surname, a cool "Bo" sound, and an archery-related meaning. Given to around 40 boys in the US in a recent year, it could work as a rarer, but not outrageous, alternative to the likes of Bodhi, Beau, Bowen, and Brody.
- Lazaro
Origin:
Italian variation of Lazarus and EleazarMeaning:
"God is my helper"Description:
This sleek Italian name was raised from the dead by Mexican Mozart in the Jungle star Gael Garcia Bernal, who chose it for his son (he also has a daughter named Libertad). For athletic inspiration, Lazaro Alvarez, boxing for Cuba, is the three-time world champion lightweight boxer. Lazarus and root name Eleazar are both also destined for comebacks.
- Digory
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"lost one"Description:
Digory is the name of a character in a romantic poem from the Middle Ages as well as from The Chronicles of Narnia, also known as The Professor. There's a Harry Potter character named Diggory.
- Kieron
Description:
Kieron is a masculine name of Irish origin, representing an anglicized spelling variation of the traditional Irish name Ciarán, which means 'little dark one' or 'dark-haired.' This adaptation maintains the authentic pronunciation while using a spelling that's more intuitive for English speakers. The name connects to several Irish saints, including Saint Kieran of Clonmacnoise, giving it historical and religious significance. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Kieron has maintained steady usage, particularly in Ireland, the UK, and among families with Irish heritage. The name strikes a balance between distinctive and accessible, offering a strong cultural connection without pronunciation challenges. Its association with Celtic heritage makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic Irish roots and meaningful etymology.
- Norris
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"northerner"Description:
Somehow more modern and likable than Morris or Doris.
- Bennie
Description:
Bennie is a warm, friendly masculine name that originated as a diminutive of Benjamin or Benedict, though it has established itself as an independent given name. Benjamin derives from Hebrew, meaning 'son of the right hand' or 'son of the south,' while Benedict comes from Latin meaning 'blessed.' Bennie carries a casual, approachable quality with nostalgic charm, popular in the early to mid-20th century particularly in Southern United States. The name has associations with folk and country music through figures like Bennie Moten and Bennie Wallace. While less common today as a formal given name, it maintains popularity as a nickname and carries connotations of reliability, unpretentiousness, and down-to-earth goodness. The spelling variant 'Bennie' (versus 'Benny') adds a slight distinction while maintaining the name's accessible nature.
- Lawrie
Description:
Lawrie is a masculine name with Scottish origins, derived from the name Lawrence, which means 'from Laurentum' (an ancient Roman city). It developed as a diminutive or nickname form of Lawrence in Scotland and northern England. Lawrie has a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining a traditional feel. While not among the most popular names in recent decades, it offers an appealing alternative to the more common Larry or Laurent. The name carries connotations of strength and dignity inherited from its root name, which was popularized by Saint Lawrence, a 3rd-century Christian martyr. In Scotland, Lawrie has maintained steady, if modest, usage throughout the generations.
- Hilary
Origin:
Latin from GreekMeaning:
"cheerful, happy"Description:
The only version that works for boys anymore is the Latinate Hilario or Ilario. Better to look to Felix for a happy-meaning name.
- Jahseh
Origin:
Jamaican Patois: "God Speaks"Meaning:
"God Speaks"Description:
Probably best associated with the rapper XXXTentacion, Jahseh is a modern invented name which combines the Hebrew word for God, Yah (as seen in Elijah), with the Jamaican Patois word "seh", meaning 'say', to create a name which means "God Speaks".
- Makana
Origin:
HawaiianMeaning:
"gift"Description:
A unisex name in Hawaii, with great potential for cool nickname Ma(c)k.
