Boys' Names Ending in -a Part 1

  1. Kilikikopa
    • Description:

      Kilikikopa is an extremely rare masculine name with likely Polynesian origins, specifically possibly Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander roots. The melodic quality with alternating consonants and vowels follows traditional Polynesian naming patterns. In Hawaiian naming traditions, longer names often carry significant cultural meaning, possibly referring to family history, natural elements, or circumstances of birth. While specific meaning information is limited due to its rarity, names in Polynesian cultures typically honor ancestors or describe admirable qualities. Kilikikopa's rhythmic, flowing pronunciation reflects the musical quality of Pacific languages. The uniqueness of this name makes it a distinctive choice that connects to Pacific Islander heritage and cultural traditions.
  2. Akiba
    • Origin:

      Variation of Akiva, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "to protect, shelter"
  3. Hoshea
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "salvation"
    • Description:

      Variant transcription of Hosea, the original name of Joshua in the Old Testament.
  4. Matta
    • Description:

      Matta is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Aramaic, it's related to Matthew, meaning 'gift of God.' In Arabic contexts, it derives from 'mata' meaning 'to extend.' The name appears in Christian traditions as a variant of Matthew and is found among Middle Eastern and South Asian communities. In India, particularly Kerala, Matta has been used as a surname among Saint Thomas Christians. The name carries a spiritual quality across different traditions while remaining relatively uncommon in Western countries. Its cross-cultural presence makes it appealing for multicultural families or those seeking a name with religious significance. Matta's simplicity and strong consonant sounds give it a masculine character while its vowel ending adds a melodic quality uncommon in traditional Western male names.
  5. Jozua
    • Description:

      Jozua is a masculine name of Dutch and Afrikaans origin, representing a variation of Joshua, which comes from the Hebrew name Yehoshua, meaning 'Yahweh is salvation.' This distinctive spelling is particularly common in the Netherlands, South Africa, and other Dutch-influenced regions. While maintaining the biblical roots and strong meaning of the original Hebrew name, Jozua offers a unique cultural twist that sets it apart. The name carries the same historical significance as Joshua – in the Bible, Joshua was Moses' successor who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. Despite its traditional roots, Jozua has a modern, international feel.
  6. Azaia
    • Description:

      Azaia is a modern male name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Hebrew name Isaiah, meaning 'salvation of God' or 'God is salvation.' Alternatively, it could be a creative variation of names like Azariah or Azai. The name carries a contemporary feel with its melodic three-syllable pronunciation (ah-ZAY-ah). While relatively uncommon in most Western countries, Azaia has gained some popularity in recent years among parents seeking distinctive names with spiritual undertones. The name's unique sound and potential biblical connection make it appealing to those wanting a name that stands out while maintaining cultural significance.

  7. Kenya
    • Origin:

      Place name, Kikuyu
    • Meaning:

      "mountain of white"
    • Description:

      A bold and evocative African place name. The country of Kenya gets its name from Mount Kenya, referred to it as "Kirinyaga" or "Kerenyaga" by the local Kikuyu people, meaning "mountain of whiteness" due to its snow-capped peak.
  8. Figueroa
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "fig tree"
    • Description:

      This surname ultimately derives from a Galician place name meaning "fig tree", but has spread all over the Spanish-speaking world. It's not certain if it's ever been used as a first name, but it could work - especially as it's reminiscent of the operatic character Figaro.
  9. Amasa
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "burden"
    • Description:

      Amasa is a rare Biblical name borne by two figures. One is the son of Abigail and nephew of King David, who named him commander of the rebels. This Amasa met a tragic end when he was murdered by Joab. The other Biblical Amasa was one of the Children of Ephraim.
  10. Motya
    • Description:

      Motya is an unusual masculine name with possible origins in several cultures. It may be related to the ancient Phoenician site of Motya in Sicily, giving it historical significance. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive form of names like Matityahu (Matthew) in some Eastern European or Jewish traditions. The name has a distinctive rhythm with its two syllables and uncommon consonant-vowel pattern. Motya remains exceptionally rare in English-speaking countries, making it a truly unique choice. The name carries an exotic quality that might appeal to parents seeking something with cultural depth yet completely distinctive. Its brevity makes it practical, though its unfamiliarity may require occasional explanation or spelling clarification.
  11. Gyula
    • Description:

      Gyula is a traditional Hungarian male name with ancient origins. It originally served as a title for a high-ranking military leader or tribal chief in early Hungarian society, similar to a duke. The name comes from the Old Turkic word "yula" meaning "torch" or "light." After Hungary's conversion to Christianity, Gyula transitioned from a title to a personal name. It remains popular in Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora communities. Its pronunciation in Hungarian is closer to "dyoo-lah." Notable bearers include several Hungarian politicians, artists, and sports figures. The name carries connotations of leadership, strength, and Hungarian cultural heritage.

  12. Aruna
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit, Hindi
    • Meaning:

      "reddish brown"
    • Description:

      This colorful Sanskrit name belongs to the Hindu god Aruna, the charioteer who drives the sun god Surya across the sky. Aruna can also be masculinized to Arun.
  13. Iakopa
    • Origin:

      Hawaiian
    • Meaning:

      "supplanter"
    • Description:

      Hawaiian form of Jacob
  14. Deniz
    • Origin:

      Turkish
    • Meaning:

      "sea"
    • Description:

      A super popular nature name in its native Turkey, currently Top 50 for both boys and girls there.
  15. Kwabena
    • Origin:

      Ghanaian, Akan, Twi
    • Meaning:

      "Born on a Tuesday"
    • Description:

      The Akan people of Ghana and the Ivory Coast frequently name their children after the day of the week they were born and the order in which they were born. Most Ghanaians have a name using this system (think Kofi Annan, whose name means born on a Friday).
  16. Kustaa
    • Description:

      Kustaa is a Finnish masculine name that serves as the Finnish form of Gustav or Augustus. It derives from the Old Norse elements 'Gautr,' referring to the Geats (an ancient Scandinavian people), and 'stafr' meaning 'staff' or 'support.' The name carries historical significance in Finland, as several Swedish kings named Gustav ruled over Finland during the period of Swedish governance. Most notably, King Gustav II Adolf and Gustav III influenced Finnish history significantly. Kustaa has a strong, distinctive sound characteristic of Finnish names, with their emphasis on vowel sounds. While primarily used in Finland, the name represents Finnish cultural heritage and linguistic traditions. Though less common among younger generations as more international names have gained popularity, Kustaa remains a respected traditional name with deep cultural roots in Finnish history and identity.
  17. Burma
    • Origin:

      Place-name
    • Description:

      One place-name that's far off the beaten track, and better for girls, despite the connection with the dated Irma.
  18. Abba
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "father"
    • Description:

      Double exposure: 1970s rock sensation (Mamma Mia) and scholar/diplomat name in Israel.
  19. Abdulla
    • Description:

      Abdulla is a masculine name of Arabic origin, a variant spelling of Abdullah, which means 'servant of Allah' or 'servant of God.' This name holds profound religious significance in Islamic tradition, making it particularly popular in Muslim communities worldwide. The slightly simplified spelling Abdulla is common in certain regions, including parts of South Asia, East Africa, and some Gulf states. The name carries connotations of devotion, faith, and humility. As one of the most traditional Islamic names, Abdulla remains consistently used across generations, connecting its bearers to a deep religious heritage. While maintaining its strongest presence in Muslim-majority countries, the name has become increasingly familiar globally through diaspora communities and cultural exchange.
  20. Abisha
    • Description:

      Abisha is a masculine name with biblical Hebrew origins, appearing in the Old Testament as 'Abishai' (meaning 'father of a gift' or 'my father is a gift'). This shortened form maintains the spiritual significance while offering a more streamlined pronunciation. In some cultures, particularly in parts of India, Abisha can also be used as a feminine name. The name carries connotations of blessing and divine favor across different cultural contexts. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, it has seen periodic usage in Christian communities and among those seeking names with biblical significance. Abisha offers the appeal of ancient roots combined with a distinctive sound that works well in contemporary naming landscapes.