One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Miel
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Emiel, Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "rival"
    • Description:

      Short form of Emiel that stands on its own in the Dutch Top 100.
  2. Mcleod
    • Origin:

      Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Leod"
    • Description:

      A Scottish surname with cool nickname Mac and a cloudy sound.
  3. Moyses
    • Description:

      Moyses is a masculine name representing an ancient variation of Moses, with roots in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin languages. The original Hebrew name Moshe means 'drawn from the water,' referring to the biblical figure saved from the Nile as an infant. This variant spelling was common in medieval Europe and remains used in some Spanish and Portuguese-speaking communities. While the standard Moses is more widely recognized, Moyses offers a distinctive historical alternative with the same rich biblical associations. The name carries connotations of leadership, wisdom, and divine guidance, reflecting the important religious figure who led the Israelites out of Egypt according to biblical narratives.

  4. Kentt
    • Description:

      Kentt is a masculine name that appears to be a variation of Kent with an additional 't'. The base name Kent has English origins as a place name and surname, derived from the county in southeastern England. Kent itself comes from ancient Celtic words possibly meaning 'coastal district' or 'border land.' The doubled final consonant in Kentt creates a distinctive spelling variation while maintaining the strong, brief sound of the original name. This uncommon spelling variant gives a contemporary twist to the traditional name while retaining its masculine qualities. Kent historically gained modest popularity in the mid-20th century in America, though the Kentt variation remains exceptionally rare. The name projects strength and brevity with its single syllable and hard consonant sounds, appealing to parents seeking a masculine name with historical roots but a unique presentation.
  5. Lay
    • Description:

      Lay is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple origins. As an English name, it evolved as a short form of names like Layfield or as an occupational surname for someone who worked with 'leys' (meadows). In Chinese contexts, it appears as a transliteration of several Chinese characters. Though uncommon as a first name in English-speaking countries, it has seen occasional use throughout the 20th century. The name carries a simple, straightforward quality with its single syllable and easy pronunciation. In recent years, Lay has gained some recognition through notable bearers, including members of popular music groups, giving the name a contemporary appeal despite its traditional roots.
  6. Flores
    • Origin:

      Spanish surname
    • Meaning:

      "flower"
    • Description:

      Flores is one of the most popular Spanish surnames and could certainly be adapted as a first.
  7. Neill
    • Description:

      Neill is a masculine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, serving as a variant spelling of Neal or Neil. Its foundation comes from the Gaelic name Niall, meaning 'champion' or 'cloud.' This powerful name has royal connections in Irish history, as many High Kings of Ireland bore the name Niall. The double 'l' spelling offers a distinctive touch to the traditional Neil. While less common than other variants, Neill maintains popularity particularly in Ireland and Scotland. The name conveys strength and victory, making it appealing for parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage. Neill's brevity and straightforward pronunciation continue to attract parents looking for a name that balances traditional roots with contemporary simplicity.

  8. Marks
    • Origin:

      English, Dutch, or German surname
    • Meaning:

      "son of Mark"
    • Description:

      Marks is a surname that independently arose in several languages, most all of them as a patronymic form of Mark. Among Jewish families, Marks is typically a variation of Marx. Marx was a given name derived from Marcus that Ashkenazi Jews used as a Germanized form of Mordechai.
  9. Nobe
    • Description:

      Nobe is a concise masculine name with Japanese origins, where it can be written with characters meaning 'extend' or 'stretch,' suggesting growth or expansion. The name also appears as a shortened form of names like Nobuyuki or Noboru in Japanese contexts. In some Western usage, Nobe may function as a diminutive of names containing 'noble' elements or as a variant of Nobel. This brief, two-syllable name has a clean, modern sound that travels well across cultural boundaries. Though uncommon in international usage, Nobe's simplicity gives it accessibility. The name carries connotations of nobility and expansion, suggesting personal growth and dignity. Its brevity aligns with the trend toward shorter, distinctive masculine names.

  10. Fosse
    • Origin:

      Frisian; French
    • Meaning:

      "people; trench, ditch"
    • Description:

      Either a Frisian nickname for Germanic names with the "folk-" element or a French surname name, Fosse could work for parents who like short and unexpected names.
  11. Pratt
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "trick, craft"
    • Description:

      In British slang, a "prat" is an idiot -- enough said.
  12. Leave
    • Description:

      Leave as a masculine given name is extremely unusual and unconventional. Unlike most names, it doesn't have a clear etymological history as a personal name in any major naming tradition. The word itself comes from Old English 'lǣfan' meaning 'to remain' or 'to allow to remain.' As a given name, Leave might be considered a modern coined name, possibly used for its unique quality or conceptual meaning. It could also represent a family surname repurposed as a first name. The rarity of Leave as a personal name means it lacks established associations or popularity trends, making it one of the more distinctive and uncommon choices a parent could select, potentially carrying implications of departure or permission.

  13. Wal
    • Description:

      Wal is a short, impactful masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be derived from Germanic roots where it means 'ruler' or 'stranger,' or it could be a shortened form of Walter or Wallace. In some cultures, particularly Australian, Wal has been used as a nickname for Walter. The name's brevity gives it a strong, direct quality that's distinctive in an era of longer names. Wal may also have connections to Dutch or Flemish naming traditions. Despite its simplicity, the name is quite rare as a standalone given name in most Western countries, making it an uncommon choice. Its short form makes it straightforward and unpretentious.

  14. Jud
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Judson, English
    • Meaning:

      "son of Jordan"
    • Description:

      More commonly spelled JUDD, this is a strong but sensitive short form that can easily stand on its own.
  15. Noakes
    • Origin:

      English surname
    • Meaning:

      "at the oaks"
    • Description:

      Noakes is a conjunction of the Middle English phrase atten okes, meaning "at the oaks." It became a surname for people who, appropriately, lived near oak trees. Today it's a rare and attractive alternative to Oakley, Oak, and the like.
  16. Lukes
    • Description:

      Lukes is a masculine name derived from the more common given name Luke, with the addition of the 's' creating a somewhat unique variation. Luke itself comes from the Latin name Lucas, meaning 'from Lucania' (a region in southern Italy) or possibly linked to the Latin 'lux' meaning 'light.' While Luke has been consistently popular throughout history, particularly due to its biblical connections with the Gospel writer, the variant Lukes is much rarer. It maintains the strong, classic feel of Luke while offering a slightly distinctive sound. Some may choose this spelling to honor a family surname or to distinguish their child from the more common Luke. As a given name, Lukes has remained uncommon in usage charts, appealing to parents seeking traditional roots with a subtle twist.
  17. Lac
    • Description:

      Lac is an uncommon masculine name with minimalist appeal. Likely derived from French or Vietnamese origins, it carries different meanings depending on the cultural context. In French, 'lac' means 'lake,' suggesting tranquility and natural beauty. In Vietnamese tradition, Lạc can refer to ancient Vietnamese people or convey meanings related to enjoyment or happiness. This brief, one-syllable name has a strong, distinctive sound that makes it memorable despite its simplicity. The name's rarity makes it stand out in most communities, appealing to parents seeking something truly unique. Its cross-cultural potential gives it versatility, while its brevity makes it easily pronounceable in many languages. Lac combines ancient heritage with modern minimalism, offering a name that is both distinctive and meaningful.

  18. Flynt
    • Description:

      Flynt is a masculine name of English origin, representing a variant spelling of Flint. The name refers to the hard, sedimentary rock that produces sparks when struck against steel, symbolizing strength, durability, and the ability to create fire. This association gives the name a rugged, resilient quality with natural world connections. The unique 'y' spelling adds a distinctive touch to this short, punchy name. Flynt gained some recognition through fictional characters and occasional celebrity usage but remains uncommon as a given name. Its brief, one-syllable structure with strong consonants projects confidence and decisiveness. The name appeals to parents seeking a masculine option that's concise yet carries substantial symbolic meaning.
  19. Jaymes
    • Origin:

      Alternate spelling of James, English variation of Jacob, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "supplanter"
    • Description:

      The only thing wrong with the name James is its popularity: James has been among the Top 20 boys' names in the US since the dawn of baby naming time.
  20. Keeffe
    • Description:

      Keeffe is a masculine name with Irish Gaelic origins, derived from the surname O'Keeffe or Ó Caoimh, meaning 'descendant of Caoimh' (where Caoimh means 'gentle' or 'kind'). This surname-turned-first-name reflects the ongoing trend of adapting family names for personal use. Keeffe may also evoke associations with the famous American artist Georgia O'Keeffe, lending it cultural significance. As a first name, Keeffe remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality that appeals to parents seeking something unique yet rooted in tradition. The name's strong consonants and short, punchy sound give it a masculine edge while maintaining its Celtic heritage.