One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Jerre
    • Description:

      Jerre is a masculine name that functions as a diminutive or variant of names like Jerome, Jerry, or Jeremiah. With Germanic and French influences, this short-form name carries a friendly, approachable quality. The spelling with an 'e' ending gives it a distinctive touch compared to the more common 'Jerry.' Jerre has never been among the most popular names but maintained modest usage particularly in mid-20th century America. The name suggests a down-to-earth, unpretentious character. While it can stand alone as a given name, Jerre often serves as a nickname for longer forms. Its simplicity and friendly sound make it appealing to those who prefer shorter, straightforward masculine names.
  2. Atu
    • Origin:

      Ghanan
    • Meaning:

      "born on Saturday"
    • Description:

      Typical African day-of-the-week name.
  3. Myrl
    • Description:

      Myrl is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant of Merle or Merrill. The name has Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning 'famous' (meri) and 'sea, lake' (mari). Alternatively, it may relate to the French word 'merle,' meaning blackbird. Myrl enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century but has since become quite rare. The distinctive spelling with 'y' gives it a unique quality while maintaining the familiar sound. Myrl has a concise, strong phonetic quality with its single syllable, appealing to those who prefer brief, straightforward names. It carries a somewhat vintage or rural American character, evoking the early to mid-1900s when it was more commonly used, particularly in midwestern and southern regions.
  4. Rj
    • Origin:

      Modern, initials R + J
    • Description:

      A two-initial nickname occasionally used on birth certificates.
  5. Kitts
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Christopher
    • Meaning:

      "bearer of Christ"
    • Description:

      Derived from Kitt as a diminutive of Christopher, Kitts is known as the larger of the two islands making up the nation St. Kitts and Nevis.
  6. Nur
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "light"
  7. Tigr
    • Description:

      Tigr is a rare masculine name with roots in both Slavic languages and as a variant of the word 'tiger.' This short, powerful name evokes the strength, agility, and majesty of the big cat. Unlike the more common name Tiger, Tigr has a distinctly international feel, particularly with connections to Eastern European naming traditions. The absence of the 'e' gives it a more rugged, compact quality. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name may appeal to parents seeking something distinctive and strong for their son. Tigr projects an image of fearlessness and natural power, making it an unconventional but meaningful choice for those wanting a name that stands out.
  8. Trill
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "warbling note"
  9. Zell
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Description:

      Two Zells of note: conservative southern senator Zell Miller, and video-game character Zell, a hero of "Final Fantasy."
  10. Pavlík
    • Description:

      Pavlík is a masculine name with Slavic origins, particularly common in Czech and Slovak cultures. It functions as a diminutive form of Pavel, which is the Slavic equivalent of Paul, ultimately derived from the Latin 'Paulus' meaning 'small' or 'humble.' The suffix '-ík' adds an affectionate, diminutive quality in Slavic languages. The name contains the distinctive accent mark (háček) over the 'i', maintaining its authentic Slavic orthography. Pavlík has a warm, friendly sound while still feeling substantive. Though uncommon outside of Slavic countries, its connection to the familiar Paul makes it accessible internationally while still honoring specific cultural heritage.
  11. Vid
    • Origin:

      Slavic variation of Vitus, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "life"
    • Description:

      In Slavic cultures, Saint Vitus is called Sveti Vid, making this a saintly appellation.
  12. Cleave
    • Description:

      Cleave is a masculine name with English origins, derived from an Old English word that interestingly has two contradictory meanings: 'to split apart' and 'to stick together.' This duality gives the name a unique conceptual depth. As a first name, Cleave is quite rare, more commonly recognized as a surname throughout English-speaking regions. It has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and crisp consonants. The name possesses a certain rugged quality that evokes imagery of strength and decisiveness. In modern usage, Cleave might appeal to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with Anglo-Saxon roots. Its uncommon nature offers individuality, while its familiar sound pattern (similar to names like Clive) prevents it from feeling too unusual.

  13. Klove
    • Description:

      Klove is an uncommon masculine name with possible Scandinavian or Germanic influences. This distinctive name likely relates to geographic terms like 'clove' (a narrow valley or gorge) or could be a variant spelling of 'Clove.' The name carries connotations of strength and natural beauty, evoking images of dramatic landscapes. As a rare name, Klove offers uniqueness while maintaining a strong, masculine sound. The name's brevity and strong consonant combination give it a bold, memorable quality. Though uncommon in most naming databases, it might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive nature-inspired name with Nordic undertones and a modern feel.
  14. Shmiel
    • Description:

      Shmiel is a masculine Yiddish name primarily used in Ashkenazi Jewish communities. It originated as a diminutive form of Shmuel (Samuel), which derives from Hebrew and means 'name of God' or 'God has heard.' Shmiel was particularly common among Eastern European Jews before World War II. The name carries cultural and historical significance, often evoking connections to pre-Holocaust Jewish life in Eastern Europe. Though less frequently given today as a legal first name, it continues to be used as a nickname for Samuel in some traditional Jewish communities. The name reflects Yiddish linguistic traditions with its characteristic diminutive suffix and carries deep cultural resonance for many Jewish families.
  15. Gere
    • Description:

      Gere is a concise masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be derived from the Germanic element 'ger' meaning "spear" or "warrior," connecting it to names like Gerhard or Gerald. Alternatively, it could be a short form of these longer Germanic names. In some contexts, it might be a surname used as a given name, as popularized by American actor Richard Gere. The name is quite uncommon as a first name in most Western countries, giving it a distinctive quality. Gere has a strong, simple sound that's easy to pronounce across languages, making it internationally accessible despite its rarity. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its potentially ancient roots.

  16. Tir
    • Origin:

      Avestan
    • Description:

      Modern name of the Zoroastrian diety Tishtrya.
  17. Garv
    • Description:

      Garv is a masculine name with profound significance in Indian culture, particularly within Hindi language traditions. Derived from Sanskrit, it literally means 'pride' or 'honor,' conveying a sense of dignity and self-respect. The name carries positive connotations of justified pride rather than arrogance. Compact yet meaningful, Garv has gained moderate popularity in India and among the global Indian diaspora. Its brevity makes it accessible across cultural boundaries while maintaining its authentic cultural roots. Parents are often drawn to its combination of strength, positive meaning, and contemporary sound. The name's simplicity belies its depth of meaning, making it a thoughtful choice for boys that bridges traditional values with modern sensibilities.

  18. Toncse
    • Description:

      Toncse is an extremely rare masculine name with obscure origins. It may have Hungarian or Eastern European roots, though documented usage is minimal. The name's unusual letter combination creates a distinctive pronunciation challenge in many languages. Toncse likely emerged as a regional family name or nickname before occasionally being adopted as a given name. Its rarity means it carries no widespread associations or stereotypes, offering a truly unique identity. While unconventional naming has become more accepted in recent decades, Toncse remains on the periphery of naming patterns. For parents seeking extreme uniqueness, this name virtually guarantees singularity, though its unfamiliarity may require frequent explanation and spelling clarification throughout life.

  19. Shmelke
    • Description:

      Shmelke is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, typically used as a diminutive form of Shmuel (Samuel). Within Hasidic Jewish communities, it gained recognition through Rabbi Shmelke of Nikolsburg (Shmuel Horowitz), an 18th-century Hasidic master and Torah scholar. The name carries warm, affectionate connotations through its diminutive suffix. While uncommon in mainstream society, Shmelke maintains cultural significance within traditional Jewish communities, particularly among those with Eastern European heritage. The name reflects the rich tradition of Yiddish diminutives that add a layer of warmth and familiarity to biblical names.
  20. Denes
    • Description:

      Denes is a Hungarian masculine name equivalent to Dennis or Dionysius, ultimately derived from the Greek god Dionysus, associated with wine, fertility, and ritual madness. Pronounced DEH-nesh in its native Hungarian, this concise name carries cultural significance in Central Europe while remaining accessible to English speakers. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Denes has consistent usage in Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora communities. The name combines historical depth with a modern, clean simplicity in its spelling. For parents seeking a name with European heritage that travels well across borders, Denes offers a distinctive yet pronounceable option with connections to both classical mythology and Christian tradition through its association with Saint Denis.