One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Rémi
    • Description:

      Rémi is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Remigius, which means "oarsman" or "remedy." The name has deep historical roots, with Saint Rémi (or Remigius) being a notable 5th-century bishop who converted King Clovis I to Christianity, significantly influencing French history. The accent mark gives the name its distinctive French pronunciation and flair. Particularly popular in France, Quebec, and other French-speaking regions, Rémi has also gained international appeal in recent decades. The name strikes a balance between classic and contemporary, offering a sophisticated European option that travels well across cultures. With its short, crisp sound and rich historical connections, Rémi appeals to parents seeking a name that combines cultural depth with modern sensibility.

  2. Zyan
    • Description:

      Zyan is a modern masculine name with multiple cultural origins. It may be a variant of Zion, which has Hebrew origins meaning "monument" or "raised up," or it could derive from Arabic roots where it relates to beauty and adornment. Some consider it a variation of Ryan with a trendy 'Z' beginning. In certain interpretations, the name suggests qualities of brightness and magnificence. Zyan has gained popularity in the 21st century as parents seek distinctive yet accessible names with international appeal. The name's concise, strong sound and contemporary feel have contributed to its rising usage, particularly in multicultural communities. The spelling variations Zian, Zion, and Zyann may also be encountered.

  3. Derk
    • Description:

      Derk is a masculine name of Dutch and Germanic origins, functioning as a variation of Derek or Dirk. These names ultimately derive from the Germanic name Theodoric, meaning "ruler of the people" or "people's ruler." Popular in the Netherlands and parts of northern Europe, Derk has a strong, concise sound that follows Dutch naming traditions of short, impactful names. While less common than Derek or Dirk in English-speaking countries, Derk maintains steady usage in Dutch-speaking regions. The name carries connotations of leadership and strength while offering a slightly distinctive spelling for parents seeking traditional names with character. Its simplicity and cross-cultural recognition make it accessible internationally while still preserving its Dutch heritage.

  4. Johne
    • Description:

      Johne is an uncommon masculine variation of the classic name John, featuring a silent 'e' that gives the traditional name a distinctive flair while maintaining its pronunciation. Derived from the Hebrew Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' Johne carries the rich historical significance of its root name while standing apart visually. This subtle spelling variation emerged as parents sought to individualize a timeless classic without dramatically altering its essence. While much rarer than the standard John, Johne occasionally appears in English-speaking countries, particularly in regions with strong naming traditions. The name offers a balance between innovation and tradition, giving its bearer a familiar-sounding name with a unique written form.
  5. Favre
    • Origin:

      French occupational name
    • Meaning:

      "ironworker"
    • Description:

      Surname of a fifteenth-century saint and a twenty-first-century quarterback, Brett Favre.
  6. Nco
    • Description:

      Nco is an extremely rare masculine name with unclear linguistic origins. Its brevity makes it distinctive in most naming contexts. The name may have roots in various cultural traditions, possibly as an abbreviation of longer names or as a unique creation. With just three letters, Nco offers a minimalist naming option that's easy to spell yet uncommon enough to be distinctive. The unusual consonant combination gives it a modern, almost technical feel. Though lacking widespread historical usage, Nco might appeal to parents seeking an ultra-contemporary name that avoids traditional naming conventions while remaining pronounceable. Its rarity ensures a unique identity in virtually any community.
  7. Raede
    • Description:

      Raede is a masculine name with a contemporary feel, though its precise origins are unclear. It may be a modern variation of Reed or Reade, which derive from the Old English 'read' meaning 'red' (originally a nickname for someone with red hair or complexion). Alternatively, it could be an innovative spelling of Reid, meaning 'clearing in a forest.' The distinctive spelling gives this name a modern, unique quality while maintaining connections to traditional naming elements. Raede has a strong, concise sound that conveys confidence and individuality. It remains quite uncommon, appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and distinctive with its balanced combination of traditional roots and contemporary spelling.
  8. Jeth
    • Description:

      Jeth is a masculine name with ancient Hebrew origins, typically considered a shortened form of Jethro, which means 'excellence' or 'abundance.' Compact and distinctive, Jeth carries the strength of its longer form while offering a more modern, streamlined sound. This rare name maintains biblical connections through its association with Jethro, Moses' father-in-law in the Old Testament, who was known as a wise counselor. Despite its historical roots, Jeth remains uncommon in contemporary usage, making it an option for parents seeking a name with traditional foundations but uncommon status. Its brevity gives it a punchy, memorable quality while its biblical heritage provides depth and meaning.

  9. Abt
    • Origin:

      German, variation of Abbott
    • Description:

      A German surname you do NOT want to use as a first.
  10. Harv
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Harvey; French
    • Meaning:

      "battle worthy"
    • Description:

      Short form of Harvey, variation of Harve.
  11. Hewe
    • Description:

      Hewe is an archaic spelling of the masculine name Hugh, which derives from Germanic origins meaning 'mind' or 'spirit.' This old English variant evokes medieval times when spelling variations were common before standardization. Hugh was a popular name among nobility in Norman England, and this particular spelling might be found in historical documents from that era. The name's simplicity belies its distinguished history—carried by saints, kings, and knights throughout European history. Though extremely rare today in this spelling, Hewe offers a unique alternative for parents interested in names with historical depth. Its short, strong sound maintains a masculine quality while the unusual spelling adds a touch of ancient mystery and character.
  12. Feel
    • Description:

      Feel is an unconventional masculine name with uncertain etymological origins. It may have evolved as a variant of Philip (lover of horses) or possibly derived from the English word 'feel,' relating to sensation or emotion. As a given name, Feel is extremely rare across English-speaking countries, with virtually no documented usage in mainstream records. The name's uniqueness may appeal to parents seeking something distinctive and evocative. However, its unusual nature and potential association with the common English verb might present practical challenges for a child. Unlike similar-sounding names like Phil or Felix, Feel has not established itself in contemporary naming trends.

  13. Berg
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "mountain, hill"
    • Description:

      Earthbound surname that few would make as first choice.
  14. Irv
    • Description:

      Irv is a masculine name primarily used as a diminutive of Irving, which has Old English origins meaning 'green water' or 'sea friend.' This short, punchy name gained modest popularity in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in Jewish-American communities where Irving was more common. Irv carries a vintage, mid-century charm that evokes the era of its peak usage. While rarely used as a formal given name today, it maintains recognition as a nickname. The brevity of Irv gives it a straightforward, unpretentious quality that contrasts with longer, more elaborate naming trends. It represents a connection to earlier generations while offering simplicity.
  15. Rhyce
    • Description:

      Rhyce is a modern masculine name that represents a creative spelling variation of Rice or Rhys. The traditional Welsh name Rhys means 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor,' while the English Rice derives from Old Germanic elements meaning 'powerful ruler.' The distinctive spelling with 'y' and 'c' emerged in the early 2000s as parents sought unique ways to personalize traditional names. While uncommon in historical records, Rhyce has gained modest recognition in contemporary naming trends, particularly in Australia and the United States. The name projects a strong, contemporary image while maintaining connections to ancient Welsh and Germanic traditions. The unconventional spelling gives this short, punchy name additional visual interest for parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable.

  16. Maize
    • Origin:

      English word name and nature name
    • Description:

      One of the more unusual nature names, Maize is given to a dozen or so boys and girls each year and is almost completely unisex in terms of usage. Disclaimer: potential for "corny" jokes.
  17. Marve
    • Description:

      Marve is a masculine name with Scandinavian roots, likely derived as a variant of Marvin or possibly from the Old Norse name Márfi. The name carries connotations of strength and maritime connections, as it resembles words related to 'marvel' or 'wonder' in several European languages. While not widely used in mainstream English-speaking countries, Marve maintains a quiet presence in Nordic countries, particularly Norway and Denmark. The name has a distinctive, concise quality with its four letters and single-syllable pronunciation, giving it a bold, straightforward character that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon yet accessible.
  18. Twm
    • Origin:

      Welsh
    • Description:

      A diminutive of Tomos (Thomas), this little name is becoming more popular in its own right in Wales, where nicknames are in style.

  19. Franzl
    • Description:

      Franzl is a masculine name of Germanic origin, primarily used in Austrian and Bavarian regions as an affectionate diminutive form of Franz (the German equivalent of Francis). This name carries warm, folksy associations in southern German-speaking areas, often evoking images of Alpine traditions and culture. While Franzl is rarely used as a formal given name outside these regions, it maintains cultural significance in Austrian and Bavarian folk music and cultural contexts. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its distinctive ending. For families with Austrian or Bavarian heritage, Franzl might serve as a meaningful connection to their cultural roots.
  20. Gergö
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Gergely, Hungarian
    • Meaning:

      "vigilant, a watchman"
    • Description:

      Gergő began as a nickname for Gergely, the Hungarian variation of Gregory, but is now a common given name in its own right.