One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Mell
    • Description:

      Mell is a masculine name with roots in various cultures. It may be a variant of 'Mel,' which is often a diminutive of names like Melvin, Melbourne, or Melchior. The name has Germanic and Latin influences, potentially deriving from elements meaning 'work' or 'labor.' In some cases, it might be related to the Latin 'mel,' meaning 'honey.' Mell remains relatively uncommon as a standalone given name, giving it a distinctive quality. In some cultures, it may be used as a surname that has transitioned to first-name usage, following a trend seen with many family names. The simplicity of the name gives it a modern, concise appeal that aligns with current naming preferences for shorter, stronger-sounding masculine names.
  2. Briac
    • Origin:

      Celtic, meaning uncertain.
    • Description:

      St Briac was an Irish saint who arrived in Northern France in the 6th century and gave his name to the small commune of Saint-Briac-sur-Mer in Brittany. The name is thought to be related to Brian, though it may be a completely separate name stemming from the Celtic word "bruaich" meaning "steep hill". Briac definitely brings a fresh continental feel and would be a good choice for those who would like a name with both French and Irish connections
  3. Pleas
    • Description:

      Pleas is an uncommon masculine name with American origins, most likely derived as a short form of Pleasant or possibly as a variant spelling of the Greek name Plies. Historically, it appeared occasionally in the Southern United States, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name has a distinctive single-syllable simplicity that makes it memorable. Pleas has become quite rare in contemporary usage, giving it a vintage quality that might appeal to parents seeking truly uncommon names with historical precedent. The name's connection to 'pleasant' gives it positive connotations of amiability and agreeable character.
  4. Mai
    • Origin:

      Variation of Maj, Slovene
    • Meaning:

      "May"
    • Description:

      While the name for May is used as a feminine name in many languages, the Slovene word, Maj, is considered a masculine name. Both Maj and the Mai variation are in the Slovenian Top 100.
  5. Àlex
    • Origin:

      Catalan short form of Alexander
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
  6. Ed
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Edward et al
    • Meaning:

      "wealthy"
    • Description:

      The most minimalist of names, Ed is decidedly out -- though that usually means it's due to swing back in. More stylish these days: Ned or even Ted.
  7. Clarnce
    • Description:

      Clarnce is a variant spelling of the more common name Clarence, which has Germanic origins. The name derives from the Latin 'clarus' meaning 'bright' or 'clear.' This alternate spelling retains the traditional masculine sound while offering a unique written form. Clarnce has never achieved widespread popularity and remains uncommon in English-speaking countries. It represents a personalized adaptation that maintains the classic feel of Clarence but with a distinctive character. As with many variant spellings, Clarnce might appeal to parents seeking a subtle twist on a traditional name while preserving its historical roots and pronunciation.
  8. Traye
    • Description:

      Traye is a contemporary masculine name of American origin, likely developed as a variant spelling of Trey or Tray. These names typically derive from the word 'third' or the numerical prefix 'tri-', often given to third sons or those who are the third generation to bear a family name. With its unique spelling, Traye brings a distinctive flair to this concept. This uncommon name emerged primarily in the late 20th century and remains relatively rare. Traye has a modern feel with its creative spelling while maintaining straightforward pronunciation. The name appeals to parents seeking something contemporary and unique without being completely unfamiliar in sound or concept.

  9. Linc
    • Description:

      Linc is a concise, strong masculine name most commonly used as a shortened form of Lincoln. The name carries the distinguished presidential associations of Abraham Lincoln while offering a more modern, streamlined feel. The brevity of Linc gives it a punchy, contemporary quality that appeals to parents seeking short, impactful names for boys. The name has gained some popularity in recent decades as part of the trend toward nickname-style given names. Linc projects confidence and straightforwardness with its crisp consonant sounds. Beyond its connection to Lincoln, the name might also evoke links or connections, giving it a subtly unifying quality. Linc works well in modern contexts while maintaining connections to historical roots.

  10. Phips
    • Description:

      Phips is an uncommon masculine name that likely originated as a surname or nickname. It may be a variation of Phipps, which itself derives from Phillip, meaning "lover of horses" in Greek. This rare name has historical connections to Sir William Phips (sometimes spelled Phipps), a colonial governor of Massachusetts in the late 17th century. As a first name, Phips has extremely limited usage, making it an exceptionally distinctive choice. The name has a brisk, energetic quality with its short syllable and crisp consonant ending. The unusual spelling with 'ph' rather than 'f' gives it a classical feel despite its brevity. Parents might choose this name seeking something genuinely uncommon with historical undertones.
  11. Rooks
    • Origin:

      English surname
    • Description:

      As Brooks shined in the spotlight — all the way up in the Top 100 — Rooks feels fresh but equally fashionable.
  12. Nial
    • Description:

      Nial is a masculine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, representing a variation of the more common spelling Niall. Derived from ancient Irish roots, it means 'champion' or 'cloud,' connected to Niall of the Nine Hostages, a legendary Irish high king. Unlike the more popular Niall, the Nial spelling offers a streamlined, slightly more modern approach while maintaining the name's rich Celtic heritage. Though less common than Neil or Neal, Nial carries the same distinguished history and powerful meaning. The name suggests strength and leadership while remaining approachable. Popular in Ireland and among families celebrating Irish heritage, Nial provides a distinctive alternative to more familiar Irish names while still honoring Celtic traditions.
  13. Yvor
    • Description:

      Yvor is a masculine name with Norse and Celtic roots, believed to be a variant of names like Ivar, Ivor, or Ivo. The name carries meanings related to 'archer', 'bow warrior', or 'yew wood' (which was traditionally used to make bows). This uncommon name has an air of strength and ancient heritage, evoking images of Norse and Celtic warriors. Yvor has never been widely popular but maintains a steady presence among families interested in names with historical depth and unique character. The distinctive spelling with 'Y' gives the name a slightly more exotic feel compared to the more traditional Ivor. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds contribute to its masculine impression.

  14. Nain
    • Description:

      Nain is a masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Arabic, it means 'sleepy' or 'drowsy,' while in Hebrew it refers to a biblical village mentioned in the New Testament. The name also appears in Indian contexts where it can mean 'eye' or 'vision' in certain dialects. Nain has never achieved widespread popularity but maintains consistent usage within specific cultural communities, particularly in Middle Eastern and South Asian regions. The name's brevity and soft sound give it a gentle quality, while its biblical connection—to the town where Jesus is said to have performed a miracle—provides spiritual significance for some families. Its multicultural nature makes it an intriguing choice that carries different meanings depending on cultural context.
  15. Blaer
    • Origin:

      Icelandic or Scottish
    • Meaning:

      "breeze or field"
    • Description:

      Blær is a rare Icelandic name meaning "light gust or breeze" that made headlines due to one family's battle to be allowed to use it for their daughter. Iceland has strict name laws and it is not permitted to use a traditionally male name for a girl. The name was finally allowed when she was 15 years old. Blær is also a (female) character in a novel by the famous Icelandic writer Halldór Laxness.
  16. Satch
    • Description:

      Satch is a rare masculine name that likely originated as a nickname, possibly derived from names like Satchel or as a diminutive for Sacha/Sasha. It gained some recognition through the jazz musician Louis Armstrong, who was nicknamed 'Satchmo,' short for 'Satchelmouth.' As a standalone name, Satch has a punchy, distinctive quality with its brief, single-syllable structure. Its rarity makes it an uncommon choice for parents seeking something truly unique with a slightly vintage, jazzy connotation. The name carries associations with mid-20th century American culture, particularly jazz and baseball (recalling player Satchel Paige). While unconventional as a formal name, Satch offers a friendly, approachable quality combined with a certain coolness factor not found in more traditional names.

  17. Tyghe
    • Description:

      Tyghe is a distinctive masculine name with Celtic and Irish roots. It's a variant spelling of Tighe, pronounced like 'tie,' derived from the Gaelic word 'tadhg' meaning 'poet' or 'philosopher.' This uncommon name carries an air of sophistication and uniqueness. While not frequently found in mainstream naming charts, Tyghe appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical depth. The unusual spelling adds a contemporary touch to its ancient origins. Throughout history, the name has been associated with intelligence and creativity. Tyghe blends traditional Celtic heritage with modern appeal and offers the friendly nickname options of Ty or Tig.
  18. Ronn
    • Description:

      Ronn is a masculine name that serves as a shorter variant of Ronald, which comes from the Old Norse name Rögnvaldr, meaning 'ruler's advisor' or 'ruler with power.' The distinctive double 'n' spelling gives this traditional name a more modern, streamlined appearance compared to the more common 'Ron.' While never reaching widespread popularity, Ronn gained some recognition in the mid-20th century. The name carries associations of strength and decisiveness while maintaining a certain simplicity. Notable bearers include American actor Ronn Moss, which may have contributed to the name's recognition. Ronn offers parents a brief yet substantial name with historical roots.
  19. Jebb
    • Description:

      Jebb is a masculine name of English origin, typically derived from a surname which itself was a medieval diminutive of the name Jacob. The biblical name Jacob comes from Hebrew, meaning 'supplanter' or 'holder of the heel.' Jebb has a concise, strong quality with its single syllable and distinctive double consonant ending. While uncommon as a first name, it gained some recognition through notable bearers of the surname, including Sir Joshua Jebb, a 19th-century English prison reformer, and Richard Jebb, a classical scholar. The name has a rugged, outdoorsy feel reminiscent of the American frontier, which may appeal to parents seeking a masculine-sounding name that's brief yet distinctive. Its rarity gives it a unique quality while still being easily pronounced.
  20. Wash
    • Description:

      Wash is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive of Washington, which itself began as an English surname meaning 'estate of a person named Wassa.' The name gained prominence in America due to the first U.S. president, George Washington. As a standalone name, Wash has a concise, strong quality that appeals to parents seeking brief, distinctive names. While uncommon as a given name, it has occasionally appeared in Southern U.S. naming traditions and literature, notably in the science fiction character Hoban 'Wash' Washburne from 'Firefly.' The name carries connotations of simplicity, straightforwardness, and American historical connections, while its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots.