One Syllable Names for Boys
- D'shawn
Description:
D'shawn combines the prefix 'D' (sometimes representing 'De' or serving as a distinctive initial) with 'shawn,' a name of Irish and English origin meaning "God is gracious." The apostrophe creates a specific pronunciation guide and adds a distinctive element to the spelling. This naming pattern, using prefixes like D', La', or Ta' with established names, emerged primarily in the United States during the 1970s and gained popularity through the 1990s. Shawn itself (also spelled Sean, Shaun) comes from the Irish form of John. D'shawn represents creative naming approaches that blend traditional elements with new constructions. The name saw its peak usage in the 1990s. While not among the most common names, D'shawn has established recognition and continues in use. Its distinctive spelling and sound create a memorable identity.
- Creon
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"ruler"Description:
In Greek mythology, Creon was the king of Thebes.
- Troels
Origin:
DanishMeaning:
"Thor's arrow"Description:
Troels is the Danish form of the Old Norse name Þórgísl, meaning "Thor's arrow".
- Zhores
Origin:
RussianDescription:
This Russian name was created by Communist parents looking to reject traditional names (it is believed to derive from the French surname Jaures). One notable bearer is Nobel prize winner and physicist, Zhores Alferov.
- Burk
Description:
Burk is a masculine name with Germanic roots, functioning as a shortened form of names like Burke or Burkhard. The original Germanic name Burkhard means "strong as a fortress" or "brave heart," combining elements meaning "fortress" and "hardy" or "brave." Burk has a strong, compact quality with its single syllable and firm consonant sounds. While not widely used as a first name in modern times, it maintains a certain rugged appeal and carries associations of strength and reliability. The name has connections to Irish heritage through the surname Burke, derived from the Norman de Burgh family. With its brevity and strong sound, Burk appeals to parents seeking a masculine name with historical depth that remains straightforward and unpretentious.
- Boi
Origin:
Catalan diminutive of names beginning with Bald-Description:
Boi, sometimes used as a standalone in Catalonia, comes from names like Baldwin and Baldric. It doesn't sit so well in the English language, where it sounds like — and is an alternative spelling for — "boy".
- Shaine
Description:
Shaine is a masculine name with Irish and Hebrew influences, functioning as a variant spelling of Shane or Shayne. Originally derived from the Irish name Seán (John), it ultimately traces back to the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' The distinctive spelling with 'ai' gives it a slightly more uncommon and modern appearance. Shaine emerged in usage mainly during the mid-20th century but has never achieved widespread popularity. The name carries a smooth, contemporary sound while maintaining connections to traditional naming heritage. Those named Shaine might appreciate its balance between uniqueness and recognizability. In popular perception, the name often conveys qualities of strength and individuality, with just a hint of poetic flair.
- Justs
Description:
Justs is a masculine Latvian name derived from the Latin name Justus, meaning 'just,' 'righteous,' or 'fair.' While uncommon outside Latvia, it holds cultural significance within Latvian naming traditions. The name's brevity gives it a modern, crisp quality while its meaning connects to timeless virtues of fairness and integrity. Saint Justus was the name of several early Christian martyrs, giving the name historical religious connections. In Latvia, Justs experiences periodic popularity and represents both national heritage and universal values. The name's pronunciation (YUSTS) may present challenges in non-Latvian speaking regions, but its shortness makes it relatively adaptable across linguistic boundaries.
- Luk
Description:
Luk is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Slavic countries, it functions as a variant of Luke, derived from the Latin 'Lucas' meaning 'from Lucania' or 'light.' In Chinese contexts, Luk (陸) represents a common surname meaning 'land' or 'shore.' The name appears in Dutch and German-speaking regions as a shortened form of Lukas. Compact and straightforward, Luk offers international versatility while maintaining its distinct identity. Though less common than the more widely used Luke or Lucas, Luk has seen modest usage particularly in Eastern European countries and among Chinese communities worldwide. Its brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal while still connecting to the rich historical tradition of its longer counterparts.
- Drue
Description:
Drue is a masculine name with ancient roots that can function as an alternative spelling of Drew, which originated as a shortened form of Andrew, meaning 'manly' or 'strong' in Greek. This particular spelling variation gives the name a distinctive look while maintaining the familiar sound. Historically used for both boys and girls, Drue has become more commonly associated with male bearers in recent decades. The name carries an air of simplicity and strength with its short, direct sound. While never reaching high levels of popularity, Drue has maintained a consistent presence in naming records, appealing to parents who appreciate traditional names with slightly unconventional spellings.
- Fredd
Description:
Fredd is a variant of the more common name Fred, which is itself usually a short form of Frederick. The name has Germanic origins, derived from 'frithu' meaning 'peace' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power.' The doubled 'd' spelling gives the name a distinctive twist while maintaining its familiar sound. Fredd is relatively uncommon compared to the standard Fred spelling, offering a slightly more unique option while still connecting to the name's traditional roots. As with Fred, it carries connotations of reliability and straightforwardness. The name peaked in popularity in the early to mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades.
- Stéphane
Description:
Stéphane is a French masculine form of Stephen, derived from the Greek 'Stephanos,' meaning 'crown' or 'garland' – traditionally symbolizing honor and victory. Pronounced 'stay-FAN,' it carries a sophisticated French flair while maintaining connections to the widely recognized name family. Popular throughout French-speaking regions including France, Canada, Switzerland, and parts of Belgium, Stéphane peaked in popularity in France during the 1960s-1970s. The name has cultural resonance through notable bearers including French composer Stéphane Grappelli and writer Stéphane Mallarmé. Outside Francophone communities, it offers a distinctive alternative to Stephen or Stefan while still being recognizable, appealing to parents seeking names with European elegance.
- Rease
Description:
Rease is a masculine name that likely originated as a variant spelling of Reese or Rhys. These names have Welsh origins, with Rhys meaning 'enthusiasm' or 'ardor.' The simplified spelling gives Rease a more streamlined, modern appearance while maintaining the pleasant sound of the original. Though relatively uncommon as a given name, Rease has seen occasional usage in English-speaking countries. It shares qualities with other short, strong masculine names that have become popular in recent decades. The name has a clean, contemporary feel that's easy to pronounce and spell despite its uncommon status. Rease might appeal to parents seeking a name with traditional roots but a fresh, updated presentation.
- Kass
Description:
Kass is a masculine name that likely originated as a short form of names like Kassian, Cassius, or even Kaspar. The name has Greek roots through Cassius, which may relate to "kassis" meaning "hollow." As a standalone name, Kass is quite uncommon for males, though it appears occasionally as a nickname or abbreviated form. The name's brevity gives it a sharp, modern quality with its single syllable and strong consonant ending. For female bearers, Kass can also function as a variant of Cass (short for Cassandra). The masculine use offers a distinctive alternative to more common short names like Cass or Kade, appealing to parents seeking something concise yet uncommon.
- Hough
Description:
Hough is a masculine name of Anglo-Saxon origin that began as a surname derived from a topographical feature or location. It comes from Old English "hōh" meaning "heel of land" or "ridge", often referring to someone who lived near a hill or spur of land. As a first name, Hough is exceptionally rare, maintaining an air of distinction and uniqueness. The name's strong single syllable gives it a solid, sturdy quality that resonates with traditional masculine naming patterns. While primarily known as a surname in families with English heritage, its occasional use as a first name often honors family connections or ancestral surnames. Pronunciation may vary between "how" and "huff", adding to its distinctive character. Hough remains outside mainstream naming trends, appealing to those seeking an uncommon name with historical depth.
- Fuentes
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"springs"Description:
Common Spanish surname with a lively sound and meaning and literary connection to prominent Latin American writer Carlos Fuentes.
- Clyff
Description:
Clyff is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Cliff, which itself is typically a shortened form of Clifford or Clifton. These names derive from Old English elements meaning "cliff" or "slope" combined with "ford" (river crossing) or "town," originally referring to someone who lived near such a geographical feature. This particular spelling with the 'y' gives the name a more distinctive appearance while maintaining the strong, rugged connotations of the original. Clyff is extremely uncommon, making it a rare choice for parents seeking a brief, masculine name with an uncommon spelling. The name conveys strength and solidity through its connection to natural landscape features.
- Bald
Description:
Bald is an uncommon masculine name with ancient Germanic origins. Rather than relating to hair loss, the name derives from the Old English element 'beald' meaning 'bold' or 'brave.' It was found in Anglo-Saxon England, often as part of compound names like Baldwin (bold friend) or Archibald (genuinely bold). As a standalone name, Bald has become exceedingly rare in modern times. Historically, it was associated with courage and fearlessness in battle. The name experienced a decline after the Norman Conquest when French-influenced names gained popularity. Today, Bald might be encountered more as a surname or nickname than as a given name, though it preserves its heritage of connoting courage and daring.
- Boice
Description:
Boice is a masculine name with both Irish and French origins. As an Irish surname-turned-first-name, it derives from the Gaelic 'Buadhaigh,' meaning 'victorious' or 'triumphant.' In its French connection, it may relate to 'bois' meaning 'wood' or forest. Historically used more commonly as a family name, Boice has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage, though it remains quite rare. With its strong, single-syllable sound, Boice conveys a sense of strength and distinctiveness. The name's unusual nature makes it stand out, while its traditional surname roots give it a sense of heritage and history. For parents seeking a masculine name that is both uncommon and substantial, Boice offers a distinctive option with meaningful cultural connections.
- Feie
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"peace"Description:
A lovely meaning and sound -- if you're fluent in Dutch.