One Syllable Names for Boys
- Dunne
Description:
Dunne is a masculine name that originally developed as a surname of Irish and Gaelic origin. The name derives from the Gaelic "donn," meaning "brown-haired" or "brown." As a first name, Dunne is extremely rare, with most people encountering it primarily as a family name. Notable bearers of the surname include writer Dominick Dunne and his brother, author John Gregory Dunne. The name has a strong, brief sound with its single syllable, giving it a certain distinction and clarity. While uncommon as a first name, Dunne could appeal to parents seeking Irish heritage connections or a simple, masculine name with surname style.
- Thanh
Origin:
VietnameseMeaning:
"bright blue; brilliant"Description:
A common Vietnamese name heard evenly for boys and girls in the U.S. Sounds like tahn or tong, depending on what part of Vietnam you come from.
- Oro
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"gold"Description:
Rare, with a gleaming, golden image.
- Jost
Description:
Jost is a masculine name of Germanic origin, primarily used in German-speaking regions and the Netherlands. It developed as a shortened form of the name Jodocus or Josse, which ultimately derives from the Celtic name Iudocus, meaning 'lord.' The name carries historical significance in European contexts, particularly in Switzerland and Germany where it has been used since medieval times. Saint Josse (Jost) was a 7th-century Breton nobleman who became a hermit. While never achieving widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Jost has maintained consistent usage in its regions of origin. The name is appreciated for its brevity and strength, offering a distinctive one-syllable option that's both traditional and uncommon. In contemporary usage, Jost provides a connection to European heritage while being straightforward and easy to pronounce across languages.
- Jarred
Description:
Jarred is a masculine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Jared, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'descent' or 'he who descended.' This alternative spelling became particularly popular in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s. The name has biblical roots, as Jared appears in the Book of Genesis as a patriarch before the flood. Jarred offers a slightly more contemporary feel than the traditional spelling, with the double 'r' adding a distinctive visual element. The name conveys strength and masculinity while remaining approachable. Though its popularity has declined since its peak, Jarred continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its biblical connections combined with its modern spelling variation.
- Khaos
Origin:
Variation of Chaos, English word nameMeaning:
"disorder and confusion"Description:
Khaos debuted in 2008, two years after Chaos appeared on the charts. These days, it tends to be more popular than the original.
- Freek
Description:
Freek is a masculine name with Dutch origins, functioning as a diminutive form of names containing the Germanic element "fred" or "frid," meaning "peace" or "ruler." Common in the Netherlands and occasionally found in Flemish-speaking regions of Belgium, Freek is typically pronounced "frayk" rather than how it might appear in English. The name remains uncommon outside Dutch-speaking countries. Within the Netherlands, it has maintained modest popularity as a straightforward, unpretentious choice with historical roots. Freek conveys a friendly, approachable quality while still carrying traditional masculine energy. The name's simplicity and connection to the widely valued concept of peace give it enduring appeal, though its pronunciation in English contexts may present challenges due to its spelling.
- Kaya
Origin:
TurkishMeaning:
"rock, cliff"Description:
While Kaya is used predominantly as a feminine name in English speaking countries, it is also a Turkish masculine name with a rugged meaning. It has ranked in the English and Welsh Top 1000 for boys several times since the 90s and was given to 18 boys in the US in a recent year.
- Mauz
Origin:
Hebrew; German surnameMeaning:
"fortress, God's protector; mouse"Description:
This rare name received national attention in 2021 when actor Frankie Muniz and his wife Paige named their son Mauz Mosley. The variation they used stems from the Hebrew word Mauzzim, literally translating to "fortresses" (mauz would be the singular, "fortress"). Some versions of the Bible interpret Mauzzim in context as "God's protectors."
- Xael
Origin:
Spanish invented nameDescription:
The invented name Xael debuted on the charts for boys in 2010. It is primarily used among Spanish-speaking families.
- Jd
Origin:
Modern, initials J + DDescription:
A two-initial nickname occasionally used on birth certificates.
- Jhon
Description:
Jhon is an alternative spelling of the classic name John, which derives from Hebrew and means 'God is gracious.' This variant spelling is commonly found in Spanish-speaking regions and some parts of Latin America, though it also appears as a simple spelling variation in English-speaking countries. While John has consistently ranked among the most popular male names throughout Western history, Jhon represents a less common alternative. Sometimes the spelling results from transliteration between different alphabets or simply represents parents' desire for a slightly distinctive take on the traditional name. Despite its variation in spelling, Jhon maintains the same pronunciation and cultural significance as John.
- Ygor
Description:
Ygor is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Igor, which has Slavic origins and derives from the Norse name Ingvar, meaning 'protected by Ing' (a Germanic deity). This particular spelling with 'Y' gives the name an exotic or distinctive appearance while maintaining the traditional pronunciation. Ygor gained some recognition through popular culture, notably as a character type in horror films following the famous assistant in Frankenstein adaptations. While less common than the standard Igor spelling, Ygor has appeal for parents seeking names with historical depth but a contemporary edge. The name projects strength and intelligence, carrying echoes of its noble usage in Russian history, particularly through Grand Duke Igor of Kiev. Ygor remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.
- 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.
- Tadgh
Description:
Tadgh is a masculine Irish name, sometimes anglicized as Teague or Tighe. Pronounced approximately as "tige" (rhyming with "high"), this ancient Gaelic name means "poet" or "philosopher." It was borne by several Irish kings and saints, giving it deep historical roots in Celtic culture. Despite its rich heritage, Tadgh remains relatively uncommon outside Ireland, making it a distinctive choice that connects to Irish heritage without being overused. The spelling can appear challenging to non-Irish speakers, but the name carries a strong cultural identity and intellectual associations. For families with Irish connections seeking an authentic name that balances tradition with uniqueness, Tadgh offers a compelling option.
- Hamp
Description:
Hamp is a masculine name with English origins, primarily derived as a shortened form of Hampton, which was originally a place name meaning "home town" or "settlement." It may also function as a nickname for Hampshire or Hammond. Historically, Hamp has been more common as a surname or nickname rather than a given name. Its concise, single-syllable structure gives it a strong, straightforward quality that embodies a certain rugged simplicity. The name carries a traditional English feel with connections to place names and geography. As a given name, Hamp remains quite rare, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something uncommon yet accessible. Its brevity makes it practical while still having character and a subtle connection to English heritage.
- Mayur
Origin:
SanskritMeaning:
"peacock"Description:
An interesting choice for people looking for a nature name that is off the beaten track. Mumbai-based actor and songwriter Mayur Puri is a notable bearer of this name.
- Ansh
Description:
Ansh is a masculine name of Indian origin, derived from Sanskrit. It means 'a part of' or 'portion', often interpreted as 'a part of God' or 'divine essence'. The name carries spiritual significance in Hindu culture, representing the belief that each person contains a fragment of divine energy. Ansh has grown in popularity in India and among the global Indian diaspora over recent decades. It appeals to modern parents for its spiritual meaning combined with its brevity and contemporary sound. The name is relatively easy to pronounce across cultures while maintaining its authentic Indian heritage, making it increasingly popular for families seeking names with cultural significance and international accessibility.
- Ville
Origin:
Finnish, Swedish diminutive of WilliamMeaning:
"resolute protection"Description:
A great choice for a native Swedish speaker, but not as user-friendly as some of the other international short forms of William — Pim (Dutch), Gwil (Welsh), and of course, Liam (Irish).
- Noone
Description:
Noone is an unusual masculine name derived from an Irish surname, pronounced 'NOON' (not 'no one'). The original surname comes from the Gaelic 'Ó Nuadháin,' meaning 'descendant of Nuadhán,' a personal name derived from 'nuadh' meaning 'new.' As a first name, Noone is extremely rare, typically chosen to honor a family surname or Irish heritage. The pronunciation distinction from the common phrase 'no one' can create practical challenges, though the connection to Irish ancestry makes it meaningful for some families. The name carries historical significance for those with Irish roots but has never entered mainstream usage as a given name. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice with direct connections to Irish heritage.
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