One Syllable Names for Boys

  1. Tov
    • Description:

      Tov is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, meaning 'good' or 'goodness.' It represents positive qualities and virtuous character traits. While not common in Western countries, Tov has significance in Jewish communities where it's appreciated for its straightforward meaning and spiritual connotation. The name's simplicity gives it a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more elaborate alternatives. In Israel, it occasionally appears as both a first name and surname. Tov embodies the universal aspiration for goodness and can symbolize parents' hopes for their child to live a virtuous life.
  2. Joep
    • Origin:

      Dutch diminutive of Joseph
    • Description:

      Joe is certainly easier, but this is quite fun to say.
  3. Lech
    • Origin:

      Polish
    • Meaning:

      "a Pole"
    • Description:

      Lech (brother of Czech and Rus) was the mythical father of the Poles, and also the name of the Polish worker-president Lech Walesa, but it still isn't a name that travels well.
  4. Mail
    • Description:

      Mail is an uncommon masculine name with several possible origins. It may derive from the Old French 'maille' meaning 'armor made of metal links,' suggesting protection and strength. Alternatively, it could relate to the Old English 'mæl' meaning 'mark' or 'sign.' In some cultures, it might be a variation of Mile or Miles. The name Mail remains extremely rare in most Western countries, with very few recorded instances as a first name. Its homonym relationship with postal mail sometimes creates confusion. As a given name, Mail offers uniqueness but may present practical challenges due to its associations with the postal system. Some parents may choose it for its brevity and simplicity, or for cultural connections in certain Middle Eastern contexts where similar-sounding names exist.

  5. Krish
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Krishna, Hindi, Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "black, dark"
    • Description:

      Although Krishna is popular in India, only this diminutive variation made the US Top 1000 in 2013. It also features in the UK Top 1000, appealing in its simplicity, ability to work in multiple languages and spiritual significance.
  6. Prior
    • Description:

      Prior is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'prior' meaning 'former' or 'previous.' It was traditionally used as an occupational surname for someone who held the position of prior, a high-ranking official in a medieval monastery, second only to the abbot. As a first name, Prior has been relatively uncommon throughout history, giving it a distinctive and somewhat aristocratic feel. The name carries connotations of leadership, wisdom, and spiritual dedication. In modern usage, Prior remains a rare choice for boys, appealing to parents looking for a name with historical depth and an understated elegance that stands apart from more common choices.
  7. Hermá
    • Description:

      Hermá is an uncommon masculine name that may have several potential origins. It could be a variation of Herman, a Germanic name meaning 'army man' or 'warrior,' with the accent suggesting Spanish or Portuguese influence. Alternatively, it might relate to Hermes, the Greek messenger god associated with communication and commerce. The accent on the final syllable gives the name a distinctive rhythm and emphasis. Hermá remains exceptionally rare in most naming traditions, making it a highly individual choice. The name carries a certain classical dignity while its unusual form ensures uniqueness. Its cross-cultural qualities might appeal to parents with mixed heritage or those seeking names that bridge different linguistic traditions.
  8. Bendt
    • Description:

      Bendt is a masculine name with Scandinavian origins, particularly common in Denmark. It represents a Nordic variant of Benedict, which derives from Latin 'benedictus' meaning 'blessed.' The name has been used in Denmark since medieval times and continues to maintain modest popularity in Scandinavian countries. The distinctive spelling with the 'dt' ending gives it an authentic Nordic character that sets it apart from more common variants like Bent or Bengt. While rare outside of Scandinavian communities, Bendt offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with European heritage and meaningful religious undertones. Its brevity makes it practical while the unusual consonant combination gives it a memorable quality.
  9. Shonn
    • Description:

      Shonn appears to be a modern variant of Sean/Shaun/Shawn, which ultimately derives from the Irish name John (from Hebrew Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious"). This spelling variant emerged in the United States primarily during the latter half of the 20th century, showing documented usage patterns beginning in the 1960s and 1970s. The doubling of the final consonant creates a distinctive spelling while maintaining the pronunciation of more common variants. Shonn represents the ongoing evolution of traditional names through creative orthographic variations, a common trend in American naming practices. The name saw modest popularity in the 1980s and early 1990s but has remained relatively uncommon compared to other variants like Shawn or Sean. Usage data indicates scattered adoption across different regions of the United States, demonstrating how traditional names continue to evolve through spelling innovations.
  10. Keyaan
    • Description:

      Keyaan is a modern masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Arabic roots, possibly related to 'kayān' meaning 'existence' or 'entity,' conveying a philosophical depth. Alternatively, it could be a variation of the Persian name Kian, which means 'king' or 'royal,' tracing back to ancient Iranian mythology and the Kayanian dynasty. The name has gained modest popularity in the early 21st century, particularly in Muslim communities and among parents seeking names with international appeal. With its melodic sound and powerful meanings across different cultural interpretations, Keyaan represents the growing trend toward names that work well globally while maintaining cultural significance and distinctive character.
  11. Petr
    • Description:

      Petr is the Czech, Slovak, and Eastern European variant of Peter, derived from the Greek 'Petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' This masculine name carries significant historical and cultural weight throughout Eastern Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic and surrounding regions. While maintaining the same essential meaning and roots as the more familiar Peter, Petr has a distinctive Slavic character with its concise spelling and pronunciation. The name has remained consistently popular in Eastern European countries for centuries, connected to numerous notable historical figures, artists, and athletes from these regions. Petr combines strength and reliability in its meaning with a certain international sophistication. For families with Czech, Slovak or Eastern European heritage, Petr offers a way to honor cultural roots while using a name that remains pronounceable in many countries.

  12. Vir
    • Description:

      Vir is a concise and powerful masculine name with roots in several cultures. In Sanskrit, Vir means 'brave warrior' or 'hero,' making it particularly significant in Indian naming traditions. The name also has Latin connections, where 'vir' means 'man' or 'husband' and forms the root of words like 'virtue' and 'virile.' Its brevity gives it a strong, modern appeal while its ancient roots provide depth and meaning. Though not widely common in Western countries, Vir has maintained steady usage in Indian communities and has potential cross-cultural appeal. The name's simplicity and powerful meaning make it an increasingly attractive choice for parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and meaningful.
  13. Raines
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "from Rayne or Rennes"
    • Description:

      The final s turns a nature name into a Waspy surname.
  14. Georg
    • Description:

      Georg is a masculine name representing the Germanic and Scandinavian form of George, ultimately derived from the Greek name Georgios (Γεώργιος), meaning "farmer" or "earth-worker" from the elements "ge" (earth) and "ergon" (work). This variant has been particularly popular in German-speaking countries, the Nordic nations, and parts of Eastern Europe for centuries. Notable bearers include composer Georg Friedrich Händel, mathematician Georg Cantor, and physicist Georg Ohm. Unlike the English George, Georg is typically pronounced with a hard 'g' sound at the end (gay-org). While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady popularity in Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian countries, where it is appreciated for its classic, dignified character and cultural heritage.
  15. Jese
    • Description:

      Jese is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Jesse, which derives from Hebrew and means 'gift' or 'God exists.' This alternative spelling gives the traditional name a more modern and distinctive appearance while maintaining the original pronunciation. In some Spanish-speaking regions, Jese may also be used as a phonetic spelling of the name. The name has biblical origins, as Jesse was the father of King David in the Old Testament. While less common than the traditional spelling, Jese offers parents a way to provide their child with a familiar name that stands out visually. The simplicity and strong sound of the name contribute to its appeal across various cultural backgrounds.

  16. Tyle
    • Description:

      Tyle is a rare masculine name with origins that are likely a variant of Tyler or possibly derived from Old English 'tigel' meaning 'tile maker.' While uncommon as a standalone name, it offers a streamlined, modern alternative to the more popular Tyler. Tyle has a concise, sharp sound that fits contemporary naming trends favoring brief, one-syllable male names. The name maintains the strength associated with Tyler while providing a distinctive spelling that sets it apart. Though not widely used, Tyle occasionally appears in English-speaking countries, particularly as parents seek unique variations of familiar names while retaining ease of pronunciation and recognition.
  17. Ryon
    • Description:

      Ryon is a masculine name that evolved as a variant of Ryan, which has Irish origins meaning 'little king' or 'descendant of the king.' This alternative spelling maintains the strong, concise nature of the original while offering a more distinctive appearance. Though less common than Ryan, Ryon has maintained a steady presence in the United States since the late 20th century. Parents often choose this spelling to give their child a familiar name with a unique twist. Ryon combines brevity with strength and conveys a sense of leadership and dignity while standing out slightly from the more popular spelling.

  18. Joses
    • Origin:

      Greek variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Greek variation of Joseph used in the New Testament. Joses is one of those names that feels at once novel and familiar, perhaps because it also sounds like Moses. An intriguing option.
  19. Fee
    • Description:

      Fee is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Gaelic 'fiadh' meaning 'wild' or 'deer,' or it could be a shortened form of names like Felix or Frederick. In some contexts, it's also been used as a nickname for someone who collected fees or payments. As a standalone name, Fee remains quite uncommon for boys, giving it a unique quality. Despite its brevity, the name carries a light, friendly sound that's easy to pronounce across languages. The simplicity of Fee makes it distinctive in an era of longer names, potentially appealing to parents seeking something minimalist yet meaningful.
  20. Raúl
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Ralph
    • Meaning:

      "wolf counsel"