Two Syllable Names for Boys

While Mari is more popularly used as a feminine name, it was borne by a 1st century saint, venerated by the Assyrian Church of the East. Also known as Mari of Edessa, Saint Maris, or Saint Mares, he was converted by Thaddeus of Edessa, a disciple of Jesus, and went on to perform miracles and carry out missionary work in Nineveh and Nisibis. 
 
His name may relate back to Mary ("beloved", "bitter"), to the Latin Maris ("sea"), or to the Aramaic Mar meaning "My lord".

Mari

Although almost always feminine in the first name spot, Maria (and its French cognate Marie) are regularly used in the middle or in compound first names in Catholic cultures. Famous examples include Austrian poet Rainier Maria Rilke, Italian composer Giovanni Maria Nanino, and German fashion designer Guido Maria Kretschmer.

 
Maria ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Maryam/Mariam. The original meaning of Maryam is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Maria

Markeith

Marlen is a masculine name with diverse international origins. In Slavic countries, it gained popularity during the Soviet era as a combination of 'Marx' and 'Lenin,' reflecting revolutionary ideals. In German and Scandinavian usage, it's a masculine form of Marlene, derived from Maria-Magdalene. In Spanish-speaking regions, it's sometimes used as a variant of Marlene or Marlin. The name has a strong, concise sound with its two syllables and definitive ending. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Marlen has maintained steady usage in Eastern Europe and among families with Slavic heritage. Its international versatility makes it appealing for multicultural families, and its rarity offers distinctiveness without being difficult to pronounce or spell.

Marlen

Marquell

Marquese

Marsean

Maston

Matthan

Maxel

Maxxon

Mayel

Mazii

Mcguire is a masculine name that originated as an Irish surname, derived from the Gaelic 'Mag Uidhir,' meaning 'son of Odhar' or 'son of the pale-colored one.' As a first name, it represents the growing trend of using family surnames as given names. While still uncommon as a first name, Mcguire carries strong Irish cultural connections and projects a bold, distinctive quality. It first appeared as a given name in the late 20th century in the United States but remains rare. The name has associations with loyalty and heritage, often chosen by families with Irish ancestry or those appreciating its strong, masculine sound and unique character.

Mcguire

Mckade

Melik is a masculine name with rich multicultural roots. In Turkish and various Middle Eastern cultures, it derives from the Arabic 'malik,' meaning 'king' or 'ruler,' conveying strength and leadership. In Armenian traditions, it historically referred to nobility or local rulers. The name appears in various forms across different cultures, including Melech in Hebrew contexts. Melik has a crisp, strong sound with its brevity adding to its impact. The name appeals to parents seeking a cross-cultural name with authoritative meaning. Its simplicity makes it easily pronounceable across languages while its relative rarity in Western contexts offers distinctiveness. Melik carries an air of quiet dignity and ancient wisdom.

Melik

Merlyn is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Merlin, the legendary wizard from Arthurian tales. Its origins trace to Welsh mythology, where the figure was called Myrddin, possibly meaning 'sea fortress.' The spelling with a 'y' gives this ancient name a slightly more mystical or contemporary feel while maintaining its powerful associations with wisdom and magic. Though less common than the traditional spelling, Merlyn has maintained steady if modest usage, particularly appealing to parents drawn to names with mythological significance and an air of mystery. The name carries connotations of intelligence, foresight, and magical ability, reflecting the character who served as King Arthur's advisor and mentor in the beloved medieval legends.

Merlyn

Merrik

Mico

Mihaan

Two-syllable boy names are the most prevalent in the complete lexicon of male names in Anglophone cultures, with more than 15,000 choices on this complete list of every boys' name on Nameberry with two syllables.

, with the top two boy names Liam and Noah having two syllables each. Other common choices include Henry, Jackson, and Ethan.

 with two syllables include Orson, Roscoe, and Altan. Click here for a hand-curated list of the 

full list of over 15,000 two-syllable male names

, ordered by their current rank on Nameberry.

Two-Syllable Boy Names with meanings, origins, and popularity, including top two syllable names for boys and unique boy names with 2 syllables. (Page 389)

15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names