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Polish Names for Boys

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Jun 09 2020
Polish names for boys have never been popular outside of their homeland, despite the large numbers of Polish immigrants who have settled in the US, Canada, Britain and others over the past two centuries. Many Polish names were lost at the border: Andrzej became Andrew, Michał became Michael, and Jan became John. But Polish baby names for boys and girls are now starting to receive fresh attention from the many millions of people around the world who claim Polish ancestry. Popular boy names in Poland include Polish variants of international classics like Jakub, Aleksander and Szymon, as well as characteristically Polish boy names like Wojciech and Stanisław.

Browse the full list of Polish boys' names on Nameberry here. The top names below rank among the current US Top 1000 Baby Names and are ordered by popularity. Unique names rank below the Top 1000 and are listed alphabetically.
  1. Rye

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Ryder or Riley or word name, English

    • Meaning:

      "cavalryman, messenger; rye"

    • Description:

      Rye has the potential to become the masculine version of Rue—a short and sweet name for nature lovers (and whiskey fans too!). Rye might be short for Ryder or Riley or Rylan or any Ry-beginning name, but increasingly it stands on its own. It can also be considered a place name, after the town in England.

      Country artist Hailey Whitters and her husband, Jake Gear, chose this name for their son in 2025.
  2. Casimir

    • Origin:

      English; French, from Polish

    • Meaning:

      "destroyer of peace"

    • Description:

      Casimir, a traditional name of Polish kings, could do quite well these days as we see the rise of Caspian, Cassius, Castiel, et. al. Like Leopold and Laszlo, Casimir is strong and worth considering if you've got an adventurous streak — and bet your son will too.
  3. Melchior

    • Origin:

      Dutch from Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "city of the king; king of light"

    • Description:

      The least used of the Three Wise Men's names, but a strong option for bold namers to consider.
  4. Zenon

    • Origin:

      Ancient Greek and Polish form of Zeno and Zeus

    • Meaning:

      "sky, shine; gift of Zeus"

    • Description:

      Zenon is a relative of Zeno, which is a form of Zeus, used in both ancient Greece and modern Poland. With the new rise of all names mythological, this one may deserve a fresh look.
  5. Marian

    • Origin:

      Polish, Czech and Romanian form of Marianus/Marius

    • Meaning:

      "related to Mars, Roman god of war"

    • Description:

      An attractive and little-known member of the group of romantic, Euro-chic boys' names ending in -ian: think Julian, Fabian, Florian, Adrian.
  6. Kasper

    • Origin:

      Polish variation of Casper, form of Jasper, Persian

    • Meaning:

      "bringer of treasure"

    • Description:

      Jasper and its many international variations, from Kasper to Casper to Gaspard, is finding new popularity.
  7. Ola

    • Origin:

      Norwegian and Swedish form of Olaf

    • Meaning:

      "ancestor's relic"

    • Description:

      Simple, friendly, distinctive name heard in several cultures. The a ending may feel more feminine in the US than Ole, though both variations are acceptable in Scandinavia.
  8. Szymon

    • Description:

      Szymon is the Polish form of Simon, a masculine name with biblical origins. Simon derives from the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'he has heard' or 'listening.' In the Bible, Simon was one of the twelve apostles who later became known as Peter. The distinctive Polish spelling reflects the language's orthographic conventions, with 'Sz' representing the 'sh' sound and 'y' representing a sound similar to the short 'i' in English. Szymon is a common name in Poland and Polish communities worldwide but remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name carries the weight of its biblical heritage while connecting to Polish cultural identity. Individuals named Szymon outside Poland often maintain a connection to their Polish heritage through this traditional spelling.

  9. Karol

    • Description:

      Karol is traditionally a masculine name in many Slavic countries, though it can be used for both genders in different cultures. It's the Eastern European equivalent of Charles, derived from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'manly.' In Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, Karol is a common male name, while English speakers might perceive it as a feminine variant of Carol. The name gained international recognition when Karol Józef Wojtyła became Pope John Paul II. Karol has a strong, straightforward quality with its two distinct syllables and firm ending. Its cross-cultural versatility makes it appealing to parents with Slavic heritage or those seeking a name that works in multiple languages.
  10. Konrad

    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Polish

    • Meaning:

      "brave counsel"

    • Description:

      German, Scandinavian and Polish spelling of Konrad, borne by several German and Polish rulers throughout history, as well as the German chancellor Konrad Adenauer.
  11. Maciej

    • Origin:

      Polish variation of Matthew, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"

    • Description:

      The pronunciation barrier looms large, but Maciej has such a pleasant sound, we think it deserves a second look.
  12. Rysio

    • Description:

      Rysio is a masculine Polish diminutive name derived from names like Ryszard (the Polish equivalent of Richard). This affectionate nickname carries a warm, friendly connotation in Polish culture. The name Rysio combines familiarity with endearment, commonly used by family and close friends. Its etymology traces back to Germanic roots, with 'ric' meaning 'ruler' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong,' giving Rysio connections to strength and leadership. While primarily used in Poland and Polish communities worldwide, it remains relatively uncommon outside these circles. The diminutive '-sio' ending creates a sense of fondness and informality, making Rysio feel approachable and good-natured. The name balances traditional heritage with personal warmth.
  13. Blazek

    • Description:

      Blazek is a masculine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Czech and Slovak cultures. It derives from the name Blaise (Blažej in Czech), ultimately from the Latin name Blasius, which may have meant 'lisping' or 'stuttering' in its original form. In Slavic languages, the element 'blaz' is associated with 'blessing' or 'well-being.' Blazek functions both as a given name and surname throughout Eastern Europe. The name carries a strong, distinctive sound and projects qualities of strength and individuality. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it remains a traditional choice in Slavic regions. For parents with Czech, Slovak or Polish heritage, Blazek offers a way to honor cultural roots while giving their son a name that stands out in Western contexts.
  14. Janek

    • Origin:

      Polish

    • Meaning:

      "god is gracious"

    • Description:

      A short form of the very popular Polish name Jan, which is the equivalent of John in English. Short forms ending in -ek are very widespread in Poland, but it is rare that one is given as the official birth certificate name.
  15. Demeter

    • Description:

      Demeter, while historically a feminine name from Greek mythology, has occasionally been used as a masculine name in some contexts. In Greek mythology, Demeter was the powerful goddess of agriculture, grain, and fertility who controlled the seasons and harvest. The name derives from the Greek elements 'de' (possibly meaning earth) and 'meter' (mother). As a masculine name, Demeter is extremely rare and represents a bold, unconventional choice. It carries strong associations with nature, abundance, and life-giving power. The name has a distinguished, classical quality with its mythological heritage. For parents drawn to Greek naming traditions who appreciate its unique sound and powerful connotations, Demeter offers a distinctive option that bridges ancient tradition with contemporary uniqueness.
  16. Jarek

    • Origin:

      Slavic

    • Meaning:

      "spring"

    • Description:

      Diminutive for all the Slavic names that start with Jar-. If for family or cultural reasons you're seeking such a name, then this is a reasonable short form.
  17. Tytus

    • Description:

      Tytus is a masculine name of Latin origin, representing the Polish form of Titus. The original name Titus was prominent in ancient Rome, famously borne by the Roman Emperor Titus Flavius Vespasianus who ruled from 79-81 CE. The name is believed to mean "title of honor" or "strong" in Latin. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Tytus has maintained steady usage in Poland and among Polish diaspora communities. The distinctive spelling with 'y' instead of 'i' gives the classical name a fresh, modern appearance while preserving its historical significance. The name carries a strong, masculine sound with its crisp consonants, and its ancient roots provide a sense of timeless dignity. For families with Polish heritage or those seeking a unique variant of a classical name, Tytus offers both cultural significance and distinctive character.
  18. Gustave

    • Description:

      Gustave is a masculine name of Swedish and French origin, derived from the Old Norse elements 'Gautr' (referring to the Geats people of southern Sweden) and 'stafr' meaning 'staff' or 'support.' The name gained prominence through Swedish royalty, including several kings named Gustav. In French-speaking regions, Gustave has been used since medieval times, made notable by figures like French artist Gustave Doré and writer Gustave Flaubert. While the more anglicized 'Gustav' appears in Scandinavian countries, the form 'Gustave' is distinctly French in character. Though never extremely common in English-speaking countries, the name carries an air of classic sophistication and European elegance that appeals to parents seeking a distinguished yet approachable traditional name.
  19. Zbigniew

    • Origin:

      Polish

    • Meaning:

      "to dispel anger"

    • Description:

      One of the first authentically Slavic names many Americans heard (but couldn't pronounce), via 1960s to 70s former presidential advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski. Even after all these years, it is still problematic internationally, but well-used and familiar in its native Poland.
  20. Dymitr

    • Description:

      Dymitr is a masculine name of Slavic origin, primarily used in Polish, Russian, and Ukrainian cultures as a variant of Dmitri or Dimitri. It ultimately derives from the Greek name Demetrios, meaning 'follower of Demeter,' the goddess of agriculture and harvest. The name carries historical significance throughout Eastern Europe, where many notable figures, including royalty and saints, have borne variants of this name. The spelling 'Dymitr' is particularly associated with Polish tradition, though less common than Dymitry or Dymitrij. The name conveys strength and cultural heritage, enjoying modest usage in Slavic communities both in Eastern Europe and in diaspora populations. It offers a distinctive alternative to more common Western versions like Dimitri.