4 Letter Boy Names

Isia is a concise masculine name with ancient roots and cross-cultural connections. It likely derives from Greek or Hebrew origins, possibly connected to Isaiah (meaning 'God is salvation') or the Greek 'Isidore' (meaning 'gift of Isis'). The short, three-syllable structure gives it a modern, accessible quality despite its traditional origins. As a relatively uncommon name, Isia offers distinctiveness while remaining straightforward to pronounce and spell. It carries a gentle strength that works well across cultures. The name has seen limited use historically but may appeal to contemporary parents seeking something brief yet meaningful with spiritual or historical connections, while avoiding overly common options.

Isia

Ikie is an uncommon masculine name with uncertain origins. It may be a diminutive form of Isaac or Ike, both derived from the Hebrew name Yitzchak, meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' Alternatively, it could be a variant spelling of Ikei, which has Japanese roots. As a nickname, Ikie conveys a friendly, approachable quality. The name has never been among popular baby names in the United States and remains quite rare. Those named Ikie might appreciate the distinctiveness of their name, as it's unlikely they'll encounter many others sharing it. The name has a playful, youthful sound while still being suitable for all ages.

Ikie

Ikey is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Isaac, which comes from the Hebrew name Yitzchak, meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' Traditionally used as an affectionate nickname in Jewish communities, Ikey gained some independent usage in the early 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name has vintage charm but became less common after the mid-20th century. In some contexts, particularly in older literature and cultural references, 'Ikey' was unfortunately used as a stereotypical name in anti-Semitic portrayals. In modern times, it remains a rare choice as a formal name, though it might still be used as a warm, familiar shortening of Isaac in some families.

Ikey

Gord is a masculine name primarily used as a short form of Gordon. It originates from Scottish roots where Gordon was initially a surname derived from a place name, meaning 'great hill' or 'round hill.' Gord gained popularity as a standalone nickname in Canada, particularly in the mid-20th century. The name has an unpretentious, straightforward quality that resonates with its mostly North American user base. While never reaching mainstream popularity in the United States, Gord has maintained steady usage in Canada, where it evokes a friendly, approachable character. The name received additional recognition through Canadian figures like musician Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip.

Gord

This cool and quirky short form of the suave Ludovic could be an even-more-adventurous spin on Nico and Hugo.

Ludo

Muscular German name that never fully assimilated into American culture.

Egon

Foxe

Fabe is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a shortened form of Fabian, which derives from the Roman clan name Fabius, meaning 'bean grower' and associated with the respected Roman general Fabius Maximus. Alternatively, it could relate to the German name Fabe, a diminutive of Fabian or possibly connected to medieval occupational surnames. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite its potential ancient roots. Fabe remains exceptionally rare in contemporary usage, making it a distinctive choice. The simplicity of this four-letter name makes it easily pronounced across various languages while its uncommonness ensures individuality. For parents seeking a concise yet meaningful name with historical connections, Fabe represents an understated option.

Fabe

As a name for boys, Esra is usually considered a spelling variation of the Biblical Ezra. Esra has a separate life as a Turkish girls' name.

Esra

Luce is a masculine name with Latin origins derived from 'lux' meaning 'light.' This concise, elegant name carries historical significance while maintaining a contemporary feel. In Italian and French contexts, it relates to concepts of illumination and clarity. Though relatively uncommon as a given name for boys in English-speaking countries, Luce has deeper roots in Southern European traditions. It sometimes appears as a surname or a shortened form of Lucian or Lucius. The name has a bright, uplifting quality that suggests intelligence and clarity of thought. Despite its rarity, Luce is straightforward to pronounce and spell, offering a distinctive option that balances historical depth with modern simplicity.

Luce

Egen is a masculine name with Norse and Celtic origins. In Norse tradition, it may relate to 'egenn' meaning 'own' or 'belonging to oneself,' suggesting personal strength and independence. In Celtic heritage, it could connect to the Irish name Éogan, meaning 'born of the yew tree' or 'youth.' Egen remains extremely rare as a first name in modern usage, making it an uncommon choice with ancient roots. The name's simplicity gives it a clean, strong quality that travels well across cultures. Its shortness and straightforward pronunciation make it practical while still being distinctive. Parents drawn to Norse or Celtic heritage might find Egen an appealing alternative to more common names from these traditions.

Egen

Edik is a diminutive form of Russian and Slavic names such as Eduard or Edvard. It carries a friendly, affectionate tone when used among family and close friends. The name has its roots in Germanic languages, where the original Eduard means 'wealthy guardian' or 'prosperity protector.' Edik maintains popularity primarily in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. While not commonly found in Western countries, it represents a cultural connection to Slavic heritage. The name combines strength with an approachable quality, making it both distinctive and warm. Its pronunciation (ED-eek) gives it a memorable sound that distinguishes it from more common Western variants like Eddie or Ed.

Edik

Loye is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Old French name 'Loïs,' ultimately from Germanic elements meaning 'famous warrior,' or represent a variant of 'Loy,' a medieval short form of Eloi or Eligius. Another possibility connects it to the Middle English word 'loye,' related to 'loyal.' The name has appeared sporadically throughout European history and made its way to America through early settlers. While never achieving widespread popularity, Loye maintains a distinctive, vintage quality that appeals to parents seeking uncommon historical names. Its brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it a subtle elegance, while its rarity ensures individuality. The name occasionally appears in genealogical records rather than popular name charts.

Loye

Efra is a concise masculine name with multiple cultural connections. It may function as a shortened form of Ephraim, a biblical name meaning 'fruitful' in Hebrew, giving it religious significance. In some Spanish-speaking regions, particularly Puerto Rico, Efra serves as a nickname for Efraín. The name's brevity gives it a modern, efficient quality while its biblical connections add historical depth. With just two syllables and an uncommon consonant pairing, Efra is distinctive without being difficult to pronounce. Though rare in mainstream usage, it has maintained quiet presence in certain communities. The name appeals to parents seeking something cross-cultural, brief, and meaningful that works well internationally while avoiding trendy naming patterns.

Efra

Eetu is a perennial favorite in Finland, but is rarely if ever used in the States - probably because of the unfamiliar (to most people) spelling and pronunciation.

Eetu

Arni is a masculine name with Nordic and Hebrew roots. In Old Norse, Arni means 'eagle' or can be derived from 'arnviðr' meaning 'eagle tree,' symbolizing strength and vision. In Hebrew contexts, it can be a diminutive of Aaron, meaning 'high mountain' or 'exalted.' The name is particularly common in Iceland and other Scandinavian countries, while remaining quite rare in English-speaking nations. Arni has a straightforward pronunciation and spelling, making it accessible despite its uncommon status. Its brevity gives it a modern feel, while its ancient origins provide cultural depth. The name's connection to eagles offers symbolic associations with freedom, perspective, and nobility, making it an understated yet meaningful choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet simple.

Arni

This name of a river in Wales represents a vowel change from Alan, which makes the name somewhat more intriguing, but still possibly not intriguing enough. Bonus points if you're a surfer, sailor, or you're expecting a baby born under a water sign of the zodiac: It's one of the more unusual <a href="https://nameberry.com/list/10/water-baby-names">names that mean water</a>.

Alun

Adok is a masculine name with possible roots in several cultures, including African and Hebrew traditions. In some African communities, particularly in South Sudan among the Dinka people, Adok may be used as a given name or place name. The name has a strong, decisive sound with its short, punchy syllables. Adok is quite rare internationally, making it a distinctive choice that stands out in most communities. The name's brevity gives it a modern feel despite its traditional origins. While specific meaning information is limited in Western contexts, names in African traditions often connect to circumstances of birth, family history, or aspirational qualities, suggesting Adok likely carries cultural significance within its communities of origin.

Adok

Abad is a masculine name with Arabic and Spanish origins. In Arabic, it means 'eternal' or 'everlasting,' while in Spanish contexts it can be derived from the word 'abad' meaning 'abbot,' the head of a monastery. The name has historical significance in various cultures across the Mediterranean and Middle East. While not widely common in English-speaking countries, Abad has maintained consistent usage in Hispanic and Arabic communities. Its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its ancient roots. The name carries spiritual connotations in both its meanings, suggesting either religious leadership or the concept of eternity, making it meaningful for families with connections to these cultural or religious traditions.

Abad

Abot is an unusual masculine name with several possible origins. It may derive from the Hebrew word for 'father' (ab or abba), functioning as a variant of Abbott, which historically referred to the head of a monastery. Alternatively, it could have indigenous roots in Filipino culture, where similar names exist. As a given name, Abot has remained exceptionally rare throughout recorded naming history in Western countries, never appearing on popularity charts. Its brevity and simple pronunciation could appeal to contemporary parents seeking minimalist names, though its rarity means it carries few established cultural associations for most people.

Abot

Four letter boy names have topped the popularity list for several years now, with Liam taking over for longtime favorite Noah.

 boys' names with four letters in the US Top 100

 include Levi, Ryan, Ezra, Owen, Luke, Jack, Evan, Axel, Jace, and Jose.



John and its short form Jack, two of the top male names of all time, both have four letters. Other

 include Abel, Adam, Amos, Carl, Eric, Mark, and Paul.

 on our recommended list include Beau, Cove, Elio, Ford, Hart, Huck, Land, Nico, Otis, Pike, Rafi, and Shaw.



View our entire list of boy names with four letters here, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry. 

Four letter boy names including meaning, origin, and popularity, with top four letter boy names Noah and Jack and unique four letter names for boys (Page 108)

1900+ Four Letter Boy Names