4 Letter Boy Names

Harp

Haws is an uncommon masculine name with potential origins as an English surname derived from either Old English "haga" (enclosure) or possibly referring to hawthorn berries ("haws"). As a given name, it's extremely rare, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a strong, concise sound with its one-syllable structure. The outdoorsy connection to hawthorn might appeal to parents seeking nature-inspired names with an understated quality. Haws could also work as a nickname for surnames like Hawkins or Hawthorne when used as first names. While uncommon in contemporary naming practices, its simplicity and potential nature connections give it a subtle appeal for those seeking something truly unique with historical undertones.

Haws

Hein is a masculine name with Germanic and Dutch origins, typically functioning as a shortened form of Heinrich (German) or Hendrik (Dutch), ultimately derived from the Germanic elements 'heim' (home) and 'ric' (ruler). Pronounced similarly to 'Hine' or 'Hayn,' this compact name is particularly common in the Netherlands, Germany, and areas with Dutch or German heritage. In South Africa, it appears among Afrikaans-speaking communities. While short, Hein carries the weight of its historical roots, suggesting leadership and authority. The name offers a distinctive international option that's brief yet meaningful. Its simple one-syllable structure makes it accessible across language barriers while still maintaining its cultural connections.

Hein

Herb is a masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' Primarily used in English-speaking countries, Herb peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that reflects its association with everyday herbs and plants, despite its martial etymological origins. Herb gained cultural recognition through notable bearers like American bandleader Herb Alpert and basketball player Herb Williams. While rarely given as a formal name to newborns today, it retains a warm, vintage charm that evokes the mid-century era. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it an accessible, down-to-earth character.

Herb

Herm is a masculine name that functions as a diminutive form of Herman or Hermann, names of Germanic origin meaning "warrior man" or "army man." This short, punchy variant carries the strength of its longer forms while offering a more casual, approachable feel. Historically, Hermann was a name associated with Germanic heroes, particularly Arminius (known as Hermann in German), who defeated Roman legions in the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest. As a standalone name, Herm remains uncommon in contemporary usage, giving it a distinctive quality. The name conveys images of strength and resilience while maintaining an unpretentious, friendly character that works well in modern contexts.

Herm

Hesh is a masculine name with multiple origins. It functions as a nickname for Hebrew names like Hershel or Heschel, and has been used in Jewish communities for generations. The name gained some recognition through characters in film and television, including in the series 'The Sopranos.' Hesh has a distinctive, compact sound that conveys strength and straightforwardness. While uncommon as a formal given name in mainstream usage, it maintains popularity as a nickname and has occasional use as a standalone name. The brevity of Hesh gives it a modern feel despite its traditional roots, making it appeal to parents seeking something concise yet characterful for their sons.

Hesh

Ilar is an uncommon masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may be a variant of the Welsh name Ilar, related to Hilary, which derives from the Latin 'hilaris' meaning 'cheerful' or 'happy.' Alternatively, it could be connected to the Basque name Hilarri, or serve as a shortened form of names like Ilario. In some cultures, it might also represent a unique variant of the Russian Ilarion or Ilari. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal while its obscurity makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking something truly distinctive. Ilar has never been among popular ranking names in the United States or most Western countries, maintaining its status as a rare choice.

Ilar

Howe

Hube is a masculine name with Germanic origins, typically functioning as a shortened form of Hubert. The name Hubert derives from the Germanic elements 'hug' meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous,' thus conveying the sense of 'bright-hearted' or 'brilliant mind.' Hube maintains a simple, strong, one-syllable structure that appeals to those preferring brief, straightforward names. The name has never achieved widespread popularity but maintained consistent if minimal usage, particularly in German-speaking regions. In English-speaking countries, Hube carries a somewhat old-fashioned or rustic character, often associated with rural American culture of the early to mid-20th century.

Hube

Uber is as off the table as a baby name as, sadly, Siri and Alexa.

Uber

Aodg is an extremely rare masculine name with possible Celtic or Gaelic roots. It may be a variant spelling or abbreviated form of names like Aodhagán or Aodhan, which derive from the ancient Irish element 'aodh' meaning 'fire.' The unusual spelling with the final 'g' makes this name particularly distinctive and uncommon in modern usage. There are very few recorded instances of Aodg as a given name in historical records or contemporary naming data. Its rarity makes it challenging to establish definitive patterns of usage or cultural associations, though it carries the intrinsic mystery and heritage connection of traditional Celtic names.

Aodg

Hewe is an archaic spelling of the masculine name Hugh, which derives from Germanic origins meaning 'mind' or 'spirit.' This old English variant evokes medieval times when spelling variations were common before standardization. Hugh was a popular name among nobility in Norman England, and this particular spelling might be found in historical documents from that era. The name's simplicity belies its distinguished history—carried by saints, kings, and knights throughout European history. Though extremely rare today in this spelling, Hewe offers a unique alternative for parents interested in names with historical depth. Its short, strong sound maintains a masculine quality while the unusual spelling adds a touch of ancient mystery and character.

Hewe

Distinguished actor Hume Cronyn (who shared his father's name) put this unusual choice in the lexicon. 

Hume

A dashing alternative to the popular James and Jacob, Jago is the jaunty Cornish form of the Biblical names. Occasionally (or historically) appearing as Jagoe, Jego, and Jaego, it may have been adapted from the Welsh Iago (YAH-gaw).
 
Typically pronounced as JAY-go, it has been notably borne by a legendary king of the Britons, by archaeologist Jago Cooper, and by a minor Tolkien character, Jago Boffin. Appearing in the England and Wales Top 1000 since at least the 90s, a recent year saw it appear at #639 alongside names like Landon, Cosmo, Kieran, and Ivo. 
 
Very occasionally, Jago might be used as an alternative spelling to the Spanish Yago (also a form of Jacob/James).

Jago

This Old Testament name, also translated as Ido, is well-used in the modern Middle East but nearly unknown in the US. The Biblical Iddo was a minor prophet who lived in the time of Solomon.

Iddo

Ifan is a masculine Welsh name that serves as a Welsh variation of John, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' Pronounced roughly as 'IV-an,' it has been used in Wales for centuries as part of the rich tradition of Welsh naming customs. Ifan has remained relatively uncommon outside of Wales and Welsh communities, giving it a distinctive cultural identity. The name carries the warmth and familiarity of John while offering a connection to Welsh heritage and language. In modern usage, Ifan might appeal to parents of Welsh descent or those seeking a name with Celtic roots that's both traditional and uncommon in most English-speaking regions.

Ifan

Ifor seems to make more sense in its Anglicized version, Ivor. 

Ifor

Inge is traditionally a masculine name in Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark and Norway, though it's used as a feminine name in Germany and the Netherlands. Derived from the Old Norse name 'Yngvi,' it relates to the Norse god Freyr and means 'descendant of Ing' (a fertility god). In Nordic countries, it has a long history dating back to Viking times. The name experienced moderate popularity in Scandinavia during the mid-20th century but is less common today. With its short, crisp sound, Inge has a distinctly Scandinavian character that connects to ancient Norse heritage. Its dual-gender usage across different European cultures makes it an interesting cross-cultural choice with authentic Nordic roots.

Inge

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.

Ygor

Ilon is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Estonian and Finnish contexts, it relates to the word for 'joy' or 'delight.' In Hebrew, it may derive from 'ilan' meaning 'tree' or 'oak tree,' symbolizing strength and durability. The name has gained some recognition through association with entrepreneur Elon Musk, as 'Ilon' represents a variation or international spelling of 'Elon.' This short, distinctive name possesses a modern, technological feel while maintaining cross-cultural appeal. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Ilon offers a sleek, contemporary option for parents seeking a brief yet meaningful name with international resonance.

Ilon

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 173)

1900+ Four Letter Boy Names