4 Letter Boy Names

Alas is an uncommon masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Indonesian, 'alas' means 'forest' or 'foundation,' connecting the name to nature and strength. In Lithuanian, it may be related to the word for 'beer' or derive from a surname. Some link it to the Spanish word 'alas' meaning 'wings,' symbolizing freedom and aspiration. The name could also be a rare variant of the Biblical name 'Atlas.' Alas has remained quite rare internationally, not appearing on most popularity charts. Its brevity and distinctive sound make it memorable, while its cross-cultural meanings offer rich symbolic potential. Parents might choose this name for its uniqueness and natural connotations.

Alas

Brisk, preppy York is an underused classic with the potential to really shine in the 21st century. It's most familiar as a place name — York is a city in England — and surname. New York City and State were named after the Duke of York.
 
The most notable York in history was an enslaved man who was the only Black member of Lewis and Clark's expedition. York was a key member of the journey, skilled in hunting, medicine, and other survival skills. He was also invaluable in Native American diplomacy. At the end of the expedition, Clark denied York's freedom and instead sold him black into slavery.
 
Despite the sad ending to York's story, he is an American hero with a name worthy of consideration.

York

Sefi is a compact masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hebrew, it can be a diminutive of Joseph or Yosef, meaning 'God will add.' In Nordic contexts, it might connect to names meaning 'victory' or 'triumphant.' Its brevity makes it practical across language boundaries while maintaining a friendly, approachable quality. Sefi has remained relatively uncommon in most Western countries, giving it a distinctive character. The name's short length and easy pronunciation make it accessible globally while still feeling unique. It carries a modern sensibility while potentially connecting to ancient naming traditions. For parents seeking a concise name with cross-cultural appeal and a friendly sound, Sefi offers simplicity with underlying depth of meaning.

Sefi

Seff is a masculine name with Germanic and Hebrew roots. It likely originated as a diminutive form of Joseph, meaning "God will add" or "God will increase," or as a variant of Sepp, a common German nickname for Joseph. In some contexts, it may also derive from the Germanic name Seffrid or Siegfried, meaning "victory peace." Seff has maintained a low profile in name popularity charts, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something uncommon. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and double consonant ending. In certain Jewish communities, Seff may be used as a nickname for Joseph or Yosef. Its rarity gives it a certain exclusivity while still being straightforward to pronounce.

Seff

Yosi is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, serving as a diminutive or variation of Yosef (Joseph), which means 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Common in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide, Yosi carries the warm, approachable quality typical of nicknames while functioning as a full name in its own right. The name has a friendly, accessible sound that crosses cultural boundaries easily. In Spanish-speaking contexts, it may be spelled 'Yoshi' and can also relate to the name Josiah. Yosi maintains the biblical heritage and significance of Joseph while offering a more modern, concise alternative. The name's simplicity and positive connotations of growth and divine blessing contribute to its appeal as a meaningful yet straightforward choice.

Yosi

A possible <a href="https://nameberry.com/list/412/christmas-baby-names">Christmas name</a> for a baby boy, if you find Noel too mundane. But we fear it doesn't sound very festive.

Yule

Juri is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Estonian and Finnish contexts, it's a form of George, ultimately derived from Greek "georgos" meaning "farmer" or "earth-worker." In Japanese, Juri (written with different characters) can have various meanings depending on the kanji used, including "advantage," "profit," or combinations of concepts like "longevity" and "logic." The name is also found in Korean culture. Juri has moderate popularity in Estonia, Finland, and Japan, though usage varies by region. The name's brevity and easy pronunciation make it accessible across language boundaries, while its multicultural nature gives it versatility and appeal in international contexts.

Juri

Yore is an uncommon masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Old English 'geara' meaning 'of old' or 'long ago', connecting to the phrase 'days of yore' which refers to times past. Alternatively, it could have Hebrew roots related to names like Yored or be a variant of Yuri (the Slavic form of George). The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite its antique associations. Yore has never been popular in mainstream usage, making it an extremely distinctive choice. Its rarity combined with its simple pronunciation and spelling creates an interesting balance between accessibility and uniqueness. The name carries connotations of history, heritage, and timelessness.

Yore

Yury is a masculine name primarily used in Russian, Belarusian, and other Slavic cultures as a variant of Yuri, which itself derives from the name George. The original Greek name Georgios means 'farmer' or 'earth-worker.' In Russian history and culture, Yury has been carried by notable figures including Yury Gagarin, the first human to journey into outer space. While less common than Yuri internationally, Yury maintains strong cultural connections to Eastern European heritage. The name became somewhat familiar in Western countries during the Cold War era, particularly through Soviet athletes, cosmonauts, and cultural figures. Yury conveys a sense of strength and cultural depth, appealing to parents seeking a name with Slavic roots. Its distinctive but accessible sound makes it recognizable across various cultures while maintaining its Eastern European character.

Yury

Parents with a penchant for inventing names seem especially enamored of the letter Z, maybe for its counterculture feel and its extra zip. 

Zabe

Zacc is a contemporary masculine name representing a streamlined variant of Zachary or Zachariah, Hebrew names meaning 'remembered by God.' This punchy, abbreviated spelling emerged in the late 20th century as part of the trend toward shorter, more direct name forms. The double 'c' ending gives it a distinctive modern edge while maintaining the familiar sound of more traditional versions. While relatively uncommon, Zacc appeals to parents seeking a name that feels both Biblical and contemporary, traditional yet distinctive. Its brevity makes it straightforward and memorable, embodying a casual confidence that fits well with current naming trends that favor short, impactful boys' names.

Zacc

If for whatever reason you're wed to the whole Zachary concept, this variation -- either as a proper name or a nickname -- is one way to make it new. 

Zako

Newswoman Paula brought the surname Zahn to the public eye. It makes a dramatic, unusual Zane alternative -- though you may not want to enlighten your child as to its prosaic meaning. 

Zahn

Appealing sound and meaning, but there is that discount-store association. 

Zale

Zann is a concise, modern masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a shortened form of Alexander or Suzanne, a variant of Zane, or possibly derived from Arabic where it relates to concepts of thought or contemplation. The brevity of this name contributes to its contemporary appeal, fitting with the trend toward shorter, impactful boys' names. Zann remains quite uncommon as a given name, making it distinctive for those seeking something unique. The strong 'z' beginning gives it a dynamic quality, while the double 'n' ending creates a solid, masculine sound. Its rarity and simplicity make Zann an intriguing choice for parents looking for a name that's both modern and straightforward.

Zann

Zeff is a short, punchy masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant of the Hebrew name Joseph ('Yosef'), particularly as a diminutive used in Jewish communities. Alternatively, it could derive from the Greek name Zephyr, meaning 'west wind'. In some cases, it functions as a shortened form of names like Zeffirelli or other Z-beginning names. The name's brevity gives it a modern, contemporary feel despite its potential ancient roots. Zeff remains quite rare in most English-speaking countries, though its simplicity and distinctive initial 'Z' make it memorable. The name carries a sense of energy and uniqueness, appealing to parents seeking a concise, uncommon name that's easy to pronounce and spell.

Zeff

Zeky is a masculine name that likely developed as a diminutive or variant form of names like Ezekiel, Zeke, or Zechariah. With its distinctive 'Z' beginning and modern sound, it carries a contemporary feel while potentially connecting to biblical heritage. The name may also have independent usage in various cultures where similar sounds occur. In American naming patterns, Zeky might be appreciated for its uniqueness and contemporary appeal, following the trend of short, distinctive names with unusual letters. While relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Zeky offers a friendly, approachable quality with its ending 'y' sound, balancing novelty with a familiar nickname-style structure.

Zeky

Two Zells of note: conservative southern senator Zell Miller, and video-game character Zell, a hero of "Final Fantasy." 

Zell

Zino is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Italian as a shortened form of names ending in '-zino' or as a variant of Gino (short for names like Luigi). Alternatively, it could have Greek roots as a diminutive of names containing 'zen-' elements, relating to Zeus or life. In some African contexts, particularly Nigeria, Zino appears as a modern given name. The name's brevity and distinctive 'z' sound give it a contemporary, energetic quality. While uncommon in most Western countries, Zino has a cosmopolitan feel that crosses cultural boundaries easily. Its simple four-letter structure and clear pronunciation make it accessible internationally despite its rarity. Zino's multiple potential origins add to its appeal for parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and adaptable across different cultural contexts.

Zino

Zhvy is an extremely rare masculine name with an unclear etymology. With its striking combination of consonants and single syllable pronunciation, it presents a minimalist yet bold naming choice. The name's uniqueness comes from its unconventional letter arrangement, particularly the 'Zh' beginning, which creates a distinctive sound found in Slavic and other Eastern European languages (similar to the 's' in 'measure'). Zhvy may appeal to parents seeking an ultra-modern, unique name that stands out in any context. Its brevity makes it practical, while its unusual construction ensures individuality. The name's rarity means it carries few preconceptions or cultural associations, allowing a child to define it through their own personality.

Zhvy

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 194)

1900+ Four Letter Boy Names