5 Letter Boy Names

Brought into the mainstream by actor and TV host LeVar Burton who starred in the 70s miniseries Roots and in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Levar, or LeVar as it may be stylized, is a name of African American origin, also used as an English surname. 
 
LeVar Burton's full name is Levardis, and he has said the name comes from the Latin veritas, combined with the popular Le prefix, which gives the name the meaning "the truth". 
 
As an English surname on the other hand, it may derive from the Old English laefre, meaning "where the rushes grow", with Lever and Leyver being alternative forms. Other sources suggest it comes from the Hebrew leharim meaning "to lift, raise" or perhaps even from lev ari meaning "lion heart". This however may be conjecture as Levar does not appear to be a popular surname among Hebrew speaking communities.
 
Having never appeared in the US stats before the 70s, Levar was given more than 500 times in 1977 when Roots first hit TV screens. Since then, it has rapidly declined in use, and in the most recent year, it was given to 5 boys in the US.

Levar

Kunta Kinte is the hero of the Roots series of books and TV series, which stem from a novel by Alex Haley. The character -- a Gambian man captured and sold into slavery in America -- is a model of strength in the face of terrible cruelty, and an icon of modern American fiction. Though some may find him too iconic to use his name for a child, others will be drawn to the name's strength and cultural ties. The origins of the name Kunta and the character who bears it are shrouded in controversy. Haley claimed to have based him on a historical account, but others have said that he is mostly invented.

Kunta

Kinte is a masculine name that gained recognition in America primarily through the character Kunta Kinte from Alex Haley's novel 'Roots' and its television adaptation. The name has Gambian origins from the Mandinka people of West Africa. Following the tremendous impact of 'Roots' in the 1970s, Kinte emerged as a name chosen to honor African heritage and cultural connections. The name carries significant cultural weight, representing resilience, ancestry, and cultural pride. While not among the most common names, Kinte continues to be chosen by parents seeking to celebrate African heritage or make a meaningful connection to Black history. Its distinctive sound and powerful cultural associations make it a name of dignity and historical significance.

Kinte

Andon is a masculine name with Bulgarian, Macedonian, and Greek origins. It derives from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "man" or "warrior." In Bulgarian traditions, it's associated with Saint Anthony, rendered as Anton or Andon in Slavic languages. The name has been used throughout the Balkan region for centuries, often appearing in historical records and literature. While not extremely common internationally, Andon remains in use in Eastern European communities and diaspora populations. It offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Anthony or Andrew while maintaining similar roots. The name typically conveys strength and masculinity in its cultural contexts.

Andon

Abell is a masculine name with ancient Hebrew roots, functioning primarily as a surname before its adoption as a given name. It derives from the biblical Abel (meaning 'breath' or 'vapor'), son of Adam and Eve. The doubled 'l' spelling reflects its evolution through Medieval Latin and Old French forms. As a first name, Abell maintains biblical connections while offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Abel. Though rare in contemporary usage, it has historical presence across European cultures. The name carries positive associations of innocence and virtue from its biblical origins. With its short, strong sound and rich heritage, Abell appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with traditional roots and spiritual significance.

Abell

Abnar is a masculine name with possible Hebrew origins, potentially a variant of the biblical name Abner, which means 'father of light' or 'my father is a lamp.' The slight alteration gives it a more distinctive, modern feel while maintaining connections to ancient tradition. While relatively uncommon in contemporary usage, Abnar carries the dignified qualities associated with its biblical roots. The name has a strong, commanding presence with its clear syllables and decisive ending. In some cultural contexts, particularly in parts of the Middle East and among certain Jewish communities, variants of this name maintain traditional significance, symbolizing wisdom, guidance, and paternal strength.

Abnar

Abnor is an extremely rare masculine name with unclear origins, possibly a variant of Abner, which derives from Hebrew meaning 'father of light.' The name has minimal documented usage in English-speaking countries, remaining on the fringes of naming records throughout history. Its unusual spelling pattern may have emerged as a spelling variation or through clerical errors in recording the more traditional Abner. The name has a distinctive, somewhat archaic quality that might appeal to parents seeking a truly uncommon choice. Abnor's rarity means it carries few cultural associations or stereotypes, allowing the bearer to define the name's character rather than the reverse.

Abnor

Ebner is a masculine name with Germanic origins, primarily found as a surname before occasional use as a given name. Derived from Middle High German 'eben' meaning 'flat, smooth' or 'equal,' it likely originated as an occupational name for someone who lived on or worked flat land. As a first name, Ebner remains exceptionally rare, appealing to parents seeking unique heritage-inspired names with historical roots. The name carries an authoritative quality with its strong consonant sounds while maintaining an approachable feel. Ebner has never achieved widespread popularity as a given name, remaining a distinctive choice that reflects German or Austrian heritage.

Ebner

Ebnor is an uncommon masculine name with obscure origins. It may have derived from older Germanic or English naming traditions, possibly as a variant of names like Ebner or as a combination of elements meaning 'boar' or 'wild' with 'north' or 'honor.' The name has remained extremely rare throughout recorded naming history, never appearing on popular naming charts in the United States or United Kingdom. Ebnor has a distinctive sound that combines traditional masculine qualities with an unusual arrangement of letters. The rarity of this name makes it appealing to parents seeking a truly unique option that still has historical undertones. Those named Ebnor might appreciate having a name that stands out while maintaining a traditional masculine feel.

Ebnor

Adlay is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Hebrew name Adlai, meaning 'God is just' or 'ornament of God.' Alternatively, it could be connected to the English word 'adlay,' a type of grain, suggesting connections to harvest and abundance. The name gained some recognition in American politics through Adlai Stevenson, who was a prominent political figure in the mid-20th century. As a given name, Adlay remains quite rare, offering uniqueness while maintaining a traditional sound and structure. The name has a gentle, flowing quality with its soft consonants and long 'a' sounds. For parents seeking an uncommon name with biblical undertones and a nature connection, Adlay provides an intriguing option.

Adlay

Ungus is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Angus, a name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic origins. Traditional Angus derives from the Celtic element "oen" meaning "one" and "gus" meaning "choice," often interpreted as "one choice" or "unique strength." This unusual spelling variation maintains the strong, distinctive quality of the original while creating a more unique identity. Extremely rare in usage, Ungus offers parents a way to reference Celtic heritage while standing apart from more common spellings. The name carries associations with strength and uniqueness found in its etymology. Despite its rarity, the name has a straightforward pronunciation similar to Angus, making it accessible despite its uncommon appearance.

Ungus

Ashor is a masculine name with ancient Mesopotamian connections, possibly derived from Ashur, the Assyrian god who gave his name to the Assyrian civilization. The name carries historical weight, connecting to one of the world's earliest civilizations in what is now northern Iraq. In modern usage, Ashor appears in Middle Eastern communities, particularly among Assyrian Christians and in diaspora communities. The name has alternative spellings including Ashur, Assur, and Ashour. While uncommon in Western countries, it offers a distinctive option with deep historical roots. For parents of Assyrian heritage or those drawn to names with ancient historical significance, Ashor provides a meaningful connection to one of humanity's foundational civilizations.

Ashor

Audon is a rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variation of Auden, which has Old English roots meaning 'old friend' or 'old hill.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Norse name Audun, meaning 'rich friend' or 'wealthy friend.' The name might also draw connections to geographical locations, such as Audun-le-Tiche in France. Audon possesses a strong, distinctive sound that combines traditional masculine qualities with an uncommon flair. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a name that stands out while still being pronounceable and having historical connections. While not widely used in any country, Audon offers the advantage of being recognized as masculine across different cultures while remaining distinctive and memorable.

Audon

Audun is an ancient Norse masculine name with deep Scandinavian roots, particularly prominent in Norway. Derived from Old Norse elements, it's typically interpreted as meaning 'friend of prosperity' or 'Edwin's friend,' combining 'auðr' (wealth, prosperity) with 'vinr' (friend). This name has been used since the Viking Age and appears in Norse sagas, giving it a strong historical pedigree. While Audun remains in use in modern Norway and Iceland, it's quite rare elsewhere. The name carries associations with Norse heritage, strength, and traditional values. With its distinctive short form and authentic Nordic character, Audun might appeal to parents seeking a name that connects to Scandinavian ancestry while avoiding more common Viking-era names like Erik or Magnus.

Audun

Azaia is a modern male name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Hebrew name Isaiah, meaning 'salvation of God' or 'God is salvation.' Alternatively, it could be a creative variation of names like Azariah or Azai. The name carries a contemporary feel with its melodic three-syllable pronunciation (ah-ZAY-ah). While relatively uncommon in most Western countries, Azaia has gained some popularity in recent years among parents seeking distinctive names with spiritual undertones. The name's unique sound and potential biblical connection make it appealing to those wanting a name that stands out while maintaining cultural significance.

Azaia

Azria is a modern masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Hebrew elements meaning 'helped by God' or be a variation of Ezra, which means 'help' or 'helper' in Hebrew. The name could also have Arabic roots, potentially relating to words for strength or power. Alternatively, some consider it a creative modern invention inspired by the fashionable 'Az-' prefix found in names like Azriel. Azria has a melodic quality with its balanced three syllables and appealing 'z' sound. Though uncommon in traditional naming statistics, Azria has gained some attention in recent years as parents seek distinctive names with international flair. The name projects a sense of uniqueness and spirituality while maintaining an accessible pronunciation pattern.

Azria

Barni is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hungarian, it functions as a diminutive form of Barnabás (the Hungarian version of Barnabas), meaning 'son of consolation' or 'son of encouragement.' In Norse contexts, it may relate to 'barn' meaning 'child' or 'warrior.' The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its ending 'i' sound giving it a playful, endearing feel. Barni remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice. The name's simplicity and easy pronunciation work well cross-culturally. While not widely used, Barni offers warmth and uniqueness, with potential nicknames being unnecessary as the name itself is already brief and friendly.

Barni

Barno is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Kenya, it appears as a surname among the Kalenjin people, occasionally adopted as a first name. In Uzbekistan and Central Asia, it functions as both a place name and personal name with Turkic roots. The name may derive from various etymological sources depending on the culture, potentially meaning "peaceful" or "noble" in some contexts. Barno remains exceptionally rare as a first name in Western countries, making it distinctive for those seeking an uncommon international choice. Its brevity and strong consonant sounds give it a bold, memorable quality despite its unfamiliarity in most Western naming traditions.

Barno

Burch is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from an Old English surname that originally referred to someone who lived near a birch tree or in a birch forest. The birch tree has long been a symbol of renewal and purification in various European traditions, lending the name a connection to nature and resilience. As a first name, Burch is quite rare, giving it a distinctive quality that stands out in contemporary naming landscapes. Its short, strong sound with a single syllable follows the trend of brief, impactful masculine names. Though uncommon as a first name, its history as a surname gives it established roots while offering parents a unique option that carries woodland associations and a hardy character.

Burch

Boase is a rare masculine name with Cornish origins. It developed as a surname derived from the Cornish word 'bos' meaning 'dwelling' or 'abode,' often referring to someone who lived in or came from a particular house or location. As a given name, Boase is extremely uncommon, appearing infrequently in historical records. The name has remained primarily within Cornwall and other areas with Cornish heritage. Its pronunciation (typically 'boze' to rhyme with 'nose') gives it a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common names. While Boase has never charted among popular given names, it represents a connection to Cornish heritage and may appeal to parents seeking a unique name with historical roots in the British Isles.

Boase

Boy names with 5 letters are a populous group, containing some of the top names for boys throughout the Western World, from James to Jakob to Jules.

The classic James is the leading five letter name for boys in the US

. Along with James, three other five letter names rank among the Top 10 names for boys in the US: Lucas, Mason, and Logan. The British Top 10 includes five-letter boy names Harry and Oscar.

 are Elias, Jonas, and Felix. Along with Lucas at Number 1, 

, while in France the top five-letter names for boys are Lucas (again!) and Jules.

 classic boy names that contain five letters

 include Henry, Jacob, and Peter, with other countries featuring such five-letter variations as Henri, Jakob, and Pedro.

 that we recommend include Atlas, Bodhi, Linus, and Urban.



If you're looking for a five-letter name for your baby boy, here's our complete collection, ranked according to their current popularity on Nameberry. 

Five letter boy names, including popular and unique boy names with five letters, including meanings, origins, and current popularity (Page 534)

Five Letter Boy Names