Names Ending in F for Boys

Leif is one of the most recognizable Scandinavian names, thanks to Icelandic explorer Leif Erikson, and is still one of the best, with a pleasant aural association with the word leaf.

Raif (or Raef, Rayif) is a Muslim name usually given in reference to the Qur’anic verse "God is most compassionate and most merciful to mankind." A notable bearer is Saudi writer, dissident and activist Raif Badawi.

Wolf is a name with a split personality. It can be seen as one of the fierce animal names, like Fox and Bear and Puma, with a touch of the werewolf, or it can be viewed as a quieter, Wolf Blitzer kind of name, fairly common in German (where is pronounced Vulf) and Jewish families, sometimes as a short form of Wolfgang, or even Wolfram or Wolfhart.

Adolf may have been a Swedish royal name but the terrible dictatorship of Adolf Hitler has ruled out this name Adolf for any sensible parent. In the US last year, there were more than 100 boys' given the Spanish variation Adolfo and a handful given the old school Adolphus, but none named Adolf or Adolph....thank goodness.

Heathcliff is the name of the original passionate macho hero of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, and also of the cartoon cat. It was chosen by fashionista Lucy Sykes for her son, and inspired the late Heath Ledger's name. But otherwise it's barely used, and perhaps a bit much of a namesake. For a modern boy we'd recommend Heath....or Cliff.

A fairly common nickname in England that has never caught on in America. The rise of acronyms like MILF and DILF probably won't help its prospects going forward.

Cliff is a familiar, timeless short form -- never too popular, yet widely known -- that you might also think of as a geographical name ala Vale or Field.

This ancient name is that of the hero of the epic Beowulf, which is thought to be the oldest-ever poem in English lit written in the vernacular. J. R. R. Tolkien used the poem as one of his inspirations for The Lord of the Rings.

Olaf, though sainted and regal in Norway, is slightly oafish here. It is one of those names that has become completely familiar in the U.S. without ever becoming assimilated. Now that he's a comical character in Disney's Frozen, he might get some more attention.

Reef is an uncommon nature name with mainstream potential. Its laidback, beach-y vibe makes it a perfect choice for ocean lovers.

Classic Arabic name seen as both a first name and a surname. The pre-Islamic Arabian Sword is also called the Saif.

Griff is a masculine name with Welsh origins, functioning both as a standalone name and as a diminutive of Griffin or Griffith. The name derives from the Welsh 'Gruffydd,' meaning 'strong lord' or 'strong faith.' Griff has a concise, strong quality that appeals to parents seeking short, impactful names. The name carries associations with strength and courage, partly due to its connection to the mythological griffin creature (part eagle, part lion). In Welsh culture, variations of this name have been used for centuries, connecting it to a rich Celtic heritage. While not among the most common names, Griff has maintained steady usage, particularly in Wales and among families with Welsh ancestry.

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.

Muhammadyusuf is a masculine compound name combining two significant Islamic names: Muhammad and Yusuf. Muhammad, meaning 'praiseworthy' or 'highly praised,' honors the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. Yusuf (Joseph in Western traditions) means 'God increases' and refers to a prophet mentioned in both the Quran and Bible. This compound naming pattern is common in many Muslim cultures, particularly in Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia. Combining these two revered prophetic names creates a name of deep religious significance. While less common in Western countries, Muhammadyusuf represents a tradition where parents honor religious figures through naming. The name carries profound spiritual meaning for Muslim families and reflects cultural traditions where compound names express devotion and respect.

The ultimate dad name.

Like Papa name Rudolf, Rolf never quite emigrated from the Bavarian Alps. You might want to move on to Rollo or Wolf.

A widely used Hebrew form of Joseph, with a sophisticated and continental air.

The quintessential midcentury nickname, famously found in Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman."

This is the Turkish form of Alif, the name of the first letter of the Arabic alphabet. Actor Natalie Portman gave another spelling to her son, Aleph. Elif can also mean "slender", from the Turkish phrase elif gibi, literally "shaped like Elif."