Names Ending in Y for Boys

Hanly is a masculine name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó hÁinle, meaning "descendant of Áinle." The original name Áinle is believed to refer to a hero or champion. As a first name, Hanly is exceedingly rare, giving it a distinctive quality in modern contexts. The name carries the strength and heritage of its Irish roots while offering a concise, two-syllable structure that feels both contemporary and traditional. Hanly shares phonetic elements with more common names like Hanley or Stanley, but its unique spelling sets it apart. Though uncommon as a given name, it represents a trend of adopting surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking names with authentic cultural connections and understated sophistication.

Hanly

Herby is a masculine name that functions as a diminutive form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic origins meaning 'bright army' or 'illustrious warrior.' With its friendly '-y' ending, Herby takes the formal Herbert and transforms it into something more approachable and casual. The name has an endearing, vintage quality that evokes mid-20th century Americana. While uncommon as a formal given name, Herby might be used as a nickname or chosen by parents seeking something with a nostalgic, friendly character. The name also carries subtle associations with herbs and nature, adding a fresh, green connotation to its overall impression.

Herby

The only version that works for boys anymore is the Latinate Hilario or Ilario. Better to look to Felix for a happy-meaning name. 

Hilary

Hilliary is an uncommon variant spelling of Hillary, a name derived from Latin "hilaris" meaning "cheerful" or "merry." Originally used primarily as a masculine name, it evolved into a unisex name before becoming more commonly associated with women in recent decades. This particular spelling with double 'l' and 'i' is distinctive and rare. The masculine usage of Hilliary has historical precedent, as it was traditionally a male name in medieval England. The name carries associations with positivity through its cheerful etymology. While unusual today as a male name in this spelling, Hilliary offers an option for parents seeking a name with gentle qualities and historical roots that stands apart from conventional masculine choices.

Hilliary

Hillery is a masculine name with English origins, though it's now used for both genders with slightly different spelling variations (Hillary being more common for females). The name derives from Latin 'hilaris' meaning 'cheerful' or from the medieval given name Hilarius. It also has roots as a surname before becoming a first name. Historically, Hillery was more commonly male, but gained feminine associations in the 20th century. For boys, it has remained relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name carries aristocratic connotations in British culture, where it has been used among upper classes. The masculine version maintains traditional spelling while offering a refined sound that balances strength and sophistication.

Hillery

Hillary as a masculine name has ancient Roman origins, derived from the Latin 'Hilarius' meaning 'cheerful' or 'merry.' Long before it gained popularity as a feminine name, Hillary was traditionally used for boys, particularly in English-speaking countries. Notable male bearers include Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to climb Mount Everest, and various historical figures across British history. The name experienced a gender shift in the late 20th century, becoming more commonly associated with girls, particularly in the United States. Despite this change, Hillary maintains its distinguished history as a male name in many parts of the world. For parents interested in names with classical roots and historical significance, masculine Hillary offers a distinguished choice with positive connotations of joy and achievement.

Hillary

Hy was once a nickname for Hyman, a Jewish Anglicization of Chaim. Today it has gone extinct, for obvious reasons.

As a personal name, it may not have much history, but it certainly suggests the subject. 

History

Hobey is a masculine name that likely originated as a diminutive of Hobart or Howard. It carries a friendly, approachable quality with its playful ending sound. Hobart derives from an Old Germanic name meaning 'bright heart' or 'bright mind,' while Howard comes from Old Norse elements meaning 'high guardian.' Hobey has remained quite uncommon throughout modern naming history, never appearing on most popularity charts. The name has occasionally appeared in literature and as a surname. Some may recognize it from the Hobey Baker Award in collegiate ice hockey. With its cheerful sound and vintage feel, Hobey offers a distinctive alternative to more common nicknames like Howie while maintaining a connection to traditional naming roots.

Hobey

Humphrey is an old name that might have faded completely were it not for that Bogie flair. A royal name in Britain, where it's used somewhat more frequently, Humphrey might just have some life beyond Bogart here, especially with the recent interest in the names of Golden Age Hollywood stars. His first name was the maiden name of his mother, Maud Humphrey, a well-known illustrator who used baby H. as a model.
 Humphrey was brought to England by the Normans and was made famous by Duke Humphrey, the fifteenth century Duke of Gloucester and youngest son of Henry IV, a noted patron of literature, who appears in Shakespeare's Henry IV. In other literature, Humphrey Wasp is a character in Ben Jonson's Bartholomew Fair, and the eponymous hero of Tobias Smollett's early novel Humphrey Clinker. In James Joyce's Finnegans Wake Humphrey Climpden Earwicker represents the everyman.
 Bottom line: An interesting name with a noirish edge.

Humphrey

Humphry is a masculine name that represents a historical spelling variant of Humphrey. Derived from the Germanic elements "hun" (meaning bear cub) and "frid" (peace), the name literally translates to "peaceful warrior" or "peaceful bear strength." This variant spelling was more common in medieval times before spelling standardization. Humphry has deep historical roots in European naming traditions and was carried by notable figures including the 13th-century philosopher Humphry of Hereford. While less common than the Humphrey spelling today, it offers a slightly streamlined, distinctive alternative that maintains the name's distinguished history and character. The name evokes a sense of vintage charm and traditional masculinity, appealing to parents interested in historical names with substantial heritage and meaning.

Humphry

Humfroy is a masculine name representing an archaic variant of Humphrey, which derives from the Germanic elements 'hun' (meaning 'bear cub') and 'frid' (meaning 'peace'). This historical spelling reflects medieval English and French linguistic influences. The name carries considerable historical weight, having been borne by several medieval nobles and saints. While extremely rare in modern usage, Humfroy offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Humphrey, with an antique charm and aristocratic flair. The name's unusual spelling and pronunciation give it a scholarly, somewhat eccentric character that might appeal to parents seeking a truly unique name with genuine historical roots and a strong masculine presence that stands apart from contemporary naming trends.

Humfroy

Humfrey is a masculine name representing an older English spelling of the more familiar Humphrey. With Germanic origins, the name combines elements meaning 'peaceful warrior' or 'support peace.' This historical spelling appeared in medieval England before spelling standardization. Humfrey was borne by several notable figures in English history, including the Duke of Gloucester in the 15th century. The name declined in popularity during the 20th century but retains an aristocratic, literary quality that appeals to those interested in historical names. While the modern Humphrey is itself uncommon, the Humfrey spelling is even rarer, giving it a distinctive old-world charm. The name carries associations with dignity and classical education, evoking images of English manor houses and scholarly pursuits.

Humfrey

Humfry is a medieval English variant of the Germanic name Humphrey, deriving from elements meaning 'giant' or 'bear' and 'peace.' This archaic spelling reached peak popularity during the Middle Ages in England but has since become extremely rare. While the standard Humphrey saw modest use throughout the 20th century, Humfry remains an exceptional find in modern naming records. The name carries aristocratic associations in British history and literature, evoking images of medieval knights and country squires. Despite its antiquated nature, Humfry could appeal to parents seeking a genuinely unusual name with authentic historical roots. The distinctive spelling gives this classic name a fresh visual appeal while maintaining its traditional English character.

Humfry

Humphery is a masculine name representing a spelling variation of the more traditional Humphrey, which derives from Germanic elements meaning 'peaceful warrior' or 'supporter of peace.' This alternative spelling maintains the same pronunciation while slightly altering the visual form. The name has ancient roots, coming from the Germanic name Hunfrid, and gained prominence in England after the Norman Conquest. Humphrey reached its peak popularity in medieval times and experienced a modest revival in the early 20th century. Notable bearers include actors Humphrey Bogart and British royalty. While less common than the standard spelling, Humphery carries the same distinguished, somewhat vintage character. The name conveys a sense of dignity and classical sophistication, appealing to parents drawn to traditional masculine names with historical depth. In contemporary usage, both spellings remain relatively uncommon.

Humphery

Manly is an unusual masculine name deriving from Old English, literally meaning 'masculine' or 'resembling a man.' As a given name, it emerged during the Victorian era when virtue names and descriptive names were fashionable. Though uncommon today, Manly experienced modest popularity in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name carries obvious associations with masculinity, courage, and strength. Some bearers may have been named after Manly Hall, a notable Canadian author, or in reference to Manly Beach in Australia. The direct meaning can make it feel somewhat heavy-handed in modern contexts, which has contributed to its decline. Today, it's an extremely rare choice that stands out for its straightforward meaning.

Manly

Huntly is a masculine name of Scottish origin, derived from a place name in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Historically, it refers to the hunting grounds ('hunt' + 'lea' meaning meadow) of Scottish nobility, particularly connected to the Gordon clan and their Huntly Castle. As a first name, Huntly conveys outdoorsy, aristocratic associations while maintaining a distinctive but accessible sound. Though uncommon as a first name, it has seen occasional use in Scotland and among families with Scottish heritage. The name carries a sophisticated yet rugged quality, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with clear Scottish connections and noble heritage. Its 'hunt' element also appeals to those drawn to nature-associated names suggesting strength and outdoor pursuits.

Huntly

Hurley is a possibility as a unisex surname-name ending with the "lee" sound. It is perhaps most associated with British actress Elizabeth Hurley, and is much rarer than Harley, because the "ur" sound is currently out of fashion (and the word "hurl" may put some off).

Hurley

Hurhy is an extremely rare masculine name with obscure origins. It may be a variant spelling of names like Herve or Harry, or possibly derive from a surname or place name. This highly unusual name has very limited documented usage in historical records or modern naming practices. The pronunciation might vary depending on cultural context, potentially as "HUR-hee" or "HUR-hai." With its distinctive consonant pattern and uncommon letter combination, Hurhy stands out even among rare names. The name's obscurity means it carries few established cultural associations or stereotypes. Due to its extreme rarity, anyone named Hurhy would likely need to explain their name frequently, though it does offer the benefit of being highly distinctive and memorable.

Hurhy

Huxly is a contemporary masculine name that likely originated as a variation of the English surname Huxley. The surname itself derives from a place name meaning 'Hugh's meadow' in Old English. Huxly has gained some attention in recent years as part of the trend toward using surnames as first names, particularly with a modern spelling twist by dropping the 'e'. Its popularity may also be influenced by cultural connections to notable figures like Aldous Huxley, the renowned author. As a first name, Huxly projects an intellectual, distinguished image while maintaining a contemporary edge. The name fits well with current preferences for short, strong-sounding boys' names that end with the 'ee' sound while still feeling distinctive and uncommon.

Huxly

Boy names that end in Y are a popular bunch. Over 1300 names for baby boys in our database end with the letter Y.

 in the US right now, ranking in the Top 10.  Along with Henry, other boy names that end in Y in the US Top 1000 include Wesley, Zachary, Remy, and Anthony. 

 and make our recommended list include the Irish Flannery, the presidential McKinley, and the bluesy Ray (bet you didn't see that one coming).

 became popular in the post-WWII US. At this time, the rhyming set Larry, Gary, Jerry, and Terry were among the most common baby boy names.



Here are all Nameberry’s boy names that end with the letter Y, ordered by their popularity on Nameberry. If you're looking for a top boy name ending in Y, you'll find that toward the beginning of the list, while the rarest names are at the end.

Baby boy names that end in the letter Y, with meanings, origins, and popularity, including top Y-ending boy names such as Henry and Zachary as well as unique, uncommon boy names that end with the letter Y. (Page 139)

1330+ Boy Names That End in Y