Names Ending in Y for Boys

Jordanny is a modern masculine name that combines the popular biblical name Jordan with the playful suffix '-anny,' creating a distinctive variation. Jordan itself derives from the Hebrew 'Yarden,' referring to the River Jordan which has significant biblical importance. Jordanny emerged primarily in Hispanic and Latino communities, reflecting the common practice of adding diminutive suffixes to traditional names. It gained some popularity in the United States in the 1990s and 2000s, particularly in regions with large Hispanic populations. The name carries the strong, natural associations of Jordan while offering a unique twist that distinguishes it from more common variants.

Jordanny

Jorey is a contemporary masculine name that may have evolved as a variation of names like Corey, Rory, or as a diminutive form of Joseph or Jordan. It could also be seen as a modern blend of Joe with the popular '-rey' ending. The name has a youthful, energetic quality with its short, dynamic sound. Jorey remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality while still being accessible and easy to pronounce. It fits well with current naming trends that favor shorter names with a friendly, approachable feeling. While lacking extensive historical roots, Jorey exemplifies the modern approach to naming where sound and style often take precedence over traditional etymology, resulting in fresh names that feel both new and familiar.

Jorey

Joary is an uncommon masculine name with several possible origins. It may be a variation of the Hebrew name Joari or could be derived from combining elements like 'Jo' (a diminutive of Joseph or Jonathan) with 'ary' (possibly from names like Zachary). In some cultures, particularly in Madagascar, Joary may have indigenous roots. The name remains relatively rare globally, which gives it a distinctive quality. Parents might choose Joary for its melodic sound and uniqueness, as it maintains familiar elements while offering an uncommon alternative to more popular J-names like Joseph or Joel.

Joary

One of the more feminine Irish surnames. 

Keeley

Kealy is a masculine name with Irish Gaelic origins, derived from the surname Ó Caollaidhe, meaning 'descendant of Caollaidhe' (slender one). While also used for girls, particularly in America, it maintains strong masculine usage in Ireland. The name carries the melodic quality characteristic of Irish names while remaining concise and strong. Historically, Kealy was primarily a family name before transitioning to first-name usage, reflecting the trend of surnames becoming given names. Though never reaching high popularity rankings, Kealy offers cultural authenticity for those with Irish heritage. Its appealing sound combines the popular 'K' beginning with a pleasant ending, making it both distinctive and accessible. The name projects a sense of Celtic heritage with a contemporary feel.

Kealy

Keely as a masculine name represents a less common gender assignment for what is primarily used as a feminine name in modern times. The name has Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic 'Caolaidhe' meaning 'slender' or 'narrow,' originally used for both genders. In Irish tradition, it may have connections to the legendary poet and musician Caoilte of the Fianna. While Keely gained modest popularity as a girl's name in the late 20th century, its masculine usage has remained quite rare. The name carries a melodic quality with its long 'e' sound and has cross-cultural appeal. For boys, Keely offers a distinctive option with authentic Celtic roots that balances traditional heritage with a gentle, modern sound.

Keely

Kealey is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It derives from the surname Ó Cadhla or Kealy, meaning 'descendant of Cadhla', where Cadhla means 'graceful' or 'beautiful'. As a first name, Kealey represents the modern trend of transforming surnames into given names. While traditionally used for boys, it has seen some usage for girls as well, though the masculine form is spelled Kealey more frequently. The name remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. In Irish communities and among families celebrating their Celtic heritage, Kealey offers a connection to Gaelic roots while having a contemporary sound that works well internationally.

Kealey

Kelbey is a masculine name with modern origins, likely emerging as a variant of more traditional names like Kelby or Shelby. The name combines elements that suggest strength and contemporary style. While not among the most common male names, Kelbey has gained modest popularity in recent decades as parents seek distinctive alternatives to mainstream choices. Its uniqueness offers the benefit of individuality while maintaining a familiar sound pattern. The name may appeal to parents looking for a modern name with a slight Celtic undertone, though its direct etymological roots are somewhat ambiguous. Kelbey projects an image of confidence and distinction for a boy.

Kelbey

Kellby is a masculine name that appears to be a modern creation combining elements of names like Kelly (an Irish surname meaning 'warrior' or 'bright-headed') and traditional -by ending names like Colby or Shelby. This distinctive blend creates a contemporary sound while maintaining connections to established naming patterns. As a relatively recent invention, Kellby remains quite rare, likely emerging in the late 20th or early 21st century amid trends favoring unique boys' names with familiar elements. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft consonants and familiar components. Parents choosing Kellby likely appreciate its unique character while valuing its subtle connections to more traditional naming conventions.

Kellby

Keily as a masculine name represents an uncommon gender usage of what is typically a feminine name in English-speaking countries. The feminine Keily is often a variant spelling of Kelly or Kaylee. The name has Irish roots, derived from the surname Kelly (from 'ceallach' meaning 'strife' or 'war'), or possibly as a variation of Kiley. As a masculine name, Keily is very rare, possibly appearing more often in some cultural contexts or as a creative variation. The soft sound pattern gives the name a gentle quality when used for boys, contrasting with more traditionally masculine-sounding names. Its rarity as a masculine name makes it highly distinctive, though it may cause occasional confusion regarding gender expectations.

Keily

Keiley is a masculine name with Irish origins, typically derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Cadhla or the given name Kelly, meaning 'warrior' or 'bright-headed.' This particular spelling with 'ei' represents a phonetic variation that gives the name a distinctive look while maintaining the traditional pronunciation. Though historically more common as a surname, Keiley emerged as a given name during the trend of using family surnames as first names. As a masculine given name, Keiley remains relatively uncommon, though similar names like Kelly have had periods of popularity for both genders. The name has a melodic quality and friendly feel, potentially appealing to parents seeking Irish heritage connections with a slightly unconventional spelling.

Keiley

Keilly is a masculine name that appears to be a modern variant spelling, possibly of Kelly or Keily. Originally an Irish surname derived from 'Ó Ceallaigh' meaning 'descendant of Ceallach' (which referred to 'bright-headed' or 'troublesome'), it transitioned to use as a given name. While Kelly became more commonly associated with girls in the latter 20th century, Keilly with this particular spelling retains usage as a masculine name in some communities. The distinctive 'ei' spelling gives it a unique visual quality while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Keilly remains rare in mainstream usage, making it an uncommon choice that stands out while still having recognizable roots. Regional and cultural variations may affect how the name is perceived and pronounced.

Keilly

Keighley is an uncommon masculine name derived from an English place name in West Yorkshire. As a given name, it follows the trend of using geographical surnames as first names. The distinctive spelling with 'eigh' creates a more complex visual than the pronunciation would suggest (typically pronounced like "KEE-lee"). While Keighley has been used more frequently as a feminine name in some regions, it appears here as a masculine choice, reflecting the flexibility of many place-name-derived names. Very rare in usage, Keighley offers parents a unique option with British heritage connections. The name has a contemporary feel despite its traditional origins, and its unusual spelling gives it a distinctive character. Parents might choose this name for its connection to English geography or for its uncommon yet accessible sound.

Keighley

Kelsy is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Kelsey, which originated as an English surname derived from Old English elements meaning 'ship's island' or 'Cenel's island.' While Kelsey began as a primarily male name, it experienced a significant shift toward feminine usage in the late 20th century. The Kelsy spelling is less common than Kelsey, giving it a distinctive quality. For boys, this spelling variant remains especially rare, making it a unique choice. The name carries associations with strength and maritime traditions from its Old English roots. As a masculine name in modern times, Kelsy offers parents a slightly uncommon option with historical depth but a contemporary feel.

Kelsy

Kelcy is a gender-neutral name that has been used predominantly for males, though it works well for any gender. It appears to be a variant spelling of Kelsey, which originated as an English surname derived from place names meaning 'Cenel's island' or 'ship's victory.' This alternative spelling emerged during the late 20th century trend of creating distinctive name variations. Kelcy has a modern, crisp sound while retaining the friendly, approachable quality of Kelsey. The 'y' ending gives it a contemporary feel. While never among the most popular names, Kelcy appeals to parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation add to its appeal as a distinctive yet accessible choice.

Kelcy

Canady is a masculine name that originated as a surname before transitioning to occasional use as a first name. With likely Scottish and Irish roots, it may derive from the Gaelic 'O Ceannéidigh' (descendant of Ceannéidigh) or relate to the Kennedy surname. As a given name, Canady emerged primarily in the United States, particularly in southern regions. It follows the pattern of surname-to-first-name transitions common in American naming practices. While relatively rare as a first name, Canady offers a distinctive option that carries a strong, masculine sound without being overly common. The name has an approachable quality with its flowing syllables and friendly ending sound. Canady projects individuality while maintaining connections to Celtic heritage, appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with historical roots.

Canady

Kennedey is a contemporary masculine name that represents a spelling variation of Kennedy. Originally an Irish surname derived from 'Ó Cinnéide,' meaning 'helmeted head' or 'armored head,' it gained popularity as a first name following the prominence of the Kennedy political family in America, particularly President John F. Kennedy. While Kennedy is more commonly used for girls in recent years, the 'Kennedey' spelling variant is sometimes chosen for boys to create distinction. The name carries associations with leadership, charisma, and American political history. Its Irish roots and modern appeal make it attractive to parents seeking a name with both cultural significance and contemporary style.

Kennedey

Canaday is an unusual masculine name that originated as a surname before occasionally being adopted as a given name. It likely has geographic associations with Canada, possibly indicating ancestral origins or connections to the country. Alternatively, it may derive from an Irish surname variant of Kennedy or Cannady. As a first name, Canaday represents a distinctive choice that carries a strong geographic and potentially patriotic significance for those with Canadian heritage. The name has a rhythmic three-syllable pattern and friendly, approachable sound despite its rarity. Typically used for boys, Canaday appeals to parents seeking truly unique names with personal or family significance, particularly those looking to honor Canadian roots or family surnames.

Canaday

Kerrey is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Kerry or possibly a surname adaptation. Kerry originates from Irish Gaelic 'Ciarraí,' meaning 'people of Ciar' or 'dark, black-haired.' This alternative spelling with double 'r' and 'ey' ending gives the name a distinctive look while maintaining the same pronunciation. As a first name, Kerry gained modest popularity for both genders in the mid-20th century, with this variant spelling remaining quite rare. The name carries Irish cultural connections and evokes the beautiful County Kerry in Ireland. Some may associate it with political figures who had Kerrey as a surname, like former U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey.

Kerrey

Keary is a masculine name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It's a variant of Ciaran, derived from the Gaelic word 'ciar' meaning 'dark' or 'black.' This name was traditionally given to boys with dark features or hair. While not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Keary has maintained a steady presence throughout the years, appreciated for its distinctive sound and Celtic heritage. The name carries connotations of strength and dignity, reflecting its ancient roots. Keary offers a somewhat uncommon alternative to more popular Irish names while still maintaining authentic cultural connections.

Keary

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 143)

1330+ Boy Names That End in Y