Names Ending in Y for Boys

Gurney is a masculine name that originated as an English surname derived from Norman place names, particularly Gournay in Normandy. As a first name, it has been used occasionally since the 19th century but remains uncommon. The surname has historical significance in several contexts, including the prominent Gurney family of Norwich, England, known for banking and social reform. The name has a distinctive sound that combines traditional English character with an uncommon quality. Gurney might evoke associations with earnestness and steadfastness. This name might appeal to parents looking for an unusual vintage choice with Anglo-Norman heritage, or those with family connections to the surname who wish to honor their ancestry.

Gurney

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

Darsy is an uncommon masculine name that likely developed as a variation of more familiar names like Darcy or Darsey. Traditionally, Darcy originated as an Irish surname derived from 'Ó Dorchaidhe,' meaning 'descendant of the dark one.' As a first name, Darcy has been used for both genders but gained feminine associations in America despite remaining predominantly masculine in Ireland and Britain. The variant spelling Darsy is extremely rare, giving it a distinctive quality while maintaining the soft, approachable sound of the original. The name carries a contemporary feel with its trendy ending sound, while its Irish heritage adds depth. Parents might choose this spelling to create a more unique version of the increasingly popular Darcy.

Darsy

Hughey is a masculine name derived from Hugh, which has Germanic origins meaning 'mind' or 'spirit.' The addition of the diminutive suffix '-ey' gives it an affectionate, friendly quality. Historically, Hughey emerged as a nickname or variant of Hugh, which was popular among medieval nobility following the Norman Conquest. More commonly found as a surname, Hughey as a first name has a nostalgic, vintage charm that evokes rural Americana and simpler times. The name has never reached high popularity charts but maintains steady, limited usage, particularly in Scottish, Irish, and American communities. Hughey's approachable, unpretentious nature makes it appealing for parents seeking a name with traditional roots but a warm, informal character that's not overly common.

Hughey

Floy is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Welsh name Floyd (meaning 'grey-haired' or 'grey'), function as a shortened form of Florence, or have roots as a variant of the Old French name Eloi. While historically used for both genders, it has been more commonly associated with men in the United States. Floy experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century but has become increasingly rare. The name has a distinctive, compact sound with its single syllable and unusual vowel combination. Its vintage quality might appeal to parents seeking a simple yet uncommon name with historical roots but a somewhat unconventional feel.

Floy

Erby is a rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive form of names containing the Germanic element "erb" meaning "heir" or "inheritance," or it could be a variant of Herby (short for Herbert). In some cases, it derives from a surname that originally referred to someone from one of several places named Erby or Irby in England. The name has occasionally appeared as a given name particularly in rural American communities during the early 20th century. Erby has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft ending sound, distinguishing it from more formal traditional names. Though never widely popular, it maintains a certain rustic charm and simplicity that some parents find appealing.

Erby

Audley is a masculine name of English origin, primarily derived from an Old English place name and surname meaning 'Ealdgyth's meadow' or 'old meadow.' With aristocratic connections in British history, including the noble Audley family who played significant roles during medieval times, the name carries a distinguished, refined quality. As a first name, Audley has remained relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive appeal. It shares sound elements with more popular names like Audrey while maintaining its unique character. Particularly appreciated in English-speaking countries with strong British cultural ties, Audley suggests heritage, stability, and a connection to the English countryside.

Audley

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

Many Russian names are influenced by Greek names, as is Arsentiy, the Russian variation of Arsenius. St. Arsenius the Great was a common namesake for children named Arsentiy.

Arsentiy

Although Artemis is a traditionally feminine name, the Russian variation, Artemiy, is used exclusively for boys.

Artemiy

One for the star-gazers and space lovers! It sounds fantastical, but the more we say it, the more this feels like it could be a real name.

Astronomy

D'arcy is derived from the Norman place name Arcy, which became a surname for those who hailed from there. The distinctive apostrophe emphasizes its French aristocratic heritage. 

As a first name, D'arcy gained literary recognition through Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' with the character Mr. Darcy, lending it associations with romantic brooding and noble character. D'arcy has never been exceedingly common, maintaining an air of uniqueness and refinement. Its elegant sound and spelling appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and cultural sophistication while remaining relatively unusual.

D'arcy

An Anglicization of Amhlaidh, the Scottish Gaelic form of the Scandinavian Olaf, Aulay is uniquely popular in Scotland where a recent year saw it in the Top 300, ranking alongside Kit, Greyson, Wyatt, and Douglas. It may be more recognizable outside of Scotland in its surname form: Macaulay.


Aulay

A nickname style name, Neely could derive from the strong, elegant Cornelius, as an elaboration of Neal or Neil, or as a variation of the Scottish surname McNeilly, with the cool meaning "son of the poet". 

Neely

This once-popular surname name (rhymes with Roy) has since faded away, but we think it has a simple, stylish charm.

This unusual English botanical name belongs to a minty-smelling, flowering herb (also called bishopwort), which has been used since medieval times to treat various ailments.
<br/ In the language of flowers, Betony signifies surprise, so this might make for a meaningful choice for an unexpected pregnancy.
<br/ Variant spelling Bettany (as in actor Paul Bettany, or English historian Bettany Hughes), could take this name into trendy surname-as-first-name territory.

Betony

An English surname name which was originally used as a masculine first name in the 19th century, before becoming more popular for girls from the early 20th century onwards.

Beverly

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

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

Darsey is a masculine name that appears to be a variant of Darcy or D'Arcy, which originated as an Irish surname derived from the Norman French 'D'Arcy,' meaning 'from Arcy' (a place in France). This spelling variation gives the name a slightly different phonetic quality while maintaining its sophisticated character. As a first name, Darsey has never been extremely common for boys, giving it an air of distinction and uniqueness. The name carries aristocratic associations due to its history as a surname of Norman nobility. With its soft sounds but masculine heritage, Darsey strikes a balance between refinement and strength. It appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth that remains uncommon yet recognizable.

Darsey

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 68)

1330+ Boy Names That End in Y