Names Ending in Y for Boys

Zeffrey is an uncommon variant spelling of Jeffrey, which ultimately derives from Germanic origins meaning "peace" (from "frid") and "divine" or "traveler" (from "gaut"). This distinctive spelling adds a contemporary twist to the traditional name, incorporating the stylish 'Z' initial while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. Zeffrey represents a trend of modernizing classic names through creative spelling. While significantly rarer than Jeffrey or Geoffrey, it appeals to parents seeking uniqueness without complete departure from tradition. The name carries the same friendly, approachable qualities of its more common counterparts while standing out on paper. Zeffrey remains relatively unused in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents wanting to combine familiarity with originality.

Has a rather heavy surname feel.

Jerimy is a masculine name that represents an alternative spelling of Jeremy, which derives from the Hebrew name Yirmeyahu, meaning "God will uplift" or "appointed by God." This variant spelling maintains the accessible pronunciation while offering a distinctive presentation. The name has biblical roots, as Jeremiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament known for his messages of hope amid challenging circumstances. While less common than the traditional spelling, Jerimy gained some usage in the United States during the late 20th century as parents sought unique variations of familiar names. The name carries positive connotations of spiritual significance and optimism, suggesting someone who rises above difficulties with faith and perseverance.

A decade or two ago, we might have stopped with Blake, but today the surname Blakely or Blakeley sounds more modern as a first name.

Popular boy name in Turkey.

Rough and sporty, but too specific.

The original Zooey, hero of J.D. Salinger's Franny & Zooey, was male, but nowadays the name is more closely associated with actress/singer Zooey Deschanel. With Zoe at number 31 for girls and Zoey in the Top 50, the related Zooey feels more female than ever. But it's distinctively quirky for either sex.

Only if you don't mind hearing yourself saying, "Come quickly, Quixley."

Reiley is a gender-neutral name of Irish and Gaelic origin that has become increasingly popular as a masculine name. It's a modern spelling variation of Riley, which derived from the Irish surname Ó Raghailligh, meaning 'descendant of Raghallach' (a personal name meaning 'valiant'). This alternate spelling maintains the same pronunciation while giving it a distinctive appearance. Reiley gained popularity in the United States during the 1990s and 2000s as part of the trend toward using Irish surnames as first names. As a boy's name, Reiley projects a friendly, approachable image while maintaining a sense of strength. It offers parents a name with Celtic roots and a contemporary feel.

Neddy is a masculine name that traditionally functions as an affectionate diminutive of Edward or Edmund. With English origins, Neddy developed as a pet form through the medieval nickname progression: Edward to Ned to Neddy. It carries a warm, friendly quality with its cheerful '-y' ending, evoking a sense of approachability and charm. While rarely used as a formal given name on birth certificates, Neddy has historical precedent as a nickname throughout English-speaking countries. The name has a somewhat vintage feel today, reminiscent of the early 20th century when diminutive forms were more commonly used as everyday names. Neddy projects a boyish, endearing quality even into adulthood.

Quency is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Quincy, which originated as an English surname derived from place names in Normandy, France. These locations were named after the Roman personal name Quintus, meaning 'fifth.' Quency has the same sophisticated sound as Quincy but with a slightly modernized spelling. The name gained some recognition through association with notable figures like John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. President. While less common than the traditional spelling, Quency maintains the same distinguished quality and strong 'Q' initial that makes it distinctive. The name projects intelligence and refinement while remaining uncommon enough to be distinctive in contemporary contexts.

The popular -ley suffix can be credited for this name's use in recent years. We're not loving that it sounds as trendy and of-the-moment as it is.

Much more common on girls, but this virtue is occasionally given to boys too. It has the option of Bert(ie) as a nickname.

Corey was always the most popular form of this Irish name, with Cory (as in New Jersey Senator Booker) in second place and Kory riding caboose. Kory et al were in the first wave of unisex names that began to be used in the late 1960s and 1970s, fading now as fresher names such as Rory or Rowan rise.

Both Kody and Cody — shining stars of the 90s — are in decline, although more people are choosing Cody than Kody.

Chancy is a masculine name with English origins, derived from the word 'chance' meaning 'luck' or 'fortune.' Originally used as a nickname for someone considered lucky or fortunate, it evolved into a given name over time. While uncommon, Chancy has occasional usage particularly in American culture. The name carries connotations of risk, opportunity, and serendipity. Its -y ending gives it a friendly, approachable quality despite its rarity. Chancy may also be used as a surname, and some bearers of the name might be named after family surnames, following the American tradition of using surnames as first names. Its uniqueness makes it distinctive while remaining straightforward to pronounce and spell.

Likable Irish surname name, but bound to be confused with Clooney.

Hanley is a masculine name of English origin, derived from an Old English place name meaning 'high meadow' or 'high clearing' (from 'heah' meaning high and 'leah' meaning woodland or clearing). Originally a surname, it has transitioned to use as a given name, following the trend of adopting surnames as first names. Hanley has a strong, distinctive sound that conveys a sense of tradition and reliability. Though not among the most common first names, its appeal lies in its English heritage and natural associations. The name has seen modest usage in English-speaking countries, appealing to parents looking for a name that sounds established but isn't overused.