Jewish Boy Names

A rarely heard variation of Abraham — a significant religious figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Abramuccio

Abril

Whether you're looking for an unexpected nickname for the imposing Abraham or a fresh spin on the Biblical classic, this highly unusual variation might appeal to namers with a sense of adventure.

Abush

A handsome and rare Hebrew name related to Adam — it was given to fewer than five American babies in the United States in 2021.

Admon

Alvie is the spelling parents tend to prefer, and may rise along with Archie, Alfie, and Albie. The Alvy variation is strongly associated with Alvy Singer, Woody Allen's character in <em>Annie Hall</em>.

Alvy

Anshel is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, primarily used in Jewish communities. It's believed to be derived from the Hebrew name Asher, meaning 'happy' or 'blessed,' or possibly from the German name Anselm, which combines elements meaning 'god' and 'helmet' or 'protection.' Anshel was common among Eastern European Jewish communities before World War II but became less frequent afterward. The name carries deep cultural significance in Jewish heritage and history. While relatively uncommon globally, Anshel has seen some renewed interest among families seeking to honor Jewish ancestry and traditions. It offers a distinctive choice with meaningful cultural connections and historical depth.

Anshel

In Israel, Mount Arbel is a mountain in the lower Galilee. Jewish parents have adopted it as a name for their sons and daughters for the mountain's historic and religious significance.

Arbel

Avidan is a masculine name of Hebrew origin meaning "my father is judge" or "father of judgment." Found in the Hebrew Bible, it was the name of a tribal leader. The name combines "avi" (father) with "dan" (to judge), creating a name with both religious significance and strong meaning. Avidan has remained relatively uncommon in the Western world but has seen modest usage in Israel and among Jewish communities. It offers a biblical connection without being as widely used as names like David or Daniel. The name's straightforward pronunciation and meaningful etymology make it appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional roots yet distinctive character. Avidan projects wisdom, leadership, and a connection to heritage.

Avidan

Avni is derived from Avniel, a Hebrew first and surname with a strong meaning. It is also a separate masculine Albanian name meaning "helper." The nickname Avni has a fresh, gender-neutral feel, although it has separate origins for girls and boys. The feminine version of this name is Sanskrit and means "earth."

Avni

Avniel

Short but punchy — Ayyo would make a cool and unusual choice as -o ending boy names become more and more stylish.

Ayyo

<p>Bar is a concise masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hebrew, it means 'son' or 'pure,' and is used in patronymic names like Bar-Joseph (son of Joseph). In Aramaic traditions, it similarly denotes lineage. The name also exists independently in various cultures—in Dutch and German regions, it can be a shortened form of names containing 'bar' or 'ber.' Bar has gained modest popularity as a standalone name in Israel and is occasionally used in other countries seeking minimalist, modern names. Its brevity, cross-cultural recognition, and strong single-syllable sound make it appealing to contemporary parents. The name's simplicity allows it to work well internationally while carrying rich cultural significance.</p>

Beeri is a Jewish prophet and the father of Hosea. The exact meaning of his name is debated, but it may be related to fountains or wells.

Beeri

Beinish is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, derived from 'ben' meaning 'son' in Hebrew. The name may also have connections to Eastern European Jewish communities. Though relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Beinish has historical significance in Jewish communities and may be used to honor family traditions. The name carries a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common names. Some families choose this name to maintain cultural heritage while providing their child with a unique identity. Beinish remains relatively rare in contemporary naming trends, appealing to parents seeking names with cultural depth and historical connections.

Beinish

A Hebrew form of the Biblical Benaiah, Benaya still gets you to nickname Ben.

Benaya

This Yiddish boy name is the vernacular form of the Hebrew name Dov — both meaning "bear".

An alternative transcription of Hebrew Benaiah, currently among the Top 50 boys' names in Israel.

Bnaya

A rare name typically heard within Italian Jewish families.

Bongiulo

Old World Jewish name that could travel to the New. 

Chasin

Similar sounding to the English Jacoby, but with a Judeo-Italian flair. Might cause a few pronunciation and spelling issues, but a lovely name nonetheless.

Ciacobbe

are a multifaceted bunch, comprising of Hebrew names like Jonah and Gabriel; Yiddish choices popular in Hasidic communities, such as Moishe and Usher; and boy names with non-Jewish roots that are nonetheless disproportionately popular among Reform families, like Charlie and Emmett.

 include David, Lavi, Yosef, Raphael, and Ariel. The 

most common names for Jewish boys in the US

 include Ezra, Asher, Benjamin, Levi, and Samuel, although these are not exclusively used by Jewish families.

 worth considering, such as the traditional Omri and Lazarus, nicknames Alvie and Nev, and modern gender-neutral Shai and Ezri.

If you're looking for a name that will connect your son to his Jewish heritage, start here by searching our comprehensive list of Jewish boy names.

Jewish baby names for boys, including Hebrew boy names, Israeli boy names, and modern reform Jewish boy names. (Page 20)