If you love one-syllable names...

No longer tied to the hapless Ace Ventura, this jaunty, high-flying nickname name is starting to take flight among celebrity and other parents, with its countless positive references to doing well in tests and poker games, on the tennis court and golf course, and in the air.

Aed is an ancient Irish masculine name pronounced roughly like 'aid' or 'ayd.' It derives from the Old Irish word meaning 'fire' and was borne by numerous kings and figures in Irish mythology. Most notably, Aed was the name of the god of the underworld in Celtic mythology, associated with fire and the sun. Throughout Irish history, several High Kings and regional rulers bore this name. While historically significant, Aed remains quite rare in modern usage, even in Ireland where shortened versions like Aodh have been more common. The name's brevity gives it a strong, distinctive quality while its mythological associations lend it depth and cultural significance for those with Irish heritage or interest in Celtic traditions.

Aer is an uncommon feminine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Latin word for 'air' or 'atmosphere,' suggesting qualities of freedom, lightness, and invisibility yet essential presence. Alternatively, it could be connected to Irish mythology, where Aer was associated with air and the sky. As a modern name, Aer appeals to parents seeking ultra-short, elemental names with a contemporary feel. Its simplicity—just three letters and typically one syllable—makes it distinctive while easy to pronounce across languages. Though exceedingly rare in usage statistics, Aer aligns with the growing trend toward unique nature-inspired names and minimalist naming patterns.

This nature name hasn't escaped the hippie dippy air of others like River or Sky.

Aire is a poetic spelling of the word "air", once widely used in Middle English. Today, it's a brand new baby name, introduced to wider audiences when Kylie Jenner revealed it as the new name of her son (the baby previously known as Wolf). Aire is an exciting new choice in nature names and unisex names — one that is decidedly less materialistic than the homophone name Heir.

Airle is an uncommon masculine name with possible Scottish origins, potentially derived from place names or surnames in Scotland. It may be connected to 'Airlie,' a parish in Angus, Scotland, known for the Earl of Airlie's seat. The name has a light, airy quality through its pronunciation and apparent connection to 'air.' Despite its gentle sound, it maintains a masculine identity while being uncommon enough to be distinctive. Airle remains extremely rare in contemporary usage, appearing infrequently in naming records. Its brevity and flowing sound give it an appealing simplicity, while its Scottish connections lend it a subtle heritage element. The name might appeal to parents seeking a short, unique name with natural associations and potential Celtic roots.

Ann, the name of the sainted mother of the Virgin Mary, was among the top girls’ names for centuries, in both the original English Ann spelling and the French Anne. Both left the Top 100 around 1970 and show no signs of returning, with Anne is the middle of the US Top 1000 and Ann dropped out of sight.

The name of the sainted mother of the Virgin Mary was among the top girls’ names for centuries, in both the original English Ann spelling and the French Anne. Both left the Top 100 around 1970 but Anne is still among the most classic names for girls, although others are more likely to choose the original Hannah, the Anna variation, or even Annabel or Annabella.

Aodh, the name of the Celtic sun god meaning "fire", was common in early Scotland. It's also the origin of the wildly popular Irish name Aidan (originally Aodhán). Its pronunciation varies depending on region: AY or EE are Irish pronunciations, and in Scotland it's closer to UH, and has been Anglicized as Hugh.

Quirky cool Arlo is now well and truly back. Last year it broke into the US Top 200 boy names and consistently ranks among the most popular boy names on Nameberry.

Ash has Southern charm plus the arboreal-nature appeal. Plus your little boy will prize Ash as the name of the hero of the Pokemon cartoons. Ash can also be a dashing short form of Asher, Ashton, or any other "Ash" name.

This minimalist name is frequently heard in Norway, but has little chance of acceptance in the US.

Aude is a feminine French name with ancient Germanic roots, derived from the element 'ald' meaning 'old' or 'experienced,' suggesting wisdom and maturity. In medieval France, Aude gained recognition through the character of Roland's betrothed in the epic poem 'The Song of Roland.' The name maintains a classic elegance while being refreshingly uncommon in English-speaking countries. Aude is pronounced 'ode' in French, sometimes creating pronunciation challenges outside of French-speaking regions. It remains moderately popular in France but has never achieved widespread international usage. With its simple one-syllable structure, historical depth, and sophisticated French association, Aude appeals to parents seeking a name that is both culturally rich and distinctive. The name also carries a subtle musical connection, as 'aude' sounds similar to 'ode,' a lyrical poem.

Aure is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In French, it relates to 'aura' or 'gentle breeze,' conveying a sense of ethereal beauty. It can be considered a shortened form of Aurelia or Aurore, names connected to gold and dawn. In Basque culture, Aure means 'golden' and carries similar luminous associations. The name also appears in Norse mythology as a river goddess representing wealth. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Aure has maintained a quiet presence in French-speaking regions and among those drawn to its brevity and elegance. Its simple two-syllable structure offers an appealing minimalism, while its rich etymological background provides depth. The name's subtle connection to natural elements and precious materials gives it a timeless quality despite its rarity.

Ayn is a nonconformist name associated with controversial Russian-born writer and philosopher Ayn Rand, (born Alisa) author of The Fountainhead, who adopted it when she moved to the US in 1926.

Like River and Lake, a cool, refreshing modern water-related choice. This name is also associated with bay leaves, the bay laurel, the contemporary term of endearment, "bae", and the Old English word beġ meaning "berry"

Bear has suddenly lumbered onto the baby name landscape. Perhaps inspired by British adventurer Bear Grylls (born Edward Michael), first celebrity chef Jamie Oliver used it as the middle name for his boy Buddy, and Alicia Silverstone called her son Bear Blu, followed by Kate Winslet's Bear Blaize.

Beau suggests someone devilishly handsome, with a large measure of southern charm—a nice image to bestow on your boy. Often solely a nickname in the past, it's now standing firmly on its own. Beau has been on the Social Security list non-stop since 1969.

Nice sound, colorless image.