Boys Names U Through Z

Udoka is an Igbo-Nigerian name derived from the word Udo, meaning peace.

Uduak is a name from the Ibibio language, native to Southern Nigeria.

Ulan is a gentle, intriguing nature name used in the Philippines, though it might also be a Kazakh name meaning "young man", a Ghanaian name referring to a first born twin, or a Russian name, from uhlan meaning "cavalry, lancer".

A common Scandinavian name, but hard to imagine being used elsewhere.

This mythological name of the Norse god of winter sounds, uh, ill.

This name of eighteen Irish saints of the past is relatively popular in Ireland, though little known outside it.

Conjures up the rich brown colors of raw and burnt umber, but it may be too close to girls' Amber.

Finding a really distinctive name is probably a better way to make sure your child stands out, but then again, is choosing Unique really any different to parents choosing Saint, Messiah, Chosen, Dream, Miracle, or Blessing?

A relatively stylish choice in Slovenia, where it is the standard form of Ulrich. Unlikely to catch on in the US, where U is the least common initial.

It's the name of an Old Testament archangel that's symbolically given to boys born during Chanukah, but the possibility of unsavory nicknames (urinal?) make the short form Uri a better bet.

Too close to the name of a bodily fluid.

A creative spelling of Uriah, possibly without the negative connotation. Biblically, Urijah was a prophet mentioned in the book of Jeremiah.

Uroš was derived from the Hungarian root úr, meaning "lord." It is primarily used in Serbia, but ranks in the Slovenian Top 100 as well.

One of the most unusual of the biblical iah-options, this was the name of a long-reigning king of Judea, and just might appeal to the parent looking for a quasi-unique Old Testament choice. And it avoids the negative Dickensian aura of the other New Testament U-name, Uriah.

Valentine is an attractive Shakespearean name with romantic associations, but those very ties to the saint and the sentimental holiday have sent it into a decline, one which we think may be about to turn around.

This name of a Roman emperor and of a sedating plant is still used quietly, given to about a dozen baby boys in the US last year. It has a strong, rhythmic sound and could make a modern-feeling honor name for grandma Valerie.

Valeriano is a distinguished masculine name with Latin and Italian roots, derived from the Roman family name Valerius, meaning 'strong' or 'healthy.' This extended form of Valerian adds a distinctly Mediterranean flair through the Italian '-o' ending. Historically significant, it was borne by several saints and a Roman emperor. Particularly popular in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, Valeriano carries an air of classical dignity while remaining accessible. The name offers versatile nicknames like 'Val' or 'Valerio.' Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, it has maintained consistent usage in Hispanic and Italian communities, where it's appreciated for its strong meaning, historical connections, and melodious quality.