Boys Names Beginning With K

Murakami's Kafka on the Shore features a character named after the famous Czech author of The Metamorphoses.

The given name of Conocotocko II, or Standing Turkey, a Cherokee chief in the 18th century. He advised the tribe to go to war against the then-colonies of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.

A name of multiple identities: a somewhat soap-operatic single-syllable surname, a homonym for the biblical bad boy Cain, and, when found in Japan and Hawaii, it transforms into the two syllable KA-neh. Kane also has multiple meanings: in Welsh, it's "beautiful"; in Japanese, "golden"; and in Hawaiian, "man of the Eastern sky."

Kannon, the name of actor Kevin James' son born in 2011, seems at first glance to be a kre8if spelling of bad boy name Cannon. But Kannon is also the name of the Buddhist god (and sometime goddess) of mercy and compassion, a very different image from the big gun. Either way, it made its way into the Top 1000 for the first time in 2013, and was one of the year's fastest-rising names.

Kanye West propelled his name into the Top 900 in the early 2000s, at the height of his popularity, though now it has dropped off the baby-naming map. In addition to its African derivation, it is a Hawaiian name meaning 'free'.

Kaspar is a masculine name with ancient Persian origins, traditionally believed to mean 'treasurer' or 'keeper of the treasure.' It gained prominence in Christian tradition as one of the Three Wise Men (or Magi) who visited the infant Jesus, often spelled Caspar in some accounts. The name spread throughout Europe during medieval times, with variations including Casper, Kasper, and Gaspard appearing across different countries. In Germanic countries, Kaspar has maintained steady popularity through the centuries. The name carries an air of wisdom and mysticism due to its biblical associations, while also evoking a classic, distinguished character. Today, it offers parents a traditional option with historical depth and cross-cultural recognition.

Jasper and its many international variations, from Kasper to Casper to Gaspard, is finding new popularity.

Kay as a masculine name has diverse origins. It can be a short form of names like Kenneth or Kai, or derive from the Middle English word 'key.' In Arthurian legend, Sir Kay was King Arthur's foster brother and seneschal, lending the name a noble, medieval connection. It's also associated with the Old Norse name Kái, meaning 'rejoice.' This brief, one-syllable name has maintained steady but modest usage throughout the decades. Its simplicity and strong sound make it appealing for those seeking a straightforward yet distinctive name for a boy. Kay also has cross-cultural appeal, appearing in various forms in Germanic, Celtic, and Scandinavian traditions.

Kayne is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. Most commonly, it's considered a modern variation of Kane or Cain, derived from Celtic languages meaning 'warrior' or from Hebrew meaning 'acquired' or 'possession.' The spelling with a 'y' gives the traditional name a contemporary edge. Kayne gained some visibility in the early 2000s, possibly influenced by celebrities and pop culture. It shares phonetic similarity with the word 'cane' and may also be associated with the Welsh name Cayne. The name projects strength and individuality while maintaining a sleek, modern sound. Though not among the most common boys' names, Kayne appeals to parents seeking a strong-sounding name with traditional roots but a modern spelling.

Kende is derived from the Hungarian title kende, referring to the king of Magyar, the nation that predated Hungary.

A rarely used member of the Ken- family, Kenelm has a rugged, surname-style feel. Borne by a 9th century martyr and a member of the Mercian royal family, it could make an intriguing namesake for a Kenneth, a Kendra, or a Kendrick.

Although Kenton has the trendy K beginning and on ending, and a jazz reference to Stan Kenton, it still manages to sound stiff and old-fashioned.

With the likes of Wren and Lark highly fashionable right now, Kestrel could make for a fun — and fierce — alternative for either gender.

Though used quite often for babies of both sexes, Khari, meaning "kingly," was traditionally a boys' name. Musical couple Fetty Wop and Masika Kalysha, however, named their daughter Khari.

King is a name that sends a mixed message. While some might think of it as more fitting for a canine, others see it as a strong name with offbeat style and a full court of rich associations, from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Elvis.

King Vidor was an important early Hollywood director; King Camp Gillette invented the safety razor.

If it's king names you're after that aren't King itself, see our list of Names with Royal Meanings or other lists and blogs on royal names.

Kingsley is a sophisticated Harry Potter name that entered the US Top 1000 in 2013.

Chosen for their first son by musical couple Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, this Jamaican place and elegant British surname also boasts the more regal yet user-friendly short form, King.

Actor Kit Harington, aka the dreamy Jon Snow on Game of Thrones, has given this nickname-name new style and appeal for boys. Actress Jodie Foster used it for her son back in the 2000s, while actor Kit Connor of Heartstopper fame may have introduced it to a wider audience.

This royal but common Scandinavian name is, in the US, linked to a single figure -- Notre Dame football coach Knute Rockne. Could easily be confused with Newt.