Z Names for Boys

This US state name has been rising slowly but steadily for girls over the last 30 years, but à la Dakota, it could easily be a male name too.

Aza's similarity to the biblical name Asa makes it ripe for adaptation. If you want something more elaborate, you might consider Azariah. Something simpler? It doesn't get much simpler and that is the beauty of Aza (or Asa).

Azul is the Spanish word for "blue" and was first recorded as a baby name (for girls) in 1995. It's technically considered unisex today, although it is still much more common as a feminine name.

Azure is a colorful choice for a blue-eyed child, recently chosen by Elon Musk for his daughter. Currently, Azure is used for American baby girls and boys in equal numbers. Among other blue-toned color name possibilities: Indigo, Cerulean, and Blue itself.

Although Greek in origin--in the fourth century, a bishop by that name established the principles of the Greek Orthodox Church--Basil for years took on the aura of aquiline-nosed upper-class Britishness of Sherlock Holmes portrayer Basil Rathbone, then spiced with the fragrant aroma of the herb that entered with the Pesto generation.

As Bas, it's a popular name in The Netherlands, but Baz, as in director Luhrmann, has potential for independent life too.

Curiously, Australian-born Moulin Rouge director Luhrmann was born neither Sebastian nor Basil, but had the name Mark Anthony on his birth certificate; his nickname arose from his supposed resemblance to a British TV fox puppet named Basil Brush.

Originally a form of the saint's name Blaise, though now more likely to be a hot word name used for both sexes, though heavily weighted toward the boys. It has been in the boys' Top 1000 since the year 2000. On the pop culture side of things, Blaze Bayley is a singer and musician who has been connected to the bands Wolfsbane and Iron Maiden.

Cozmo is a masculine name representing a modern, stylized variant of Cosmo. Derived from the Greek word 'kosmos,' meaning 'order,' 'harmony,' or 'the universe,' Cozmo carries connotations of cosmic vastness and celestial wonder. The spelling with a 'z' adds a contemporary, energetic twist to the traditional form. While relatively uncommon, Cozmo gained some recognition through pop culture references, including the popular robot toy Cozmo. The name appeals to parents seeking something distinctive with cosmic associations and a playful, modern edge. Its short, punchy sound and positive connotations of the universe and harmony make it an appealing choice for those looking beyond traditional naming conventions.

More of an abbreviation than a short form that can stand on its own.

Dezmond is a masculine name representing a modern spelling variation of Desmond. The original name has Irish origins, derived from 'Deas-mumhan' meaning 'South Munster,' referring to a region in Ireland. This alternative spelling with a 'z' emerged in the late 20th century, reflecting contemporary preferences for names with distinctive spellings and the stylistic appeal of the letter 'z.' The name carries a strong, sophisticated image while the 'z' adds a touch of modern flair. Dezmond has associations with notability through figures like Archbishop Desmond Tutu, lending it an air of dignity. While less common than the traditional spelling, this variation maintains the same pronunciation while offering parents a way to make the classic name feel more unique and contemporary.

Ezra has a lot going for it: the strength of its heroic Biblical legacy, its quirky sound, and its fresh but familiar feel. Ezra is now at its highest point ever, but its intuitive streamlined spelling and deep roots could make it a worth successor to Elijah in the Top 10 -- or even to Liam or Noah at Number 1.

Trippy variation on Hayes, popular enough to have been given to 135 baby boys in the US last year.

The charming vintage nature and color name Hazel has become popular for girls, but more than 30 baby boys were named Hazel in the US in a recent year. In fact, it's not a new thing for boys to be called Hazel. It ranked in the US Top 1000 from the late 1800s to the 1930s, peaking in 1891 when it briefly entered the Top 500, and again in 1920 when it was given to nearly 80 boys.

Izaac is a distinctive variation of the traditional biblical name Isaac, which derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' This particular spelling with a 'z' and double 'a' gives the classic name a modern, stylish twist while maintaining its historical significance. In the Bible, Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah, born to them in their old age. The name has enjoyed consistent popularity across many cultures and religions for centuries. The Izaac variant appeals to parents seeking a name with deep roots but a contemporary feel, setting their son apart with this unique orthographic interpretation of a timeless classic.

Multipurpose pet name serving Isidore, Isaac, Israel, and -- increasingly -- Isabel.

Unisex variation of Jazz or Jasper that couldn't say it more plainly. Used for their daughter by tennis couple Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi.

Jazper is a contemporary spelling variation of Jasper, a name of Persian origin meaning 'treasurer' or 'keeper of the treasure.' The traditional Jasper has biblical connections as one of the Three Wise Men and appears as a semiprecious stone in the Book of Revelation. The 'z' spelling gives Jazper a modern edge and distinctive visual appeal while maintaining the familiar pronunciation. This spelling emerged as part of the trend toward unique renderings of traditional names. Jazper combines ancient heritage with contemporary style, offering parents a name that feels both grounded and fresh. The name has a vibrant, energetic quality that appeals to those seeking something slightly unconventional yet recognizable.