One Syllable Names for Boys

Russian-born actor Yul (christened Yuliy) Brynner gives this short name a strong, steely image.

This down-to-earth Bible name is surprisingly little-used, considering the popularity of other Old Testament names. Shem was Noah's eldest son, and is the origin of the term Semitic (as in the language family).

Unusual alternative to Fisher with a brisker surname appeal.

Clint with a glint; used for flinty characters in old TV westerns and soap operas.

Sæl is an Old Norse word used as a greeting in modern Icelandic. As an American baby name, Sael is more likely a spin on more popular choices like Gael.

Two Zells of note: conservative southern senator Zell Miller, and video-game character Zell, a hero of "Final Fantasy."

A common name in the Muslim community, where it may be a Persian name or a variation of Ayan, a name with a timely meaning.

Decidedly offbeat name that combines jauntiness with that uber-cool X, and would certainly set your son up for life outside the mainstream.

Spelling variation of Lior.

A strong, rugged-sounding name most commonly heard in Australia (the most famous bearer is Australian rugby player Braith Anasta), whose origin is disputed. It is sometimes said to be a Welsh name meaning "speckled; motley" (from Welsh brith), but it is more likely to derive from a surname of either German, Gaelic or English origin.

Diminutive of Andre. Associated with the rapper Dr. Dre.

The Dutch equivalent of Walt makes the Top 100 in Belgium, where Flemish parents love short, sweet names.

Simplicity and pleasant associations give the word Bell real possibility as a first name -- but somehow it seems better for a girl, a la Belle.

This short form of classic Victor is popular in its own right in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Cool and breezy short form for names like Zephyr, Zephram, Zephaniel or Zephaniah.

Stark is an ancient surname derived from the Old English word stearc, meaning firm and unyielding. In modern parlance, stark means severe or plain. But Stark's use as a first name -- 15 boys were named Stark in the US in 2017 -- stems from its prominence in Game of Thrones, which has inspired so many new baby names. House Stark is a ruling family on GoT; its motto is fittingly "Winter is coming," so Stark and other names from the show might make creative names for winter babies.