One Syllable Names for Boys
- Truitt
Description:
Truitt is a distinctive masculine name with roots as an English surname derived from the Old French word 'truet,' meaning 'little faithful one.' As a given name, it emerged following the trend of transforming family surnames into first names, gaining modest popularity in the southern United States. Truitt carries a strong, straightforward quality with its crisp consonants and compact structure. The name subtly conveys values of trustworthiness and loyalty through its etymological connection to 'truth' and 'true,' making it appealing to parents seeking names with positive character associations. While still uncommon, Truitt has seen increased usage in the 21st century as parents search for names that are recognizable but not overused, offering the perfect balance of familiarity and distinctiveness.
- Myers
Description:
Myers is primarily a masculine name that originated as an English and German surname before transitioning to occasional first-name usage. Derived from occupational roots, it historically referred to a mayor or local official (from the Middle English 'maire') or sometimes indicated a physician (from the German 'meier'). As a first name, Myers represents the continuing trend of using family surnames as given names, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options with historical weight. The name carries a professional, accomplished quality and projects reliability. While not among common first names in popularity rankings, Myers offers a distinguished alternative to more frequently used surname-derived names like Mason or Parker.
- Hanes
Description:
Hanes is a masculine name with potential Welsh or Germanic origins. As a Welsh name, it may be related to the name Hannes, a diminutive of Johannes (John), ultimately meaning 'God is gracious.' In English-speaking contexts, some might associate it with the apparel brand, though the name predates this connection. Hanes has also appeared as a surname before being adopted as a given name. The name's brief, strong sound gives it a masculine quality that's straightforward and unpretentious. With just two syllables, Hanes is concise yet distinctive. As a first name, Hanes remains quite uncommon, offering a rare option that nonetheless feels familiar due to its simple pronunciation and potential surname associations.
- Swayde
Description:
Swayde is a contemporary masculine name with a distinctive modern flair. Likely derived as a creative spelling variant of 'Slade' or influenced by the word 'suede,' it carries connotations of smoothness and style. The unique 'ay' spelling gives the name an eye-catching quality while maintaining a straightforward pronunciation. Swayde has emerged primarily in the 21st century, reflecting trends toward innovative names with strong sounds and distinctive spellings. It remains uncommon, appealing to parents seeking a name that stands out while still feeling somewhat familiar phonetically. The name projects a relaxed confidence and contemporary coolness. With its blend of strength and style, Swayde fits with other modern male names that balance masculine qualities with a touch of uniqueness.
- Koz
Description:
Koz is a brief, impactful masculine name that may have several origins. It could be derived from Slavic surnames (particularly Polish, Czech, or Russian), where it relates to the word for "goat" and may have been a nickname for a stubborn or agile person. Alternatively, it might be a shortened form of longer names like Kozlov or Kozlowski. With just three letters, Koz delivers maximum impact with minimal length, featuring a strong consonant sound and modern feel. The name's brevity makes it distinctive in Western naming contexts. Parents might choose Koz for its uniqueness, international character, and contemporary edge. Its simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across languages while its uncommon status helps it stand out.
- Kool
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
Undoubtedly there's a parent out there who sees this as the ultimate cool name. It's anything but.
- Briant
Description:
Briant is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Bryant or Brian. With Germanic and Celtic origins, it ultimately derives from elements meaning 'high' or 'noble.' The traditional Brian comes from the Irish name Brion, associated with Brian Boru, a renowned High King of Ireland. This alternative spelling gives the classic name a distinctive touch while maintaining its connection to its historical roots. Though less common than the standard spellings, Briant occasionally appears in English-speaking countries and parts of Europe. The name carries connotations of strength, leadership and nobility, qualities associated with its historical usage among Celtic nobility.
- Stu
Description:
Stu is a masculine name primarily used as a diminutive of Stuart, Stewart, or Stanley. Stuart and Stewart originated as Scottish surnames derived from the Old English 'stig-weard,' meaning 'household guardian.' As a standalone name, Stu gained some usage in the mid-20th century during a trend toward friendly, approachable shortened names. It projects a casual, unpretentious quality with a distinctly mid-century feel. While never ranking highly as a formal given name, Stu maintains recognition through cultural references like the character Stu Pickles from the animated series 'Rugrats' and various sports personalities. Today, it's more commonly used as a nickname rather than a legal given name.
- Firth
Origin:
Scottish nature nameMeaning:
"estuary or arm of the sea"Description:
Highly unusual water name -- and actor Colin surname -- with a Scottish burr. Firth derives from the Old Norse word fjord.
- Fain
Description:
Fain is a masculine name with multiple origins and meanings. In Old English, it meant "glad" or "willing," while in Middle English it conveyed being "pleased" or "content." The name also has connections to French origins where it may derive from "fagne" referring to marshland or swampy areas. As a surname first, Fain later transitioned into occasional use as a given name, particularly in Southern United States communities. Though uncommon in contemporary usage, Fain carries a distinctive, short, and straightforward sound that aligns with the trend toward brief, meaningful names. The name possesses a certain rustic charm and literary quality, having appeared in older ballads and folk tales, giving it an air of timelessness despite its rarity.
- Kort
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"short"Description:
A Dutch surname which is given as a full name to a handful of boys in the US each year, possibly as a spelling variant of Kurt.
- Cortes
Description:
Cortes is a surname of Spanish origin that has been adopted as a masculine given name. It derives from the Old Spanish word 'cortés' meaning 'courteous' or 'polite.' The name gained historical significance through Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire. As a first name, Cortes is relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. Parents might choose this name for its strong historical connections, sophisticated sound, or to honor Spanish heritage. The name carries connotations of boldness, leadership, and determination, reflecting the explorer's legacy, though its usage remains rare in contemporary naming practices.
- Joar
Description:
Joar is a masculine name of Scandinavian origin, particularly common in Norway and Sweden. It derives from Old Norse 'Jóarr,' which combines elements meaning 'horse' and 'warrior' or possibly relates to the name 'Ivar.' Historically, it appears in Norse mythology and sagas, giving it deep cultural roots. Joar remained relatively uncommon until experiencing a revival in Nordic countries during the late 20th century as part of a movement embracing traditional names. The name is valued for its brevity, strength, and distinctive Norse heritage. Outside Scandinavia, Joar remains rare, offering a unique option for parents seeking a short, powerful name with authentic historical connections. Its straightforward pronunciation (YO-ar) makes it accessible despite its unfamiliarity.
- Acy
Description:
Acy is a rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a diminutive form of names beginning with 'Ac-' such as Acton or Ace, or it could be derived from a surname. Some link it to medieval English origins where it possibly meant 'from Assy' (a place name). The name has never been widely popular in mainstream culture, maintaining its status as an uncommon choice throughout recorded naming history. Its brevity gives it a modern, punchy quality, while its rarity offers distinctiveness. Acy appeals to parents seeking a short, memorable name with a subtle vintage quality that remains unusual in contemporary naming landscapes.
- Yrie
Origin:
Variation of Irie, JamaicanMeaning:
"positive and powerful"Description:
A new spelling of Irie, a Rastafarian word-turned-name. News correspondent Yamiche Alcindor named her son Yrie Myles in 2023.
- Barn
Origin:
Word name or short form of Barnaby or BarnabusMeaning:
"son of comfort"Description:
Once you get past thinking of it as a red-painted building where they keep cows and hay, has a nice plainspoken country-like feel and may make a cooler diminutive than the still-purple Barney.
- Roice
Description:
Roice is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant spelling of Royce, which derives from a medieval English surname meaning 'son of Roy' or 'king's son.' Alternatively, it could be related to the Old German name Hroderich, meaning 'famous ruler.' The distinctive spelling gives this name a modern feel while maintaining traditional roots. Roice has never achieved widespread popularity but sees occasional usage in English-speaking countries. The name carries connotations of nobility and leadership while offering a slightly unconventional alternative to more common names like Roy or Ross. Its brevity and strong sound make it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce.
- Add
Origin:
Diminutive of Adam or AdolphDescription:
Abstract painter Ad Reinhardt, né Adolph, gave his short name a lot of artistic cred, but it remained securely a nickname. The extra "d" in this version helps it stand on its own, for better or worse.
- Yew
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Yes, Yew is a tree name, but it's similarity to "you" makes it a potentially problematic choice as a first name.
- Håkon
Description:
Håkon is a masculine name of ancient Norse origin, historically popular in Norway and other Scandinavian countries. The name derives from the Old Norse elements 'há' meaning 'high' and 'konr' meaning 'son' or 'descendant,' thus translating to 'high son' or 'of noble birth.' Håkon has been borne by numerous Norwegian kings and nobles throughout history, giving it strong royal associations. The distinctive 'å' character marks it clearly as Scandinavian. While primarily used in Norway, the name occasionally appears elsewhere in forms like Haakon or Hakon. It remains moderately popular in modern Norway, representing a connection to Viking heritage and Norse tradition while carrying connotations of leadership, nobility, and cultural pride.