15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names
- Mikey
Origin:
Diminutive of Michael, HebrewMeaning:
"who is like God"Description:
Hey, Mikey! Old school short form with a certain vintage charm, but it's one nickname you don't want to stick past, say, fifth grade.
- Renny
Origin:
Anglicized variation of Irish RaithnaitMeaning:
"little prosperous one"Description:
Used primarily for girls in Ireland, but sounds unisex to us.
- Renley
Origin:
and leyMeaning:
"clearing, meadow"Description:
With the sprightly "Ren" and "Wren" currently in fashion, and "ley" a productive suffix to create new names, this combination was inevitable, and is chirpy and appealing. Renley has been on the US charts for girls since 2012, and for boys since 2013. It probably got a boost from the Game of Thrones character Renly Baratheon, albeit with a slightly different spelling.
- Erin
Description:
Erin as a masculine name has Irish origins, derived from "Éirinn," the dative case of "Éire" (Ireland). While more commonly recognized as a feminine name in many countries today, Erin has historic usage as a boy's name, particularly in Ireland and Scottish communities. The name literally means "from Ireland" and carries strong Celtic heritage. As a masculine name, Erin peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1970s-80s but has since become more frequently used for girls. The name is short, strong, and easily pronounced across languages. For boys, it offers Celtic heritage with a soft yet dignified sound that balances traditional roots with contemporary appeal.
- Guido
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"guide, leader"Description:
Guido was very popular in Renaissance Italy, with many namesakes including painter Fra Angelico (born Guido di Pietro) and mathematician Guido Fubini. Guy Fawkes, of gunpowder plot fame, sometimes used this version. Nowadays it's unfairly overlooked, but in the current trend for snappy international names ending in -o, this cultured gem deserves more use.
- Johnpaul
Description:
Johnpaul is a masculine given name formed by combining the traditional names John and Paul. This compound name has Christian roots, as both John and Paul were important apostles in the New Testament. John derives from Hebrew meaning "God is gracious," while Paul comes from Latin meaning "small" or "humble." Johnpaul began gaining modest popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, possibly influenced by Pope John Paul II, who served from 1978 to 2005. The name offers parents a way to honor two religious figures or family members simultaneously. While not among the most common names, Johnpaul has maintained steady usage, particularly in Catholic communities, where it represents strength, faith, and leadership.
- Zaden
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
A nouveau member of the Aidan/Braden/Jaden group. Yet another variation on a too-trendy genre -- never the most original way to go, even if there aren't yet many Zadens on your block. Still, a Z initial always adds zest and this is a name many boys would love to have for their very own.
- Welles
Description:
Welles is a distinguished surname-turned-first-name with English origins, meaning 'spring' or 'stream.' This sophisticated name carries literary and artistic associations, most notably through Orson Welles, the legendary filmmaker and actor. As a given name, Welles began gaining modest attention in the early 2000s, part of the trend toward using traditional surnames as distinctive first names. It appeals to parents seeking a name with both refinement and substance, offering a less common alternative to similar-sounding choices like Wells or William. Though still relatively uncommon, Welles has been steadily increasing in usage, particularly among families drawn to its cultured sound, literary connections, and subtle nature reference.
- Yuji
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"relaxed and caring"Description:
Yuji is among the most common male names in Japan, in part due to its positive meaning. Americans may recognize it from the anime series Jujustu Kaisen as the name of the humanistic and compassionate protagonist.
- Timber
Origin:
Nature nameDescription:
Though some forward-looking parents are now choosing wood-related names like Oak, Pine, and Ash, this generic option would be even more avant garde.
- Bucky
Description:
Bucky is a masculine diminutive nickname that typically derives from names like Buchanan, Buck, or sometimes William/Bill. With American roots, it carries a friendly, approachable quality with a touch of nostalgia. The name evokes a down-to-earth, all-American charm and has occasionally gained visibility through fictional characters like Bucky Barnes in Marvel comics and films. Though relatively uncommon as a formal given name, it maintains popularity as an affectionate nickname, particularly in the southern United States. The name has a youthful, endearing quality that sometimes follows individuals into adulthood, conveying a sense of approachability and warmth. Its informal nature gives it a distinctive casual character compared to more formal masculine names.
- Ianto
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Ianto is a lively and unique spin on John, possible familiar to American sci-fi fans via the popular character on Torchwood.
- Keion
Description:
Keion is a modern given name with multiple potential origins. It may be derived from the Greek name 'Kion' (meaning 'pillar' or 'column'), or it could be a variant spelling of 'Keon,' which has Irish origins from 'Cian' (meaning 'ancient' or 'enduring'). Alternatively, it might be a creative modern construction. The name gained noticeable usage in the United States from the 1980s onward, with its peak popularity occurring in the early 2000s. Keion follows phonetic patterns popular in contemporary American naming, with the 'Key-' beginning having a bright, modern sound. The name has several spelling variations including Keon, Kion, and Keyon. While not among the most common names, Keion has maintained steady usage in recent decades.
- Ruadh
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"red"Description:
Also spelt Rua, Ruadh is a strong and simple Irish name with a fiery meaning. Ruadhan is a popular related name.
- Frasier
Origin:
Variation of Fraser, ScottishMeaning:
"strawberry"Description:
Although Fraser is the more common (and original) form of this surname, Frasier is perhaps more familiar in the US thanks to the eponymous sitcom. Kelsey Grammer portrayed psychiatrist Frasier Crane from 1984 to 2004 — first on Cheers and then in his own spinoff series, Frasier.
- Elroy
Origin:
English variation of LeroyDescription:
Once a staple of the 1920s, like Leroy and Elwood, Elroy is languishing in style limbo now. One feature that might make it worth a second glance is its royal meaning, for those looking for a vintage twist on names like Royal and Reign. If you're in search of unique vintage baby names, this may be one for your list.
- Aulus
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"little grandfather"Description:
One of the most common ancient Roman forenames, but extremely rare today. Other Roman names like Aurelius are trending upwards, so this could be an off-the-radar option.
- Isra
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"journey of the night"Description:
Isra is a gender-neutral Arabic name. The name of a chapter of the Quran, it refers to the Prophet's journey from Mecca to Jerusalem.
- Jadrien
Description:
Jadrien is a masculine name that appears to be a contemporary blend of the popular names Jaden and Adrian. This fusion creates a distinctive yet recognizable name that carries the appealing qualities of both originals. The 'Jad' beginning connects to the wave of popular J-names like Jaden, Jayden, and Jason, while the 'rien' ending echoes the classic Adrian, which has Roman origins meaning 'from Hadria.' Jadrien has a modern, stylish feel while maintaining familiar elements that make it accessible. Though relatively uncommon, it fits well with current naming trends that favor unique combinations and variations of established names. The name conveys strength and contemporary flair, likely appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable and masculine-sounding.
- Zio
Origin:
Italian word nameMeaning:
"uncle"Description:
Zio is a pet form for names ending with 'zio', such as Maurizio, Marzio and Tiburzio. As a full name in Italian, though it wouldl be like naming your son Uncle Uncle.