15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names
- Graves
Description:
Graves originated as an English surname derived from Middle English 'grave' or 'greve,' referring to either a steward/bailiff or someone who lived near a grove of trees. As a masculine given name, it's extremely uncommon, representing a recent trend of adopting surnames as first names. Graves has a serious, dignified quality with literary connections to poet Robert Graves and fictional characters in various works. The name conveys strength and solemnity, perhaps influenced by its homonym relating to burial sites. Despite its rarity in contemporary usage, Graves might appeal to parents seeking a distinguished, unconventional name with Anglo-Saxon roots and a commanding presence.
- Odey
Description:
Odey is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Old English name 'Oda' meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity,' or from the Norse 'Óði' relating to 'inspiration' or 'poetry.' In some contexts, it appears as a variant of Otis or Odin. The name carries a distinctive, compact sound with its two syllables and soft ending. Odey remains quite rare as a first name in contemporary usage, giving it an uncommon quality that appeals to parents seeking distinctive options. Its brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its uniqueness. The name has a gentle yet strong quality, balancing traditional roots with a fresh sound that works well in modern contexts. Odey projects qualities of creativity and quiet strength.
- Fuego
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"fire"Description:
Hot name best used as a middle, as Paula Patton and Robin Thicke did for their son Julian in 2010.
- Ivaan
Origin:
Variation of Ivan, Russian form of John, HebrewMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
This variation of Ivan, itself a form of John, entered the US Top 1000 for the first time in 2022. Double As are trending across the states, such as Saanvi and Aarush, and Ivaan is running right along with them — all the way into the Top 1000 in 2022.
- Venya
Origin:
Russian, diminutive of Venedikt, variation of BenedictDescription:
Vanya is much more familiar.
- Bolton
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"dwelling in an enclosure"Description:
Severe surname choice.
- Narek
Origin:
Armenian, meaning unknownDescription:
Narek became a given name in Armenia in the first century, inspired by Saint Gregory of Narek, also know as Grigor Narekatsi. He wrote the Book of Lamentations, an exemplar of mythical literature.
- Hedeon
Origin:
Russian variation of GideonDescription:
A not as appealing variation on an attractive original.
- Peadar
Description:
Peadar is the Irish Gaelic form of Peter, a masculine name with ancient roots. Derived ultimately from the Greek 'Petros' meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' Peadar carries the same powerful symbolism of steadfastness and reliability. In Irish culture, the name has been used for centuries and is pronounced approximately as 'PAD-er' or 'PAY-der.' Peadar reflects Ireland's rich linguistic heritage and offers a distinctive Celtic alternative to the more common Peter. While especially meaningful for those with Irish ancestry, the name has a melodic quality and unique spelling that might appeal to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon. In Ireland, it connects to the country's strong Catholic tradition, as Peter was the first pope.
- Forden
Description:
Forden is a rare masculine name with potential roots in Welsh or English surname traditions. As a surname, it likely originated as a locational name referring to someone from a place called Ford or Forden (there is a Forden in Wales). The element "ford" refers to a river crossing, giving the name a subtle connection to natural landscapes. When used as a first name, Forden carries a strong, distinguished quality with its crisp consonants and straightforward pronunciation. The name projects reliability and steadfastness, with a subtle historical resonance that suggests depth without being antiquated. Though uncommon as a first name in any region, Forden appeals to parents seeking a distinctive, masculine name with subtle British undertones and a contemporary feel.
- Kal-el
Origin:
Invented nameDescription:
Kal-El is Superman's Kryptonian name, invented by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938 as the birth name of the superhero. Some theorize that it relates to Hebrew characters with the meaning "voice of God", while others give the meaning as "son" or "Earth one".
- Faber
Description:
Faber is a distinguished masculine name with Latin origins meaning 'craftsman' or 'artisan.' This occupational surname has transitioned to occasional use as a first name, carrying connotations of skill, creativity, and workmanship. The name evokes images of someone who creates with their hands, suggesting both artistic and practical abilities. Faber has connections to the Latin phrase 'homo faber,' meaning 'man the creator,' which emphasizes human ingenuity. While uncommon as a given name, it has gained modest traction among parents seeking distinctive names with substantive meanings. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible despite its rarity. Faber also carries subtle literary associations through Faber and Faber publishing house, giving it intellectual undertones that appeal to book-loving parents.
- Payson
Origin:
Modern invented nameDescription:
Pay-names are ultra-hot for girls these days, but they're also fairly popular for boys, in no small part thanks to Peyton Manning.
- Amlyn
Origin:
Welsh, meaning unknownDescription:
A name from medieval romance. Amlyn ac Amig is the Welsh version of Amis et Amiles, a French moral tale of friends in Charlemagne's court. The name itself is gentle and straightforward, although the "lyn" ending may feel more feminine to current tastes.
- Eubie
Description:
Eubie is an uncommon masculine name primarily known through its association with pioneering jazz pianist Eubie Blake (1887-1983), whose birth name was James Hubert Blake. The name originated as a nickname derived from 'Hubert,' showcasing how diminutives can evolve into independent given names. With its melodic sound and musical connection, Eubie carries an artistic, creative energy and distinctly American jazz-age charm. The name remains extremely rare as a formal given name, making it a highly distinctive choice. Its uniqueness provides instant individuality, though it may require occasional explanation. For parents seeking a name with musical heritage and an upbeat, rhythmic quality, Eubie offers a rare gem that honors African-American cultural contributions while maintaining an approachable, friendly character.
- Gryffyn
Origin:
CornishMeaning:
"strong lord"Description:
Cornish form of Griffin
- Dano
Origin:
Czech variation of DanielDescription:
Groovier than Daniel, with an engaging, upbeat energy.
- Mabon
Origin:
CelticMeaning:
"great son"Description:
Mabon ap Modron (son of Modron) is a prominent figure in Welsh literature and mythology – a fearless hero.
- Christo
Origin:
SlavicMeaning:
"one who carries Christ"Description:
This unusual name, which is jauntier than Chris when used as a diminutive of Christopher, is associated with the Bulgarian installation artist of that name, responsible for wrapping many public institutions and known especially for The Gates of Central Park and Running Fence. Christo is his full given name.
- Eldrick
Description:
Eldrick is a masculine name of Old English origin, composed of elements meaning 'old' or 'wise' and 'ruler' or 'power.' Though relatively uncommon, the name gained significant recognition through golf legend Tiger Woods, whose birth name is Eldrick Tont Woods. The name carries connotations of wisdom, experience, and leadership—qualities associated with elders and traditional authority figures. Eldrick has a distinguished, somewhat formal sound that balances old-world dignity with uniqueness. Despite its historical roots, it remains relatively rare in contemporary usage, making it an uncommon choice that still feels accessible. Parents who choose this name might appreciate its traditional English heritage, its distinctive quality, or its subtle connection to contemporary sports history through Woods' remarkable career.