15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names
- Usain
Origin:
Arabic, possible variation of HusseinMeaning:
"beautiful"Description:
There will probably be lots of little namesakes after the fastest man in the world, Jamaican Olympic runner Usain Bolt--middle name St. Leo.
- Józef
Description:
Józef is the Polish form of Joseph, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' This masculine name has been popular throughout Poland's history, carried by numerous notable Polish figures including Józef Piłsudski, a revolutionary leader and the first head of the independent Polish state. The name is written with the Polish letter 'ó' and pronounced roughly as 'YOO-zef.' While maintaining strong connections to Polish culture and Catholic tradition, Józef has seen varying levels of popularity over generations, sometimes giving way to more international variants. Despite this, it remains a classic Polish name that evokes strength and tradition. Outside of Poland and Polish diaspora communities, the name is relatively uncommon, making it a distinctive choice that proudly displays Polish heritage.
- Norvell
Description:
Norvell is a masculine name with French and Norman origins, derived from Old French "Norvile" meaning "north town" or "northern village." It began as a surname indicating geographic origin before occasionally transitioning to use as a given name. Norvell carries an aristocratic, somewhat old-world quality with its connection to Norman heritage. The name remains quite rare as a first name, giving it a distinctive character for those who bear it. With its strong consonants and crisp ending, Norvell projects dignity and substance. The name might appeal to parents drawn to uncommon vintage names with historical depth. Norvell's connection to northern geography may also make it appealing to families with Scandinavian or Northern European heritage looking for a distinctive name that subtly references their ancestral regions.
- Cephus
Description:
Cephus has ancient Greek origins and appears as a variant of 'Cephas,' a name given to the apostle Simon Peter in the New Testament, meaning 'rock' or 'stone' in Aramaic (כיפא, Kēphā). The name has historical usage in various Christian communities across different time periods. In the United States, Cephus has appeared in records since the 19th century, often as a given name or surname particularly in southern states. While never among the most popular names, it has maintained consistent, if limited, usage over generations. The name carries biblical associations and reflects naming traditions that draw from religious texts. The pronunciation varies, with some saying 'SEE-fus' while others prefer 'SEF-us.' The name's classical roots give it a distinctive quality among contemporary naming patterns.
- Corien
Description:
Corien is a masculine name that appears to have Dutch origins. It may be a variant or diminutive form of Cornelis, the Dutch form of Cornelius, which comes from Latin and means 'horn' or 'horn-colored.' The name has remained relatively uncommon in international contexts but maintains some usage in the Netherlands and Dutch-speaking communities. Corien has a gentle yet distinctive sound, balancing both strength and sophistication. Though primarily used for boys, it occasionally appears as a feminine name in some regions. Its rarity gives it a special quality for those seeking a unique name with European roots.
- Keeva
Description:
Keeva is an uncommon masculine name with Irish Gaelic origins. While traditionally used as a feminine name (spelled Caoimhe in Irish, pronounced KEE-va), it has recently gained some usage for boys. The name derives from the Irish word 'caomh' meaning 'gentle,' 'beautiful,' or 'precious.' As a boy's name, Keeva offers a distinctive choice with its melodic sound and positive meaning. Though rare for males, it follows the trend of gender-neutral naming that embraces softer sounds for boys. The name carries an appealing combination of strength and gentleness, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking something unique with Celtic roots.
- Quirine
Description:
Quirine is a male name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman clan name "Quirinus," which was associated with the god Quirinus, one of the three major deities of ancient Rome. The name carries connotations of strength and divine protection. While more commonly used as a feminine name in some European countries (particularly the Netherlands), the masculine version maintains similar roots. Quirine remains relatively uncommon internationally, giving it a distinctive quality. Boys with this name might appreciate its unique heritage and classical roots, which connect them to ancient Roman mythology and culture.
- Razi
Origin:
Diminutive of Raziah, HebrewMeaning:
"the Lord's secret"Description:
Modern and dynamic Hebrew name that could work for either sex.
- Saula
Description:
Saula is a masculine name with diverse cultural origins. In Lithuanian contexts, it relates to 'saulė' meaning 'sun,' carrying associations with light and warmth. The name also appears in Finnish mythology and has variants in several Baltic languages. In some Spanish-speaking regions, it functions as a variant of Saul, the biblical king's name meaning 'asked for' or 'prayed for' in Hebrew. The feminine-appearing ending '-a' on a masculine name creates an interesting linguistic contrast in English-speaking contexts, though this pattern is common in many world languages. Saula has never been common enough to rank on popularity charts in English-speaking countries, remaining a distinctive choice. The name offers melodic quality with its flowing vowels while maintaining connections to ancient traditions, potentially appealing to parents seeking a name with both historical depth and uncommon status.
- Rupprecht
Description:
Rupprecht is a masculine German name with strong historical roots, particularly in Bavaria. It is the German form of Robert, derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" meaning "fame" and "beraht" meaning "bright" or "famous." The name has royal associations, having been borne by several Bavarian princes and nobles throughout history, including Rupprecht, Crown Prince of Bavaria (1869-1955). Though uncommon outside German-speaking regions, Rupprecht maintains a certain dignified presence and historical gravitas. The pronunciation, roughly "ROOP-rekht," preserves its distinctive German character. For parents seeking a name with aristocratic German heritage and a strong, authoritative sound, Rupprecht offers historical depth while being rare enough to be truly distinctive in most contemporary settings.
- Isham
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"from the Iron One's estate"Description:
A noble surname from northern England that has occasionally been used as a first name.
- Volya
Description:
Volya is a unisex name of Slavic origin, though more commonly used for males in Russia and Eastern European countries. It derives from the Slavic word for 'freedom' or 'will,' carrying powerful connotations of liberty, determination, and independence. The name gained significance during periods of political upheaval in Eastern Europe, particularly in revolutionary contexts where the concept of freedom was central. While uncommon internationally, Volya resonates with those of Slavic heritage or parents drawn to names with meaningful concepts. Its brevity and melodic sound make it accessible across cultures despite its specific etymology. The name's association with personal autonomy and liberation gives it a philosophical depth beyond its simple two-syllable structure.
- Asai
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"shallow well"Description:
A Japanese surname that has been gathering momentum as a given name in the US, Asai means "shallow well". Chosen for more than 40 boys in a recent year, it is seven times more popular than it was a decade ago.
- Kellon
Description:
Kellon is a masculine name with a strong, contemporary feel. This uncommon name may have originated as a variant of Kellen or Kellan, which have Irish roots meaning 'powerful' or 'warrior.' The name carries a sense of strength and resilience while maintaining a modern appeal. Kellon's rhythmic two-syllable structure gives it a balanced, accessible quality that's easy to pronounce across cultures. While relatively rare in most naming databases, it has gained some recognition among parents seeking distinctive yet approachable options for their sons. The name has a robust quality that suggests confidence and leadership. Kellon works well in professional settings while maintaining a friendly, approachable character in casual contexts.
- Riki
Description:
Riki is a versatile masculine name with multicultural origins. In Japanese, Riki (力) means 'strength' or 'power,' making it a meaningful choice in Japanese culture. It also appears as a diminutive form of Richard in several European contexts, deriving from Germanic elements meaning 'powerful ruler.' In Māori tradition, Riki relates to concepts of smallness or youth. The name's brevity and friendly sound have contributed to its usage across various cultures. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Riki has maintained steady usage, particularly appreciated for its international appeal, easy pronunciation, and positive connotations of strength and vitality.
- Twilight
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"dusk"
- Taha
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"letters of the alphabet"Description:
These letters begin the 20th chapter of the Quran (surah Ta Ha). A noted bearer is Egyptian writer Taha Hussein, one of the most influential 20th-century Egyptian intellectuals, who was nominated for a Nobel prize in literature fourteen times.
- Lothair
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"famous army"Description:
English form of the Ancient Germanic name Chlodochar, modernized as Lothar. This was the name of a 9th-century Frankish king, the son of Louis I, who ruled the region called Lorraine. The name and word Lothario derives from the same source.
- Nakai
Description:
Nakai is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins, most prominently from Native American Navajo language where it means 'wanderer' or 'one who travels.' In Japanese, it can be written with characters meaning 'middle well' or various other combinations. The name has gained modest popularity in the United States in recent decades, appealing to parents seeking names with cultural significance and natural connections. Nakai's brief, distinctive sound with balanced vowels and consonants makes it both memorable and easy to pronounce across languages. The name resonates with qualities of independence, exploration, and natural harmony, making it attractive to parents looking for names that convey strength and a sense of journey or purpose.
- Clavio
Description:
Clavio is a masculine name with Latin roots, likely derived from 'clavis' meaning 'key' or possibly related to the name Clavius (after the renowned mathematician and astronomer Christopher Clavius). This uncommon name carries a distinguished, classical sound while remaining accessible. Particularly present in Italian and Spanish-speaking cultures, Clavio combines strength and sophistication. The name may also relate to musical terminology, as 'clavio' can reference keyboard instruments in some contexts. Though rare in mainstream usage, Clavio appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical resonance and a melodious quality. Its unique character offers the advantage of individuality while maintaining a traditional European sensibility.