15,000+ Two-Syllable Boy Names

  1. Lotus
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lotus flower"
    • Description:

      The lotus is a meaningful symbol in many East Asian cultures, where it symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. As a name, it's much more common among baby girls, but a small number of boys are named Lotus each year.
  2. Lexi
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Alexandra, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      Lexi is technically unisex though used much more often for girls in the US, where it ranks among the female Top 100.
  3. Herschel
    • Description:

      Herschel is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, derived from 'Hirsch' meaning 'deer' or 'stag,' symbolizing gentleness and swiftness. It was traditionally used as a diminutive of the Hebrew name Tzvi, which carries the same meaning. The name gained recognition through notable bearers like astronomer Sir William Herschel, who discovered Uranus, and various Jewish scholars and rabbis throughout history. While popular among Jewish communities in the early 20th century, Herschel has become less common in recent decades. However, it retains a dignified, intellectual quality that appeals to those drawn to traditional or family-honoring names. Its distinctive sound and rich cultural heritage give it a unique character among contemporary name choices.

  4. Talmadge
    • Origin:

      English surname, Old French, Norman
    • Meaning:

      "pouch, knapsack; ringing of the bell"
    • Description:

      Distinctive Talmadge could be an Anglo-Saxon name and English surname that was originally given to a person who carried a knapsack or pack, for example, a traveller or a pedlar. It comes from the Old French word, "talemache".
  5. Nereus
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Meaning:

      "water"
    • Description:

      The name of the father of the sea nymphs -- or one of its shorter forms such as Nereo or Nerio -- would be somewhat easier for a child to carry than Neptune. The name Nereus is largely forgotten but it certainly could rise again along with Atticus and Cassius and other ancient Greek brethren.
  6. Arin
    • Description:

      Arin is a versatile name used for both boys and girls, though more commonly masculine in many traditions. It has multiple origins, including Hebrew roots where it means 'enlightened,' Turkish origins where it signifies 'pure,' and possible Celtic connections where it may relate to 'Ireland.' This multicultural name has grown in usage since the late 20th century but remains relatively uncommon. The name's simplicity and soft sound give it contemporary appeal while its diverse cultural connections provide depth and meaning. Arin works well cross-culturally and offers a more distinctive alternative to popular names like Aaron or Erin. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it practical while its international character gives it a cosmopolitan quality.

  7. Quadir
    • Description:

      Quadir is a masculine name with possible roots in Arabic naming traditions, likely derived from 'Qadir' or 'Abdul Qadir.' In Arabic, 'qadir' (قادر) means 'capable' or 'powerful,' and is one of the 99 attributes of Allah in Islamic tradition, Al-Qadir (The Able, The Capable). The spelling variation with 'Qu-' rather than 'K-' or 'Q-' likely reflects phonetic adaptation or transliteration preferences in different languages and regions. The name has been documented in various Muslim communities worldwide and gained some recognition in the United States particularly from the late 20th century onward. Quadir represents the rich tradition of meaningful names with spiritual significance while maintaining a distinctive sound and identity in contemporary naming practices.
  8. Giuseppe
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      This form of Joseph is an enduring classic in Italy where it remains in the Top 20. In the States it's been hovering under the radar for decades, but its spirited, distinctive-yet-familiar sounds might help it catch on, as Giovanni has
  9. Howie
    • Description:

      Howie is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Howard, though it's now often used as an independent given name. Howard derives from the Old Norse name Hávarðr, meaning "high or chief guardian." Howie carries a friendly, approachable quality typical of nicknames ending with the -ie suffix. The name reached its peak popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, aligning with the success of figures like musician Howie Day and television host Howie Mandel. While retaining a certain boyish charm, Howie has declined in usage in recent decades, giving it a distinctive retro quality that might appeal to parents looking for a friendly, unpretentious name with historical roots.

  10. Alvar
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "elf warrior"
    • Description:

      This name woould be hard to picture in a contemporary kindergarten, though it does have some cultural cred via Finnish architect and furniture designer Alvar Aalto. Aalto would actually make a more interesting choice.
  11. Aariv
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "king of wisdom"
    • Description:

      Aariv is connected to the Hindu god Krisha, who represents wisdom.
  12. Strider
    • Origin:

      English word name
    • Meaning:

      "walker; advancer"
    • Description:

      Strider is a name that walks the walk. It blends into many current styles — cowboy names, aspirational word names, and intensely masculine names — and has a cool, calm, and collected aura.
  13. Canon
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "clergyman, law, oeuvre"
    • Description:

      A variant of the surname Cannon, or an English word name with several possible meanings. A canon is a clergyman, as well as a rule or law – especially within religious doctrine. In the arts, canon is also the name of the whole oeuvre or work of a particular writer or creator.
  14. Ysai
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Isaiah, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "salvation of the Lord"
    • Description:

      Ysai is a less-known variation of the popular Isaiah.
  15. Locryn
    • Origin:

      Cornish
    • Description:

      This dashing Cornish name comes from the name of a legendary British king, Locrinus, who married Gwendolen, the daughter of the "founder of Cornwall" Corineus. Locrinus' name derives from the ancient English kingdom Loegria (from Welsh Lloegr).
  16. Iori
    • Origin:

      Japanese, Welsh
    • Description:

      In Welsh, a diminutive of Iorwerth. As a Japanese name, Iori stands alone.
  17. Quintin
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "fifth"
    • Description:

      Both this form and Quentin are authentic modern forms of the Roman family name Quintus. Your choice. In the US, this spelling lags behind Quentin and Quinton.
  18. Rolan
    • Description:

      Rolan is a masculine name with multiple possible origins, including as a variation of Roland, which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'fame' and 'land,' referring to someone famous throughout the land. It may also have Slavic roots in some contexts. This concise, strong-sounding name carries heroic associations through the legendary medieval knight Roland, featured prominently in French epic literature. While never reaching mainstream popularity in English-speaking countries, Rolan has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its straightforward pronunciation, masculine sound, and cross-cultural adaptability. The name projects qualities of bravery, strength, and adventure while offering a subtle alternative to the more common Roland variation.
  19. Kaleo
    • Origin:

      Hawaiian
    • Meaning:

      "the voice"
    • Description:

      Kaleo is one of a number of fast-rising Hawaiian names, thanks to its cool combination of sounds reminiscent of Kainoa and Mateo.
  20. Banner
    • Origin:

      English occupational name
    • Meaning:

      "flag bearer"
    • Description:

      An undiscovered option among occupational names, as of 2023, Banner has never been used for more than 100 baby boys in a single year. It does have charm however, much due to its associations with fêtes and phrases like "a banner year".