Five Syllable Boy Names
Five syllable boy names are long and lyrical, perfect for pairing with shorter surnames or for giving plenty of options for nicknames as your child moves through life.
The most popular five syllable names for boys in the US right now are Emiliano, which ranks in the Top 200 boy names, and Maximilian, which makes the Top 600 boy names in the US and the Top 100 in several European countries, including Austria, Germany and Switzerland. It also ranks just outside of the Top 150 in England and Wales, making it a distinguished choice with a distinctly British flair. Uncommon and unique five syllable boys' names we recommend include intriguing international gems like Bartolomeo and Michelangelo, as well as ancient and mythological monikers like Aristophanes and Ozymandias. If you're looking for a longer baby boy name to balance out a short surname – or even if you just love long, majestic names for boys – then this is the list for you! Browse all of our favorite five syllable boy names below, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.
RELATED:
- Maximilian
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"greatest"Description:
This name once seemed a bit grand and pompous for an American baby boy, but a significant number of parents are now preferring it as a substantial platform for the nickname Max, among them Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony, who chose it for their twin son.
- Emiliano
Origin:
Italian and Spanish variation of EmilMeaning:
"rival"Description:
Emiliano is an appealing Latinate version of Emil, with the same gentle sounds but additional flair. Popular in Chile and Mexico, where it ranks in the Top 20, Emiliano is also a rising name in the US.
- Dionysius
Origin:
Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"god of Nysa"Description:
Dionysius derives from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, revelry and fertility. This Romanized spelling has been used for poets, soldiers, and saints throughout the centuries, but is hardly ever seen today.
- Ozymandias
Origin:
Greek variant of Ramses, EgyptianMeaning:
"begotten by Ra, the Sun God"Description:
Percy Bysshe Shelley got the name for one of his most famous poems -- a sonnet about the insignificance of man's labors in the vastness of time -- from the Greek name for Ancient Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses II.
- Vercingetorix
Origin:
GaulishMeaning:
"king over warriors"Description:
An ancient Gaulish king with a cumbersome name and history. Vercingetorix was the leader of the Arverni tribe, who united the Gauls in a revolt against Roman forces during Julius Caesar's Gallic Wars. He was ultimately defeated, brought to Rome, and executed.
- Desiderio
Origin:
SpanishMeaning:
"desired one"Description:
Desiderio was the full name of the Cuban bandleader who famously Loved Lucy. There was also a Saint Desiderio. Major attraction: the great nickname Desi.
- Hieronymus
Origin:
German variation of JeromeMeaning:
"sacred name"Description:
This cognate of Jerome (of all things), familiar via the Dutch painter of fantastical scenes, H. Bosch, would appeal only to the most audacious, intrepid, attention-seeking baby namer. It is, however, still used in Germany, especially in Catholic Bavaria and in the north German Rhineland.
- Aureliano
Origin:
ItalianMeaning:
"gold"Description:
Italian variation of Aurelius.
- Aristophanes
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"of perfect appearance"Description:
A dramatic name which – fittingly – belonged to an Ancient Greek playwright, known as the father of comedy.
- Michelangelo
Origin:
Combination of Michael and AngeloDescription:
The ultimate artist's name would make an unforgettable impression. It's the first name of famed Italian director Antonioni.
- Emanuele
Origin:
Italian variation of Emmanuel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
A fresh, Italianized take on the Hebrew classic Emmanuel. But beware of the similarities to the feminine name Emmanuelle.
- Quetzalcoatl
Origin:
Nahuatl, Native AmericanMeaning:
"feathered snake"Description:
The creator god of the sky, wind, and knowledge in Aztec mythology, also associated with the morning star. In Mesoamerican myth Quetzalcoatl is also a mythical hero from whom almost all Mesoamerican peoples claim descent.
- Bartolomeo
Description:
Bartolomeo is a masculine Italian form of Bartholomew, derived from the Aramaic name Bar-Talmay, meaning 'son of Talmai' or 'son of the furrows.' The name gained prominence through Saint Bartholomew, one of Jesus's twelve apostles. Throughout Italian history, notable bearers include the navigator Bartolomeo Colombo (Christopher Columbus's brother) and the Renaissance painter Bartolomeo Veneto. While common in Italy, particularly in previous generations, its usage has declined in recent decades as shorter names have become fashionable. Outside Italy, it appears primarily in Italian diaspora communities. Bartolomeo carries a strong classical feel with its melodious four syllables and distinctive Italian ending, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and Mediterranean flair.
- Sebastiano
Description:
Sebastiano is the Italian form of Sebastian, a name with ancient Greek and Latin origins. Derived from 'Sebastianos,' meaning 'from Sebastia' (an ancient city), or associated with the Greek 'sebastos' meaning 'venerable' or 'revered.' The name carries historical significance through numerous saints and notable figures throughout European history. In Italy, Sebastiano remains a classic choice with steady popularity. Outside Italy, it appeals to parents seeking a melodic Italian alternative to the more common Sebastian. The name conveys a sense of dignity, artistic sensibility, and Mediterranean heritage, enhanced by its flowing four-syllable pronunciation and romantic Italian flair.
- Feliciano
Description:
Feliciano is a masculine name of Latin and Italian origin derived from "felix" meaning "happy," "fortunate," or "lucky." This melodious name carries a naturally joyful connotation and has been used throughout Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Latin American countries for centuries. Perhaps its most famous bearer is the Puerto Rican musician José Feliciano. The name experienced moderate popularity in Spanish-speaking countries but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic appeal. Feliciano has four musical syllables that flow beautifully, making it both distinctive and pleasant to pronounce. The name suggests a positive outlook and sunny disposition, reflecting its literal meaning of happiness and good fortune.
- Athanasius
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"immortal"Description:
A weighty Greek name borne by several early saints and patriarchs of Alexandria.
- Bonaventura
Description:
Bonaventura is a masculine name with Latin origins, meaning 'good fortune' or 'good luck.' Composed of 'bona' (good) and 'ventura' (fortune), this name carries auspicious connotations of prosperity and positive outcomes. It gained prominence through St. Bonaventure, a 13th-century Franciscan theologian and Cardinal. Popular primarily in Italy and other Catholic countries, the name has historical depth while remaining relatively uncommon today. Bonaventura might be shortened to friendlier nicknames like Bona or Ventura. The name conveys a sense of learned dignity and spiritual heritage, making it appeal to parents seeking a name with historical significance and positive meaning.
- Anastasio
Origin:
Greek, Italian and SpanishMeaning:
"resurrection"Description:
This dramatic Italian and Spanish variant of the Greek name Anastasius (masculine form of Anastasia) feels lighter and livelier than its five syllables would suggest.
- Valeriano
Description:
Valeriano is a distinguished masculine name with Latin and Italian roots, derived from the Roman family name Valerius, meaning 'strong' or 'healthy.' This extended form of Valerian adds a distinctly Mediterranean flair through the Italian '-o' ending. Historically significant, it was borne by several saints and a Roman emperor. Particularly popular in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, Valeriano carries an air of classical dignity while remaining accessible. The name offers versatile nicknames like 'Val' or 'Valerio.' Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, it has maintained consistent usage in Hispanic and Italian communities, where it's appreciated for its strong meaning, historical connections, and melodious quality.
- Cornelianus
Origin:
Variation of Cornelius, Late Roman, LatinMeaning:
"horn"Description:
This elaborate form of the already striking Cornelius comes from a Late Roman family name, and was born by rhetorician Sulpicius Cornelianus in the 2nd Century.