Two Syllable Boy Names

Pleasant and accessible and not as widely-used as some other African names.

Sekou, also written as Sékou, is a given name as well as a title synonymous with the Arabic Sheikh. It comes from the Fula language of West Africa, and is widely used among the Fula people.

This short form of Antonio has long been used as an independent name, and would make a strong international choice.

A geographical name in Israel, where Mount Nitai is located.

This obscure Zulu name was chosen by Stevie Wonder.

Timeo is a Top 100 name in France but is virtually unknown in the English-speaking world. Appearing briefly in the New Testament and related to Timon, a Shakespearean name, Timeo is a valid possibility for parents looking for an unusual name with cross-cultural cred.

Malek may be a variation of the more popular Malik, but it's most familiar via actor Ramy Malek.

Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall's name probably originated as "Thoroughgood" -- quite a mouthful and a lot to live up to.

A super quirky and upbeat choice, if it can ever shake off its ubiquitous-guy Woody Allen identity.

Phenex is a demon known as one of the Great Marquis of Hell, ruling over legions of demons. He is known for science and poetry.

For basketball fans, in honor of Magic Johnson. Or anyone who believes in magic.

Pepijn, with its emphasis on the second syllable pronounced with a long i to rhyme with pine, is in the Dutch Top 100. Clipped, energetic-sounding nickname names such as Pep and Pip are stylish in The Netherlands. Could that translate to the English speaking world? Stay tuned.

Unisex in its native country but especially popular for boys, this cool Finnish nature name would be perfect for the new addition to your family tree.

A relatively popular Arabic and Sanskrit name, which has a great positive meaning no matter which origin you claim.

This was a common name in early Ireland, borne by numerous saints, but pronunciation problems would make it prohibitive here.

While we would think of Pearlie as a girlish pet form of Pearl today, it was a unisex name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among males, it was disproportionately used among African Americans.