Hey there, soon-to-be parents and baby name enthusiasts!
Are you looking for cool short boy names, organized and alphabetized? You’re in the right place!
Choosing the ideal name for your little bundle of joy can be quite the puzzle. You want it to be unique, charming, and effortlessly timeless. Don’t worry, we’ve been there too, and we’ve cracked the code!
Whether you have a long last name that you want to balance out, or just love the simplicity of a short name, we’ve got ideas for you.
We’ve curated (and alphabetized!) a list of the 100 best short baby boy names, from classic favorites to modern gems.
These names are handpicked to reflect individuality and exude that adorable charm you can’t resist.
So, let’s dive in!
One Syllable Boy Names
Ace: A short and punchy name, “Ace” represents excellence and is often associated with someone who excels in a particular field. It’s a name that exudes confidence and strength, making it perfect for a little boy destined for greatness.
Beau: A name of French origin, “Beau” means “handsome” or “beautiful.” This sweet boy name evokes a sense of elegance and grace, making it an ideal choice for a little boy with a striking appearance and a charming personality.
Ben: A short form of “Benjamin,” “Ben” is a name of Hebrew origin that means “son of the right hand.” This short boy’s name carries a sense of reliability and kindness, making it a popular and enduring choice for boys.
Blake: Originally a surname of Old English origin, “Blake” has transitioned into a popular first name. It often signifies someone with dark hair or a dark complexion and brings to mind qualities of strength and determination.
Bryce: A name of Celtic origin meaning “speckled” or “dappled.” It’s a name that evokes images of the natural world and carries a sense of uniqueness.
Boyd: A name of Scottish and Gaelic origin, “Boyd” means “yellow” or “blond.” It’s a name with historical significance and carries a sense of vibrancy.
Bret: A name of Celtic origin, “Bret” means “from Britain” or “Briton.” It’s a name with a touch of adventure and allure.
Buck: An English name that has a rugged and outdoorsy feel. “Buck” is associated with the male deer and symbolizes courage and virility.
Cole: A name of Old English origin, “Cole” means “coal” or “charcoal.” It’s a name that brings to mind warmth and strength, making it a popular choice for boys.
Cade: Of Old English origin, “Cade” means “round” or “barrel.” It’s a name that carries a sense of stability and reliability.
Clay: An English name that means “mud” or “earth.” It’s a name that evokes a sense of groundedness and simplicity.
Chet: Of Old English origin, “Chet” means “camp” or “fortress.” It’s a name that carries a sense of security and protection.
Cruz: Derived from Spanish and Portuguese, “Cruz” means “cross.” It’s a name that holds religious significance and is associated with courage and faith.
Dash: A modern and dynamic name, “Dash” signifies speed and energy, making it a perfect choice for an active and lively little boy.
Dean: With origins in Old English, “Dean” means “valley.” It’s a name that exudes a sense of calm and harmony.
Drew: Often used as a short form of “Andrew,” “Drew” means “manly” or “courageous.” It’s a name that carries a strong and masculine quality.
Dale: An Old English name that means “valley.” It’s a name that connects to nature and represents a peaceful and grounded personality.
Duke: Derived from the English word for a noble title, “Duke” has a regal and distinguished feel, perfect for a little boy with a strong presence.
Finn: With origins in Irish and Gaelic, “Finn” means “fair” or “white.” It’s a name associated with purity and brightness.
Fitz: Originally a surname of Norman origin, “Fitz” means “son of.” It’s a name that has a sophisticated and distinguished feel.
Ford: An English name that means “river crossing.” It’s a name that connects to nature and symbolizes fluidity and adaptability.
Gage: Derived from Old French, “Gage” means “pledge” or “oath.” It’s a name that signifies trust and commitment.
Glen: An Old English name, “Glen” means “narrow valley.” It’s a name that connects to nature and carries a sense of tranquility.
Gabe: Often used as a short form of “Gabriel,” “Gabe” means “God is my strength.” It’s a name that embodies faith and resilience.
Gus: A name with German origin, “Gus” is a short form of “Augustus” or “Gustav.” This one-syllable boy name exudes charm and friendliness.
Gray: A name of Old English origin, “Gray” means “gray-haired” or “gray-haired warrior.” It’s a name with a sophisticated and mature feel.
Hank: Often used as a short form of “Henry,” “Hank” means “ruler of the household.” It’s a name with a strong and authoritative presence.
Heath: An Old English name, “Heath” means “heathland” or “wasteland.” It’s a name that connects to nature and has a rugged charm.
Hale: With origins in Old English, “Hale” means “ingenious” or “wise.” It’s a name that represents cleverness and resourcefulness.
Jack: A name of English origin, “Jack” is a timeless classic that means “God is gracious.” It’s a name that exudes warmth and friendliness.
Jett: A modern and stylish name, “Jett” signifies “black gem” or “black stone.” It’s a name that represents strength and edginess.
Jace: A name with American origins, “Jace” is often associated with the Latin word “iustus,” meaning “just” or “righteous.” It’s a name that represents fairness and integrity.
Jude: Derived from Hebrew, “Jude” means “praised” or “thanked.” It’s a name with a strong and positive association.
Kai: A gender-neutral name with various origins, “Kai” means “sea” in Hawaiian, “forgiveness” in Japanese, and “rejoice” in Welsh. It’s a unisex name that carries a sense of peace and joy.
Kade: A name of Scottish origin, “Kade” means “round” or “barrel.” It’s a name that carries a sense of stability and reliability.
Kane: With roots in Irish and Gaelic, “Kane” means “warrior” or “battle.” It’s a name that represents strength and bravery.
Knox: An English name that means “round hill.” It’s a name that has a cool and modern vibe.
Luke: A name of Greek origin, “Luke” means “light” or “illumination.” It’s a name that carries a sense of brightness and positivity.
Lane: An English name that means “narrow pathway.” It’s a name that symbolizes direction and purpose.
Mace: Derived from Old French, “Mace” means “a heavy club.” It’s a name that signifies strength and power.
Max: A name of Latin origin, “Max” means “greatest.” It’s a name that exudes strength and leadership.
Mark: An English name that means “to mark” or “a sign.” It’s a classic name that carries a sense of significance.
Matt – Matt” is a delightful and classic baby boy name that is four letters long. It is often used as a short form of the name “Matthew,” which has Hebrew origins and means “gift of God.” “Matt” carries a sense of familiarity and friendliness, making it a popular choice for boys.
Nate: A short form of “Nathan” or “Nathaniel,” “Nate” means “gift of God.” It’s a name that carries a sense of divine favor.
Neil: A name of Irish and Gaelic origin, “Neil” means “champion” or “cloud.” It’s a name with a strong and noble character.
Nile: Of Egyptian and Arabic origin, “Nile” is the name of the famous river. It’s a name with a sense of flow and majesty.
Oak: A nature name that refers to the strong and mighty oak tree. It’s a name that symbolizes stability and endurance.
Port: A unique and modern name, “Port” refers to a harbor or a place of refuge.
Piers: Of Old Greek origin, “Piers” means “rock” or “stone.” It’s a name with a solid and dependable nature.
Pace: An English name that means “peaceful.” It’s a name that carries a sense of serenity and calmness.
Puck: With origins in Old English and Dutch, “Puck” means “elf” or “mischievous sprite.” It’s a name with a playful and whimsical charm.
Park: A name that refers to a park or an enclosed area. It’s a sweet baby boy name with a modern and nature-inspired feel.
Paul: A name of Latin origin, “Paul” means “small” or “humble.” It’s a name that represents modesty and kindness.
Pax: Derived from Latin, “Pax” means “peace.” It’s a name that carries a sense of tranquility and harmony.
Penn: An English name that means “hill.” It’s a short and distinctive name choice.
Pete: Often used as a short form of “Peter,” “Pete” means “rock” or “stone.” It’s a name with a strong and sturdy character.
Quinn: Of Irish origin, “Quinn” means “wise” or “counsel.” It’s a name that carries a sense of intelligence and wisdom.
Quest: A unique and adventurous name that refers to a search or journey. It’s a name that represents curiosity and exploration.
Quade: With origins in Old English, “Quade” means “the fourth.” It’s a name with a numerical association and a strong sound.
Quill: Derived from Old English and Old French, “Quill” refers to a feather or a pen. It’s a name with a creative and artistic vibe.
Raye: Derived from Old English, “Raye” means “wise protector.” It’s a name that combines wisdom and strength.
Reid: Derived from Old English, “Reid” means “red-haired” or “ruddy complexion.” It’s a name with a strong and distinctive sound.
Rex: A Latin name that means “king.” It’s a name that carries a sense of authority and leadership.
Rhys: With origins in Welsh, “Rhys” means “enthusiasm” or “ardor.” It’s a name with a lively and energetic nature.
Rowe: An English name that means “path” or “stream.” It’s a name with a simple and nature-inspired charm.
Sam: A short form of “Samuel” or “Samson,” “Sam” means “heard by God.” It’s a name with a timeless and friendly appeal.
Seth: Originating from the Hebrew word for “appointed” or “substitute.” It’s a name with a sense of purpose and significance.
Sean: An Irish name, “Sean” means “God is gracious.” It’s a name with a strong and traditional character.
Scott: Derived from the Old English word meaning “from Scotland” or “a Gael.” It’s a name with a proud and cultural connection.
Sage: A nature-inspired name that refers to a wise and knowledgeable person. It’s a name with a sense of wisdom and enlightenment.
Skye: With origins in Old Norse, “Skye” refers to a cloud or an island. It’s a name with a dreamy and adventurous vibe.
Saul: Of Hebrew origin, “Saul” means “asked for” or “prayed for.” It’s a name with a strong and meaningful history.
Sol: Derived from Hebrew, “Sol” means “sun.” It’s a name that represents brightness and warmth.
Stone: A nature-inspired name that refers to a solid and enduring material. It’s a name with a rugged and cool vibe.
Stef: A short form of “Stefan” or “Stephen,” “Stef” means “crowned” or “garlanded.” It’s a name with a regal and royal feel.
Shane: An Irish name, “Shane” means “God is gracious.” It’s a name with a timeless and friendly appeal.
Storm: A powerful and unique name that refers to a strong weather phenomenon. It’s a name with a bold and adventurous character. It is one of the most unique baby boy names on the list.
Troy: With origins in Greek mythology, “Troy” refers to the ancient city of Troy. It’s a name with a sense of history and grandeur.
Tate: An English name that means “cheerful” or “pleasant.” It’s a name with a positive and joyful vibe.
Tyce: With origins in Old English, “Tyce” means “fiery” or “high-spirited.” It’s a name with a strong and lively nature.
Taj: Derived from Arabic and Persian, “Taj” means “crown” or “king.” It’s a name with a regal and majestic feel.
Tris: Often used as a short form of “Tristan” or “Christopher,” “Tris” has a modern and cool sound.
Trev: A short form of “Trevor” or “Trever,” “Trev” means “big village” or “homestead.” It’s a name with a warm and friendly appeal.
True: A unique and meaningful name that represents authenticity and truthfulness.
Thane: Of Scottish and Gaelic origin, “Thane” means “landholder” or “nobleman.” It’s a name with a distinguished and noble character.
Thor: Derived from Norse mythology, “Thor” refers to the powerful god of thunder. It’s a name with a strong and heroic association.
Trey: “Trey” is a wonderful baby boy name that has its origins in Old French. It is a short and stylish name that means “three” or “third.” The name “Trey” is often used as a nickname or given to a third-born child in the family.
Vale: An English name that means “valley.” It’s a name with a serene and peaceful nature.
Vic: A short form of “Victor” or “Vincent,” “Vic” means “conqueror” or “prevailing.”
Von: This Germanic name means “from” or “of.”
Vance: Of Latin origin, “Vance” means “marshland” or “thresher.”
Vann: Of Welsh origin, “Vann” means “small” or “junior.” It’s a name with a charming and youthful feel.
Vaughn: Derived from Welsh, “Vaughn” means “small” or “little.” It’s a name with a sense of endearment and tenderness.
Vince: A short form of “Vincent” or “Vincenzo,” “Vince” means “conquering” or “prevailing.” It’s a name with a strong and determined character.
Wes: A short form of “Wesley” or “Weston,” “Wes” is a modern and trendy name choice.
Will: Often used as a short form of “William,” “Will” means “strong-willed warrior” or “protector.”
Wade: Derived from Old English, “Wade” means “able to go” or “river crossing.” It’s a name with a sense of adventure and movement.
Wren: A nature-inspired name that refers to a small songbird. It’s a name with a gentle and melodic feel.
West: An English name that means “from the west.” It’s a name with a sense of direction and exploration.
Wolf: Derived from Old English and Germanic, “Wolf” means “wolf.” It’s a name with a strong and wild nature.
Wayne: Of English origin, “Wayne” means “wagon maker” or “craftsman.” It’s a name with a skilled and industrious connotation.
Wells: An English name that refers to a well or a water source. It’s a name with a simple and nature-inspired charm.
Yale: An English name that means “fertile upland” or “height.” It’s a name with a strong and distinguished sound.
York: An English name that means “wild boar” or “from the yew tree estate.” It’s a name with a strong and nature-inspired character.
Yule: An English name that refers to the Christmas season. It’s a name with a warm and festive feel.
Zane: Of Hebrew origin, “Zane” means “gift from God.” It’s a name with a sense of specialness and blessings.
Zeke: Of Hebrew origin, “Zeke” is a short form of “Ezekiel” and means “God strengthens.” It’s a name with a sense of divine support.
Zaid: Derived from Arabic, “Zaid” means “to prosper” or “to increase.” It’s a name with a sense of growth and abundance.
Zev: Of Hebrew origin, “Zev” means “wolf.” This is a short first name with a strong and wild character.
Zen: Derived from Chinese, “Zen” means “meditation” or “absorption.” It’s a name with a serene and spiritual connotation.
Classic Short Boy Names
These popular baby boy names are short, classic, and timeless:
Adam: A timeless and biblical name, “Adam” holds the meaning of “man” or “earthly.” It’s a name of great significance, symbolizing the first man in Abrahamic traditions. With a sense of groundedness and humility, “Adam” remains a popular choice and common name for boys.
Andy: A friendly and approachable name, “Andy” is often a diminutive of “Andrew.” It brings to mind a warm and amiable personality, making it a great choice for a little boy who is sure to make friends wherever he goes.
Abel: A name of Hebrew origin, “Abel” means “breath” or “vapor.” In biblical accounts, Abel is known as the virtuous son of Adam and Eve. This traditional name evokes a sense of purity and spirituality, making it a meaningful and cherished choice for parents seeking a name with deep roots.
Alan: With origins in Old Irish and Old German, “Alan” means “harmony” or “peaceful.” It’s a name that portrays a calm and serene nature, making it suitable for a little boy with a gentle and balanced personality.
Alec: A name often seen as a short form of “Alexander,” “Alec” is derived from Greek word for “defender of the people.” It carries an air of strength and protection, making it an excellent choice for a boy who stands up for what’s right.
Alex: A timeless classic, “Alex” is a versatile name that can be a short form of both “Alexander” and “Alexandra.” This popular name carries an air of intelligence and charm, suitable for a boy with a bright and friendly personality.
Erik: A name with Scandinavian and Germanic roots, “Erik” means “eternal ruler.” It’s a name that represents strength and leadership qualities.
Ian: This Scottish name means “God is gracious.” It’s a name that conveys a sense of divine favor and kindness.
Isaac: A variant of the name “Isaac,” “Isac” means “laughter” or “he will laugh.” It’s a name with a joyful and cheerful vibe.
Joel: With origins in Hebrew, “Joel” means “Yahweh is God.” It’s a name that carries a sense of faith and devotion.
Ryan: An Irish name that means “little king” or “illustrious.” It’s a name with a regal and dignified appeal.
Popular short boy names can be a great way to choose something simple and familiar for your baby that rolls off the tongue.
Modern Names
Here are our top picks for names that are short and sweet with a modern flair:
Arlo: A name of Old English origin, “Arlo” means “fortified hill.” It has a rustic and endearing quality, and its rising popularity adds a touch of modernity to its timeless charm.
Cael: A name of Irish origin, “Cael” means “slender” or “slim.” It’s a name that has an elegant and sophisticated feel.Cain: With roots in Hebrew, “Cain” means “acquired” or “possessed.” It’s a name with biblical origins, known as the firstborn son of Adam and Eve.
Dane: A name of Old English origin, “Dane” means “from Denmark.” It’s a name that denotes strength and resilience.
Enzo: A name of Italian origin, “Enzo” is a short form of “Lorenzo” and means “ruler of the estate.” It’s a name that carries an air of authority and charisma.
Liam: With origins in Irish, “Liam” is a shortened form of “William” and means “strong-willed warrior.” It’s a name with a blend of determination and charisma.
Onyx: A name derived from the precious black gemstone “onyx.” It’s a unique and stylish name choice.
Owen: A name of Welsh origin, “Owen” means “young warrior” or “well-born.” It’s a name that carries a sense of strength and nobility.
Ozzy: Often used as a short form of “Oswald” or “Oscar,” “Ozzy” is a cool and modern name choice.
Zion: An English name that refers to a biblical place and means “highest point” or “fortress.” It’s a name with a strong and powerful association.
Ziggy: An English name that means “victorious protector” or “victorious peace.” It’s a name with a cool and modern vibe.
Unique Boy Names
These unique short boy names will mark your baby boy’s individuality right from the start:
Amir: With origins in Arabic and Hebrew, “Amir” means “prince” or “leader.” It bestows a sense of regal dignity upon the bearer and is a name associated with strength, authority, and nobility.
Boaz: A name of Hebrew origin, “Boaz” means “strength” or “swiftness.” It is a name with deep historical and biblical roots, and it conveys a sense of power and resilience, making it a strong and meaningful choice for a little boy.
Elio: Derived from Italian and Spanish, “Elio” means “sun.” It’s a name that symbolizes brightness and warmth.
Ezio: Of Greek origin, “Ezio” means “eagle.” It’s a name that evokes a sense of power and majesty.
Ewan: Derived from Scottish and Gaelic, “Ewan” means “young warrior” or “born of the yew tree.” It’s a name with a timeless and brave essence.
Idan: With origins in Hebrew, “Idan” means “era” or “time.” It’s a name that represents a new beginning and a bright future.
Nash: An English name that means “by the ash tree.” It’s a name with a nature-inspired and stylish appeal.
Orin: An Irish name that means “fair-haired” or “pale-skinned.” It’s a name with a gentle and elegant feel.
More Short Boy Names
Cody: A name with Irish and Gaelic origins, “Cody” means “helpful” or “cushion.” It’s a name that signifies a caring and supportive nature.
Ezra: A name of Hebrew origin, “Ezra” means “help” or “assistance.” It’s a name that carries a sense of compassion and support.
Evan: Derived from Welsh, “Evan” means “young warrior” or “the Lord is gracious.” It’s a name with a strong and resilient character.
Eli: A name of Hebrew origin, “Eli” means “ascended” or “uplifted.” It’s a name that exudes wisdom and spirituality.
Emir: With origins in Arabic and Turkish, “Emir” means “prince” or “commander.” It’s a name that denotes leadership and strength.
Hugo: This German name means “mind” or “intellect.” It’s a name that carries an air of wisdom and intelligence.
Ivan: With roots in Slavic languages, “Ivan” is a variant of “John” and means “God is gracious.” It’s a name with a strong and timeless appeal.
Iker: A name of Basque origin, “Iker” means “visitation” or “visit from God.” This unusual name carries a sense of divine presence and blessing.
Ives: Derived from Old Germanic, “Ives” means “yew wood.” It’s a name that connects to nature and symbolizes strength and endurance.
Kian: Derived from Persian and Gaelic, “Kian” means “kingship” or “ancient.” It’s a name with a regal and timeless quality.
Leo: Derived from Latin, “Leo” means “lion.” It’s a name that represents courage and strength.
Luca: With Italian origins, “Luca” is a variant of “Lucas” and means “bringer of light.” It’s a name with a sense of illumination and guidance.
Milo: With roots in Germanic and Latin, “Milo” means “merciful” or “soldier.” It’s a name with a blend of gentleness and bravery.
Noah: A name of Hebrew origin, “Noah” means “rest” or “comfort.” It’s a name with significant biblical ties.
Nico: Derived from the Greek name “Nikos,” “Nico” means “victory.” It’s a name that exudes confidence and triumph.
Oscar: With roots in Old English and Old Norse, “Oscar” means “spear of the gods” or “champion warrior.” It’s a name that represents bravery and valor.
Otto: Derived from Germanic and Old High German, “Otto” means “wealth” or “prosperity.” It’s a name with a sense of abundance and fortune.
Paco: Derived from Spanish, “Paco” is a short form of “Francisco” and means “free man.” It’s a name with a lively and spirited vibe.
Quincy: Of Latin origin, “Quincy” means “fifth.” It’s a name with a numerical association and a classic feel.
Rory: Of Irish and Gaelic origin, “Rory” means “red king” or “red-haired.” It’s a name with a charming and spirited vibe.
Ronan: Of Irish and Gaelic origin, “Ronan” means “little seal.” It’s a name with a playful and endearing quality.
Remy: With origins in French and Latin, “Remy” means “oarsman” or “remedy.” It’s a name with a stylish and sophisticated appeal.
Silas: A name of Latin origin, “Silas” means “wood” or “forest.” It’s a name with a natural and earthy feel.
Soren: Of Danish origin, “Soren” means “stern” or “severe.” It’s a name with a strong and distinctive sound.
Theo: Derived from Greek, “Theo” means “God” or “divine.” It’s a name that carries a sense of spirituality and reverence.
Tobin: An Irish name that means “from Tobias” or “God is good.” It’s a name with a blend of tradition and positivity.
Uri: An Hebrew name that means “my light” or “my flame.” It’s a name that carries a sense of brightness and warmth.
Ulric: Derived from Old High German, “Ulric” means “prosperity” or “power of the wolf.” It’s a name with a strong and noble quality.
Usher: An English name that means “doorkeeper” or “usher.” It’s a name with a sense of responsibility and guidance.
Umar: With origins in Arabic, “Umar” means “flourishing” or “thriving.” It’s a name that represents growth and prosperity.
Uriah: Of Hebrew origin, “Uriah” means “God is my light.” It’s a name with a spiritual and meaningful significance.
Urban: Derived from Latin, “Urban” means “of the city” or “urbane.” It’s a name with a sophisticated and cultured vibe.
Ugo: An Italian name that means “mind” or “intellect.” It’s a name that carries a sense of wisdom and intelligence.
Upton: An English name that means “upper town” or “higher settlement.” It’s a name with a strong and distinguished sound.
Uziel: Of Hebrew origin, “Uziel” means “God is my strength.” It’s a name that exudes power and determination.
Vito: Of Italian origin, “Vito” means “life” or “alive.” It’s a name with a vibrant and energetic vibe.
Wyatt: An English name that means “brave in war” or “little warrior.” It’s a name with a strong and courageous vibe.
Yuri: Of Russian origin, “Yuri” means “farmer” or “earthworker.” It’s a name with a down-to-earth and industrious vibe.
Yves: Derived from Old Germanic, “Yves” means “yew wood” or “archer.” It’s a name with a timeless and sophisticated feel.
Yaron: A Hebrew name that means “to sing” or “to shout.” It’s a name with a musical and joyful connotation.
Yahir: Derived from Arabic, “Yahir” means “bright” or “shining.” It’s a name with a radiant and positive vibe.
Selecting the perfect name for your baby boy is an exciting and important decision.
I hope this comprehensive list of short baby names is an inspiration to you!
Whether you prefer classic elegance, nature-inspired themes, modern flair, or something entirely different, there is a short name on this list to suit your preferences.
Remember to consider the sound, meaning, and compatibility with the first name when making your choice. Ultimately, the middle name is the one that resonates with you and adds a touch of personal significance to their name.
I wish you health and joy on your journey with your new little one.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
