100 Best Short Baby Boy Names Listed A–Z (2026)

Choosing a short, memorable baby boy name can feel like a big task — especially when you’re looking for something that’s timeless, easy to say, and full of personality. Whether you’re balancing a long last name, love the charm of one-syllable names, or simply want something clean and simple, this list brings together 100 of the best short boy names, alphabetized and easy to browse.

Below, you’ll find classic staples, modern favorites, and unique hidden gems — all in one place.

💡Looking for even more inspiration? Explore our full Baby Name Guide →

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Quick List of Short Boy Names

Ace • Beau • Ben • Blake • Bryce • Cole • Cruz • Dash • Dean • Finn • Ford • Gage • Hank • Jack • Jett • Jude • Kai • Knox • Luke • Max • Nate • Neil • Oak • Pax • Quinn • Reid • Rex • Rhys • Sam • Seth • Shane • Tate • Theo • Troy • Wells • Wyatt • Zane • Zeke

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One-Syllable Boy Names

Short, strong, and easy to pair with any last name, these one-syllable boy names offer timeless style in just a few letters.

Ace

A short and punchy name, Ace represents excellence and is often associated with someone who excels in a particular field. It exudes confidence and strength.

Beau

A French name meaning “handsome” or “beautiful,” charming and elegant. Explore our full list of middle names that go with Beau →

Ben

A short form of Benjamin, meaning “son of the right hand.” Dependable and kind.

Blake

Originally a surname, often associated with someone with dark features; strong and determined.

Bryce

A Celtic name meaning “speckled” or “dappled,” with a natural-world vibe.

Boyd

A Scottish and Gaelic name meaning “yellow” or “blond.”

Bret

Of Celtic origin, meaning “from Britain” or “Briton.”

Buck

An outdoorsy English name associated with courage and energy.

Cole

Old English for “coal,” symbolizing warmth and strength.

Cade

Old English for “round” or “barrel,” a name that feels grounded.

Clay

English for “earth” — simple and down-to-earth.

Chet

Old English for “camp” or “fortress.”

Cruz

Spanish/Portuguese for “cross,” often linked with courage and faith.

Dash

A modern, energetic name meaning speed and momentum.

Dean

Old English for “valley,” associated with calm and balance.

Drew

A short form of Andrew meaning “manly” or “courageous.”

Dale

Old English for “valley,” peaceful and grounded.

Duke

Regal and distinguished, meaning “leader.”

Finn

Irish/Gaelic: “fair” or “white,” symbolizing brightness.

Fitz

Norman surname meaning “son of,” sophisticated and classic.

Ford

English for “river crossing,” natural and adaptable.

Gage

Old French for “pledge” or “oath,” representing loyalty.

Glen

Old English for “narrow valley,” serene and natural.

Gabe

Short for Gabriel, meaning “God is my strength.”

Gus

Short for Augustus or Gustav, friendly and timeless.

Gray

Old English for “gray-haired” or “warrior.”

Hank

Short for Henry, meaning “ruler of the household.”

Heath

Old English for “heathland,” rugged and nature-inspired.

Hale

Old English for “ingenious” or “wise.”

Jack

English classic meaning “God is gracious.”

Jett

Modern name meaning “black stone,” sleek and strong.

Jace

American name associated with “just” or “righteous.”

Jude

Hebrew for “praised” or “thanked.”

Kai

Meaning varies: “sea” (Hawaiian), “forgiveness” (Japanese), “rejoice” (Welsh).

Kade

Scottish origin meaning “round” or “barrel.”

Kane

Irish/Gaelic for “warrior.”

Knox

English for “round hill,” bold and modern.

Luke

Greek for “light,” bright and uplifting.

Lane

English for “narrow path,” directional and meaningful.

Mace

Old French for a heavy club — strength and power.

Max

Latin for “greatest,” a strong classic.

Mark

English for “sign” or “mark,” meaningful and enduring.

Matt

Short for Matthew, meaning “gift of God.”

Nate

Short for Nathan/Nathaniel, meaning “gift of God.”

Neil

Irish/Gaelic for “champion.”

Nile

After the famed river; flowing and majestic.

Oak

Nature name symbolizing strength and endurance.

Port

Modern name referring to a harbor or refuge.

Piers

Old Greek meaning “rock.”

Pace

English for “peaceful.”

Puck

Old English/Dutch meaning “elf,” whimsical and playful.

Park

Modern nature-inspired name.

Paul

Latin name meaning “small” or “humble.”

Pax

Latin for “peace.”

Penn

English for “hill.”

Pete

Short for Peter, meaning “rock.”

Quinn

Irish for “wise” or “counsel.”

Quest

Meaning “journey” or “search.”

Quade

Old English meaning “fourth.”

Quill

Refers to a feather or pen — creative and artistic.

Raye

Old English: “wise protector.”

Reid

Old English for “red-haired.”

Rex

Latin for “king.”

Rhys

Welsh for “enthusiasm.”

Rowe

English for “stream” or “path.”

Sam

Short for Samuel, meaning “heard by God.”

Seth

Hebrew: “appointed.”

Sean

Irish for “God is gracious.”

Scott

Old English: “from Scotland.”

Sage

Nature name symbolizing wisdom.

Skye

Old Norse: cloud or island.

Saul

Hebrew: “prayed for.”

Sol

Hebrew: “sun.”

Stone

Nature name symbolizing strength.

Stef

Short for Stefan/Stephen, meaning “crowned.”

Shane

Irish for “God is gracious.”

Storm

Bold nature name.

Troy

Greek mythology; historic and strong.

Tate

English for “cheerful.”

Tyce

Old English for “fiery.”

Taj

Arabic/Persian: “crown.”

Tris

Short for Tristan/Christopher.

Trev

Short for Trevor.

True

Meaning authenticity and honesty.

Thane

Scottish/Gaelic for “landholder.”

Thor

Norse god of thunder.

Trey

Old French for “three,” often for a third-born.

Vale

English for “valley.”

Vic

Short for Victor/Vincent.

Von

Germanic for “from.”

Vance

Latin for “marshland.”

Vann

Welsh for “small.”

Vaughn

Welsh for “little.”

Vince

Short for Vincent, meaning “conquering.”

Wes

Short for Wesley/Weston.

Will

Short for William, meaning “protector.”

Wade

Old English for “river crossing.”

Wren

Nature name inspired by the bird.

West

English for “from the west.”

Wolf

Old English/Germanic, symbolizing strength.

Wayne

English for “wagon maker.”

Wells

English for “water source.”

Yale

English for “fertile upland.”

York

English for “from the yew estate.”

Yule

English name referring to Christmas.

Zane

Hebrew: “gift from God.”

Zeke

Short for Ezekiel, meaning “God strengthens.”

Zaid

Arabic for “to prosper.”

Zev

Hebrew: “wolf.”

Zen

Chinese for “meditation.”

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Classic Short Boy Names

These short boy names have stayed popular across generations — simple, familiar, and easy to love.

Adam

A timeless biblical name meaning “man” or “earth,” Adam has remained a classic choice for centuries thanks to its warm, grounded feel.

Andy

Often a shortened form of Andrew, Andy feels friendly and approachable, making it an easy everyday name that still carries traditional roots.

Abel

With Hebrew origins meaning “breath” or “vapor,” Abel has a simple sound but a long, meaningful history.

Alan

Meaning “harmony” or “peaceful,” Alan is a steady, classic name that has been used across many cultures.

Alec

A shorter form of Alexander, this name means “defender of the people” and adds a polished, classic vibe.

Alex

Strong, simple, and widely loved, Alex works across cultures and comes from the Greek “defender of mankind.”

Erik

A Scandinavian form of Eric meaning “eternal ruler,” this name blends strength with a clean, straightforward sound.

Ian

This Scottish name means “God is gracious.” Short, smooth, and timeless, Ian is both simple and full of meaning.

Isaac

A Hebrew name meaning “laughter,” Isaac carries a joyful, energetic feel while remaining a well-loved classic.

Joel

Meaning “Yahweh is God,” Joel is gentle, steady, and familiar — a classic name that has stayed popular for generations.

Ryan

This Irish name means “little king” and has been a favorite for decades thanks to its friendly, easygoing sound.

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Modern Short Boy Names

These short baby boy names feel current and stylish, blending contemporary sound with simple, easy-to-pronounce charm.

Arlo

A rising favorite, Arlo has Old English roots meaning “fortified hill.” It feels fresh, modern, and warm.

Cael

Of Irish origin meaning “slender,” Cael has a smooth, sleek sound that fits right in with modern boy names.

Cain

A bold name with Hebrew roots meaning “acquired,” Cain has a strong, simple sound.

Dane

Meaning “from Denmark,” Dane feels clean, crisp, and modern while still having traditional roots.

Enzo

An Italian name meaning “ruler of the estate,” Enzo blends European charm with a cool, modern vibe.

Liam

Short for William and meaning “strong-willed warrior,” Liam is one of the most popular modern boy names today.

Onyx

Inspired by the striking black gemstone, Onyx has a stylish, edgy sound perfect for parents seeking something bold and modern.

Owen

A Welsh name meaning “young warrior,” Owen balances a modern feel with gentle, classic roots.

Ozzy

A fun, upbeat name often short for Oswald or Oscar, Ozzy has a cool, rock-inspired vibe.

Zion

This name means “highest point” or “fortress” and carries a strong, modern sound.

Ziggy

Meaning “victorious protector,” Ziggy is playful, energetic, and unmistakably modern.

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Unique Short Boy Names

These short baby boy names are distinctive without feeling too out-there — memorable choices that stand out while staying simple and easy to say.

Amir

With Arabic and Hebrew origins meaning “prince” or “leader,” Amir carries a regal, dignified feel in just four letters.

Boaz

A Hebrew name meaning “strength,” Boaz is unique yet grounded, with deep historical roots.

Elio

This Italian and Spanish name means “sun,” giving it a bright, warm, and cheerful vibe.

Ezio

Of Greek origin meaning “eagle,” Ezio has a strong, striking sound with a hint of adventure.

Ewan

A Scottish and Gaelic name meaning “young warrior,” Ewan feels gentle, uncommon, and timeless.

Idan

Meaning “era” or “time” in Hebrew, Idan is short, modern, and distinctive without being complicated.

Nash

An English name meaning “by the ash tree,” Nash has a cool, contemporary feel.

Orin

This Irish name means “fair-haired” and has a soft, lyrical sound that makes it uniquely charming.

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More Short Boy Names

Here are even more short boy names to explore — a mix of nature-inspired picks, global favorites, and simple, timeless choices.

Cody

An Irish and Gaelic name meaning “helpful,” Cody has an easy, approachable sound.

Ezra

A Hebrew name meaning “help,” Ezra feels gentle, modern, and full of warmth.

Evan

Of Welsh origin meaning “young warrior” or “the Lord is gracious,” Evan is familiar, friendly, and versatile.

Eli

Meaning “ascended” or “uplifted” in Hebrew, Eli is short, meaningful, and widely loved.

Emir

An Arabic and Turkish name meaning “prince” or “commander,” Emir carries strength and confidence.

Hugo

A German name meaning “mind” or “intellect,” Hugo blends classic charm with modern appeal.

Ivan

A Slavic form of John meaning “God is gracious,” Ivan is strong, simple, and international.

Iker

A Basque name meaning “visitation,” Iker is distinctive and fast-rising in popularity.

Ives

Derived from Old Germanic and meaning “yew wood,” Ives has a soft, nature-inspired quality.

Kian

With Persian and Gaelic roots meaning “kingship,” Kian feels sleek, modern, and strong.

Leo

A Latin name meaning “lion,” Leo is bold, bright, and consistently popular.

Luca

Meaning “bringer of light,” Luca is warm, modern, and used around the world.

Milo

With Germanic and Latin roots meaning “merciful” or “soldier,” Milo is soft, sweet, and stylish.

Noah

A Hebrew name meaning “rest,” Noah is gentle, biblical, and widely beloved.

Nico

A Greek name meaning “victory,” Nico feels lively, modern, and universally appealing.

Oscar

Meaning “champion warrior,” Oscar is classic and strong with an earthy feel.

Otto

A German name meaning “wealth” or “prosperity,” Otto is short, vintage, and unmistakable.

Paco

A Spanish short form of Francisco meaning “free man,” Paco has a spirited, cheerful sound.

Quincy

A Latin name meaning “fifth,” Quincy is playful, rhythmic, and easy to say.

Rory

An Irish name meaning “red king,” Rory feels energetic and friendly.

Ronan

Meaning “little seal” in Irish and Gaelic, Ronan has a soft, nature-inspired charm.

Remy

A French and Latin name meaning “oarsman” or “remedy,” Remy feels modern and effortless.

Silas

Meaning “wood” or “forest” in Latin, Silas is earthy, warm, and quietly strong.

Soren

A Danish name meaning “stern,” Soren has a sleek sound and Scandinavian simplicity.

Theo

A Greek name meaning “divine,” Theo is bright, modern, and has become a favorite short form of Theodore.

Tobin

An Irish name meaning “from Tobias,” Tobin is unique but easy to pronounce.

Uri

A Hebrew name meaning “my light,” Uri is short, bright, and meaningful.

Ulric

A Germanic name meaning “prosperity” or “power of the wolf,” Ulric feels bold and historic.

Usher

An English name meaning “doorkeeper,” Usher is distinctive and rarely used.

Umar

An Arabic name meaning “flourishing,” Umar has a gentle yet strong presence.

Uriah

A Hebrew name meaning “God is my light,” Uriah carries depth and history.

Urban

A Latin name meaning “of the city,” Urban feels modern and refined.

Ugo

An Italian name meaning “mind,” Ugo is short, vintage, and unexpected.

Upton

Meaning “upper town,” Upton has a classic, buttoned-up feel.

Uziel

A Hebrew name meaning “God is my strength,” Uziel is powerful and distinctive.

Vito

An Italian name meaning “life,” Vito is vibrant and full of energy.

Wyatt

An English name meaning “brave in war,” Wyatt is sturdy, warm, and well-loved.

Yuri

A Slavic name meaning “farmer” or “earthworker,” Yuri is strong and gentle at the same time.

Yves

A French name meaning “yew wood,” Yves is short, elegant, and artistic.

Yaron

A Hebrew name meaning “to sing,” Yaron feels bright and uplifting.

Yahir

An Arabic name meaning “bright” or “shining,” Yahir has a modern, melodic sound.

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Related Baby Name Guides

• Classic baby boy names– For parents who love timeless, traditional choices.
• Modern baby boy names – Trend-forward picks with a fresh feel.
• Powerful baby boy names – Strong, bold options with meaning behind them.
• Best Four Letter Names For Your Baby – More option for short, succinct names.
• Full Baby Name Guide →