Sweet & Simple: 180 Cute Boy Names

Finding the perfect cute name for your baby boy can feel both exciting and overwhelming. These days, there are loads of cute boy names just ripe for the taking. That's a good thing, but it can also make naming your little one challenging. We've compiled a list of 180 cute baby boy names to get your wheels turning. From timeless classics like Theodore and Oliver to trendier options such as Finn and Knox, our collection includes names with adorable nicknames, sweet meanings, and charming sounds. Whether you're drawn to short and sweet names like Leo and Max, or prefer longer options like Sebastian or Benjamin, this comprehensive list offers plenty of inspiration for your precious little boy.

83 cute boy names

Popular and Adorable Names for Your Little One

Bay is a short and sweet name that means "to speak" in Slavic languages. It was also used to refer to someone with reddish-brown hair in Middle English.

In Celtic languages, Brian means "hill." This name is often translated as "high" or "noble."

Brook means "small stream." The name has English origins.

Callum can be traced back to Columba, a Latin name meaning "dove," the bird that symbolizes peace.

Scottish Carson means "son of the marsh dwellers." It fits right in with the trend of surnames becoming first names.

Colin has two origins: As a French name, it derives from a nickname for Nicolas, a Greek name meaning "victory of the people." As a Gaelic name, it derives from an Old Irish word meaning "cub."

Cooper is an occupational Old English name that means "barrel maker." Like many trade-inspired names, it has a subtle masculinity.

Cory (also spelled Corey) comes from a Celtic word meaning "cauldron."

Declan is an Old English name that means "full of goodness."

Devin has a number of meanings. It's derived from "divine" in Old French and means "poet" or "fawn" in French and Irish tradition.

Desmond just sounds masculine and regal – it's no surprise this name used to be a favorite among aristocrats. It's an Irish name meaning "from south Munster," a region in the Emerald Isle.

From Irish and Scottish regions, Douglas was used to refer to a person who lived near a river or "dark water."

Drake means "dragon" or "male duck." But the former is cooler, so let's go with that.

Dylan is a Welsh name. It means "son of the sea" or "born from the ocean."

Echo has roots in Greek mythology; it's the name of a nymph who pined for Narcissus until she was only left with her voice.

Elias, with its Hebrew origins, means "the Lord is my God."

Fabian is a Latin name that means "bean seller." It may not be the most inspiring meaning, but Fabian is still adorable.

Ferdinand is a German name with components that mean "bold journey." It's also popular in Spanish tradition.

Flanagan is traditionally an Irish surname meaning "ruddy" or "red."

Francisco is a Latin personal name commonly used among Spanish and Portuguese speakers.

Gage means "pledge" or "oath" in French and "fixed measure" in Middle English.

A popular Welsh and Irish name, Griffin comes from an Old French word meaning "bird of prey." It (not coincidentally) is the name of a magical creature with wings.

Holden means "from the hollow in the valley." It's also a literary name thanks to the protagonist of J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye.

Hugo has a Germanic root that collectively means "heart, mind, and spirit."

Ian is a Scottish name that means "God is gracious."

Ivan is the Russian and Slavic version of John. In Hebrew, it translates to "God is gracious."

Isaac is a popular Jewish name meaning "he who rejoices" or "he who laughs."

Kevin is an Irish name that means "handsome."

Kingston is an English name meaning "king's town" or "royal stone."

Kyrie has Greek origins and means "lord."

Levi is a Hebrew name meaning "joined."

An English name meaning "lake settlement," Lincoln has strong American heritage thanks to President Abraham Lincoln.

Logan is a Scottish and Gaelic name meaning "hollow."

Luca comes from the Latin name Lucas, which means "bringer of light" in Italian.

Mark is potentially related to the Roman god of war, Mars, and is short for Marcus.

Milo is a European name meaning "good" or "gentle."

Nasir is an Arabic name meaning "helper" or "protector." The name can also mean "granter of victory."

Niall is an Irish name meaning "champion."

Nishant is an Indian name that comes from Sanskrit words meaning "the end of night."

Nolan is an English and Irish surname meaning "noble" or "famous."

Olander is a habitational Swedish name that means "one from the island of Öland."

Onyx is a mineral that's not only beautiful but also said to have healing powers. In Greek tradition, Onyx means "fingernail" because the Greeks believed the pink version of the stone resembled a fingernail.

Osias comes from a Hebrew word meaning "salvation" or "my strength is God."

Pablo is the Spanish equivalent of Paul, which derives from a Roman family name that means "little" or "humble."

Pedro, a Spanish and Portuguese form of Peter, means "strong" or "rock."

Preston is a British name meaning "priest's town."

Porter has French and English origins. In both traditions, this name means "gatekeeper."

Qadir is an Arabic name that means "capable."

Quentin is a French name that means "fifth."

Quincy is a Latin name, also meaning "fifth."

Radomir is a Slavic name that means "able warrior."

The name of a famous painter, Rembrandt incorporates German words that mean "counsel" and "sword."

A Latin name meaning "man of Rome," Roman has an Italian feel.

Ryan is a Gaelic name meaning "little king" – perfect for your tiny prince.

Ryder is a variant spelling of Rider, an English name that means "knight" or "horseman."

Santiago is a Spanish name that means "Saint James." That refers to James, one of Jesus' 12 disciples in Christian tradition.

An English name meaning "wood cutter," Sawyer also has a very American feel thanks to the classic character in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

Sebastian originated as a Greek word for people from a certain region of modern-day Turkey. Today, it also brings to mind the well-loved crab in The Little Mermaid.

Shepherd comes from an English word meaning "sheep herder." We love the nickname potential of Shep.

Spencer means "dispenser of goods" or "household butler." It was the surname of Princess Diana, and has English roots.

Thiago is the Portuguese version of Jacob and James, both biblical names that translate to "supplanter."

Everyone knows the name Thomas, but not everyone knows that it means "twin" in Aramaic.

Tristan means "sad" or "melancholy" in Old English tradition.

Ulric is an English name that means "of a rich home."

Ulysses is the Latin version of Odysseus, the legendary king of Ithaca and subject of Homer's epic poem. The name translates to "adventurer" and "wrathful."

Upton is a British name meaning "upper settlement" or "farmstead estate."

With Italian roots, Valentino means "strong" and "healthy."

A shorter take on Giovanni, Vanni is a variant of John, which means "God is gracious."

Vasil is an Eastern European variant of Basil, which comes from the Greek word for "royal."

Vincent is a Latin name meaning "to conquer." It feels timeless through the generations.

Wade means "to ford," or cross water, in English.

Wael is an Aramaic name meaning "clan" or "shelter."

Walker doesn't mean what you might think; it's an old English name for people who "walked" cloth, part of the process of creating the material.

Wendel is a Germanic name meaning "to migrate." It also means "wanderer."

Winslow means "mound hill" in Old English.

Xun is a Chinese name that refers to a specific type of grass or herb.

Xylon is a Greek name that means "timber."

Xystos is another Greek name, a word for a "long portico."

Yahir took off as a name after a Mexican singer made it famous. Its precise meaning isn't clear – some say it means "he will enlighten" – but it's a fit for musical families.

Yale isn't just the moniker for one of the most well-respected universities in the world. It also means "fertile land" in Welsh.

Yosef is Hebrew and means "he will add (another son)."

Zachariah is a Hebrew name that means "God remembers." It's an unexpected twist on the more familiar Zachary.

In Hebrew tradition, Zion refers to heaven. It's also one of the most well-known national parks.

12 cute, unique boy names

Distinctive Names That Stand Out From the Crowd

Azriel is a Hebrew name that means "God is my help." It's unique and modern with a poignant definition that carries spiritual significance.

Fenix, a variation of Phoenix, has Greek origins. The original word means "dark red," and because of its association with the mythical bird, it symbolizes rebirth and renewal, making it both powerful and cute.

Killian is a Celtic name that can either mean "bright headed" or "little church." With its melodic sound and adorable nickname options like "Killi," this name balances strength and sweetness.

Koa means "warrior," and is shared by a tree native to the Hawaiian islands. It recalls both the calm of tropical beaches and a readiness for adventure, making it perfect for a little boy with a big personality.

If you want to make a statement with your son's name, Legend is a wonderful choice. It refers to stories passed from one generation to the next, suggesting a child who will create his own remarkable tale.

Solomon derives from shalom, the Hebrew word for "peace." This classic name carries wisdom and tranquility, with the cute nickname "Sol" offering a modern touch.

A Gaelic surname meaning "dark eyes," Sullivan is becoming increasingly popular as a first name. And how cute is Sully as a nickname? It brings to mind a friendly, approachable character with depth.

Usko is a Finnish name meaning "faith." It's simple but unexpected, with a powerful meaning and distinctive sound that makes it stand out in any classroom.

Meaning "from the spring," Wells is regal, yet nature-inspired. This short, sweet name evokes clarity and freshness while maintaining a distinguished feel.

Wynn is an Old English name that means "friend." It can also mean "pure," and can be used for either boys or girls. Its brevity and warm meaning make it an endearing choice.

Zaid is an Arabic name meaning "to increase growth." This name suggests a bright future of development and prosperity for your little boy.

Zeal means "great energy or enthusiasm." Perfect for a vibrant, spirited child, this unique virtue name captures the joy and excitement of childhood.

12 cute, short boy names

Brief Yet Charming Names for Boys

Supposedly invented by a 16th century poet, Arlo is an Old English name that means "from the hill fort." With its soft sound and vintage appeal, it's become increasingly popular for parents seeking a name with character.

Bo is a Swedish and Danish name that derives from an Old Norse word meaning "to reside." It can also be a nickname for names like Beaufort and Beauregard. This simple yet powerful name carries an energetic and friendly vibe.

Meaning "strength," Cade is an Old English name with a modern edge. These days, it's a less common version of Caden, offering parents a distinctive alternative that maintains the same appealing sound.

Cash derives from the Middle English surname Case, which was an occupational name for someone who made boxes or chests. With its connection to musician Johnny Cash, this name carries a cool, confident aura.

Cole started out as a Middle English surname and means "coal-black" or "charcoal." Brief yet memorable, this name has gained steady popularity for its simplicity and strength.

A Gaelic word meaning "narrow strait," Kyle is a short name that could be unisex. Its crisp sound and straightforward spelling make it an enduring choice for parents seeking something familiar yet not overly common.

Mac is a prefix in Scottish surnames meaning "son of." As a standalone name, it projects confidence and friendliness while maintaining a classic, timeless quality.

Raul is the Portuguese and Italian version of the Germanic name Ralph, which means "wolf counsel." With its international flair and strong vowel sounds, this name carries both strength and sophistication.

Rudy is short for Rudolph, which derives from the same Germanic root as Ralph and means "famous wolf." This cheerful diminutive has a warm, approachable charm that works well from childhood through adulthood.

Seth derives from a Hebrew name meaning "placed" or "appointed." This biblical name combines brevity with substance, offering a meaningful option that's neither trendy nor outdated.

As a shortened form of Vance, Van means "marsh" in Old English. It's a name that conjures visions of adventure and time in nature, with a contemporary sound that feels both distinctive and accessible.

Zeke is short for Ezekiel, a Hebrew name meaning "God will strengthen." This punchy nickname has a playful energy combined with ancient roots, making it a versatile choice for modern families.

10 cute, modern boy names

Contemporary Choices for Today's Families

Chosen is an English word meaning "elected" or "selected." As a name, it carries a sense of uniqueness and divine purpose.

Crew – also spelled Crue – derives from an Old French word meaning "an increase" or "military reinforcement." It evolved to mean "a group of people" in the 1500s, and now represents strength in unity.

Dash may be short for Dashiell, a name of uncertain origin – or it could be inspired by the English word "dash," meaning "to run in a great hurry." This energetic name brings to mind speed and excitement.

Named for the bird of prey, Hawk is a high-flying modern name symbolizing vision, freedom, and natural power.

Jax derives from Jack, which itself started as a nickname for John, the English version of a Hebrew name that means "God is gracious." With its contemporary spelling, Jax feels fresh and dynamic.

Lux is the Latin word for "light." This luminous name brings to mind brilliance, clarity, and enlightenment.

Maxton is a modern name made up of ancient parts: Max derives from a Latin word meaning "greatest," and "ton" derives from an Old English word meaning "town." The combination creates a name that suggests maximized potential.

Neo is another new name from an ancient source: It's the Latin word for "new." Popular in science fiction contexts, it suggests renewal and transformation.

Storm means exactly what you think it does. It's become popular in Scandinavian countries but will be at home anywhere. This powerful nature name evokes intensity and raw elemental force.

Zen is the term for a Japanese school of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation, though it's also synonymous for "peace" or "calm" in English. As a name, it offers tranquility in our busy world.

10 cute, vintage boy names

Timeless Classics Making a Comeback

A biblical name meaning "son of the south" or "son of the right hand," Benjamin is ripe for revival. It combines strength with gentleness and offers wonderful nickname options like Ben, Benji, or Benny.

Caleb draws its origins from Hebrew meaning "dog" but carries the deeper, more noble meaning of "devotion" or "faithfulness." This charming vintage name has maintained steady popularity while never feeling overused.

Originally an Irish surname given to tradespeople who transported goods by cart, Carter has evolved into a sophisticated yet approachable first name. Its working-class roots give it an earnest, unpretentious quality perfect for a modern boy.

The old English name Emmett carries meanings of "truth" and "universal," making it both profound and accessible. With its soft consonants and strong ending, it strikes a perfect balance between cute and dignified.

Hebrew in origin, Ethan means "strong" or "enduring" - qualities every parent might wish for their child. Its biblical roots and timeless sound make it a classic that feels perpetually fresh and youthful.

As the name suggests, Harrison literally means "son of Harry." This distinguished surname-turned-first-name carries a scholarly charm while remaining playful enough for a little boy, with the cute nickname option of Harry.

The German name Otto signifies "wealth" or "prosperity." Despite its rich history and royal connections throughout European monarchies, it remains one of the few vintage names awaiting its well-deserved renaissance in modern nurseries.

Parker originated as an English occupational surname for gamekeepers who maintained hunting grounds for nobility. Its nature-connected origins make it especially fitting for boys with an adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors.

With Greek origins meaning "divine gift," Theodore perfectly captures the precious nature of a new baby. Its versatility shines through delightful nickname options including Theo, Teddy, or Ted, allowing the name to grow with your child.

Strong yet endearing, Walter comes from German roots meaning "powerful warrior." This distinguished vintage name combines old-world dignity with unexpected cuteness, making it perfect for a boy who might grow to appreciate its classic appeal.

10 cute, unusual boy names

Rare Gems That Make an Impression

Atlas literally means "a collection of maps" and is perfect for the little man who is strong enough to hold the world on his shoulder. This Greek name was used for the Titan who did just that in ancient mythology.

Bellamy is an Old English name that means "fair friend." With its melodic sound and positive meaning, it strikes the perfect balance between unique and approachable.

An old Italian name that means "enduring," Dante (derived from Durante) is also the moniker of one of the most famous poets in Western history. It carries both strength and artistic flair.

A popular Turkish name meaning "saint" or "holy person," Eren feels familiar yet fresh. Despite its appealing sound and meaning, it has never ranked among the most popular names in the U.S.

Kenji is a Japanese name that means "strong" or "vigorous." It can also mean "strong second son," making it perfect if you're expecting little boy number two. Its crisp sound and cultural richness make it stand out.

Meaning "little warrior" in Latin, Marcellus has ties to Mars, the Roman god of war. This name combines historical depth with a certain playful charm that works for any age.

Orson comes from a word that means "little bear" in Latin. This endearing name offers the perfect blend of sweetness and strength for your little cub.

Treyton is an old English name meaning "settlement near trees." This nature-inspired name offers the delightful nickname potential of Trey, though the full name stands beautifully on its own.

Wren is an English word meaning "small bird." Although it's becoming popular for girls, it's truly gender-neutral and will fit a little boy just fine, offering a gentle yet distinctive quality.

An African name meaning "the river that swallowed all rivers," Zyair is powerful and nature-inspired. With its distinctive sound and profound meaning, it's sure to make your son stand out.

10 cute anime boy names

Japanese-Inspired Names from Popular Animation

The Japanese name Akane means "deep red," giving it a vibrant and rich quality. If you're looking for a name that conveys strength and intensity for your son, this distinctive choice stands out beautifully.

Akio, meaning "bright man" in Japanese, combines cuteness with significance. This charming name has remained relatively uncommon in the United States, never breaking into the top 1,000 names, making it a unique choice for parents seeking something special.

While Ash has Hebrew origins meaning "ash tree," it has gained considerable popularity through the Pokemon franchise. This anime-inspired name offers the perfect balance of international appeal and familiar sound to American ears.

The Japanese name Hidan carries the powerful meaning of "avenger." Though associated with an antagonist in the popular series Naruto, the name's strong sound and distinctive character make it a compelling option for parents drawn to anime culture.

Hiro, a protagonist in several beloved anime series, translates to "broad" in Japanese. This short, punchy name carries heroic associations while remaining accessible and easy to pronounce across cultures.

The name Makoto embodies "truth" or "sincerity" in Japanese tradition. This meaningful name appears frequently in anime and offers parents a choice that emphasizes honesty and authenticity.

Natsu, meaning "born in summer," serves as a gender-neutral Japanese name with seasonal connections. In anime, particularly in certain fantasy series, the name takes on additional significance as a dragon slayer character, adding a layer of strength and courage to its meaning.

The powerful name Raiden can mean either "god spirit" or "thunder and lightning" depending on the kanji characters used. Featured in various anime and video games, this name projects strength and elemental power.

Shin means "real" or "true" in Japanese naming traditions. Though simple in structure, this gender-neutral name carries depth of meaning and appears in numerous anime series, giving it cultural recognition beyond Japan.

Toru, with meanings of "enjoy" and "freely" in Japanese, offers a positive outlook and sense of liberation. While featured as a female character in one popular anime, in Japan it functions as a gender-neutral name that works beautifully for boys.

10 cute country boy names

Rustic and Charming Names with Rural Appeal

Able means "capable" and is perfect for a boy who is up to the challenges life might throw his way. This straightforward name carries strength and determination, ideal for parents seeking a name with clear meaning and purpose.

Atticus means "Athenian," since it refers to the region of Greece where Athens is. It's also the name of the heroic lawyer in To Kill A Mockingbird. This literary name has gained popularity for its sophisticated sound and noble associations.

Austin isn't just one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas – it's also derived from Augustine, a Latin name that means "venerable." With its friendly sound and strong heritage, Austin strikes the perfect balance between approachable and distinguished.

Dixon is an English name meaning "son of Dick." For a Southern family, it may call to mind the Mason-Dixon line. This name has a rustic charm and historical significance that makes it particularly appealing for country-loving parents.

Forrest, unsurprisingly, means "of the woods." This Nordic name fits a boy who will be at home in nature. It evokes images of tall trees, dappled sunlight, and the peaceful serenity of woodland landscapes.

Meaning exactly what you probably think, Hunter is a wonderful name for a boy who will be able to provide for himself and his loved ones. This outdoorsy name has remained consistently popular for its straightforward masculinity and connection to rural traditions.

Mason is an English name meaning "stone worker." This hands-on name suggests strength and craftsmanship, perfect for a boy who might one day build great things or simply have a solid, dependable character.

Rhett derives from a Dutch surname and means "advice." Notably, it's the name of Scarlett O'Hara's love in the classic Gone With the Wind. This short but impactful name carries an unmistakable Southern charm and sophistication.

Meaning "he who tans hide," Tanner is a classic trades-oriented name. It harkens back to a time of essential crafts and hardworking individuals, making it perfect for parents who value tradition and honest labor.

The origins of Waylon are a bit mysterious, but may refer to a word meaning "land beside the road" in Old English. With its distinctive sound and country music connections through legend Waylon Jennings, this name embodies the free-spirited, independent country lifestyle.

11 cute boy names that start with A

A-List Names for Your Little Boy

Adam is a biblical name that dates all the way back to the first man and means "son" or "red earth." It's classic, yet it feels vintage after dropping steadily in the U.S. since the 1980s.

Adrian is a Roman name that means "from Adria" (or Hadria), a city in northern Italy. With its soft sound and sophisticated feel, this name has been gaining popularity for baby boys.

A fresh take on Albert, Albie means "noble" or "bright." The name has German roots and offers a cute, more playful alternative to its formal counterpart.

An Eastern European spin on Alexander, Alexei is undeniably cute. The original name means "man's defender" and brings an international flair to a beloved classic.

Amir has both Hebrew and Arabic origins. It can mean either "treetop" or "prince," both of which are perfect for a boy who will ascend to great heights in life.

Amos is a lesser-known Biblical name meaning "to carry" or "borne by God." This charming name has a gentle strength that sets it apart from more common biblical choices.

Anand means "joy" or "happiness." It comes from the Sanskrit tradition and offers a beautiful meaning with a melodic sound that's distinctive yet easy to pronounce.

Angel has Greek origins and means "messenger of God." This celestial name works beautifully for boys, conveying both strength and sensitivity.

Anthony comes from the Roman family name Antonia, who claimed they descended from the Greek hero Heracles. This enduring classic has remained popular for generations.

Archie is short for Archibald, which translates to "servant of the bishop." Once considered old-fashioned, this name has seen a remarkable revival in recent years.

Axel is a Scandinavian name that could translate to either "father of peace" or "god's helmet." With its cool sound and strong meaning, it's become increasingly popular for modern baby boys.

12 cute boy names that start with J

Delightful J Names That Capture Hearts

Jabari comes from a Swahili word meaning "brave" and the Arabic word for "ruler." This powerful yet adorable name gives your little one a strong foundation with global significance.

Cute and optimistic, Jake is short for Jacob, a Hebrew name meaning "supplanter." This friendly, approachable nickname has a playful charm that grows well from childhood into adulthood.

Jalen comes from unknown origins but shares similarities with the Greek name Galen, which means "calm" and "healer." This modern-sounding name has gained popularity for its gentle yet confident vibe.

James is a Biblical name derived from the Hebrew name Jacob. This classic name has remained a favorite throughout generations, offering both timeless appeal and cute nickname options like Jamie or Jim.

Meaning "treasurer," Jasper is the perfect name for a new addition to your family. It also has a nature-inspired feel because there's a mineral called jasper, giving this charming name an earthy, organic quality.

Jeremiah is a Hebrew name that means "appointed by God." While traditionally formal, the sweet nicknames Jerry or Jem make this meaningful name accessible and endearing for a little boy.

Meaning "to flow down," Jordan is a Hebrew name that comes from the River Jordan. This fluid, gender-neutral name carries both strength and gentleness, perfect for a thoughtful little one.

In the Bible, Joshua is Moses' successor. This name, in Hebrew tradition, means "Jehovah is salvation." The playful nickname Josh adds an approachable, friendly dimension to this historically significant name.

Jose is the Spanish form of Joseph, which is rooted in a Hebrew name that means "God will add." This multicultural name carries warmth and charm across many communities and traditions.

Jovan is a Serbian variation of the English name John, which comes from a Hebrew name meaning "God is gracious." This melodic and distinctive name offers international flair with a soft, appealing sound.

Dating back to the 4th century Roman emperor, Julian means "youthful." The name exudes sophistication while maintaining a boyish charm that suits a child at any age, from infancy through adulthood.

If you're looking for a moral name for your son, Justice is it. Meaning "fairness," it derives from a Latin word meaning "righteousness" or "equity." This virtue name combines principle with a contemporary sound that stands out.