Black names for boys are found in many different places around the world. Popular African-American names may pay homage to African culture and history, or incorporate elements of French or Arabic. Some names are influenced by religion and are based on Biblical or Muslim influences. Others are influenced by historical figures or celebrities in the Black community.
What matters is that the name you choose feels right. Black Baby names can be as cute, trendy or unique as the cultures they are inspired by.
It’s hard to pin down what’s most popular, but here’s a start
It’s difficult to determine the most popular Black Boy Names since most data sources do not break names down by ethnicity or popularity. Names.org is a user-generated database that lists some of the more common names.
These five names were based upon names that had been known as far back as 1880. They are at the top of this list because they have been the most popular names over the last five years.
- Names.org’s list of Black Male names is topped by Reginald. Old English, Old German and Latin names have the meaning counsellor,’ a ‘ruler’ or to advise and rule.
- Kameron: Thought to be of Scottish origin, the Celtic name Kameron means ‘crooked nose’. It was traditionally male, but it is now considered gender-neutral.
- Javon is a name that has many variations, as well as possible origins, such as Greek, Hebrew and Persian. Javon is one of Noah’s grandson’s names in the Bible. The Hebrew word translates to ‘God’s gift’ or God is gracious.’
- Tyrell is a Black name with Scandinavian, Old English and French origins. Some believe it was also inspired by the early African-American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell. The meanings of the word include “God of Battle,” “Thunder,” “Thunder Ruler,” and to pull or be stubborn.
- Jamar (meaning beautiful’) – This name is believed to be Middle Eastern or French in origin and can be found all over East, West and South Africa.
Find a Black Name for Your Baby
Research shows that many factors influence the way African-American names develop, but connection is one of them. Names are a way to connect with family, friends, and the past. You can find the perfect boy’s name by choosing a name with a special meaning to you. Try these trendy options
- Aaron – Exalted, strong
- Abraham, Father of Many
- Aiyden – Little fire
- Alonzo – Noble
- Andres: Manly, brave and warrior
- Angelo – Messenger
- Anthony – The Priceless One
- Antonne Priceless
- Autry – Noble Strength
- Booker – Scribe
- Brandon – Prince
- Brayton- Broad brave
- Briceson, Nobleman’s Son
- Bryson, Son of a Nobleman
- Calvin – Bald
- Cameron – Crooked nose
- Chaquille – Handsomemight
- Clayton – Clay settlement
- Colby – Swarthy
- Cornell – Horn – College and town name
- Christopher – Christ Bearer
- Damien – To tame
- Darnell – Hidden nook
- Darius – To be good
- Demetrius, Follower of Demeter and Lover of Earth
- Dontrell: Lasting, Enduring
- Eli – High and elevated
- Elijah – My God is Yahweh
- Efrem – Doubly Fruitful
- Ekon – Strong
- Ericson, son of Eric, always kingly
- Embry – Flat-topped hill
- Farrell – Brave
- Ghalen – Tranquil, calm
- Grady – Noble
- Hakeem Wise
- Hassan – Handsome
- Isiah is God’s salvation
- Izaak – Laughter
- Jabari Brave
- Jadyn: God has heard
- Jaheem – Raised, dignified
- Jahmir is loyal and trustworthy
- Jamal – Beautiful and handsome
- Jayce – Healer, cure
- Jayden – Thankful
- Jaylen – Healer, tranquil
- Jelani – Mighty, great, powerful
- Jordan – Descend and flow down
- Joseph – God will Increase
- Justin – Just, righteous
- Justus – Fairness, justice
- Kahlil – Friend
- Kasim – One who distributes
- Keenan – Ancient
- Kellan – Powerful
- Kelvin – river man
- Khalan – Strong warrior
- Kofi was born on Friday
- Kordell – Cord maker
- Lamonte, Man of Law
- Lemarcus, From the God Mars
- Levi – Joined Together
- Malachiah, Messenger of God
- Malik – King, sovereign
- Marcel – Young warrior
- Michael – who is God like?
- Montrell- Mountain
- Murphy – Sea warrior
- Naeem: Comfort and ease
- Noah – Rest, repose
- Nolan-Noble, renowned
- Neville – New village
- Niles – Champion
- Omari – Flourishing
- Orion – Hunter
- Oscar – Gods spear
- Owen – Wellborn
- Payne – Rustic, countryman
- Peter – A rock or stone
- Phineas, the Serpent’s Mouth
- Quinn – Wise, counsel
- Raffiel: God has healed
- Rashaad – Wisdom, good guidance
- Rhyland – where rye grows
- Roscoe, the heartland of the Roe Deer
- Sammy – His name is God
- Samuel – God heard
- Sebastian – Looked up at, revered
- Sharod – Autumn
- Shaun – God is gracious
- Stefon, a crown or garland
- Tahj – Crown
- Terrence – Tender
- Tevin – Handsome
- Treyvon is a combination of Trey (three), and Devin (divine).
- Urick – unknown meaning
- Hope – From a Distance
- Zahair – Shining bright
Black male names that inspire
It is important to find inspiration in well-known people or famous figures. These names will inspire you, whether you choose a name that is trendy and cute or one that is based on a powerful Black person in history.
- Martin – This list would not be complete without a name that was inspired by civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr. The Latin name Martin means “God of War”.
- Denzel – Chances are, one of your favourite movies features actor Denzel Washington. Denzel, a Cornish name, means “from the high fort”, “fort” or “fertile land”.
- Frederick – When you hear this name, you will be reminded of the courage and strength of writer and reformer Frederick Douglass. His life and work continue to inspire. The name Frederick has German origins and means “peaceful ruler.”
- James is a common name but when you think about James Baldwin there’s a lot of power. This American novelist and playwright continues to have a profound impact on the world. James is a Hebrew or Biblical name which means substitute or supplanter’
- Booker is a name that’s derived from the educator, leader, and speaker Booker T. Washington. Booker is of English origin and means “someone who is concerned with books”.
- Louis – Inspired by the king of Jazz Louis Armstrong. This name might just be music to your ear. The name Louis has Spanish roots, and it means “famous fighter”.
- Jesse is a name with tremendous strength. Think of the four-time Olympian Jesse Owen, who has won gold on four occasions. Jesse is a Hebrew name which means “the Lord exists”.
- Malcolm – Many people associate this popular Black boy’s name with Malcolm X. The infamous Nation of Islam leader of the 50s and 60s. Malcom is of Scottish origin and means “devotee to Saint Columbia”.
- Sterling – Looking for something a bit more unique? Sterling K. Brown is the perfect name. Not only was he a three-time Emmy winner and Gold Globe recipient, but he also made Time’s 2018 list of 100 Most Influential People. Sterling is a nickname for ‘little star’
- Kendrick is a name of Welsh and Scottish origin. It was inspired by Kendrick, the top male rapper in America at the time this article was written. Kendrick means ‘greatest champion.’
Black baby names for boys from A to Z
This alphabetical list will help you find the perfect name. These are some of the most common and unique Black boy names that you will find in other parts of the world. This can help you find a name for your boy that begins with a specific letter.
A-C
Acqwon |
A’dré |
Ahamad |
Akia |
A’lamar |
Amanté |
Anderius |
Antez |
Armel |
Arris |
Asaad |
Aston |
Audell |
Austin David |
Avondré |
Ayren |
Bankston |
Bayden |
Bentram |
Berton |
Brackston |
Bravon |
Brexton |
Bronte |
Burley |
Cévon |
Cain |
Carlos |
Carston |
Cavonté |
Cecil |
Cee Cee |
Cevonté |
Chachi |
Charquez |
Chaylen |
Chervez |
Chez |
Christian |
Clévon |
Cliff |
Clyde |
|
|
D
Dace |
Dailyn |
Da’jonte |
Da’kuan |
Damarco |
Damarko |
Dameon |
Damitri |
Dandre |
Danez |
Dannell |
Da’quintin |
Daran |
Da’riosm |
Darkeem |
Darriel |
Darryon |
Darterrius |
Darvin |
Dasante |
Dashaud |
Dashawn |
Dashonte |
Datreon |
Da’vante |
Davarius |
Da’vion |
Davontae |
Da’wan |
Dekion |
Demarcus |
Delmetrice |
Del Vonte |
Denaris |
Denten |
Denzel |
Dequinn |
Dereece |
Derreck |
De Shea |
Desmond |
Destin |
Deterrian |
Devajee |
Deveron |
Devoreaux |
Dimetrice |
D’Mario |
Dmitry |
Dominique |
Doran |
D’Quan |
Dremonte |
Dushane |
Dyonte |
|
E-H
Earnell |
Eddison |
Elcee |
Eliyah |
Elvan |
Emiel |
Ethridge |
Everson |
Ezrah |
Farrell |
Fedarius |
Ferando |
Finton |
Foster |
Freddie |
Garence |
Garrell |
Geffery |
George |
Giovante |
Harmen |
Harry |
Hazell |
Herold |
Holman |
Howell |
Hunter |
|
|
|
I-J
Ian Marcus |
Irvin |
Ishaq |
Issac |
Itrez |
Jévon |
Ja Khel |
Ja Taveon |
Jaboris |
Jacques |
Jahmiah |
Jaimeson |
Jaivon |
Jakobe |
Jalal |
Jamarico |
Jamerrell |
Jamichael |
Jaquann |
Jaquon |
Jarmal |
Jarmarious |
Jaronte |
Jarrius |
Jarrod |
Javarious |
Javion |
Javius |
Jaydee |
Jaymore |
Jazeel |
Jekeil |
Jeoffrey |
Jeremias |
Jerquis |
Jervonte |
Jevonne |
Jimar |
Jirani |
Jocquise |
Johmarcus |
Johntey |
Jonell |
Jontray |
Jori |
Jowuan |
Jumon |
J’waun |
Jyreese |
|
|
|
K-L
Késhaun |
Kadaris |
Kadrick |
Kaenan |
Kaiman |
Ka’jai |
Kaleem |
Kamar |
Kamoni |
Kaprice |
Ka’ron |
Karver |
Kavion |
Kaydron |
Keantay |
Kenan |
Keifon |
Kejuan |
Kemal |
Keon |
Kendrich |
Kennin |
Kenvante |
K’eon |
Kesean |
Keylon |
Keywon |
Khalise |
Khyree |
Kiante |
Killion |
Kincade |
Kione |
Kivon |
Kreighton |
Kunal |
K’yeon |
Ladorian |
Labron |
Laelim |
Lamarcus |
Laquez |
Latrelle |
Lemond |
Leonell |
Leroyce |
Leshaun |
Levell |
Liddell |
Linzell |
Lonnie |
Louvell |
Lyman |
|
|
M-P
Malcolm |
Marcus |
Markael |
Markeys |
Marqués |
Marquise |
Marteese |
Marvin |
Mathias |
Mendez |
Mondarius |
Micquel |
Monterius |
Meyer |
Mordell |
Naheim |
Najeem |
Narquise |
Navier |
Neari |
Nemiah |
Nieko |
Niram |
Norton |
Novian |
O’Brian |
Omarious |
Oman |
Olin |
Ontrel |
Omonteez |
Orien |
Ornell |
Ortez |
Otis |
Patrion |
Peirce |
Perez |
Pierre |
Pompey |
Prenell |
Purcell |
|
|
|
Q-R
Quadell |
Qualeek |
Quan |
Quandell |
Quantell |
Qua’sean |
Quentez |
Quillin |
Quinell |
Quintano |
Quintrell |
Qu’wan |
Qwantez |
Raden |
Rahil |
Rahsaan |
Raheem |
Rakeem |
Rakkan |
Ramello |
Ramon |
Randarious |
Rannier |
Rasaun |
Raylon |
Readale |
Rederick |
Regaine |
Ree |
Reginal |
Renell |
Reno |
Reshard |
Reuban |
Reymond |
Rhad |
Riguel |
Rion |
Rockie |
Rodnell |
Roger |
Rontay |
Rowell |
Ruben |
Ruiz |
Ryerson |
Ry’mone |
|
|
|
S
Sabian |
Sakeem |
Sanquez |
Santrell |
Saunders |
Sawyer |
Sequan |
Shadrias |
Shakur |
Sha’quan |
Shawnee |
Sherman |
Shiloh |
Shobi |
Shovon |
Sigmond |
Sirmarcus |
Somondre |
Stanford |
|
T-U
Taevion |
Takeo |
Talik |
Tamonte |
Tario |
Tarmarious |
Tashard |
Tatum |
Tavarius |
Tavell |
Tavis |
Taylen |
Tazwell |
Teddy |
Teion |
Terek |
Terryl |
Tevari |
Tevoris |
Thaddeus |
Thaireee |
Thayne |
Therman |
Threston |
Tiontay |
Tivonte |
Tomas |
Tonell |
Townley |
Travaris |
Travone |
Tre Kell |
Tremon |
Trever |
Trivelle |
Troylen |
Tycen |
Tykeim |
Tyndall |
Tyrice |
Tyzee |
Ujunwa |
Usher |
Uterius |
|
V-Z
Vance |
Varnan |
Varrien |
Vennie |
Vequain |
Verne |
Vincent |
Vondell |
Voshon |
Vytal |
Waylen |
Webber |
Wendall |
Wilber |
Willett |
Wilmer |
Winford |
Wyees |
Xavier |
Xavion |
Xeric |
Yaheem |
Yamen |
Yardley |
Yasper |
Yazen |
Yiannis |
Yorell |
Zackaree |
Zaderian |
Zamari |
Zaniel |
Zaquan |
Zareen |
Zaverie |
Zawnté |
Zebulee |
Zeeshan |
Zephan |
Zhaire |
Zharvis |
Zishan |
Zohn |
Zuberi |
|
How to Choose a Meaningful Baby Name
One of the joys of planning for your son’s birth is choosing a meaningful unique name. You’ll feel proud to give your baby a name that is both meaningful and reflects your family history.
The post List Of 300+ Black Baby Boy Names To Help Your Little Man appeared first on Be Wise Professor.