4 Letter Boy Names: Popular, Modern, and Trendy Options

Choosing a baby name is one of the first big decisions you’ll make as a parent, and there’s something undeniably charming about four-letter boy names. They strike the perfect balance—short, simple, strong, and meaningful. 

These names are often easy to pronounce and remember. They also pair really well with longer last names. 

Whether you’re drawn to timeless classics, modern trends, or unique gems, there’s a four-letter name for every vibe and personality. 

Below, we’ve curated lists of some of the best options, categorized by themes to make your search easier.

Most Popular 4-Letter Boy Names

Looking for names that have already proven to be favorites among parents? These popular four-letter names have stood the test of time and are loved for their simplicity and strength.

1. Liam – An Irish name meaning “strong-willed warrior” or “protector.”
2. Noah – A Hebrew name meaning “rest” or “comfort.”
3. Levi – Of Hebrew origin, meaning “joined” or “attached.”
4. Ezra – A Hebrew name meaning “help” or “helper.”
5. Owen – Welsh origin, meaning “young warrior” or “well-born.”
6. Luke – From Greek, meaning “from Lucania” or “light-giving.”
7. Jack – An English diminutive of John, meaning “God is gracious.”
8. Finn – An Irish name meaning “fair” or “white.”
9. Jude – Of Latin origin, meaning “praised.”
10. Milo – A Germanic name meaning “gentle” or “kind.”
11. Theo – A Greek name meaning “gift of God.”
12. Jace – An American name, possibly a variation of Jason, meaning “healer.”
13. Arlo – English origin, possibly derived from Old English elements meaning “fortified hill.”
14. Axel – Scandinavian origin, derived from Old Norse, meaning “father of peace.”
15. Ryan – An Irish name meaning “little king.”
16. Adam – A Hebrew name meaning “son of the red earth.”
17. Evan – Welsh origin, meaning “God is gracious.”
18. Eric – Of Old Norse origin, meaning “alone,” “unique,” “everlasting,” or “king.”
19. Kyle – A Scottish name meaning “narrow land.”
20. Cory – Greek origin, meaning “helmet” or “warrior.”

Modern 4-Letter Boy Names

These names feel fresh, creative, and perfect for parents who want something contemporary.

1. Axel – A bold name meaning “father of peace.”
2. Jace – Short for Jason, meaning “healer.”
3. Cruz – Spanish for “cross,” giving a spiritual yet modern vibe.
4. Zion – A biblical place name with a powerful feel.
5. Milo – Friendly and sweet, Milo means “soldier” or “merciful.”
6. Kian – An Irish name meaning “ancient.”
7. Eli – A classic with modern appeal, meaning “ascended” or “high.”
8. Knox – A name of Scottish origin meaning “round hill.”
9. Cash – Cool and sleek, derived from the French word for “case.”
10. Cody – A fun and energetic name meaning “helpful.”
11. Bryn – A unisex name meaning “hill.”
12. West – Evoking wide-open spaces, meaning “westward.”
13. Gray – A chic and minimalist color-inspired name.
14. Nash – An English name meaning “by the ash tree.”
15. Rio – A playful Spanish name meaning “river.”
16. Jett – Sleek and modern, inspired by jet planes or black gemstones.
17. Rory – A lively Irish name meaning “red king.”
18. Remy – French for “oarsman.”
19. Tate – A simple yet strong name meaning “cheerful.”
20. Luca – An Italian name meaning “bringer of light.”

Trendy 4-Letter Boy Names

If you’re looking for names that are currently on the rise and getting buzz, these trendy picks might be just what you need.

1. Beau – A charming French name meaning “handsome.”
2. Koda – Inspired by Native American roots, meaning “friend.”
3. Theo – A fast-climbing favorite meaning “gift of God.”
4. Enzo – Short for Lorenzo, meaning “ruler of the household.”
5. Zeek – A modern twist on Ezekiel, meaning “God strengthens.”
6. Jaxx – A bold, modern take on Jack.
7. Nova – Latin for “new” and also associated with stars.
8. Zeke – A cool, laid-back version of Ezekiel.
9. Gage – An edgy name meaning “pledge.”
10. Kylo – Inspired by Star Wars, meaning “sky.”
11. Lior – A beautiful Hebrew name meaning “my light.”
12. Sage – Nature-inspired and wise, meaning “prophet.”
13. Cian – A sleek Irish name meaning “ancient.”
14. Zayn – A stylish name meaning “beauty” or “grace.”
15. Dane – A strong name meaning “from Denmark.”
16. Mars – Evoking the Roman god of war.
17. Knox – Cool and punchy, meaning “hill.”
18. East – A directional name with a modern feel.
19. Foxx – Trendy and nature-inspired.
20. Indy – Short for Indiana, playful and adventurous.

Nature-Inspired 4-Letter Boy Names

Nature-inspired names are perfect for parents who want to honor the beauty of the natural world. These four-letter boy names evoke strength, serenity, and adventure.

1. Gale – A strong, wind-inspired name evoking nature’s power and freedom.
2. Finn – Meaning “fair” or “white,” this name also evokes the beauty of nature.
3. Ash – Simple and earthy, referencing the ash tree.
4. Leaf – A rare but serene nature-inspired choice.
5. Lynx – A sleek and fierce animal name.
6. Reed – Evoking grassy wetlands, Reed has a fresh and natural feel.
7. Cove – Calm and inviting, like a secluded seaside bay.
8. Wolf – A powerful and wild animal-inspired name.
9. Skye – Inspired by wide-open skies or the Scottish Isle of Skye.
10. Oak – A strong, sturdy tree that symbolizes endurance.
11. Bram – Short for Bramwell, meaning “raven” and tied to nature.
12. Clay – Earthy and rugged, referencing the natural material.
13. Rain – Gentle and refreshing, evoking spring showers.
14. Glen – A Scottish name meaning “valley.”
15. Hawk – Fierce and bold, inspired by the bird of prey.
16. Bear – Strong and protective, inspired by the mighty animal.
17. Dune – Evoking rolling sand dunes and desert landscapes.
18. Fawn – Soft and gentle, inspired by a young deer.
19. Lake – Calm and peaceful, like still waters.
20. Snow – Crisp and fresh, inspired by winter landscapes.

Vintage 4-Letter Boy Names

If you love timeless charm, these vintage four-letter names are making a comeback. They offer a touch of old-school sophistication paired with classic appeal.

1. Amos – A biblical name meaning “carried by God.”
2. Hugh – Meaning “mind” or “spirit,” this name exudes strength.
3. Otis – A soulful, vintage name meaning “wealth.”
4. Ivor – A strong name of Norse origin meaning “archer.”
5. Earl – An old English name meaning “nobleman.”
6. Fred – Short for Frederick, meaning “peaceful ruler.”
7. Carl – A German name meaning “free man.”
8. Ward – An English name meaning “guardian.”
9. Arlo – Of Old English origin, meaning “fortified hill.”
10. Gene – Short for Eugene, meaning “well-born.”
11. Leon – Greek for “lion,” symbolizing strength and courage.
12. Rudy – A cheerful name meaning “famous wolf.”
13. Otto – German for “wealthy.”
14. Alvy – An old name meaning “noble friend.”
15. Clem – Short for Clement, meaning “merciful.”
16. Vern – A retro choice meaning “alder tree.”
17. Saul – A biblical name meaning “asked for.”
18. Dale – A gentle name meaning “valley.”
19. Dean – Meaning “valley,” a classic, strong name.
20. Emil – Of Latin origin, meaning “rival.”

Choosing the perfect name for your baby is a meaningful and exciting journey, and four-letter boy names offer a wonderful blend of simplicity and strength. Whether you’re drawn to timeless classics, modern favorites, or nature-inspired picks, these names are memorable, versatile, and full of personality. We hope this list inspired you and helped you discover a name that feels just right for your little one. Happy naming!