Choosing a baby name for your little ray of sunshine is a significant moment on every parent’s journey, but sometimes nicknames for boys are even more important.
A nickname is not just a term of endearment or sweet talk, it can also be a word that describes your son’s looks or personality traits – a word that suits him the best and shows how special he really is.
It doesn’t matter what your son’s real name is – you can still come up with a fun nickname!
Here is the complete list of the best nicknames for boys of all ages, with meanings included.
Best Boy Nicknames
1. Ace
This cute nickname actually comes from card games. Ace is the highest-ranking card in most games.
2. Alpha
Your little son might be just a boy, but from day one you’re teaching him that he is an alpha – the leader of the pack.
3. Amigo
In Spanish, Amigo means friend. Basically, you’re telling your kid that you see him as more mature than he is – you two are best friends.
4. Ash
I’m sure you’ve heard of Ash Ketchum – the main character of the popular Pokemon anime.
5. Baby Boy
On the other hand, if you want for your son to remain a little baby for as long as possible, “baby boy” is without a doubt a nickname you should use.
6. Baby Cheeks
Is there anything cuter than a baby’s chubby cheeks? I’m sure your kid has a pair as well. In that case, this nickname is the choice for you.
8. Baby Elephant
Out of all the animals in the world, baby elephants are probably the most irresistible. Just make sure nobody starts calling you “mama elephant”!
9. Baby Face
Your little one’s cheeks are not the only thing you can’t take your hands off. In fact, it’s his entire face that puts a smile on yours.
10. Babykins
In North America, “babykins” is used as a term of affection. It can also be used for women or little kids.
11. Bam Bam
Bam Bam is not only a South Korean teenage star – it is also quite phonetic and I assure you it’s one of the nicknames for boys your baby will love the most.
12. Bambino
In Italian, Bambino means simply “a child”. What more appropriate nickname can your lovey-dovey have?
13. Batman
Sooner or later, all children go crazy about superheroes, and Batman is usually at the top of the list.
14. Big Boy
Your son is no longer a little baby – but he is still your boy. This nickname can’t be better for this stage.
15. Big Guy
Even though it looks pretty much the same as the previous nickname, it actually isn’t.
The line between boy and guy is not so thin after all.
16. Biggie
Biggie is slang for someone important and influential. Besides, if you’re into 90s rap, you’ll love this nickname.
17. Bionic
I’m sure you’re familiar with this term – it’s basically a human being improved by technology. Something like “superhuman”, to be exact.
18. Bitsy
Bitsy – like “bit”. This is another nickname for your tiny ray of sunshine.
19. Black panther
We can all agree this animal is special and unique. For ages, it has been a symbol of bravery and greatness.
20. Bookworm
Is your baby boy already showing interest in letter-like shapes and interesting baby books?
Well, chances are that he’s about to become a real bookworm.
21. Brains
As cute as your son is, I bet you’re already seeing how smart he is too.
Why wouldn’t you emphasize his intelligence from the very start?
22. Bravo
Words of approval as a creative nickname for your little one? Sounds fun!
23. Brown/Blue/Green Eyes
It all depends on the color of your baby’s eyes. It doesn’t matter whether they’re brown, blue, green, or black – I’m sure they’re magnificent.
24. Bubba
Even though you might consider it to be a pet name, Bubba is actually slang for “little brother”. So, if your baby has an older brother or sister, this one is perfect for you.
25. Bubbles
Bubbles are tiny, round, and most of all – fun and cute. Just like your son, right?
26. Bubby-Boo
“Boo” is slang for love. “Bubby” is also a term usually used to address a little boy you adore. Both combined? Well, now you have what’s probably the cutest nickname ever.
27. Buddy
Once again, we have something similar to “amigo”. This is your best friend, comrade, and mate.
28. Bunny
Similar to baby elephants, baby bunnies are also adorable creatures, and so is your little son.
29. Cadillac
Yes, Cadillac is a famous automobile brand. But what kind of a car are we exactly talking about here?
About a unique, expensive, fancy, and sophisticated car, that’s right.
So, do you understand now why this is the most appropriate nickname for your baby boy?
30. Cannon
Is your baby explosive? Does he always find a way of getting what he wants?
What better nickname than Cannon could he possibly get?
31. Cap
Even though “Cap” was used as a nickname for boys named Charles back in the day, now it’s just short for Captain.
32. Captain
Come on, let’s face it – who was your house’s commander from the very first day he was born? That’s right – your son.
So, why wouldn’t he be given an appropriate nickname then?
33. Captain America
Again, we come to superheroes: probably the characters every boy in the world enjoys being identified with the most.
This time, we’re talking about Captain America – the almighty super-soldier.
34. Champ
Whatever your little one does in life, he’ll always be the champion in your eyes. So, why wouldn’t you make it clear for him?
35. Chance
In the past, this was a commonly given baby name or a middle name for boys.
Even though it has become more of a baby boy nickname in modern time, it still carries the same meaning: good luck.
36. Cheetah
Another special cat. Perfect for your little one!
37. Chief
Whether you like it or not, he is in charge now. So, make that clear to everyone.
38. Chipmunk
Chipmunks are small and irresistible little creatures.
Besides, they spend their days climbing around and doing crazy maneuvers – just like squirrels, but better.
39. Chubby Cheeks
This is another nickname related to your son’s cheeks. But hey, who can blame me? Can you resist them?
40. Chunky Monkey
Does your son love eating? Is he all chubby and plump? Then this one is for him.
41. City Boy
If your baby is originally from the city but you often visit your relatives or friends in the countryside, they’ll probably start calling him “city boy” sooner or later.
42. Cub
Every mom turns into a lioness once she gives birth to at little creature that depends on her protection.
If this is something you can relate to (and I know you can, even though you might not see it now), your baby is certainly your cub.
43. Cuddle Bunny
After a long and tiresome day, there is nothing better than cuddling with your baby boy.
In that exact moment, you realize that all the cramps, breastfeeding pain, and so on are worth it.
Therefore, the nickname cuddle bunny really does apply.
44. Cutie/Cutesy
Isn’t the meaning of this one quite clear? A cute name for a cute little person. He is the cutest little person you ever laid your eyes on – it’s simple as that.
45. Cyclops
If your toddler is into mythology, he’ll be fascinated when you address him as Cyclops – a huge giant.
46. Donut
Whether you spell it as “doughnut” or “donut”, it doesn’t really matter.
This is a nickname we’re talking about, and this delicious pastry will be an adorable nickname for your cutie-pie!
47. Duckling
Have you ever looked at a mother duck and her ducklings swimming behind her?
Did you notice how the ducklings act as if they know exactly what she’s telling them?
While your little boy might not listen to you as much as a duckling, this is still a cute nickname.
48. Dynamo
It’s explosive, but it’s also a magician’s name – whatever suits your little one better.
49. Eagle Eye
If your baby boy doesn’t miss a thing – this nickname is for him. Besides, let’s not forget what a magnificent bird an eagle is.
50. Energizer
You’re thrilled that your son is progressing so well, but there were also times when you couldn’t help but wonder where he gets all of his energy from.
51. Entertainer
When the entire family gathers, he is the one to amuse you all and that’s exactly why this is one of the most amusing nicknames for boys.
52. Flash
He fights crime and can move faster than any human being in the world. Are we talking about a nickname or every boy’s dream?
53. Foodie
If your son enjoys all the food you’re giving him (including BLW food and vegetables all toddlers are struggling with), you’ll be more than happy to give him this nickname.
54. Fox
Fox is not just a short name for your boy – it can also be a great nickname. After all, it’s the meaning that counts – fast and sleek.
55. Ginger
This one is perfect if you’re the mom of a red headed little boy!
56. Godzilla
Yes, Godzilla is a monster, but hey, everyone is scared of it, aren’t they? So, trust me when I tell you your toddler will be enchanted by this silly nickname.
57. Guapo
In Spanish, it means “handsome”. And let’s be real – you’ve never seen a more handsome young gentleman than the one in front of you.
58. Heartbreaker
Talking about handsome young gentlemen? Well, you can only imagine the number of girls’ hearts they’ll be breaking in the future.
In fact, if your son is going to kindergarten or school – I bet every little girl is already head over heels for him.
59. Hercules
Is there anyone stronger than Hercules? I think not.
60. Hero
He doesn’t have to save the world, but your son will always be your own personal hero.
61. Hollywood
He is already the star of your house and family. So, I think this is an appropriate nickname.
62. Hulk
Could it be that Hulk has more strength than Hercules?
Either way, I promise you that your toddler will be enchanted by this nickname as well.
63. Hurricane
Do you sometimes feel like a strong (but at the same time lovely) storm has passed through your house and heart ever since you gave birth?
Don’t worry, all mothers do and it certainly doesn’t mean you love your boy any less.
64. Iceman
Is your son into snow and winter? In that case, I bet his favorite superhero is Iceman – a superhero who can literally manipulate ice and cold.
65. Iron Man
This is one of the most famous Marvel characters.
Not only that: I’m sure every boy has thought about becoming him when he grows up at least once.
66. Itty Bitty
Again, a diminutive. It’s a great nickname for a little, tiny baby.
67. Jaguar
What’s with little boys and their obsession with magnificent cats? Beats me, but what I do know is your son will love this nickname.
68. Jedi
If your boy is a fan of the Star Wars franchise, he’ll enjoy being called Jedi.
After all, it means that he belongs to this ancient order of protectors and righteous heroes.
It will be even better if he already has a futuristic real name that will go hand in hand with this nickname.
67. Junior
This little man is nothing but a younger version of you. So, why not say it that way?
68. Kid/Kiddo
It doesn’t get much simpler than this, and yet, it’s always a popular nickname.
69. Lion
You can call him your little cub or he can immediately get the title of the lion – the choice is all yours.
70. Little Guy
Another universal and common nickname all boys love.
71. Little Lamb
Is there anything cuter in this world than a little lamb?
After all, I’m sure you’ve heard about the famous nursery rhyme “Mary Had A Little Lamb”.
If you sang this to your little boy when he was an infant, I’m sure he’ll love hearing it throughout his toddler years as well.
72. Mighty
You want your son to always be aware of his personality traits.
You want him to know how powerful and strong he is.
So, mighty is an appropriate nickname for all of his abilities.
73. Mini-Me
Another good nickname that declares one important thing: this little guy is a small version of you and your husband.
RELATED: 170 Cute And Funny Nicknames For Husband To Make Him Feel Special
74. Monkey
Your toddler is spending all of his days making a mess around the house. Nevertheless, I’m sure you wouldn’t want it any other way.
75. Mountain
Again, we have a word that symbolizes strength.
Of course, I’m not only talking about physical strength here, but a mental and emotional one.
76. Munchkin
In the “Wizard Of Oz” movies and books, little people are called munchkins.
77. Ninja
Every ninja is brave, fierce, and most importantly – “uncatchable”. Just like your little boy.
78. Nugget
When you call someone a nugget, it usually means they’re silly and funny.
79. Obi-Wan
Obi-Wan Kenobi, how cool does this sound? With this nickname, your son won’t be just one of the Jedis – he will be a Jedi master.
80. Partner in Crime
You want your son to see you as more than just a parent figure?
This is especially the case if he is a toddler or entering his teenage years – you want him to be able to tell you everything without fear.
In that case, create a secret and adorable nickname for just the two of you: partner in crime.
81. Peanut
Even though this can be used as both a baby boy and a baby girl nickname, lately it’s been used more for sons.
82. Phantom
Everyone is scared of him, but at the same time he gets a lot of respect. Isn’t this a creative nickname for your toddler or a teenager?
83. Pickle
On the other hand, Pickle might be a good nickname for a slightly younger boy.
84. Prince
For now, he is the Prince of your little kingdom. Nevertheless, when he grows up he’ll certainly become a real-life Prince Charming.
85. Professor
What’s a more creative nickname for your little scientist than Professor? That’s right – this boy can teach you a lot.
86. Protector
If your son is scared of darkness or a bogeyman, try changing your roles for a little bit and call him the protector!
87. Quicksilver
Let’s go back to superheroes. Just look at this guy and you’ll see what every little boy wants to look like when he grows up.
88. Ranger
An army nickname – just what your boy needs to be fearless.
89. Rebel
Here is another good nickname for all those little rebels who pay absolutely no attention to whatever you’re telling them.
That’s right – I’m talking about your teenager.
90. Robin
Robin Hood is a famous character who steals from the rich people and gives to the poor. He has it all, being a righteous outlaw.
What more could a boy possibly want?
91. Rufus
Here is another good nickname for all of those redheads out there. Besides, let’s not forget it was also King William’s nickname.
92. Savage
This great nickname is badass, cool, and fierce. What more could you ask for?
93. Sidekick
Your son is not just your best friend.
He is also your right hand man and the assistant you could never make it without, which is why this is one of the nicknames for boys you should definitely take into consideration.
94. Simba
Remember the Disney movie “The Lion King”? Well, Simba is the protagonist – the little cub who grows up to be a mighty lion.
This nickname will go perfectly with your boy’s Disney-inspired name.
95. Slim
Not all baby boys are chubby. In that case, Slim is the perfect nickname.
96. Smiley
If your little ray of sunshine’s smile brightens your day, and if he’s in a good mood most of the time – this one’s for him.
97. Soldier
Many boys dream about becoming famous soldiers one day. With this cute name, he certainly can!
98. Sparky
When you call someone Sparky, it means that he is fast and full of energy.
99. Spiderman
The hero of all generations: the powerful Spiderman. Come on, I’m sure your kiddo wants to save the city, as well.
100. Sunny/Sunshine
This little guy is your sun – there is no doubt about that. Well, all moms feel the same about their babies and that’s exactly why this nickname always seems to be trending among parents.
101. Superman
Superman is maybe one of the most popular superheroes of all time – he just never goes out of style.
102. Tarzan
Let me tell you, your boy would love to become the king of the jungle. Come on, what kid doesn’t dream of jumping around the woods all day long?
103. Thor
The warrior Thor – another Marvel character, and I bet, your son’s role model.
104. Tiger
A tiger is large, brave, confident, and fearless.
It might not be the most adorable nickname for your baby son, but if it suits his personality it is the most appropriate one.
105. Titan
The same goes for Titan – only a special boy can get this nickname.
106. Torch
It burns and lights up even the scariest darkness – just the way your son did when he walked into your life.
107. Tower
A tower always stands tall and proud – just the way your son should go through life.
Trust me, this baby boy nickname will give him a lot of confidence.
108. Turbo
Nothing about this little guy is ordinary. In fact, he is lightning fast – just like his nickname says.
109. Twilight
Many will claim there is nothing more beautiful in nature than twilight.
And I know one thing for sure – there is nothing more beautiful in your life than your little baby.
110. Volcano
Has your kiddo had a temper of his own from day one? Can you never guess what to expect from him next?
In that case, Volcano is just the right nickname for him.
111. Winnie
Winnie the Pooh is probably one of the most famous cartoons of all time. He’s a chubby, little bear every boy adores.
112. Wise Guy
If your son has a habit of making sarcastic comments to everything you say – this one is for him.
But as ironic as this nickname might be – the truth is that he really is wise and smart and that is something you should be proud of.
Nicknames For Boys – Diminutive
Some baby names are too long to repeat every day, unless of course your boy’s name is short.
Does your boy have a rare name other people have trouble pronouncing?
Then you’ll definitely want a cool nickname related to your son’s real name.
Either way, you’re in need of a cute nickname.
Here is the ultimate list of nicknames for different boys’ middle names or first names.
1. Ace (Horatio)
2. Al (Albert)
3. Alex or Lex (Alexander)
4. Ali (Alistar)
5. Andy (Andrew)
6. Ant, Tony (Anthony)
7. Arch (Archibald)
8. Archie (Archibald)
9. Arfie (Arthur)
10. Arn (Arnold)
11. Augie, Gus (Augustus)
12. Barney, Bernie, Nard (Bernard)
13. Bart (Bartholomew)
14. Baz (Basil)
15. Benny (Benjamin)
16. Billy (William)
17. Bob (Robert)
18. Brad (Bradley)
19. Brent (Brenton)
20. Cal (Caleb)
21. Cam (Cameron)
22. Charley, Charlie, Chuck (Charles)
23. Charlie, Chuck (Charles)
24. Chet (Chester)
25. Chrisso, Kit (Cristopher)
26. Cis (Cecil)
27. Clem (Clement)
28. Clem (Clemence)
29. Clint (Clintwood)
30. Cole (Collin)
31. Curt (Curtis)
32. Cy (Cyrus)
33. Cyd (Sydney)
34. Dan, Danny (Daniel)
35. Dave (David)
36. Del, Dez (Derek)
37. Den (Denis)
38. Dick (Richard)
39. Dom (Dominick)
40. Donnie (Donald)
41. Dougie (Douglas)
42. Dud (Dudley)
43. Edie (Eden)
44. El (Eldred, Elton)
45. Em (Emil)
46. Fran (Frances)
47. Frank (Francis)
48. Fred (Alfred)
49. Gab, Gabe (Gabriel)
50. Greg (Gregory)
51. Harry (Henry)
52. Hom (Homer)
53. Howie (Howard)
54. Humph (Humphrey)
55. Iggy (Ignatius)
56. Ike (Francisco)
57. Irv (Irvine)
58. Izzie (Isac)
59. Jack (John)
60. Jake (Jacob)
61. Jed (Jedediah)
62. Jeffy, Jeff (Jeffrey)
63. Jerry (Jeremiah)
64. Jezza (Jeremy)
65. Jim, Jimmy (James)
66. Joe, Jonty (Jonathan)
67. Jojo (Joseph)
68. Jordy (Jordan)
69. Josh (Joshua)
70. Julie (Jules)
71. Ken (Kenneth)
72. Kev (Kevin)
73. Larry, Law (Lawrence)
74. Lee (Leigh)
75. Len (Leonard)
76. Lin (Lindsday)
77. Louey, Louie (Louis)
78. Lu (Luke)
79. Luth (Luther)
80. Manny (Manchester)
81. Marky (Marcus)
82. Marty (Martin)
83. Mat, Matt, Matty (Matthew)
84. Max (Maddox)
85. Mick, Mickey, Micky (Michael)
86. Mike, Mitch (Michael)
87. Moe (Morris, Maurice)
88. Nat, Nate (Nathan)
89. Ned (Edward)
90. Nick, Collin (Nicholas)
91. Norm (Norman)
92. Nort (Norton)
93. Oli, Ollie, Olly (Oliver)
94. Orv (Orville)
95. Ozzie, Ozzy (Oswald)
96. Paddy, Pat (Patrick)
97. Paulie (Paul)
98. Pete (Peter)
99. Phil (Philip)
100. Quinn (Quentin)
101. Rafe (Raphael)
102. Reg, Reggie (Reginald)
103. Richie (Richard)
104. Robbie, Bob, Bobby (Robert)
105. Ron (Ronald)
106. Sam, Sammie, Sammy (Samuel, Samson)
107. Shaq (Shaquille)
108. Shelly (Sheldon)
109. Si (Simon)
110. Solly (Solomon)
111. Spence (Spencer)
112. Stacy (Eustace)
113. Stan (Stanley)
114. Steve (Stephen)
115. Stu (Stewart)
116. Taddy (Adam)
117. Terry (Terence)
118. Theo (Theodor)
119. Timmy (Timothy)
120. Tommy (Thomas)
121. Trav (Travis)
122. Trev (Trevor)
123. Tuck (Tucker)
124. Ty (Tyler, Tyson)
125. Val (Valentine)
126. Vic, Vick, Vik (Victor)
127. Vinny (Calvin)
128. Waldo (Oswald)
129. Wally (Wallace)
130. Wido (Guy)
131. Willy (William)
132. Win (Baldwin, Winston)
133. Wood (Woodrow)
134. Woody (Woodrow)
135. Xav, Xavi, Zave (Xavier)
136. Zac, Zach (Zachary)
137. Zave (Xavier)
138. Zeke (Zachariah)
How To Come Up With Good Nicknames On Your Own
While all of these lists do help, the real joy of nicknames is the fact that anyone can make them. Besides, maybe you don’t like how a lot of these sound, or maybe you do, but you can’t really tie them to the boys in your life.
That’s why I’m here to help you figure out a decent nickname at your own pace, one that your son, your husband, your other male family members, or your guy friends are sure to appreciate.
Nicknames don’t always have to commemorate good moments though, sometimes we tack them on as a joke for a silly little gaff someone had done back in the past which is great as long as it’s in good nature. Try not to use them to mock people who clearly don’t appreciate it.
That said, figuring out the right nickname for a special girl or boy in your life can be difficult, but here are 5 handy approaches to create one.
1. What’s his personality like?
While most people are judged on what they look like on the outside, it’s what’s on the inside that makes a person truly special, especially to their friends and family.
We all have a unique blend of personality traits that makes us the people we are.
It’s the character that these traits ultimately build that you should take special note of when you try constructing a nickname.
Maybe your husband is into boats (or constructing small models of them), then you can call him Sailor or Captain, maybe your kid is a really great singer so you dub him Sinatra, or maybe your guy friend is exceptional at giving advice so you call him Doc.
Those are only a few examples out of a sea of other potential ones that you can use and none of them have to relate to something negative either!
2. Going by the physical features
Guys usually appreciate nicknames based on their physical attributes and general prowess (though it depends from person to person), especially for the more sporty ones.
Once again, try focusing on the more positive ones since no one likes their insecurities to be mentioned every other moment.
For instance, you can call someone Godzilla if he’s incredibly strong. Alternatively, an example of a sillier one would be String Bean for someone who’s lacking in body muscle.
3. His favorite sports icon/role model
Many people, girls and guys alike, have a number of real and/or fictional people who they look up to, be it from sports, movies, books, video games, etc.
Their origin doesn’t really matter too much. What does matter, however, is that those people are the perfect nicknames for your friend.
For instance, maybe your friend really likes basketball and is trying really hard to improve, so you start calling him Lebron or Jordan.
Maybe your son was really into Game of Thrones and was trying to grow his hair long so you start calling him Jon Snow, maybe even get him a plush wolf as a gift to emphasize the fact.
Once again, you have a very deep well of ideas to tap into here, you just have to put in a little elbow grease to learn what their preferences are and use that to help find the perfect nickname.
Unlike the nicknames tied to physical appearance or character traits, the nicknames tied to the person’s role model are going to be almost always positive so they’re great to use as a confidence boost when they’re having a bad day.
4. Shorten his name
Sometimes full names can be really long-winded or sound too formal so shortening the name into a nickname sounds much more friendly.
These are the most common nicknames out there and are proven to be the most successful since they will never come off as insulting.
The only real problem is that they might be a bit too simple for your tastes, but it is what it is.
A few decent examples of these are Jimmy (nickname for James), JJ (nickname for Jordan), Bill (nickname for William), etc.
5. Taking inspiration from shared moments
A final idea that you might want to give a go with is to look back on some of the best moments you and the guy in question have shared.
For instance, maybe you were on the football team together in high school so you can call him Tom Brady.
Or maybe he’s the kind of person who always has an answer for every problem you’ve ever faced, so you call him MacGyver.
Whatever the case may be, make sure it’s a memory that both of you look fondly on. If anything, the nickname that you give him is going to make sure that the event is not soon forgotten.
Final Words
After going through this list of popular nicknames for boys, please don’t forget to pay attention to your son’s age.
If he is a toddler or a teenager, he might not like being called a cutesy nickname in front of his friends and he’ll prefer something like “champ”.
In that case, you can save your words of affection for when the two of you are alone.
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