135 Popular African American Boy Names

African Americans are a large part of American history. They have been pivotal in shaping America as it is right now. Their culture is deeply embedded in American history, and surprisingly, many African Americans name their babies in different ways. Many parents give their little ones names of African origins to keep a deep connection with their heritage. Some also select African American names for boys and girls based on the events taking place around their birth or inspired by pop culture.

A name is something that connects one to one’s own individuality and identity. It perfectly defines you as a person or what you dream of becoming. Finding a perfect name from top black boy names is quite challenging. This is why we have simplified the process for you!

Go on, take a look!

Unique and Cute African American Baby Boy Names

It’s no doubt you want to give your child a unique black boy name that resonates with his personality and enhances his character in the future. To save you time and effort, we have compiled some adorable and unique black boy names for your little cutie patootie!

1. Ahmod

A beautiful variation of the classic Arabic name Ahmed, this means “highly praised”.

2. Autry

This name has a French origin, which means “noble strength”.

3. Booker

A name of English origin, this one means “scribe”.

4. Busta

A classic variation of the American name Buster, this name means “friend”.

5. Cassius

Cassius is a Latin name. It’s a popular African American name for boys which means “narcissistic or vain”.

6. Chante

Chanté is the French word for “sung”. This word is derived from the Latin word Cantare which means “to sing”.

7. Chaquille

This name has Arabic origins and means “little”.

8. Dontrell

This name is a variation of an Italian name Donte. The origin of this name is also Italian, and it means “lasting”.

9. Efrem

Efrem is a name with Spanish origins and means “fruitful”. 

10. Joaquin

This name is an abbreviation of a Hebrew name Jehoichin which means “established by God”.

11. Ervan

A Breton name and is a variation of the French name Yves. It means “yew”.

12. Emmett

This name is of Hebrew, German, and English origins, and it means “universal”.

13. Garlan

Garlan is a French baby name, which means “wreath or prize”.

14. Ghalen

Ghalen is a beautiful African name which means “calm”.

15. Hosea

This is a name that has a Hebrew origin. The meaning of this name is “salvation”.

16. Iker

This African American name has a Spanish origin. Quite a unique name for a boy, and it means “visit”.

17. Izaak

Izaak is a joyous Hebrew name which means “laughter”.

18. Jaheem

Jaheem is a name of Jamaican origin and is popular in African American culture. This name means “raised or dignified”.

19. Joachim

A name of Hebrew origin that means “established by God”.

20. Justus

This is a Latin name which signifies “justice”.

21. Keenan

This Irish name has its roots in Hebrew. The Irish name means “little ancient one”, while the Hebrew name, which is also biblical possibly means “possession” as Keenan in the Old Testament is the grandson of Adam.

22. Kahlil

Kahlil is an Arabic name which means “friends”.

23. Kimbel

This African American name has its origins in Welsh. This Welsh baby boy name means “warrior chief”.

24. Khalan

Khalan is an Arabic name which means ‘a strong warrior”.

25. Keon

It has its origins in both Irish and Hebrew. The meaning of this name is the same as the meaning of the name Ian which is “God is gracious”.

26. Kordell

Kordell is an English name which means “cord maker”.

27. Laikin

This African American name is a beautiful variant of the word “lake”. Hence, Laikin means “from the lake”.

28. Lamonte

This is a Gaelic name which means “man of law”.

29. Lemarcus

This name has Latin and American origins and means “warlike”.

30. Malachiah

This is a Hebrew name which means “God’s messenger”.

31. Nimbus

This name has a Latin origin, and it means “rainstorm or dark clouds”.

32. Orion

A character in Greek mythology, Orion was the son of Poseidon and a hunter. Orion is also “the rising star”.

33. Orpheus

Having Greek origins, Orpheus is related to Orphne, which means the “darkness of the night”. According to Greek mythology, Orpheus was a poet and musician who went to the underworld to retrieve his wife, Eurydice.

34. Otis

This name has German, Old English, and Greek roots. The English and German meaning of the name Otis is “prosperity, wealth”. In Greek, Otis means “keen of hearing”.

35. Sabah

It has Arabic and Turkish origins; this name means “morning”.

36. Tyrus

Having its origin in American, Tyrus is an amalgamation of two names “Tyrone” and “Cyrus”. It is a biblical name which means “strength, rock, or sharp”.

37. Wyclef

This famous name is of English origin, which means “dweller at the white cliff”.

38. Xenon

This unique name which can also be found in the periodic table has a Greek origin, and it means “guest or foreigner”.

39. Yogi

Meaning a “spiritual guru,” this name was popularized by the Yogi Bear.

40. Zephan

This name has a Hebrew origin meaning “prized possession of God”.

Popular African American Baby Boy Names

Of course, we can’t miss out on popular black boy names. Here are some cool and popular African American baby boy names that you can consider for your little prince!

1. Assad

This cool name is a variation of the Arabic name Asad. Its literal translation is “a lion”.

2. Aiyden

This is an Irish name which means “little fire”.

3. Calvin

One of the most famous baby boy names, this name means “bald”.

4. Caleb

This name has a Hebrew origin, and it means “faithful”.

5. Craig

This has Scottish, Irish, and Welsh roots. The meaning of this name is “from the rocks”.

6. Clayton

This name comes from an Old English surname meaning “clay settlement”.

7. Cornell

This name has English origins and is the name of a town.

8. Dameien

Damien is a Greek name which means “to overcome”.

9. Ericson

Ericson is a Swedish name which means “son of Eric”.

10. Darius

This is an old name for boys which originates from the Persian language. Darius is the English transliteration of “Dariush” meaning “rich or kingly” or “he who possesses”.

11. Dijon

A name of French and Hebrew origin, it’s also the name of a city in France. Another beautiful meaning of this name is “God is gracious”.

12. Eli

Originating in Hebrew, this name is commonly used in Afro-American communities. The meaning of the name Eli is “ascended, uplifted, or high”.

13. Godrell

This African American name, which is used commonly for baby boys, has no clear meaning other than being someone “related to God”.

14. Eldrick

The name has an English origin, and this name means “old or wise ruler”.

15. Glover

This is quite an unusual name for being based on a profession. Glover has its origins in English, and this name was given to glove makers and sellers.

16. Grady

Grady is a name with Irish roots which means “noble”.

17. Hakeem

Hakeem is an Arabic name which means “wise”.

18. Hassan

This name has an Arabic origin meaning “handsome”.

19. Ian

A name of Scottish origin, this name means “God is gracious”.

20. Isiah

A variant of the name “Isaiah” this name has a Hebrew origin. Widely used as a spiritual depiction, this name means “God is my saviour”.

21. Jayden

A popular American name, this name has Spanish and Hebrew origins, and it means “God has heard”.

22. Jamal

Jamal is a Hebrew name which means “handsome”.

23. Joseph

This is a Latin name which means “He will add”.

24. Kelvin

Kelvin is a Scottish name which means “from the river”.

25. Lucius

This is a biblical name which has its origins in Latin. In Latin, the name means “light”, and in the biblical reference, the name means “luminous”.

26. Martell

This name has a German origin, and the name means “warrior of Mars”.

27. Marcel

Marcel in Latin means “belonging to Mars”.

28. Murphy

This is a Gaelic name which means “sea warrior”.

29. Neville

Neville is a French name which means “new town”.

30. Nolan

This is an Irish name which means “champion”.

31. Niles

Niles is a Gaelic name which means “son of Neil”.

32. Oscar

Oscar is an English name which means “God’s spear”.

33. Owen

This is a Welsh name which means “well-born”.

34. Payne

This is a name with English origins that means “country-dweller”.

35. Peter

Peter is a Greek name which means “rock”.

36. Quinn

This is an Irish name which means “counsel”.

37. Roscoe

Roscoe is a name of Old Norse origin. This name means “deer forest”.

38. Rufus

This cute name has a Latin origin, and it means “red-headed.”

39. Warren

The literal meaning of this name is “to protect”.

40. Xavier

This name has both French and Spanish origins. It is a popular and famous name, and it means “a new house”.

Strong African American Baby Boy Names

African Americans have always been strong and resilient to whatever challenges may have come, and history proves that. Today, let’s remind ourselves of the bravery and resilience African Americans have shown and take a look at some strong black names for boys to pick for your little one.

1. Alphonse

Alphonse is a spectacular baby boy’s name taken from German and French.  It refers to someone ‘noble’ or ‘ready to battle,’ capturing the essence of stealth and toughness.

2. Antama

Antama is certainly a unique name with a smooth and airy feel to it, making other names feel dull in its presence. By the way, it means ‘royal.’

3. Anthone

If you adore the name Anthony but want a twist, then Anthone could be an ideal pick for your boy. This Roman name means ‘praiseworthy’ and ‘priceless.’

4. Brayton

A popular option among baby names, Brayton, means ‘bold and brave.’

5. Carl

Crispy and chic, Carl is a choice of many parents. This German name refers to ‘free man,’ symbolising freedom and groundedness, making it a perfect and lovely choice.

6. Carnell

Carnell has a sassy and laid-back attitude when it rolls off the tongue. This fine specimen of a name means ‘defender of the castle.’

7. Colt

If you’re not intimidated by the idea of giving your baby a name that means ‘young horse,’ Colt is an adorable name for any child.

8. Colten

African Americans embrace their dark skin tone; after all, it’s God’s given. Colten refers to a ‘swarthy person’ or ‘someone with a dark complexion.’

9. Dauntay

Pronouncing similar to Shauntay, Dauntay is a stylish baby boy’s name that means ‘powerful’ and ‘strong.’

10. Dayton

Your little prince deserves a name that speaks of his explicit charm. Dayton is a modish, ramp-ready name meaning ‘day town.’ Before some exciting parent picks it, you do the job!

11. Delano

What do we all want for our children? Good health, isn’t it? There’s an option to name your child that means a ‘healthy black man.’

12. Delroy

Delroy is a cool pick for parents who want the X factor. It means ‘the King.’

13. Demont

Demont is another baby nam meaning ‘I am King.’ If you are looking for a name with a royal feel, this could be an ideal choice.

14. Ekon

Ekon is a cool and sassy baby boy name meaning ‘strong.’ Short and cool, Ekon will be perfect for boys with a charming and less-fiery attitude.

15. Jabari

How about some ruggedness? Jabari is a baby name meaning ‘brave,’ giving the name the aura of protectiveness and stealth.

16. Jelani

This African-descent name is a mighty selection within our African American names for boys, meaning ‘strong’ and ‘mighty.’ Since this name is not very popular, it is the right time for parents to choose before some other eagle-eyed parents pick it away. Famous person reference: American author Jelani Cobb.

17. Kai

Kai is a name that screams ‘power’ and ‘strong.’ This somewhat Greek, Welsh, and Hawaiian-origin baby name means ‘guardian’ or ‘keeper.’ Since 2020, the name has been quite popular and steadily increasing in popularity. For a reference: Cobra Kai.

18. Rome

Latin in origin (did we need to tell you that?), Rome is a pretty famous name meaning ‘power’ and strength.’ As an alternative, you can choose to name your boy Roman or Romanus. Famous person reference: Actor Rome Flynn.

19. Stefon

Stefon is a fantastic Greek origin name, meaning ‘a crown’ or ‘garland,’ symbolising great power, vision, and leadership. If you are looking for a somewhat grand name for your boy, Stefon could be a unique and perfect choice.

20. Von

Von, also spelled Vaughn, is an Old Norse name that means ‘hope.’ Is there anything more powerful and resilient than hope that helps a person stand his ground for whatever challenges may come? We don’t think so. Famous person reference: NFL player Von Miller

Cool African American Baby Boy Names

Well, did you think we could conclude our baby name exploration without paying homage to African Americans for their contribution to blues, jazz, hip-hop, and other fascinating music genres? We don’t think so. There’s a whole new gamut of names to look at when it comes to cool African American male names. Without further ado, let’s take a look, shall we?

1. Abnus

Abnus refers to an ebony tree, the wood of which is known for not sinking. The name is quite cool and adorable at the same time.

2. Adelram

Adelram is another exciting baby boy name, meaning ‘raven’ or ‘dark.’

3. Adie

Meaning ‘noble,’ Adie is a beautiful boy’s name, capturing the essence of pure inner character and strength.

4. Adrianus

Adrianus is a Latin name meaning ‘son of Adria.’ This Roman family name refers to people from Hadria, a town in Northern Italy close to the Adriatic Sea.

5. Adryan

Meaning ‘rich’ and ‘wealthy’, this spectacular name is an ideal pick for parents who want something unique and classy for their kids.

6. Akil

Aspring your child to become the most intellectual? We have a name that will certainly suit your little bugger. Akil means ‘intelligent.’

7. Akmad

Akmad resonates with softness when pronounced but also carries a sophistication that could imply being a conscientious person. Akmad is a variation of the popular Arabic name Ahmad and means ‘highly praised’ and ‘one who thanks God.

8. Amber

Amber is basically a unisex name which can be used for both boys and girls. Amber is the name of a jewel.

9. Anjisnu

Another trophy name for your aspiring trophy child, Anjisnu is a rare name. If you are looking for something unique and rare, then this could be your pick.

10. Bartt

Meaning ‘son of earth,’ Bartt is a spectacular name for boys that subtly captures the essence of groundedness and genuinity, making it a stylish choice for your little prince.

11. Benjamin

Ahh, the classic! Benjamin is an old-fashioned name of English origin, which apparently means ‘son of South.’ Benjamin has been quite popular among African Americans.

12. Bisman

Bisman may inspire your son’s love for vivid colours and their spectrum. Bisman means ‘dark blue.’

13. Blac

Although a connotation, Blac is a slang used by people in many countries to refer to ‘a dark-skinned man.’ If you are looking forward for your child to embrace his identity and be proud of his skin tone among other skin tones, then this name will certainly make heads turn and prove to be an ideal name.

14. Blagden

Icredibly pretty and sophisticated-sounding, Blagden, which means ‘dark valley,’ is surprisingly popular.

15. Bowie

This famous name owes its fame to the famous English musician of the world, David Bowie. We did, too. By the way, Bowie refers to ‘yellow-haired.’

16. Brendon

Brendon is a Celtic masculine name derived from the Old Irish name Breanainn, which means ‘prince’ or ‘chieftain.’ To give your son a touch of royalty, you can pick this name.

17. Calbert

This popular boy’s name means ‘cowherd’ or cowboy.’

18. Christopher

Christopher is a vintage and classy name favoured by people around the world, and is still very much in demand surprisingly. The name means ‘bearer of Christ.’

19. Clarence

Derived from the Latin term clarus, Clarence is a masculine name meaning ‘bright,’ ‘shine,’ or ‘gentle. It is quite an adorable name for baby boys.

20. Cleavon

This voguish boy’s name means ‘cliff.’ If you want to raise an adventure-loving kid, then this could be it.

21. Eddie

Eddie is an adorable and playful name for boys. The name is a short version of the English name Edward, which means ‘wealthy’ or ‘rich.’

22. Edhem

Sharing Arabic and Bosnian origins, Edhem is a unique and cool boy’s name, which means ‘dark-skinned.’

23. Edward

Edward is a classic English name meaning ‘rich’ or ‘wealthy.’

24. Evander

From the lands of Scotland, Evander is a beautiful and ethereal-sounding name, meaning ‘bow warrior’ or ‘strong man,’ reflecting the strength and stealth of a person.

25. Farrell

With Irish origins, Farell originates from the Irish surname Ó Fearghail, which means ‘man of valour.’ The Ó Fearghails were a noble family belonging to a powerful clan who reclaimed their rulership after being invaded by the Englishmen, showing their courage to stand up for themselves.

26. Glenden

Derived from the Gaelic name Glendon, Genden is a masculine name referring to a ‘settlement in the glen.’

27. Jemarcus

A cool twist to the commonly known name Marcus, we have Jemarcus. This trendy Americanised name of Latin origin means ‘from the God Mars.’

28. Jerrick

Jerrick is a fantastic mix-up of the names Jerry, Derek, and Rick. The name has a playful and adorable character, certainly suitable for little boys.

29. Kamau

A masculine name of Kenyan origin, Kamau certainly commands the room and makes for a memorable choice. To delve further, the name Kamau is common to the Bantu group who migrated from the Congo region

30. Romain

Romain is a French term used for the ‘citizens of Rome.’ It is also the name of a type of lettuce.

African American Baby Boy Names Inspired by Famous People

American history is incomplete without African Americans. Here are some of the top names of famous African American people you can consider for your little boy. After all, what’s a better way to commemorate them than by using their names for your son?

1. Martin

The iconic orator and legendary civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr. is an inspiring figure in history. He inspired not only African Americans but people around the country to stand for their rights with unwavering determination. Martin is a notable name, perfect for your little boy.

2. Denzel

If you are a movie marvel, chances are you know about this decorated actor, Denzel Washington, who is known for his fine acting. From action to drama, Denzel Washington has set standards for acting for sure! Believed to be of Cornish origin, the name means ‘the fertile land’ or ‘from the high stronghold.’

3. Frederick

American history is incomplete without the mention of this legendary and courageous American social reformer and the leader of the movement for African-American civil rights in the 19th century, Frederick Douglass. So much so that Frederick seems synonymous with courage and valour. By the way, the name is has German origin and means ‘peaceful ruler.’

4. James

James Arthur Baldwin, a civil rights activist, was one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. This is an ideal for your little boy.

5. Louis

The king of Jazz music, Jazz Louis Armstrong, is an iconic name many African Americans pay homage to. Do you have a budding musician in your home?

These unique names are sure to suit your baby boy. Choosing the right name for your baby boy will always be one of the most beautiful parenting experiences. Take help from this list to pick the best black boy names for your baby boy.

Infographic: Popular African American Boy Names 

Also Read:

Egyptian Names for Boys
American Names for Baby Boys
Australian Boy Names with Meanings
British Names for Boys & Their Meanings