100 Best Anime Boy Names: With Meanings

Alex

Alex is short for the Greek name Alexander, meaning “defender of man.”

A caring commander, Major Alex Louis Armstrong of “Fullmetal Alchemist” is known for using his arm strength in his alchemy. While he looks like an intimidating military man, he is also kind and caring.

Allen

Allen is a variation of the Breton name Alan. It’s thought to mean “handsome” or “little rock.”

The main protagonist of “D.Gray-man” is Allen Walker. Allen was abandoned by his biological family because of his irregularly shaped arm. This arm was later found to be shaped by his Innocence, a superpower he wields to destroy the bad guys.

Arata

Arata is a Japanese name, meaning “new, fresh.”

In “Trinity Seven,” you’ll meet Arata Kasuga, the main protagonist and the Demon King of Supurbia, who becomes Astral Trinty in moments of emotional stress.

Asahi

Asahi is a Japanese name that means “morning sun.”

There are several Asahi’s in the anime universe. An Asahi pops up in “High Speed!: Free! Starting Days,” “Food Wars! The Fifth Plate,” “Dear My Patron,” and “Haikyuu!!” to name a few.

Alucard

Alucard is simply the name Dracula spelled backward.

Alucard is the primary protagonist of the “Hellsing” anime series. Rather than the traditional downcast vampire, Alucard is a dynamic figure who works for the Hellsing organization, destroying other bloodsuckers and supernatural beings.

Archer

Archer is an English name meaning “bowman, archer.”

In “Fate/stay night,” Archer is one-half of a magical pair who compete in The Fifth Holy Grail War. Archer is also a popular surname-as-a-first-name option that is currently sitting at #160 on the US name charts.

Armin

Armin is a Germanic name. It means “whole, universal.”

Armin Arlert, from “Attack on Titan,” may be physically small and weak, but he is emotionally intense and an excellent thinker under pressure. However, he is unaware of his mental prowess and focuses on his physical shortcomings.

Aslan

Aslan is a Turkish name, meaning “lion.”

You’ll meet Aslan Jade Callenreese, also called Ash Lynx, in “Banana Fish,” an anime set in New York. Aslan is also the name of the lion in The Chronicles of Narnia.

Byakuya

Byakuya is an anime name that means “white” or “arctic night.”

In “Bleach,” Byakuya Kuchiki is the head of one of the four noble families, the Kuchiki clan. The Shinigami Captain of the 6th Division uses “Je Chante Pour Passer le Temps” by Giovanni Mirabassi as his theme song.

Cecil

Cecil is from the Roman name Caecilius, meaning “blind.”

In the manga series “Bloody Mary,” Cecil is an English priest that owns an extensive collection of weird and wild vampire-related items.

Cygnus

Cygnus is Latinized Greek for “swan.”

“Vagrant Soldier Ares” is a Korean manhwa set in an era similar to ancient Rome. In this war epic, you’ll meet Cygnus, a powerful spearman who was born into a noble family.

Dandy

Dandy is a Medieval nickname for Andrew, which means “manly.”

The title character of “Space Dandy” is the mononymous protagonist Dandy. Dandy is an alien hunter responsible for finding and registering rare creatures from space.

Dante

Dante is a Medieval form of Durante which means “enduring.”

The Dante of “Devil May Cry” is a half-human, half-demon mercenary. He prefers to accept jobs with a supernatural twist and has a brother called Vergil. This could be a fun set of anime boy names for twins.

Denki

Denki is a Japanese word that means “electricity.”

Denki Kaminari is a favorite character in the series “My Hero Academia.” This electric, lightning boy is also known as the Stun Gun Hero.

Denny

Denny evolved from the Greek mythological name Dionysos, meaning “sky” or “shine.”

With its ancient Greek roots, Denny is a good option for fans of history and anime. Denny Brosh appears in “Fullmetal Alchemist.”

Edward

Edward is an Old English name that means “rich guard.”

Selfless alchemical prodigy Edward “Fullmetal Alchemist” Elric received his state alchemist title at the age of 12. This makes him the youngest Alchemist ever to be recognized by the Amestris State Military.

Eikichi

The Japanese boy name Eikichi means “perpetual glory, good luck.”

“Great Teacher Onizuka” tells the story of Eikichi Onizuka, who becomes a teacher with the intention of meeting girls. However, he grows a conscience and decides instead to become the most excellent teacher ever.

Eraldo

Eraldo is an Italian form of Harold, meaning “army leader.”

Eraldo Coil is an alias of the enigmatic L Lawliet, the world’s greatest detective and criminal profiler. Shrouded in mystery, the enigmatic “Death Note” character communicates with authorities through his handler Watari.

Eren

Eren is a Turkish name, meaning “saint, holy person.”

The protagonist Eren Yeager from “Shingeki no Kyojin” or “Attack on Titan” has appeared in both the anime and the manga. Initially driven by anger, he eventually matures into a more likable character.

Erwin

Erwin is a Germanic name. It means “army friend.”

Erwin Smith is the 13th commander of the Scouting Legion in “Attack on Titan.” He is a brilliant tactician, known for his sharp mind.

Gintoki

The Japanese name Gintoki means “silver time.”

Gintoki Sakata is the silver-haired protagonist of “Gintama.” A samurai in a society that no longer needs samurai, Gintoki has a sweet tooth and an obsession with the Weekly Shounen Jump anthology magazine.

Goku

Although not a literal translation, Goku is said to mean “Master of Knowing Nothing.”

Son Goku is a character in Dragon Ball. He came to Earth from his native planet Vegeta and was adopted by a man known as Grandpa Gohan. This makes Goku a good anime name choice for adopted boys.

Gon

Gon is a name with no meaning in Japanese.

The protagonist of “Hunter x Hunter,” Gon Freecss, has a name created for the series. However, Gon is also a nickname for the Spanish name Gonzalo which means “war.”

Hachiman

Hachiman means “eight banners.” It’s the name of the Japanese god of war and archery.

In “My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong, As I Expected,” Hachiman Hikigaya is tricked by a teacher into joining the service club. There, he and fellow club members offer advice to other pupils while learning to cope with their own problems.

Hachirōta

Hachirōta is a corruption of Hachiro, a Japanese name, meaning “eighth son.”

Hachirōta is not a “real” name, but a variation explicitly created for the anime Planetes. Hachirōta Hoshino is the series protagonist, and he’s often called Hachi, which is Japanese for “Eight” or “Eighth.”

Haruka

Haruka is a Japanese name that means “distant, remote.”

Haruka Nanase of the anime series “Free!” is a strong freestyle swimmer. He prefers to be called Haru, which is a Japanese name meaning “spring” or “clear weather.”

Haruki

The Japanese name Haruki combines Haru with ki, meaning “living” or “brightness.”

Haruki Hanai is the 2C class representative in the high octane romantic comedy anime “School Rumble.” The show was based on the manga published weekly in Weekly Shonen Magazine.

Hei

In Chinese, Hei translates to “black.”

In the multiple anime series of “Darker Than Black,” the protagonist Hei is required to take on various identities. It is unknown whether Hei is his real name, a condensed version of his name, or something he adopted.

Ichigo

Ichigo is Japanese for “strawberry.”

The protagonist of the anime series “Bleach,” Ichigo Kurosaki is ridiculed for his orange hair, which is perhaps where his name comes from. He is also known for his trademark scowl.

Itachi

Itachi is the Japanese word for “weasel.”

The “Naruto” antagonist, Itachi Uchiha, is an infamous shinobi, popular among the franchise’s fans. This is likely because of his intense dark grey eyes.

Itaru

The literal translation of Itaru from Japanese to English is “everywhere.”

In “Steins;Gate,” Itaru Hashida is also known as Daru, or his online name, DaSH. DaSH stands for “Daru the Super Hacker.”

Izaya

Izaya is a Japanese form of Isaiah, meaning “Yahweh (God) is salvation.”

If you chose to name your child after Izaya Orihara of “Durarara!!” be prepared to spend a lot of time correcting people’s spelling. When you say Izaya, people automatically write Isaiah.

Jacken

In InuYasha, Jaken is written 邪見, meaning “you see evil.”

Jaken is a Yōkai in the anime and manga “Inuyasha.” In Japanese folklore, a Yōkai is a phantom or ghost but is not demonic in the traditional Western sense.

Jiraiya

Jiraiya is a name from Japanese folklore. It means “young thunder.”

In Japanese folklore, Jiraiya is a ninja who evokes shape-shifting magic to take on the form of a giant toad. The Jiraiya in “Naruto” has the ability to summon toads in battle.

Joseph

Joseph is an Ancient Hebrew name meaning “he will add.”

Joseph Joestar is the main character in the second story arc of “Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, Battle Tendency.” Joseph can use Hamon, or Ripple, which allows him to focus his bodily energy into sunlight.

Joutarou

A name created for anime, the kanji for Joutarou are 承太郎, meaning “accepted, thick.”

The protagonist of part three of “Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure,” is Joutarou “JoJo” Kuujou. Because he is the grandson of Joseph Jojo Joestar, this could be a good choice if you want to honor a relative named Joseph.

Kakashi

The anime name Kakashi means “scarecrow.”

In “Naruto,” Kakashi Hatake is the easy-going teacher of team seven. His sleepy, half-open eyes give him a deceptively drowsy appearance.

Karma

Karma is from the Sanskrit word, meaning “fate, action, deed.”

Karma “Red Demon” Akabane is one of the most intelligent students in “Assassination Classroom.” A badass name in anime, Karma may raise eyebrows from others who don’t know its anime uses.

Kazuto

Kazuto is a rare Japanese name, meaning “the peaceful one.”

Kazuto Kirigaya is the protagonist of the anime and manga franchise “Sword Art Online.” His gamer alias is Kirito, a combination of the kanji for the first and last syllable of his last and first names.

Keiji

Keiji is a Japanese name that means “beautiful history.”

In “Haikyuu!” Keiji Akaashi is the setter and team vice-captain for the Fukurōdani Academy volleyball team. A calm, composed character, he also knows his limits.

Ken

The Japanese name Ken means “healthy, strong.”

The Japanese boy name Ken is an entirely separate name from Ken, the short form of the English name Kenneth which means “handsome.”

Ken Kaneki appears in Tokyo Ghoul. A surgeon transplants a ghoul organ into him during an emergency operation, and Ken is left as an unwilling half-human, half-ghoul hybrid.

Kenma

The Japanese boy name Kenma means “strong, genuine.”

Kenma Kozume is a quiet, relaxed, laid-back volleyball player in “Haikyu!!” His teammates often refer to him as the brain, the heart, and the soul of the team.

Kenpachi

Created for anime, Kenpachi is written with kanji that mean “eight swords.”

The Massive Attack song “Superpredators” is the theme tune for Kenpachi Zaraki, the only captain in “Bleach” to have not taken the exam to become a Shinigami.

Kenta

Kenta is a Japanese name, meaning “healthy, strong.”

One Kenta appears in some Pokemon specials, another in “Digimon Tamers,” and there is also a manga series called “Go Kenta!” The Pokemon Kenta also has the nickname Jimmy, Hero Boy.

Killua

Killua is a name created for anime and has no literal meaning.

Many people claim Killua means “lightning” or is a play on “kilowatt,” but there’s no evidence for this. Killua Zoldyck and his siblings in “Hunter x Hunter” have names that end with the beginning letters of the next: Illumi, Milluki, Killua, Alluka, and Kalluto.

Kisuke

Kisuke is a Japanese word meaning “joy, help.”

In “Bleach,”d Kisuke Urahara is the relaxed, laid-back, optimistic guy who can almost always be seen wearing traditional wooden Japanese sandals and a bucket hat. It would be considered a very old-fashioned name in modern Japan.

Kiyotaka

The literal translation of Kiyotaka is “rejoice,” generation,” and “noble.”

Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is a student at Koudo Ikusei Senior High School, the setting of “Classroom of the Elite.” His hard-to-read emotions keep him one step away from his peers.

Korosensei

Korosensei is a name created for anime and means “teacher who cannot be killed.”

Korosensei of Ansatsu Kyoushitsu, or “Assassination Classroom,” is the title of a teacher whose real name is Ryushi Korogane.

Koyomi

Koyomi is the Japanese word for “calendar.”

Koyomi Araragi features in “Bakemonogatari,” the anime of the “Monogatari” series of Japanese light novels.

Koyomi survives a vampire attack but is left with vampiric traits such as the ability to see in the dark.

Kiritsugu

Kiritsugu is a Japanese name meaning “to cut,” “sharp,” and “heir.”

Kiritsugu Emiya appears in “Fate/Stay Night” and “Fate/Zero,” as well as popping up in a number of the other franchise spin-offs.

Kusuo

The Japanese boy name Kusuo can have dozens of meanings, depending on the kanji used.

In “The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.,” Kusuo takes his first step one month after his birth and does so in mid-air. This was one of the first signs he was an incredibly gifted psychic.

Larry

Larry is a diminutive of Lawrence which means “from Laurentum.”

In “Death Note,” Larry Conners is the actual name of the FBI investigator known as John McEnroe. The agent works with the NPA to rescue Takimura.

Law

Law is also short for the English name Lawrence, meaning “from Laurentum.”

Law, in this case, is the surname of Trafalgar D. Water Law, the captain and doctor of the Heart Pirates in “One Piece.” While the Heart Pirates sound like a soft, cuddly group, Law’s epithet is Surgeon of Death.

Lelouch

Lelouch is from the Judeo-Spanish surname Lellouche, meaning “lamb.”

Lelouch Lamperouge is the alias of Lelouch vi Britannia, the genius protagonist of the anime series “Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion.” A former prince, he leads the rebellion against the Britannia Empire, ruled by his father.

Levi

Levi is a Hebrew name that possibly means “attached” or “joined.”

In “Shingeki no Kyojin” or “Attack on Titan,” Levi Ackerman is the legendary badass soldier who is also known to be a bit of a clean freak.

Light

The name Light comes from the English word.

Light Yagami is a character in “Death Note.” It could be a good choice for an anime fan who also wants a boy name from nature rather than a typical Japanese boy name.

Maes

Maes is a Medieval Dutch evolution of Thomas, meaning “twin.”

Maes Hughes is a character in “Fullmetal Alchemist” who is known for his kind, fun-loving personality. Originally a Dutch surname, it’s now used occasionally as a first name.

Marco

Marco is an Italian boy name that means “male.”

“Attack on Titan” character Marco Bott is a natural leader who is well respected by his team members. Marco was promoted to team leader after the breach of Wall Rose.

Minato

The Japanese name Minato means “harbor.”

In “Naruto,” Minato Namikaze is responsible for sealing a nine-tailed fox. This act cost Minato his life.

Meliodas

Meliodas is a name created in medieval Frech literature.

“Nanatsu no Taizai” or “The Seven Deadly Sins” is set in a world similar to medieval Europe. The leader of The Seven Deadly Sins and the Sin of Wrath is Meliodas.

Naruto

Naruto could be Old Japanese for “roaring gate.”

The Naruto whirlpools in the Naruto Strait inspired the name of Naruto Uzumaki. He is the title character of “Naruto,” the anime and manga series created by Masashi Kishimoto.

Obito

Obito is an anime name with no meaning.

Obito Uchiha is a character in “Naruto.” If you’ve completed the entire series, then you also know Obito’s alias. If you haven’t got that far yet, we’re not going to spoil it for you!

Osamu

Osamu is a Japanese boy name, meaning “discipline, study.”

In “Bungo Stray Dogs,” Osamu Dazai is an executive of the Port Mafia and a member of the Armed Detective Agency. He shares a name with a Japanese author who’s considered to be one of the foremost writers of the 20th century.

Phillip

Phillip is an English name, meaning “friend of horses.”

Philip Gargantos Armstrong is the head of the Armstrong family in “Fullmetal Alchemist” and associated anime series, specials, and manga. Known for his long-winded stories, Phillip is also insightful.

Renji

The Japanese name Renji means “next love.”

Renji Abarai is a Shinigami in “Bleach.” Shinigami are supernatural spirits found in Japanese culture. Renji Abarai is unusual for a Shinigami in that he has long crimson hair that he wears in a high ponytail.

Reiner

Reiner is a Germanic name, meaning “army advisor.”

Vice-captain of the Warrior Unit in “Attack on Titan,” Reiner Braun builds a reputation for being passionate and honest with a strong sense of duty.

Riku

Riku is a Japanese boy name, meaning “land.”

In the series “Kingdom Hearts,” Riku begins as a cool, calm teenager who is not afraid to put himself in danger to protect his friends. Driven by a strong competitive streak, Riku also has a well-developed sense of humor.

Rintarou

Rintarou is a Japanese name that means “ethics,” “big,” or “son.”

Crazy mad scientist Rintarou Okabe can be found in the anime “Steins;Gate.” Founder of the Future Gadget Research Establishment, where he invents useless gadgets, Rintarou talks to himself on phone and struggles with social anxiety.

Roy

Roy is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ruadh, meaning “red.”

In “Fullmetal Alchemist,” Roy Mustang is the flame alchemist. He has complete control over fire and heat and wears gloves that create a spark when he snaps his fingers.

Roy could be a kawaii anime name for boys with red hair.

Ryuk

Ryuk is a name created for anime. It has no meaning.

In “Death Note,” Ryuk is the Shinigami who drops the Death Note into the human world, something he does purely because he is bored.

Sanji

Sanji is a name created for the manga series “One Piece.” It means “of the sun.”

Chief of the Straw Hat Pirates in “One Piece,” Sanji, is an accomplished chef as well as a fighter. This kawaii name is not to be confused with the Indian boy name Sanjay.

Sasuke

Depending on the kanji used, Sasuke can mean “the assistant,” “help,” or “offer assistance.”

In “Naruto,” Sasuke Uchiha begins life as a friend of the protagonist, Naruto. However, his character matures over the story arc as he evolves from a friend to an antagonist.

Satoru

The Japanese boy name Satoru means “enlightenment.”

Satoru Gojou features in the anime series “Jujutsu Kaisen.” Satoru is said to have been a fan of “Digimon Adventure” in high school, which is an in-joke because several of the voice actors in “Jujutsu Kaisen” also worked on “Digimon.”

Shougo

Shougo is a Japanese name, meaning “I win” or “my victory.”

“Psycho-Pass,” the anime thriller series, is set in 22nd century Japan. Enforcers assess the threat level of each citizen and issue those who are safe a psycho pass. Shougo Makishima is a criminal mastermind in the series.

Shizhuo

Shizhuo is a Japanese name meaning “peaceful hero.”

With this meaning, Shizhuo is the perfect anime name for a child who has already endured a great deal before being born. Plus, they’ll be named after “Durarara!!” protagonist Shizhuo Heiwajima, the strongest man in Ikebukuro.

Sebastian

Sebastian means “from Sebaste,” a town in Asia Minor.

Sebastian Michaelis is a demon butler who works in the Phantomhive household in the Japanese manga “Kuroshitsuji” or “Black Butler.” The mark of Sebastian’s Faustian contract is visible on the back of his left hand.

Senku

Senku is a Japanese name that can mean “thousand, immortal, sky, long time.”

In the case of the Senku in “Dr. Stone,” his name translates to “a thousand skies.” A confident, straightforward, logical scientist, Senku never belittles those with less knowledge. Instead, he chooses to help, support, and inspire others.

Shigeo

Shigeo is a Japanese boy name with multiple potential meanings.

In “Mob Psyco 100,” Shigeo Kageyama is nicknamed “Mob.” The written kanji of this Shigeo mean “blessed husband,” which kind of reflects Mob’s gentle, socially awkward nature.

Shinya

Shinya is an alternate transcription of the Japanese boy name Shin’ya, meaning “genuine, also.”

The first season of “Psycho-Pass” features Shinya Kougami as a mercenary turned enforcement officer and tactical advisor in the Suppressing Action Department of the Foreign Affairs Operations Department.

Shinpachi

Shinpachi is an anime name written with the kanji for “new” and “eight.”

One of the main characters in “Gintama” is Shinpachi Shimura, the samurai in training who is learning their ways from his teacher, Gintoki.

Shuuichi

Shuuichi, or Shuichi, is an anime-specific name, meaning “disciplined one” or “excellent, outstanding.”

In “Death Note,” Shuuichi Aizawa is a respected member of the National Police Agency and the Japanese Task Force. An intelligent, quiet officer, he is well respected.

Sōma

Sōma is an alternative transcription of Souma, a Japanese boy name, meaning “sudden sound of the wind.”

Sōma Yukihira features in “Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma.” An adventurous chef, he’s not afraid to try new things, which leads to dishes like “Grilled Squid Tentacles Dressed in Peanut Butter.”

Spike

Spike is an English language name that possibly began as a nickname.

In “Cowboy Bebop,” Spike Spiegel is a tall, lean Mars-born bounty hunter. The character is inspired by Bruce Lee, so this boy name from anime could also be a suitable baby name choice for fans of the legendary martial artist.

Takashi

Takashi is a Japanese name, meaning “honor, esteem.”

“Natsume’s Book of Friends” features Takashi Natsume, an orphan who inherits the “Book of Friends” from his grandmother. He also inherited the ability to see spirits.

Takumi

Takumi is a Japanese name, meaning “skillful artisan.”

Takumi Usui is the male protagonist of “Maid Sama!” This anime follows the pupils of an all-boys school which transitions to a co-ed model and elects a girl as school president.

Tamaki

The Japanese name Tamaki means “jade bead” or “ring.”

Tamaki Suoh is the emotional, flamboyant founder of the “Ouran High School Host Club.” An accomplished pianist, his favorite piece is Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major.

Tenya

The Japanese name Tenya has multiple potential meanings.

When written, Tenya Iida’s name uses the kanji 天哉, which means “heaven.” The serious, studious student of “My Hero Academia” has the quirk of Engine, which makes his legs move with the speed of jet engines.

Tobio

Tobio is an anime name, meaning “flying hero.”

You’ll meet Tobio Kageyama in “Haikyuu!!” Here he was first given the nickname “The King of the Court” because of his stand-offish, arrogant nature. However, he is later shown to be relatively immature for his age and sensitive.

Vegeta

Vegeta is a name created for “Dragon Ball GT.” It means “be the data.”

In the “Dragon Ball” series of manga and anime, Vegeta starts life as an antagonistic protagonist, only to reform during the story arc before becoming one of the mainstay heroes.

Yamcha

Yamcha is a Cantonese term for going out to eat dim sum. If translated directly, it means “drink tea.”

At the beginning of the “Dragonball” series, Yamcha is an antagonist of Goku. However, thanks to the intervention of Bulma, Goku and Yamcha later become friends.

Yato

Yato is a Japanese name beginning with Y that means “stopped night.”

In “Noragami,” Yato is an obscure god who attempts to build his own shrine. Yato leaves his cell phone number everywhere so people can call and ask for his help.

Yoshikage

Yoshikage, in the context of “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,” means “good luck, shadow figure.”

Yoshikage “Kosaku Kawajiri” Kira is the protagonist of “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable.” He enjoys a simple life and is deeply disturbed when someone disrupts his day-to-day routine.

Yuuga

Yuuga’s a corruption of Yūga, 優雅, meaning “elegance.”

Yuuga Aoyama may only be a supporting character in “My Hero Academia,” but his quirk, or superpower, is too good to not include him in our list. Yuuga’s quirk is Navel Laser, which allows him to shoot a laser from his belly button.

Zima

Zima is a Russian surname that means “winter.”

In the “Chobits” anime and manga, Zima is one of only two government persocoms that are looking for Chi. They are trying to stop her from executing her program.

In the US, Zima is also an alcoholic drink made by Coors.

Zoro

The fictional Japanese name Zoro means “create, sky” and “path, moon.”

Zoro Roronoa is one of the Straw Hat Pirates who features in “One Piece” manga and anime. While not a samurai, he is often mistaken for one.