This list includes 103 Male names that start with J, from “Jabari” to “Name”. They range from classic English staples to culturally specific choices, useful for parents, writers, and researchers.
Male names that start with J are given names used for boys and men that begin with the letter J. Many such names, like “John” and “Jamal”, have long histories across languages and regions.
Below you’ll find the table with Name, Origin, Meaning, Notable bearers, and Variants.
Name: This lists each male name beginning with J so you can scan spellings and shortlist options quickly.
Origin: Shows the linguistic or cultural origin so you understand a name’s background and cultural associations.
Meaning: Gives the common translation or meaning so you assess significance and fit for your child or character.
Notable bearers: Lists famous people or fictional characters so you can see notable associations and real-world usage.
Variants: Includes spelling variants and related forms so you can compare alternatives across cultures and languages.
Male names that start with J
| Name | Origin | Meaning | Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Origin | Meaning | Popularity |
| James | Hebrew | Supplanter | US rank 2023: 4 |
| John | Hebrew | God is gracious | US rank 2023: 26 |
| Jacob | Hebrew | Supplanter | US rank 2023: 42 |
| Joseph | Hebrew | God will increase | US rank 2023: 31 |
| Joshua | Hebrew | The Lord is salvation | US rank 2023: 56 |
| Jack | English | God is gracious | US rank 2023: 11 |
| Jackson | English | Son of Jack | US rank 2023: 23 |
| Julian | Latin | Youthful, downy-bearded | US rank 2023: 35 |
| Jayden | Hebrew/American | Thankful; invented name | US rank 2023: 54 |
| Josiah | Hebrew | God supports, God heals | US rank 2023: 51 |
| Jonathan | Hebrew | Gift of Jehovah | US rank 2023: 86 |
| Jasper | Persian | Bringer of treasure | US rank 2023: 111 |
| Jude | Hebrew | Praised | US rank 2023: 140 |
| Jeremiah | Hebrew | Yahweh will exalt | US rank 2023: 88 |
| Jordan | Hebrew | To flow down | US rank 2023: 89 |
| Joel | Hebrew | Yahweh is God | US rank 2023: 232 |
| Jonah | Hebrew | Dove | US rank 2023: 175 |
| Jesse | Hebrew | Gift | US rank 2023: 233 |
| Justin | Latin | Just, fair | US rank 2023: 220 |
| Javier | Spanish | New house | US rank 2023: 247 |
| Juan | Spanish | God is gracious | US rank 2023: 147 |
| Jorge | Spanish/Portuguese | Farmer | US rank 2023: 341 |
| Jason | Greek | To heal | US rank 2023: 133 |
| Jared | Hebrew | He descends | US rank 2023: 418 |
| Jeffrey | Germanic | God’s peace | US rank 2023: 507 |
| Jeremy | English | Yahweh will exalt | US rank 2023: 285 |
| Jaxon | American | Son of Jack | US rank 2023: 46 |
| Jameson | English | Son of James | US rank 2023: 82 |
| Jett | English | Black mineral; or to fly | US rank 2023: 226 |
| Jay | Latin/Sanskrit | Jaybird; victory | US rank 2023: 416 |
| Joaquin | Hebrew/Spanish | Established by God | US rank 2023: 310 |
| Jonas | Greek/Lithuanian | Dove; or John | US rank 2023: 479 |
| Jensen | Danish/Norwegian | Son of Jens | US rank 2023: 351 |
| Jedidiah | Hebrew | Beloved of the Lord | US rank 2023: 808 |
| Jamal | Arabic | Beauty, grace | Common |
| Jamil | Arabic | Beautiful, handsome | Uncommon |
| Jean | French | God is gracious | Uncommon for boys in US |
| Julius | Latin | Youthful, downy-bearded | US rank 2023: 304 |
| Julio | Spanish/Italian | Youthful, downy-bearded | US rank 2023: 512 |
| Jethro | Hebrew | Abundance, excellence | Rare |
| Jago | Cornish | Supplanter | Rare |
| Jiro | Japanese | Second son | Rare |
| Johannes | Latin | God is gracious | Uncommon |
| Jürgen | German | Farmer | Rare in US |
| Jussi | Finnish | God is gracious | Rare in US |
| Jabari | Swahili | Brave one | US rank 2023: 981 |
| Jafar | Arabic | Stream, rivulet | Rare |
| Jagger | English | Carter, peddler | US rank 2023: 659 |
| Judson | English | Son of Judd | Rare |
| Jericho | Hebrew | City of the moon | Rare |
| Justice | Latin | Righteousness, equity | Uncommon |
| Journey | English | A trip or expedition | Uncommon |
| Jove | Latin | Sky father | Rare |
| Jan | Dutch/Slavic | God is gracious | Uncommon in US |
| Jules | French | Youthful, downy-bearded | Uncommon |
| Jermaine | French | From Germany; or brother | Uncommon |
| Jerome | Greek | Sacred name | Uncommon |
| Jair | Hebrew | He shines | Uncommon |
| Jalen | American | Invented name | US rank 2023: 407 |
| Jarek | Slavic | Fierce, strong; spring | Rare |
| Jarvis | Germanic/French | Spear; servant | Rare |
| Jed | Hebrew | Beloved of the Lord | Rare |
| Jens | Danish/Norwegian | God is gracious | Rare in US |
| Job | Hebrew | Persecuted, hated | Rare |
| Johan | German/Scandinavian | God is gracious | Uncommon |
| Jolyon | English | Youthful | Rare |
| Jory | Cornish/Hebrew | Farmer; to flow down | Rare |
| Josue | Spanish/French | The Lord is salvation | US rank 223: 201 |
| Jovan | Slavic | God is gracious | Uncommon |
| Judah | Hebrew | Praised | US rank 2023: 205 |
| Judd | Hebrew/English | Praised; to flow down | Rare |
| Junior | Latin | Younger | US rank 2023: 791 |
| Jacoby | Hebrew | Supplanter | Uncommon |
| Jahangir | Persian | Conqueror of the world | Rare |
| Jairus | Latin/Greek/Hebrew | He shines | Rare |
| Javan | Hebrew | Greece | Rare |
| Jebediah | Hebrew | Beloved friend | Rare |
| Jeffry | Germanic | God’s peace | Rare |
| Jelani | Swahili | Mighty | Uncommon |
| Jem | Hebrew | Supplanter | Rare |
| Jeptha | Hebrew | He opens | Rare |
| Joao | Portuguese | God is gracious | Common in Portugal/Brazil |
| Joffré | French/Germanic | God’s peace | Rare |
| Jonty | English | Gift of Jehovah | Rare |
| Jotham | Hebrew | God is perfect | Rare |
| Jubal | Hebrew | Stream, ram’s horn | Rare |
| Juniper | Latin | Juniper tree | Uncommon for boys |
| Juno | Latin | Queen of the heavens | Rare for boys |
| Jupiter | Latin | Sky father | Rare |
| Justus | Latin | Just, fair | Rare |
| Jivan | Sanskrit | Life | Rare |
| Jody | Hebrew | Jehovah increases | Uncommon |
| Jax | American | Invented name | US rank 2023: 290 |
| Jubal | Hebrew | Stream | Rare |
| Jolyon | Medieval English | Youthful | Rare |
| Jiro | Japanese | Second son | Rare |
| Jovan | Slavic | God is gracious | Uncommon |
| Jarl | Norse | Chieftain, nobleman | Rare |
| Jaromir | Slavic | Fierce peace | Rare |
| Jeb | Hebrew | Beloved friend | Rare |
| Jonquil | Latin | A type of narcissus flower | Rare |
| Jubilee | Hebrew | Ram’s horn; a celebration | Rare |
Descriptions
Name
Description
James
A timeless royal and biblical name that has been a consistent favorite for centuries. Nicknames include Jim, Jimmy, and Jamie.
John
One of the most enduring and significant names in Western culture, borne by apostles, kings, and presidents. A true classic.
Jacob
A major biblical patriarch whose name was the most popular in the US for over a decade. Often shortened to Jake.
Joseph
A gentle, classic biblical name with a long history of use. Common nicknames are Joe and Joey.
Joshua
A strong biblical name belonging to the successor of Moses. It was a top 10 name in the US for nearly 30 years.
Jack
Originally a medieval nickname for John, Jack is now a popular and friendly standalone name with a can-do attitude.
Jackson
A modern, energetic surname-name that has soared in popularity. Also spelled Jaxon, it offers the easy nickname Jax.
Julian
An ancient Roman name with a sophisticated, gentle, and timeless appeal. It feels both classic and modern.
Jayden
A hugely popular modern name that peaked in the 2010s. It fits the trendy two-syllable, -en ending sound.
Josiah
A biblical name of a respected king of Judah. It has a gentle but strong sound and a dignified feel.
Jonathan
A classic biblical name known for its association with loyalty and friendship. Less common than John, it feels warm and reliable.
Jasper
A sophisticated name of one of the Three Magi. It has a vintage, artistic charm and is associated with the gemstone.
Jude
A short, strong, and soulful biblical name, popularized by the Beatles song “Hey Jude” and actor Jude Law.
Jeremiah
A powerful Old Testament prophet’s name that feels both traditional and contemporary. Nicknames include Jeremy and Jerry.
Jordan
A river name with biblical significance that became a 90s superstar, thanks to basketball legend Michael Jordan. It remains a popular unisex choice.
Joel
A short and sweet biblical prophet’s name that is straightforward, friendly, and has a quiet strength.
Jonah
A gentle Old Testament name associated with the story of the whale. It has a soft, peaceful sound that appeals to modern parents.
Jesse
A biblical name with a friendly, relaxed, and slightly rustic feel. Borne by the father of King David and the outlaw Jesse James.
Justin
A classic Roman name that became a modern favorite in the 80s and 90s. It has an honest and approachable feel.
Javier
The handsome and sophisticated Spanish form of Xavier. Pronounced “ha-vee-AIR,” it has a continental, romantic flair.
Juan
The Spanish equivalent of John, Juan is a classic and widely used name throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Jorge
The Spanish and Portuguese version of George. Pronounced “HOR-hay,” it’s a classic, strong name with international appeal.
Jason
The name of the heroic leader of the Argonauts in Greek mythology. A mid-century favorite that still feels familiar and strong.
Jared
A biblical name that was very popular in the 1980s. It has a soft yet masculine sound and an approachable feel.
Jeffrey
A mid-century classic, often shortened to Jeff. While less common for babies today, it remains a familiar and friendly name.
Jeremy
The English form of Jeremiah. It’s softer and more approachable than its source name and was very popular in the 70s and 80s.
Jaxon
A modern, phonetic spelling of Jackson that has become extremely popular. It often leads to the energetic nickname Jax.
Jameson
A handsome surname-name that offers a fresh alternative to the classic James, while still honoring it.
Jett
A sleek, modern, and energetic name that sounds fast and cool. It can be a nod to the gemstone or airplanes.
Jay
A simple, sleek, and versatile name. It can be a short form for other J-names or stand on its own.
Joaquin
Pronounced “wah-KEEN,” this is the soulful Spanish form of Joachim. It’s a distinguished name associated with actor Joaquin Phoenix.
Jonas
The Greek and Lithuanian form of Jonah, it feels a bit sleeker and more modern, boosted by the popularity of the Jonas Brothers.
Jensen
A friendly Scandinavian surname-name that feels stylish and approachable. A fresh alternative to Jason or Jackson.
Jedidiah
A long and distinguished biblical name with a warm meaning. It offers the friendly, rustic nickname Jed.
Jamal
A popular and classic name in the Arab world and among African Americans, with a smooth sound and a lovely meaning.
Jamil
A handsome Arabic name that shares its roots with Jamal. It has a gentle and refined feel.
Jean
The classic French form of John, pronounced “ZHAHN.” In English-speaking countries, it’s now primarily used for girls but remains a male classic in France.
Julius
An ancient Roman clan name, most famously borne by Julius Caesar. It’s a strong, dignified, and classic choice.
Julio
The warm and lively Spanish and Italian version of Julius. A familiar classic in Latin cultures.
Jethro
A biblical name with a rustic, rugged, and down-to-earth charm. Offers the cool nickname Jett.
Jago
The jaunty Cornish form of James. Pronounced “JAY-go,” it’s a stylish and uncommon choice with classic roots.
Jiro
A traditional and straightforward Japanese name, pronounced “JEE-roh.” It has a clean, strong, and simple appeal.
Johannes
The Latin form of John, which is the root for many versions across Europe. It feels stately and traditional, and is often shortened to Johan or Hans.
Jürgen
The German form of George, pronounced “YER-gen.” A solid and traditional name that is very common in Germany.
Jussi
The common Finnish form of John. Pronounced “YOO-see,” it’s a friendly and energetic name popular in Finland.
Jabari
A strong and handsome name of Swahili origin with an inspiring meaning. It gained notice via basketball player Jabari Parker.
Jafar
An Arabic name known in the West primarily through the villain in Disney’s “Aladdin,” but it has a long history of use.
Jagger
A rock-and-roll surname-name, thanks to Mick Jagger. It has a rebellious, edgy, and charismatic feel.
Judson
A handsome and underused surname-name that sounds a bit like a fresh alternative to Hudson or Jackson.
Jericho
A biblical place name with a strong and resonant sound. It’s a unique choice that feels both ancient and modern.
Justice
A strong and straightforward virtue name that works well for boys. It has a modern, dignified, and aspirational feel.
Journey
A modern, adventurous word name with a unisex profile. It suggests a life of exploration and discovery.
Jove
The Roman equivalent of Zeus, king of the gods. A short, powerful, and rare mythological name.
Jan
The version of John used in many European countries, like the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland. Pronounced “YAHN” in most places.
Jules
The chic French form of Julius, pronounced “ZHOOL.” It has a sophisticated and artistic vibe.
Jermaine
A smooth and soulful name, popularized by Jermaine Jackson of The Jackson 5. It has a stylish and friendly feel.
Jerome
The name of a great saint and scholar. It has a studious, vintage feel and can be shortened to Jerry.
Jair
A brief and bright-sounding Old Testament name. It’s more common in Spanish-speaking cultures, often as Jairo.
Jalen
A modern American name, popularized by basketball player Jalen Rose. It’s part of the family of names like Jayden and Kaden.
Jarek
A short and energetic-sounding Slavic diminutive for names like Jarosław. A zippy and uncommon choice.
Jarvis
A dignified English surname that feels both vintage and futuristic, thanks to its use in the “Iron Man” films for Tony Stark’s AI.
Jed
A short, strong, and friendly name that can be a nickname for Jedidiah or stand on its own. It has a rustic, cowboy charm.
Jens
The crisp and cool Scandinavian short form of Johannes (John). Pronounced “YENS,” it’s a major classic in Denmark and Norway.
Job
The name of a famously patient biblical figure. It’s a short, strong, and serious name that is rarely used today.
Johan
A classic European variation of John, often pronounced “YO-han.” It feels both international and familiar.
Jolyon
A romantic and literary medieval English form of Julian, known from “The Forsyte Saga.” An elegant and distinctive choice.
Jory
A friendly and approachable name, either as a Cornish form of George or a short form of Jordan.
Josue
The Spanish and French form of Joshua. Widely used in Latin American communities, it’s a handsome and faithful choice.
Jovan
The Serbian and Macedonian form of John. It has a vibrant, energetic sound, popularized by musician Jovanotti.
Judah
An important biblical name, the ancestor of the Tribe of Judah and a forefather of Jesus. A strong and resonant classic.
Judd
A strong, one-syllable name that can be a short form of Judah or Jordan. It has a solid, masculine feel.
Junior
Traditionally used for a son named after his father, it is now sometimes used as a standalone given name.
Jacoby
A surname variant of Jacob that sounds more modern and energetic. Often shortened to Coby.
Jahangir
A powerful and regal Persian name borne by a famous Mughal emperor. It has a grand and historic feel.
Jairus
The Latinized form of the Hebrew name Jair, found in the New Testament. A dignified and uncommon biblical choice.
Javan
A biblical name for a grandson of Noah, considered the ancestor of the Greek people. A simple and rare option.
Jebediah
A variant of Jedidiah, this name has a friendly, rustic, and old-fashioned American feel. Can be shortened to Jeb.
Jeffry
A less-common spelling variation of Jeffrey, giving it a slightly different, updated look.
Jelani
A strong and positive name of East African origin. It’s a distinctive choice with a great meaning.
Jem
A charming short form of James or Jeremy, familiar from the character in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It works well on its own.
Jeptha
The name of a judge in the Old Testament. It’s a rare and serious biblical name with a strong sound.
Joao
The Portuguese form of John, pronounced “zhow-OWN.” A classic and extremely popular name in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Joffré
The French form of Geoffrey. A rare and distinguished name with a French aristocratic feel.
Jonty
A jaunty and friendly British nickname for Jonathan that has potential as a standalone name.
Jotham
The name of a king of Judah in the Old Testament. A rare biblical name that is both simple and dignified.
Jubal
A biblical name associated with the invention of music. It’s a joyful and creative choice for a boy.
Juniper
A fresh and lively nature name, primarily used for girls but gaining some use for boys. It has a quirky, spirited feel.
Juno
The name of the Roman queen of the gods. While overwhelmingly female, it’s occasionally used for boys, giving it a bold, mythological edge.
Jupiter
The Roman king of the gods, equivalent to the Greek Zeus. A powerful, celestial, and highly unusual choice for a boy.
Justus
A Roman name that was borne by an early saint. It has a strong, virtuous, and serious feel.
Jivan
A beautiful and meaningful name from India, also spelled Jeevan. It has a gentle sound and a universal, positive meaning.
Jody
A friendly, casual name that originated as a nickname for Joseph. Now considered unisex, it was more popular for boys in the mid-20th century.
Jax
Originally a nickname for Jackson or Jaxon, this short, punchy, and cool name is now a popular choice in its own right.
Jubal
A creative and joyful-sounding name from the Old Testament, where Jubal is the father of all musicians.
Jolyon
A romantic and distinguished medieval variation of Julian, familiar to readers of ‘The Forsyte Saga’.
Jiro
A classic Japanese name, traditionally given to the second-born son. It’s strong, simple, and culturally rich.
Jovan
The Serbian and Macedonian form of John, with a more energetic and modern feel than the original.
Jarl
A powerful Old Norse title equivalent to “earl.” It’s a short, strong, and historic name with a commanding presence.
Jaromir
A classic Slavic name popular in Czechia and Poland, composed of the elements for “fierce” and “peace.”
Jeb
A short, punchy nickname for Jebediah or a standalone name with a friendly, all-American feel.
Jonquil
A rare and poetic floral name, derived from the Spanish word for “rush.” A truly unique choice for a boy.
Jubilee
A joyous and celebratory word name. While more common for girls, its upbeat spirit makes it a bold unisex option.