Baby boy names that start with K are crisp, confident, and full of contemporary charm. Trendsetting picks like Kai (Hawaiian for "sea"), Kingston ("king’s town"), and Knox ("round hill") exude modern boldness, while enduring classics like Kenneth ("handsome") and Kevin ("kind, gentle") maintain steady appeal.
K names often carry a strong, memorable punch—think Kellan ("slender"), Kieran ("little dark one"), or Koa (Hawaiian for "warrior"). They also span cultures effortlessly, from the Slavic Kazimir ("destroyer of peace") to the Japanese Kenji ("intelligent second son"). Whether you’re drawn to the sleek Kade, the nature-inspired Kairos, or the vintage Kingsley, K names offer a dynamic mix of edge and tradition, perfect for parents who want a name that’s both stylish and substantive.
Baby Names That Start With K
Kaleidoscopic, kind, and often kingly — baby names that begin with K offer a mix of boldness, sweetness, and global charm. Whether you’re drawn to short and snappy picks or elegant, romantic names, this curated list of 50 “K” names brings you the best from around the world.
See All the Names1. Kai
Origin: Hawaiian
Meaning: "Sea"
Description: A global unisex favorite, Kai's watery simplicity flows between cultures with ease. This two-syllable gem works equally well for beach-loving families, anime fans (Kai from Beyblade), or parents seeking spiritual nature names. Its oceanic meaning evokes both calm and power, while its brevity makes it endlessly versatile.
2. Kinsley
Origin: English
Meaning: "King's meadow"
Description: Originally a surname, Kinsley has blossomed into a trendy gender-neutral choice. The "-ley" ending gives it a sweet, approachable vibe, while its royal roots add subtle sophistication. Perfect for parents who love preppy names like Kensington but want something fresher and more inclusive.
3. Kieran
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Little dark one"
Description: With its gentle Celtic lilt, Kieran strikes a perfect balance between soft and strong. Traditionally masculine but increasingly used for all genders, this name offers literary cred (Kieran Culkin) and natural appeal (linked to "ciar" meaning dark-haired). A refined alternative to more common K-names.
4. Kira
Origin: Russian
Meaning: "Throne"
Description: Sharp yet melodic, Kira packs regal power in one sleek syllable. While historically feminine, its similarity to unisex names like Kai and Kyra broadens its appeal. The name's sci-fi connections (Dark Crystal) and strong meaning make it ideal for bold, independent personalities.
5. Knox
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: "Round hill"
Description: The ultimate cool-kid name, Knox's X-ending gives it modern edge (thanks to Angelina Jolie's son). Originally a surname meaning "from the hill," its single-syllable punch and rugged charm work across genders. Pair with a longer middle name for perfect balance.
6. Kalani
Origin: Hawaiian
Meaning: "The heavens"
Description: Soaring in popularity, Kalani is a lyrical unisex name with island serenity. Its celestial meaning and fluid pronunciation (kah-LAH-nee) create universal appeal. Ideal for nature-loving parents or those seeking a spiritual name that's neither overtly biblical nor trendy.
7. Kobe
Origin: Swahili
Meaning: "Tortoise" (symbolizing wisdom and longevity)
Description: Beyond its basketball legacy, Kobe shines as a gender-neutral name with global roots. The Swahili meaning adds depth, while its energetic "o" sound keeps it youthful. A strong choice for parents valuing resilience and cultural significance.
8. Keira
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Little dark one"
Description: A stylish twist on Kiera/Ciara, Keira's Hollywood glow (Knightley) doesn't limit its unisex potential. The name's Gaelic heritage and elegant simplicity make it adaptable, while nicknames (Kee, Kiki) add playful flexibility.
9. Killian
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Church"
Description: Though historically male, Killian's lilting cadence and trendy "-ian" ending open gender-neutral possibilities. This name blends Celtic charm with a touch of rebel edge (linked to "kil" meaning strife). Perfect for parents who love Liam but want something less common.
10. Kamila
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: "Perfect"
Description: While traditionally feminine, Kamila's strong "Kam" start and unisex nicknames (Kam, Milo) create crossover appeal. This multicultural name's flawless meaning and melodic flow resonate across languages, offering both beauty and substance.
11. Kellan
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Powerful"
Description: A rising star in gender-neutral names, Kellan's "Kel" beginning (like Kelly) and "-lan" ending (like Alan) make it inherently versatile. Its meaning conveys strength without aggression, ideal for confident yet kind personalities.
12. Kimber
Origin: English
Meaning: "Royal fortress"
Description: Originally a unisex surname, Kimber now shines as a fresh first name alternative to Kimberly. Its gemstone-adjacent sound and fierce meaning make it perfect for parents who want something strong but not harsh, with a touch of androgynous edge.
13. Kaia
Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: "Pure"
Description: With its lush Hawaiian homonym (meaning "sea") and Nordic roots, Kaia is a globally appealing unisex choice. The name's simplicity, natural connections, and celebrity cachet (Kaia Gerber) make it a timeless yet modern pick.
14. Kade
Origin: American
Meaning: "Round"
Description: The edgy cousin to Cade, Kade's single-syllable punch and trendy "K" start give it modern unisex appeal. Its geometric meaning and no-frills style attract parents seeking something straightforward but distinctive.
15. Kendall
Origin: English
Meaning: "Valley of the River Kent"
Description: A longtime unisex staple, Kendall balances preppy charm (Jenner) with professional polish. The name's watery meaning and versatile nicknames (Ken, Dally) make it adaptable for any personality or career path.
16. Koa
Origin: Hawaiian
Meaning: "Brave, warrior"
Description: Short but mighty, Koa is a unisex nature name with island strength. Linked to Hawaii's sacred acacia trees, it symbolizes courage and natural beauty. Ideal for adventurous spirits or parents honoring Pacific heritage.
17. Kaitlyn
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Pure"
Description: While traditionally feminine, Kaitlyn's unisex nicknames (Kate, Kai, Lyn) open gender-neutral possibilities. This 90s favorite retains timeless charm with its Celtic roots and clean meaning. A versatile choice that balances vintage sweetness with modern adaptability through creative short forms.
18. Kylo
Origin: Modern invented
Meaning: Popularized by Star Wars
Description: Bursting with futuristic edge, Kylo has transcended its cinematic origins to become a bold unisex choice. The name's sleek "Ky-" start and "-lo" ending create an otherworldly vibe perfect for parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable. Its lack of traditional meaning allows for personal interpretation.
19. Kensington
Origin: English
Meaning: "Royal town"
Description: This aristocratic surname-turned-first-name shines as a luxe gender-neutral option. While lengthy, its regal London associations and nickname potential (Kenzie, Kensi, Ton) make it surprisingly wearable. Ideal for parents who love place names with prestige.
20. Kyrie
Origin: Greek
Meaning: "Lord"
Description: With spiritual depth and musicality (the Greek liturgical chant), Kyrie (KEER-ee-ay) offers rare unisex potential. Its similarity to unisex names like Kieran and gender-neutral "-ie" ending broaden its appeal beyond traditional masculine use. A meaningful choice for artistic or faith-oriented families.
21. Kara
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Beloved"
Description: Simple yet profound, Kara's cross-cultural variations (Cara, Kára) make it inherently gender-flexible. The name's vowel-heavy melody and tender meaning create universal appeal. Pair with a strong middle name for balance, or let its purity stand alone.
22. Kolton
Origin: English
Meaning: "Coal town"
Description: The edgy "K" spelling modernizes this traditionally masculine name, while its similarity to unisex options like Colton/Kellan adds versatility. Rugged yet approachable, Kolton suits parents who want something grounded with a contemporary twist.
23. Kenna
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: "Born of fire"
Description: Though historically feminine, Kenna's fiery meaning and unisex "-a" ending (like Senna) give it crossover potential. This Celtic gem offers a fresher alternative to Kendra, with nickname options (Ken, Kena) that enhance its gender-neutral appeal.
24. Kamil
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: "Perfect"
Description: A spiritual unisex name (used for both genders in Arabic), Kamil's crisp two-syllable structure and flawless meaning transcend cultures. The "Kam" start links to trendy names like Kamila, while its dignified simplicity stands out.
25. Kiana
Origin: Hawaiian
Meaning: "Divine"
Description: While traditionally feminine, Kiana's similarity to unisex names like Kian and Koa creates flexibility. Its celestial meaning and island breeziness make it ideal for parents seeking something ethereal yet substantive.
26. Kyra
Origin: Persian
Meaning: "Throne"
Description: With regal power and a sleek single-syllable punch (KEER-ah), Kyra's similarity to unisex Kai broadens its appeal. The name's strong meaning and elegant simplicity work across genders, especially with tomboyish nicknames like Ky.
27. Kaiser
Origin: German
Meaning: "Emperor"
Description: Though historically masculine, Kaiser's strong "-er" ending and rarity as a first name create unisex potential. This bold choice carries imperial weight without stuffiness, perfect for confident personalities.
28. Keziah
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: "Cassia tree" (fragrant spice)
Description: A biblical rarity with unisex nicknames (Kez, Ziah), Keziah offers vintage charm and natural warmth. Its exotic sound and botanical meaning appeal to parents seeking something distinctive yet rooted.
29. Kylan
Origin: Modern invented
Meaning: Variant of Kyle/Killian
Description: This trendy mashup name blends Kyle's friendliness with Killian's Celtic edge. The "-lan" ending (like Dylan) gives it inherent gender neutrality, while its fresh sound fits modern naming trends.
30. Kit
Origin: English
Meaning: "Bearer of Christ"
Description: A charming unisex short form of Christopher/Katherine, Kit has literary cred (Kit Tyler from The Witch of Blackbird Pond) and vintage cool. Its brevity and playful energy make it endlessly wearable.
31. Kori
Origin: Greek
Meaning: "Maiden"
Description: Though meaning-derived feminine, Kori's similarity to unisex Corey and sleek spelling create crossover appeal. This breezy name offers a fresh alternative to more common K-names like Kylie.
32. Kassian
Origin: Latin
Meaning: "Curly-haired"
Description: With its elegant "-ian" ending and rare status, Kassian (KASS-ee-an) shines as a sophisticated unisex choice. The name's melodic flow and quirky meaning add character without being obscure.
33. Kael
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Mighty warrior"
Description: A streamlined twist on Cael/Kale, Kael's single-syllable strength and Celtic roots create bold gender-neutral appeal. Ideal for parents who want something punchy with heritage.
34. Kensley
Origin: English
Meaning: "King's meadow"
Description: A softer sibling to Kinsley, Kensley's preppy charm and unisex "-ley" ending make it versatile. The name's royal-meets-natural meaning appeals to modern parents.
35. Karina
Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: "Pure"
Description: While traditionally feminine, Karina's similarity to unisex names like Kari and strong "Kar-" start broaden its potential. This melodic name offers continental elegance with clean simplicity.
36. Kylan-Rae
Origin: Modern invented
Meaning: Combination name
Description: This double-barreled delight blends trendy Kylan with sweet Rae, creating a harmonious unisex option. The hyphen adds contemporary flair while allowing both names to shine—perfect for parents who can't choose just one.
37. Kylen
Origin: American (modern invented)
Meaning: Variant of Kyle/Kylan
Description: Blending Kyle's friendly vibe with the trendy "-len" suffix, Kylen emerges as a fresh unisex option. Its smooth cadence and modern sound appeal to parents seeking something familiar yet distinctive. The name's ambiguity allows for personal interpretation, making it perfect for creative families.
38. Krista
Origin: Greek
Meaning: "Follower of Christ"
Description: While traditionally feminine, Krista's strong "Kris" start (shared with unisex Chris/Kris) and spiritual depth offer crossover potential. This classic name balances vintage charm with timeless significance, adaptable through tomboyish nicknames like Kit or Kris.
39. Krew
Origin: American
Meaning: "Group, collective"
Description: A bold, modern unisex name riding the crew/crewneck trend. Krew's edgy spelling and team-oriented meaning resonate with collaborative, free-spirited families. Its single-syllable punch makes it memorable, while the "ew" ending adds youthful energy.
40. Kateri
Origin: Mohawk (Native American)
Meaning: "Pure"
Description: This sacred name honors St. Kateri Tekakwitha, blending cultural heritage with spiritual grace. Though historically feminine, its unique sound and natural nicknames (Kat, Teri) create unisex flexibility. A meaningful choice for nature-loving or faith-oriented parents.
41. Kayson
Origin: American (modern invented)
Meaning: Variant of Jason/Kason
Description: A trendy twist on classic names, Kayson's "Kay" start and "-son" ending give it inherent gender neutrality. The name's energetic sound and stylish "K" spelling appeal to parents wanting something contemporary yet approachable.
42. Khalil
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: "Friend"
Description: Warm and soulful, Khalil (kah-LEEL) transcends gender with its universal message of connection. Traditionally masculine but increasingly unisex, this name carries literary prestige (Khalil Gibran) and cross-cultural appeal. Ideal for compassionate, globally-minded families.
43. Kalista
Origin: Greek
Meaning: "Most beautiful"
Description: While feminine-leaning, Kalista's strong "Kal" prefix (shared with unisex Kalel) and nickname potential (Kali, Lista) broaden its appeal. This lyrical name offers mythological charm (Callisto) with a modern, elegant twist.
44. Kace
Origin: Irish
Meaning: "Alert, watchful"
Description: The edgy "K" spelling revitalizes this ancient name, giving it modern unisex cred. Short and sharp, Kace works equally well for sporty or artistic personalities. Its meaning adds a layer of protective strength.
45. Kamilah
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: "Perfect"
Description: A graceful feminine form of Kamil, Kamilah's melodic flow and spiritual meaning make it globally appealing. While traditionally female, its shared root with unisex Kamil creates meaningful sibling potential. The name radiates serene confidence.
46. Knoll
Origin: English
Meaning: "Hilltop"
Description: An earthy, gender-neutral nature name for minimalist parents. Knoll's quiet strength and landscape imagery evoke stability and perspective. Its rarity ensures distinction without being obscure.
47. Korben
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: "Offered"
Description: Popularized by The Fifth Element, Korben blends sci-fi cool with spiritual depth. The name's strong "Kor-" start and "-ben" ending create balanced energy, appealing to parents who want something futuristic yet grounded.
48. Kristoff
Origin: Scandinavian
Meaning: "Bearer of Christ"
Description: Though historically masculine, Kristoff's Frozen associations and nickname Kris lend unisex potential. This Nordic name offers wintry charm and noble bearing, perfect for adventurous spirits.
49. Kezia-Rose
Origin: Hebrew-English combination
Meaning: "Cassia flower + rose"
Description: A poetic double-name blending biblical rarity (Kezia) with timeless beauty (Rose). The hyphen creates a truly gender-neutral floral option that's both distinctive and harmonious. Ideal for nature-loving families seeking something lyrical.
50. Kingsley
Origin: English
Meaning: "King's field"
Description: Regal yet approachable, Kingsley shines as a sophisticated unisex surname-name. Its literary ties (Kingsley Shacklebolt) and melodic flow make it versatile for all personalities, from bookish to bold.
