The letter M is an iconic starting point for many beloved baby boy names. Names beginning with M have a timeless quality and harken back to many great names drawn from history, tradition, and world cultures.

Here is a look at some top baby boy names starting with M, their origins and meanings to inspire your name search.

Matthew

Meaning "gift of God," Matthew is a biblical name that has remained consistently popular for decades. A classic name that continues to please parents who want a traditional yet not overused choice. With nicknames like Matt and Matty, Matthew has enduring appeal.

Michael

Archangel Michael is the namesake for this perennially favored name. Michael was the #1 boys name in the US for many years and remains in the top 10. Strong and solid, Michael leaves room for nicknames like Mike, Mikey or Mickey. It works well for all ages and stages.

Mason

Derived from "stone worker," Mason evokes strength and reliability. A name on the rise, Mason has the down-to-earth qualities so many parents find appealing. With nicknames like Mase or Sonny, Mason pairs well with surnames and sounds contemporary without being trendy.

Miles

A Latin name meaning "soldier," Miles has taken off as a fresh yet classic choice. Has the chic one-syllable style so in vogue but with old world heritage. Miles bridges traditional and modern tastes. With nicknames like Mile or Milo, expect to hear this name more in the years to come.

Maximilian

A regal name with Roman origins, Maximilian means "greatest." For parents desiring a multisyllabic name with gravitas, Max was emperor of Rome. With nicknames like Max, Maxie or Liam, Maximilian offers history and nobility in an approachable package.

Malachi

A Hebrew name translated as "my messenger," Malachi comes from the Bible. Poetic yet punchy in one syllable, Malachi may continue trending up in the annals of baby name fame. Short form Mal or Kai are stylish nickname options.

Milo

Drawing from both Latin and Greek roots, Milo means "dear" and "gracious." A darling choice gaining traction, Milo has a charming lilt balanced by its singularity. Milo feels fresh yet timeless for modern parents seeking an memorable standalone name.

Maverick

Originating as an English word for "independent thinker," Maverick is now an iconic name. Capturing this generation's emphasis on individuality, Maverick emits cool confidence and flair. With nickname Mav, Maverick is bold yet approachable.

Mateo

Representing "gift of God" in Spanish, Mateo has a gentle rolling rhythm. Bicultural parents are embracing Mateo as a stylish cross-cultural choice. Mat or Teo are adorable nicknames to consider.

Marcus

Imperial Roman name meaning "warlike," Marcus brings history and flair. Stoic yet sweet, Marcus has staying power across eras. With nicknames Mark, Marc or Mars, Marcus checks traditional boxes in an updated package.

Martin

Originating from the Roman god Mars, Martin means "of Mars." A religious name that's remained popular for generations, Martin projects solid virtues. Nicknames Marty, Marty or Tin give Martin versatility across ages.

Muhammad

The most commonly used name on Earth, Muhammad originated as the name of the prophet of Islam. A cross-cultural choice with deep roots, Muhammad is gaining broader appeal. With nicknames MM, Ham or Moo, Muhammad deserves wider representation.

Maxwell

Germanic in nature, Maxwell comes from "Max's spring." Regal Max joined with sweet -well, Maxwell is dignified yet playful. Max or Wells are adorable nicknames to explore.

Micah

Hebrew in meaning "who is like God," Micah brings bible significance with trendy flair. It's short and impactful in one syllable. Cah or Mike are cute nickname options to consider.

Milo

Bursting with charm, Milo derives from Latin and Greek words for "dear" and "gracious." A darling name that feels both fresh and established, Milo could be the next big thing. Milo has milo of potential.

Malakai

Polynesian in origins, Malakai translates as "messenger" or "angel." Exotic yet easy to say and spell, Malakai packs visual appeal. Kai is a popular nickname that could catch on stateside.

Maverick

Representing an "independent thinker," Maverick is all Americana cool. It's wild yet wise in its singularity. With nickname Mav, Maverick balances adventure and personality.

Mateo

Of Spanish origin meaning "gift of God," Mateo rolls off the tongue. It brings bicultural flair while feeling familiar. Mat or Teo are sweet nickname spins to explore.

Marshall

English occupational name of the professional law enforcer, a marshal. Strong and steady, Marshall is dignified yet down to earth. Nicknames Mars, Mar or Marsh are alluring options.

Milo

Bursting with charm, Milo derives from Latin and Greek words for "dear" and "gracious." A darling name that feels both fresh and established, Milo could be the next big thing. Milo has milo of potential.

Malakai

Polynesian in origins, Malakai translates as "messenger" or "angel." Exotic yet easy to say and spell, Malakai packs visual appeal. Kai is a popular nickname that could catch on stateside.

Monte

From the Latin and Italian for "mountain," Monte signifies majesty and grandiosity. Succinct yet epic, Monte emanates power and presence. With nicknames like Monty, expect this name to have mounting popularity.

Murphy

Irish surname that brings both luck and liveliness, Murphy embodies spirited charm. Familiar yet fresh, Murphy has multifaceted appeal. Nicknames Murph or Phey could capture hearts.

Miles

A classic name bolstered by its adventurous adventurer heritage, Miles means "soldier." Preppy yet punk rock in a single syllable, Miles bridges eras. Milo or Miley are stylish alternatives to explore

Malcolm

Scottish equivalent of Maximilian, meaning "disciple of Saint Columba." Distinguished, dignified and down to earth, Malcolm is a steadfast choice. Mal, Mac or Mack are handsome nicknames.

Ashton

Derived from the English place name meaning "settlement by ash trees," Ashton is distinguished and rugged. With nicknames Ash or Tone, it's polished yet punchy. A name on the virge of mainstream popularity.

Milo

Bursting with charm, Milo derives from Latin and Greek words for "dear" and "gracious." A darling name that feels both fresh and established, Milo could be the next big thing. Milo has milo of potential.


In conclusion, the letter M presents such a wealth of options for baby boy names both classic and contemporary. Consider the origin and meaning that speak to your family values when selecting from this abundant list. Names beginning with M convey strength, tradition and individuality - attributes any parents hope to bestow upon their new son.

I hope this overview has sparked fresh naming ideas you'll keep in your back pocket for eventual little man. Best of luck narrowing down your perfect M name!

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