African American Male Names: A Guide to Meaning and Heritage

Looking for the perfect African American male name for your baby boy? Choosing a name is a significant decision, and you want one that reflects his heritage, strength, and individuality. This list of African American male names explores a variety of origins, including those from African languages, the Bible, and even names with powerful historical connections. Each entry provides the name, its meaning, and its cultural significance, offering you a rich and inspiring selection for your little one's journey.
1. **Aaliyah**: (Arabic) Meaning "high," "exalted," or "ascending." This name is often associated with the late singer Aaliyah Haughton, who was a major influence on music and style.
2. **Aasim**: (Arabic) Meaning "protector" or "guardian." Aasim is a name with strong connotations of safety and security.
3. **Abasi**: (Swahili) Meaning "God" or "divine." Abasi represents a spiritual connection and a respect for higher powers.
4. **Abdel**: (Arabic) Meaning "servant of God." Abdel is a common name in many African cultures, symbolizing devotion and faith.
5. **Ademola**: (Yoruba) Meaning "the crown is mine" or "wealth is mine." Ademola signifies ambition, leadership, and prosperity.
6. **Adonis**: (Greek) Meaning "lord" or "master." Adonis is a name known for its classic beauty and charm, inspired by the Greek god of beauty.
7. **Aisha**: (Arabic) Meaning "life" or "she who lives." Aisha is a popular name with a strong sense of vitality and resilience.
8. **Akili**: (Swahili) Meaning "intelligence" or "wisdom." Akili represents knowledge, sharp thinking, and intellectual prowess.
9. **Alain**: (French) Meaning "handsome" or "noble." Alain has a sophisticated and elegant feel, making it a distinguished choice.
10. **Alonzo**: (Spanish) Meaning "ready for battle." Alonzo suggests strength, courage, and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
11. **Amadi**: (Igbo) Meaning "the one who is strong." Amadi is a powerful name, indicating both physical and mental strength.
12. **Amari**: (Hebrew) Meaning "eternal" or "forever." Amari is a name that evokes a sense of lasting love and enduring spirit.
13. **Andre**: (Greek) Meaning "manly" or "courageous." Andre is a classic name with strong connotations of masculinity and bravery.
14. **Antione**: (French) Meaning "priceless" or "invaluable." Antione is a name that suggests worth and high regard.
15. **Asante**: (Swahili) Meaning "thank you" or "gratitude." Asante is a name that embodies appreciation and recognition of blessings.
16. **Augustus**: (Latin) Meaning "venerable" or "majestic." Augustus is a name with an air of authority and respect.
17. **Azeez**: (Arabic) Meaning "dear" or "beloved." Azeez is a name that signifies affection and warmth.
18. **Babu**: (Swahili) Meaning "father" or "old man." Babu is a name that suggests wisdom, experience, and guidance.
19. **Barack**: (Hawaiian) Meaning "blessed" or "divine." Barack is a name that evokes a sense of hope and spiritual connection.
20. **Benjamin**: (Hebrew) Meaning "son of my right hand." Benjamin is a classic name with strong connotations of family and support.
21. **Blake**: (Old English) Meaning "dark" or "black." Blake is a name with a strong and mysterious quality.
22. **Boaz**: (Hebrew) Meaning "strength" or "swiftness." Boaz is a name that suggests power and agility.
23. **Caleb**: (Hebrew) Meaning "dog" or "faithful." Caleb is a name with strong connotations of loyalty and dedication.
24. **Cameron**: (Scottish) Meaning "crooked nose." Cameron is a name with a distinctive and unique feel.
25. **Carl**: (German) Meaning "free man." Carl is a name that suggests independence and liberation.
26. **Cedric**: (Welsh) Meaning "generous ruler." Cedric is a name that evokes leadership and benevolence.
27. **Chauncey**: (French) Meaning "chancellor" or "high official." Chauncey is a name with a sophisticated and authoritative feel.
28. **Christopher**: (Greek) Meaning "bearer of Christ." Christopher is a name with a strong religious connotation, suggesting faith and devotion.
29. **Colby**: (English) Meaning "coal town." Colby is a name with a rugged and earthy feel.
30. **Corey**: (Greek) Meaning "leader of the people." Corey is a name that suggests strength, leadership, and influence.
31. **Darius**: (Persian) Meaning "king" or "ruler." Darius is a name that evokes power, authority, and majesty.
32. **Deon**: (Greek) Meaning "God." Deon is a name with a strong spiritual connotation, suggesting faith and reverence.
33. **Derrick**: (German) Meaning "ruler of the people." Derrick is a name with strong connotations of leadership and authority.
34. **Devon**: (English) Meaning "from the river Devon." Devon is a name with a natural and peaceful feel.
35. **Dwayne**: (Welsh) Meaning "dark" or "black." Dwayne is a name with a strong and mysterious quality.
36. **Elijah**: (Hebrew) Meaning "my God is Yahweh." Elijah is a name with a strong religious connotation, suggesting faith and devotion.
37. **Emerson**: (English) Meaning "son of Emery." Emerson is a name with a classic and sophisticated feel.
38. **Eric**: (Old Norse) Meaning "ever ruler" or "forever powerful." Eric is a name that suggests strength, authority, and longevity.
39. **Ethan**: (Hebrew) Meaning "strong" or "firm." Ethan is a name that suggests resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit.
40. **Ezekiel**: (Hebrew) Meaning "God strengthens." Ezekiel is a name with a strong religious connotation, suggesting faith and hope.