Choosing the right name for your baby boy can be a fun yet challenging task. If you’re looking for a name that reflects cleverness and charm, names that mean “sly” might be perfect for your little one. These names carry a sense of wit and intelligence, evoking clever characters from stories and folklore.
Today, we will share a list of boy names that have meanings related to slyness. Each name not only sounds unique but also tells a story about cleverness and resourcefulness. Whether you prefer classic or modern names, there’s something here for every parent looking to capture that special sly charm.
Boy Names That Mean Sly
1. Aesir
The name Aesir is derived from Norse mythology and refers to the gods associated with war and wisdom. The meaning of this name ties it to cleverness and strategic thinking, making it perfect for a sly personality.
2. Cunning
Cunning is an English name that directly refers to the characteristic of being sly and clever. It’s a bold name that carries a sense of creativity and sharpness.
3. Vance
This name means ‘dweller by the marsh’ in Old English. Because marshes are often tricky terrains, Vance can symbolize being sly and skilled at navigating tricky situations.
4. Finn
Finn, of Irish origin, means ‘fair’ or ‘white’ but is often associated with the legendary hero Finn McCool known for his intelligence and sly tactics in stories.
5. Thorne
This name, meaning ‘thorn bush’, can connote both protection and a bit of slyness, suggesting someone who can defend themselves quietly and without notice.
6. Loki
A name straight from Norse mythology, Loki is known for his tricks and cunning intelligence. This name perfectly embodies the essence of being sly.
7. Moxley
Moxley is a modern name that combines charm and cleverness. Its sly vibe makes it a unique option for those wanting to express clever charismatics through their child’s name.
8. Ruse
Ruse is a French word that refers to a clever trick or scheme. Naming your child Ruse encapsulates the sly nature of smart thinking and resourcefulness.
9. Fox
Fox is a name well-known for its connection to cunning and clever animals. It symbolically reflects the sly nature of resourcefulness and sharpness.
10. Kenji
This Japanese name means ‘intelligent second son’, perfect for a child whose cleverness and sly nature stand out against others.
11. Sage
Sage denotes wisdom and cleverness. This name conveys the sly charm associated with knowledge and thoughtful decision-making.
12. Reynard
Reynard is a medieval name that literally means ‘fox’. It brings associations of cleverness and sly behavior.
13. Asher
The name Asher means ‘happy’ or ‘blessed’ in Hebrew, but it is often associated with someone who has a knack for sly tactics in storytelling.
14. Dacian
Dacian, deriving from a historical region, conveys a sense of a clever warrior, embodying a sly and strategic character.
15. Harper
Though it literally means ‘harp player’, Harper carries a cheeky and whimsical feel that can resemble a sly nature in playful contexts.
16. Zane
Zane, meaning ‘God is gracious’, often draws associations with a charming, clever, and sly personality.
17. Donovan
This Irish name meaning ‘dark warrior’ embodies the essence of a cunning strategist in battles, linking it to a sly characteristic.
18. Cormac
Cormac, meaning ‘charioteer’, implies a sly yet wise individual capable of navigating tricky paths.
19. Nash
Nash means ‘by the ash tree’. It can suggest someone with a sly and charming demeanor, much like this majestic tree.
20. Felix
The name Felix means ‘happy’ or ‘fortunate’, often connected to personalities that are clever and sly in their ways of living.
21. Tyrion
This name, made popular by a famous fantasy character, reflects intelligence and cunning, perfect for a sly little boy.
22. Callum
Callum translates to ‘dove’ in Scottish, but the clever and strategic mind it can imply lends it a sly undertone.
23. Puck
A mischievous fairy in literature, Puck embodies the clever and sly traits that can bring charm to your baby boy’s name.
24. Grayson
With its meanings, Grayson is often associated with someone of sly intellect and an ability to navigate through complex situations effortlessly.
25. Archer
This name signifies an archer, known for keeping their sight locked on targets, akin to slyness in achieving their goal.
26. Jasper
Jasper means ‘treasurer’ and implies wisdom and savvy, making it a fitting name for a boy who will grow up to be clever and sly.
27. Sterling
This name means ‘of high quality’ that can be interpreted as possessing a sly charm and cleverness.
28. Niko
Niko, meaning ‘victory of the people’, indicates someone with sharp and sly tactics for achieving victory.
29. Orion
An astrological name, Orion bears a sly appeal, often connected to the clever hunter from mythology.
30. Kieran
Kieran, meaning ‘little dark one’, holds an air of mystery associated with cleverness and slyness as well.
31. Magnus
Magnus, meaning ‘great’, can imply that greatness comes with sly strategies and intelligence.
32. Alden
This name means ‘old friend’ and can signify trust, lending to a sly charm when associated with cleverness.
33. Darian
The name Darian hints at royal status, often carrying connotations of cleverness and sly wisdom.
34. Keegan
Meaning ‘son of the battle’, Keegan hints at shrewdness in combat, portraying a sly nature.
35. Elwood
Elwood indicates a forest, evoking the image of a sly creature navigating through trees stealthily.
36. Reid
Reid, meaning ‘red-haired’, symbolizes warmth and charm, contributing to a sly and charismatic personality.
37. Malcolm
This Scottish name means ‘devotee of Saint Columba’, but Malcolm can also symbolize strategic and sly characteristics in leadership.
38. Arlen
Arlen means ‘dream’ and gives an ethereal touch that can hide a cunning frame of mind.
39. Tamsin
This name has connotations of ‘twin’ and can suggest clever sibling relationships, playing into the sly nature of their bond.
40. Barrett
Barrett means ‘bear strength’, embodying the spirit of a sly yet strong boy capable of clever tactics.
41. Quinn
This name means ‘wise’ or ‘intelligent’, making it an apt choice for a sly and cunning character.
42. Sylvan
Sylvan refers to the woods and carries an air of mystery and cleverness often associated with sly personalities in nature.
43. Solomon
Solomon means ‘peace’, but this wise name is linked to clever strategies, embodying slyness in decision-making.
44. Asif
Asif means ‘gatherer’, hinting that a sly individual always collects resources craftily and wisely.
45. Jayden
This name translates to ‘thankful’ but carries sly charm and charm through its modern twist.
46. Colter
Colter means ‘victory of the people’, symbolizing a savvy and sly charm.
47. Bodhi
Bodhi means ‘awakening’, implying clever thinking to navigate through life’s challenges with a sly touch.
48. Wynn
A name meaning ‘fair’ symbolizes cleverness and slyness in the presence of charm.
49. Rex
Rex means ‘king’ and embodies authority and sly intelligence needed in leadership.
50. Orion
Orion, the hunter in mythology, suggests a sly character who is always one step ahead.
51. Soren
Soren means ‘stern’ but can imply a smooth, sly charisma beneath the surface.
52. Enzo
This Italian name means ‘ruler of the house’, suggesting someone inherently sly in leadership.
53. Rael
Rael is a name meaning ‘one who knows’, ideal for someone with a clever, sly personality.
54. Zeke
Zeke, a shortened form of Ezekiel, can symbolize cleverness and a sly charm that is compelling.
55. Kade
Kade denotes a ‘round’ or ‘barrel-shaped’ person, symbolizing the clever and sly nature that hides depths beneath the surface.
56. Ronin
This name translates to ‘drifter’, often embodying the crafty and sly qualities in those who wander free.
57. Kellan
Kellan means ‘slender’ but can symbolize a sly individual with swift movement and thought.
58. Jasper
Jasper refers to a gem, implying someone who is clever and to be valued for their sly nature.
59. Bowie
Meaning ‘blond’, Bowie is a name full of charm and can hint at a sly and clever character.
60. Desmond
Desmond means ‘from the fortress’, suggesting clever defense strategies and a sly approach to overcoming challenges.
61. Merrick
The name Merrick signifies ‘ruler of the sea’, symbolizing a sly approach to command and intelligence.
62. Nolan
Nolan meaning ‘noble’, implies a clever and sly character who blends charm and intelligence.
63. Caden
This name means ‘fighter’ signaling a connection to strategic and sly behavior in battle.
64. Alaric
Alaric, meaning ‘ruler of all’, suggests a combination of slyness and cunning needed for leadership.
65. Corbin
This name symbolizes ‘raven’, often associated with cleverness and sly connotations.
66. Mace
Mace reflects strength and cunning, perfect for a child with a sly nature.
67. Jett
This name signifies ‘black,’ indicating a mysterious and sly personality beneath the surface.
68. Foxley
Derived from ‘fox’, this name directly links to slyness and cleverness found in nature.
69. Brighton
This name signifies ‘bright town’, implying cleverness that can shine through a sly personality.
70. Orion
Orion means ‘rising in the sky’, often embodying the spirit of a clever hunter in the cosmic realm.
71. Magnus
Magnus means ‘great’, lending itself to a sly character who employs intelligence.
72. Kylen
This name means ‘narrow’ but can suggest a sly and clever character able to maneuver through tight spots.
73. Brogan
Brogan means ‘sturdy shoe’, suggesting a life thrived on clever survival and sly navigation of obstacles.
74. Torin
This name means ‘chief’, implying leadership with a touch of sly charm.
75. Axton
Axton means ‘sword stone’, connecting it to clever and sly warrior traits.
76. Aiken
Aiken, meaning ‘little fire’, suggests someone with a sly nature that burns brightly.
77. Quinn
Quinn means ‘intelligent’, directly linking the name with a charming slyness in character.
78. Flint
Flint means ‘hard stone’, indicating the sharp and sly edge of a clever child.
79. Zeph
Zeph means ‘west wind’, symbolizing a sly and whimsical nature that fluidly adapts to changes.
80. Aidan
Aidan means ‘fiery one’, often carrying a sly, clever energy.
81. Callan
Callan means ‘battle’ but can also indicate a sly mindset amidst confrontation.
82. Brandt
This name means ‘sword’, hinting towards clever cunningness in strategy.
83. Chase
Chase implies someone who is stealthy, embodying the sly nature of hunting.
84. Heath
Heath signifies ‘heathland’, evoking symbolism connected to resourcefulness in terrain, aligning with sly characteristics.
85. Huxley
With roots tied to the ‘Hugh’s meadow’, Huxley portrays charm and cleverness in traversing fields with sly tactics.
86. Lorenzo
Lorenzo implies ‘laurel’, symbolizing victory attained through cleverness and sly strategy.
87. Dorian
Dorian means ‘descendant of Dorus’, suggesting clever heritage and sly tactics drawn from their lineage.
88. Halden
Halden means ‘valley of rocks’, symbolizing strength amidst sly cleverness in overcoming challenges.
89. Rion
Rion means ‘king’, often hinting at a bear strength that is underpinned with subtle sly intelligence.
90. Ronan
Ronan means ‘little seal’, a clever animal that connects to the concept of sly focus and resourcefulness.
91. Zephyr
Zephyr means ‘gentle breeze’, symbolizing a sly and clever presence that shifts and adapts.
92. Boyle
Boyle implies a ‘shelter’, which can be supportive of those displaying sly forms of strength and wit.
93. Ansel
Ansel means ‘unique’, often embodying sly independence and clever resourcefulness.
94. Jarett
Meaning ‘spear’, Jarett suggests a fierce but cunning nature capable of respect.
95. Sterling
Sterling means ‘genuine’, hinting at authenticity coming with a sly twist of charm.
96. Elian
Elian translates to ‘God is gracious’, linking the name to cleverness and sly charm in wisdom.
97. Thaddeus
This ancient name means ‘courageous heart’, symbolizing the sly nature of bravery in smart decision-making.
98. Triton
Triton means ‘the third’, a name connected to clever voyages through challenges with sly approach.
99. Cash
The name Cash directly denotes value, suggesting shrewdness and sly charm in making wise choices.
100. Lyle
Lyle means ‘island’, evoking an image of a clever mind hiding beneath a virtual sea of thought.
101. Talon
Talon, evoking imagery of a bird, can symbolize both skill and cunning in navigation through life’s challenges.
102. Malachai
Malachai means ‘messenger of God’, but can imply a sly charm in delivering wise messages.
103. Rafael
This name means ‘God has healed’, imbued with cleverness often reflecting slyness in growth.
104. Kingston
Kingston means ‘king’s town’, carrying the weight of sly intelligence needed in leadership.
105. Rafe
This rustic name translates to ‘counsel’, emphasizing cunning and wisdom found in a sly demeanor.
106. Terran
Terran signifies ‘earth’ suggesting a grounded, clever, and sly essence tied to earthy roots.
107. Alistair
Alistair, meaning ‘defender of men’, often symbolizes a sly, clever person ensuring protection for others.
108. Beckett
This name means ‘bee cottage’, playing on the clever and crafty nature of the bee in honey-making.
109. Orion
Orion, an intelligently designed name linked to divine hunting, suggests a sly fearlessness in seeking wisdom.
110. Kylan
Kylan means ‘narrow’, suggesting a sly ability to work through tight spaces creatively.
111. Jaxon
Jaxon, meaning ‘God has been gracious’, embodies charm and slyness tied to personality.
112. Ziven
Ziven translates to ‘brilliant’, embodying a sly and brightly intelligent character.
113. Vireo
Vireo refers to a type of bird, linking it to cleverness and sly approaches to navigating life.
114. Wren
Wren, a small bird wise in navigating its surroundings, symbolizes the clever and sly aspect of survival.
115. Bharat
Bharat means ‘lightning’, showcasing a powerful and sly individuality.
116. Auri
Auri means ‘gold’, symbolizing clever tactics in achieving high-value goals.
117. Shiloh
Shiloh means ‘peace’, but it can also symbolize clever and sly methods of achieving harmony.
118. Talen
Talen combines charm and cleverness in its meaning, suggesting a persuasive and sly character.
119. Cadogan
This name signifies ‘glad’, suggesting a clever and sly nature underneath an alluring smile.
120. Davin
Davin means ‘intelligent’, encapsulating the sly wit necessary for clever individuals.
121. Cade
Cade means ‘round’ and may suggest a sly resourcefulness in making one’s way.
122. Axel
This name means ‘father of peace’, often signifying a clever and sly merger of calmness and strategy.
123. Valen
Valen implies strength and valor, suggesting a sly approach to achieving one’s aims.
124. Harlan
This name embodies the symbolic ‘army of hares’, connecting it with slyness and cleverness depicted in folklore.
125. Lennox
Lennox, meaning ‘with the elm trees’, symbolizes strength rooted in cunning and sly intelligence.
126. Calder
Calder means ‘rocky water’, linking to a sly nature that thrives under rough circumstances.
127. Remy
Remy, a French name meaning ‘oarsman’, symbolizes clever navigation indicative of sly character.
128. Porter
This name implies a busy man, often reflecting a sly cleverness needed in a cramped society.
129. Jericho
Jericho signifies ‘city of the moon’, often associated with clever plots woven through dark night stories.
130. Kaleb
Kaleb, meaning ‘faithful’, might embody the clever loyalty of a sly friend.
131. Simone
Simone indicates ‘one who hears’, subtly connecting wise listening to sly responses.
132. Malcolm
Malcolm means ‘devotee of St. Columba’, often hinting at cleverness that can appear sly in strategies.
133. Thorian
This name means ‘thunder’, symbolizing a clever individual who shines with sly fervor.
134. Elio
Elio means ‘sun’, embodying warmth with a sly undertone of clever energy.
135. Faolan
Faolan means ‘little wolf’, showcasing traits associated with sly cunning.
136. Arlow
This variation of Harold means ‘army ruler’, often reflecting intelligence threaded with sly maneuvering.
137. Shiloh
Shiloh implies ‘tranquil’, yet the name can signify a clever sly wisdom hidden beneath calmness.
138. Barnaby
This delightful name means ‘son of consolation’, linking it to sly intellect wrapped in charm.
139. Jedediah
Jedediah means ‘beloved of the Lord’, often showcasing a clever underlying slyness in personality.
140. Lennox
Lennox means ‘with many elm trees’, suggesting strength and a sly charm in navigating through life.
141. Basil
Basil means ‘kingly’, embodying clever wisdom and sly charm in leadership.
142. Mervin
Mervin signifies ‘sea hill’, often attributed to a clever slyness in people navigating across water in ancient tales.
143. Keon
Keon means ‘ancient’, suggesting wisdom that is sly and clever in its longevity.
144. Jermaine
This name means ‘brother’, linking it to a sly camaraderie often found among clever family dynamics.
145. Reid
Reid means ‘red-haired’, hinting at a warm charm often connected to clever and sly attitude.
146. Rowan
This name means ‘descendant of the Rowan tree’, suggesting a clever connection to a sly nature hidden within.
147. Sully
Sully implies ‘from the river’, connecting with a sly nature moving through challenges gracefully.
148. Sly
This direct name symbolizes cleverness and the persona of being sly in everyday situations.
149. Alvin
The name Alvin means ‘noble friend’, connecting it with a sly wisdom of interpersonal relations.
150. Milen
Milen symbolizes ‘gracious’, suggesting the sly charming connection between personality and social appeals.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name that reflects cleverness and slyness can give your child an identity filled with charm and resourcefulness. The names listed here provide a wonderful array of options that resonate with themes of cleverness, wit, and charm. Whether you lean towards classic names or more modern interpretations, these names embody the essence of being sly and intelligent.
As you embark on this journey of naming your little one, consider the implications each name can have, ensuring it aligns with the qualities you wish to convey. Explore variations and meanings as well, to find the one that feels just right for your baby boy.
Happy naming adventures, and for further reading on clever names, check out our articles on names that mean trickster and names that mean sneaky for even more inspiration!