Choosing a name for a boy can be exciting and meaningful. Some parents look for names that express certain qualities, like cleverness and wit. “Cunning” usually has a tricky meaning, but it often highlights someone smart and resourceful. Many cultures offer names that reflect this quality, linking cleverness to strength and bravery.
Today, we will take a look at some male names that mean cunning. From ancient names to modern choices, these names can inspire a sense of intelligence and charm. Whether you’re naming a baby or just interested in unique names, you’re sure to find something intriguing here!
Male Names That Mean Cunning
1. Aamon
Aamon is a unique name that means ‘the one who tricks’. This name suggests a playful spirit and intelligence.
2. Adiv
The name Adiv means ‘clever’ or ‘wise’, perfectly embodying a cunning spirit.
3. Caine
Caine has biblical roots and can mean ‘the sharp one’, ideal for a child expected to outsmart challenges.
4. Conn
Conn is an Irish name meaning ‘intelligence’ or ‘wisdom’, resonating with those who appreciate cleverness.
5. Dakarai
This African name translates to ‘one who is clever’, highlighting a resourceful aspect of cunning.
6. Davin
Davin means ‘cherished’ but also implies a smart and clever nature, fitting for a cunning child.
7. Dexter
Dexter means ‘one who is skillful’ or ‘right-handed’, closely associated with cunning intelligence.
8. Eamon
An Irish name meaning ‘wealthy protector’, Eamon also carries a cunning edge in its cleverness.
9. Hakeem
Hakeem is an Arabic name meaning ‘wise’ or ‘intelligent’, highlighting a cunning flair.
10. Jabez
This biblical name means ‘sorrow’ but has a twist of cleverness as it represents someone who understands challenges.
11. Kenan
Kenan is of Hebrew origin meaning ‘to possess’, often associated with cleverness in achieving goals.
12. Levi
A Hebrew name meaning ‘attached’ or ‘joined’, Levi can connote a clever bond with intelligence.
13. Malcolm
This Scottish name translates to ‘devotee of Saint Columba’, but has connotations of being cunning in leadership.
14. Merlin
Merlin is known from Arthurian legend and means ‘sea fortress’, but also represents cunning wisdom in magic.
15. Nash
This English name means ‘by the ash tree’, but the name carries a modern, cunning vibe.
16. Oliver
Oliver means ‘olive tree’, a symbol of peace, but oliver also carries an air of cleverness in literature.
17. Quill
This delightful name suggests cleverness through the association of quills used for writing
18. Renan
Renan is a Hebrew name meaning ‘song’ but can imply cleverness in expressing oneself.
19. Soren
This Scandinavian name means ‘stern’ but implies a clever, determined nature.
20. Tarquin
An ancient Roman name with roots suggesting cunning strategy and clever maneuvering in life.
21. Ulysses
A name meaning ‘wrathful’, Ulysses was known for his cunning in Greek mythology.
22. Vega
Vega means ‘swooping eagle’ which represents keen insight and cunning instincts.
23. Wile
This unusual name means ‘trickster’, making it perfect for those who embody cunning.
24. Xander
Meaning ‘defender of man’, Xander suggests a clever approach to challenges.
25. Yuri
This name means ‘farmer’ in Hebrew, but has connections to resourcefulness conducive to cunning.
26. Alvis
A Scandinavian name that means ‘all wise’, suggests a clever approach to life.
27. Amon
Amon means ‘invisible’, associated with cunning in navigating through challenges.
28. Briar
This name has connotations of cleverness as it relates to navigating obstacles found in nature.
29. Cunning
This name beautifully embodies the theme itself, directly reflecting the cleverness associated with intelligent boys.
30. Draven
Draven is a modern name with crafty undertones, suggesting cunning and strategy.
31. Eryx
This rare name refers to ‘the clever one’ in mythology, linking cunning to legendary tales.
32. Faustin
Meaning ‘fortunate’ or ‘auspicious’, maintaining a clever charm in its sound.
33. Harlan
Harlan, meaning ‘army land’ bears an association with strategic cunning in approach.
34. Imre
This Hungarian name means ‘strength’, suggesting cleverness in overcoming challenges.
35. Joxer
Meaning ‘savior’, this clever name invokes strength and resourcefulness.
36. Kairan
A modern twist on a name which symbolizes the smart and cunning nature of an adventurous spirit.
37. Lucan
Lucan refers to brilliance, firmly rooted in cleverness and cunning intelligence.
38. Magnus
This strong name means ‘great’ but also suggests cunning through prowess.
39. Niro
Niro means ‘light’ which can symbolize the bright and cunning mind.
40. Orion
The mighty hunter in mythology represents cunning through intelligence and strategy.
41. Phoenix
Meaning ‘dark red’, Phoenix symbolizes rebirth, which often requires cunning to rise anew.
42. Quillon
Quillon means ‘sword’ and represents cleverness in intellectual or physical duel.
43. Rafe
This name means ‘brave counsel’, linking strength and cunning intellect.
44. Sable
This unique name denotes wisdom, suggesting a cunningly intelligent approach in behavior.
45. Taran
A Celtic name meaning ‘thunder’, suggesting a powerful, clever force.
46. Urijah
Meaning ‘my light is Yahweh’, a name suggesting cunning awareness of wisdom.
47. Vito
Vito means ‘life’ yet denotes cleverness in strategic dealings.
48. Wynne
A unique Welsh name meaning ‘fair’, it suggests a clever approach to beauty.
49. Xeno
This Greek name means ‘foreigner’ but also embodies a clever, cunning nature.
50. Yoris
An intriguing name that suggests a bend of intelligence and a cunning disposition.
51. Zarek
This name means ‘God protects’ and suggests a clever and strategic personality.
52. Abraxas
An ancient name evoking mystery and cunning in its spiritual ties.
53. Becket
Becket means ‘bee cottage’ which signifies clever community and resourceful teamwork.
54. Cadoc
This Welsh name means ‘battle’, suggesting cleverness in achieving victory.
55. Daxton
This modern name incorporates cleverness in its sound and cultural presence.
56. Ender
Ender indicates a clever individual who takes charge, especially in fictional references.
57. Faust
This name, meaning ‘fortunate’, indicates a clever nature tied to luck and strategy.
58. Gaius
A Roman name meaning ‘to rejoice’, implies a clever approach to happiness.
59. Hamilcar
Meaning ‘grace of war’, Hamilcar connects cunning with skillful battle strategies.
60. Icarus
Traditionally a figure of mythology, Icarus signifies cleverness mingled with ambition.
61. Jorah
This name means ‘first rain’, connoting intelligent growth following wise choices.
62. Kieran
Kieran means ‘little dark one’, perfect for a cunning child who represents mystery.
63. Lorcan
This Irish name means ‘little fierce one’, which can hint at cunning strength.
64. Mathis
Mathis means ‘gift of God’, often connected to intelligent traits and cunning grasp.
65. Navin
A name that means ‘new’, symbolizing cleverness in embracing fresh opportunities.
66. Omari
Omari means ‘God the highest’; suggests spiritual cunning in life’s complexities.
67. Preston
A name meaning ‘priest’, often carries intelligent insight and cunning approach.
68. Quade
This unique name means ‘fourth’, embodying cleverness in challenges.
69. Rashawn
A modern variant of ‘Rashad’, implicating clever life guidance.
70. Sigurd
This name represents divine protection, cleverly navigating through adversities.
71. Thaddeus
A biblical name meaning ‘courageous heart’, lends cunning qualities to a brave spirit.
72. Ulric
Ulric means ‘wolf ruler’, suggesting clever tactics and cunning strength.
73. Vance
This name means ‘from the marsh’, suggesting clever adaptability to environments.
74. Wilmot
Means ‘resolute protector’, blending wisdom with cunning strategies.
75. Xylan
A unique name meaning ‘woodland’, suggesting a clever connection to nature.
76. Yacob
This name has biblical roots, associated with cunning strategies and insightful leadership.
77. Zander
This name, a short form of Alexander, implies a cunning and powerful presence.
78. Alaric
Alaric means ‘noble ruler’, embodying cunning intelligence in guiding others.
79. Braeden
This modern name has connotations of cleverness, hinting at bright potential.
80. Consus
A Roman name whose meaning means ‘to counsel’, suggesting a cunning advisor.
81. Drystan
This modern name suggests mysterious cleverness mixed with cunning intuition.
82. Ewan
Ewan means ‘young warrior’, suggesting youthful cunning and strategy.
83. Frisco
This name implies cleverness through its metropolitan connection and urban adaptability.
84. Gulliver
A literary name known for excerpts of cleverness displayed in adventures.
85. Hodge
This unique name is associated with cunning through literary references.
86. Isidore
This name means ‘gift of Isis’, suggesting a clever connection to mythology.
87. Janus
The Roman god associated with beginnings and transitions reflects clever adaptability.
88. Keanu
A Hawaiian name meaning ‘cool breeze’, denoting clever calmness in difficult situations.
89. Leif
An old Norse name meaning ‘heir’, suggesting a clever legacy.
90. Mace
This name meaning ‘weapon’ implies cleverness in strategy.
91. Niklas
Niklas means ‘victory’ which often requires cunning in pursuit.
92. Orcus
A mythological name suggesting cunning through the connection to powerful figures.
93. Phelan
Phelan means ‘wolf’, signifying cleverness and cunning through intellect.
94. Quayson
Means ‘fifth-born’, embodying clever traits of adaptability and intelligence.
95. Rian
Rian means ‘little king’, suggesting a clever spirit of leadership.
96. Santi
This name signifies calmness that often represents intelligent, cunning strategies.
97. Tevin
Meaning ‘beautiful’, it implies cleverness in aesthetics as well.
98. Ulises
The Spanish form of Ulysses aligns with cunning navigation through life’s challenges.
99. Vale
This name, meaning ‘valley’, also connotes a clever approach to life’s complexities.
100. Wendel
Knowing ‘wander’, links cunningness with a sense of exploration.
101. Ximeno
A Spanish twist on the name, signifies clever uniqueness.
102. Yariel
This name implies a clever spirit backed by positive energy.
103. Zephyr
This name means ‘west wind’, symbolizing clever changes in life tides.
104. Aisak
This rare name means ‘clever’ in specific cultures, highlighting intelligence.
105. Bodhi
Means ‘awakening’, linking to clever realization of life’s truths.
106. Cormac
This name means ‘son of the defile’ suggesting cunning strategy.
107. Dorian
Dorian means ‘gift’, often implying clever depth in one’s nature.
108. Elaan
This modern name symbolizes strength and cleverness intertwined.
109. Flavian
This intriguing name has links to ‘yellow’, suggesting clever charm.
110. Gael
Of Welsh origin, means ‘generous’, represents a clever nature in giving.
111. Hartley
Hartley means ‘the stag meadow’, often a clever navigator of life.
112. Inigo
Means ‘fiery’ suggesting intelligent and cunning passion.
113. Jory
This Welsh name means ‘farmer’, symbolizing cleverness in nurturing.
114. Kael
A modern name connoting cleverness and zest for life.
115. Laird
This Scottish name means ‘landowner’, embodying cunning resourcefulness.
116. Micah
A biblical name meaning ‘who is like God’, suggesting insightful cleverness.
117. Niko
This name means ‘victory’, linking to cunning through intelligence.
118. Omarion
An appealing modern name with the hint of a clever leader.
119. Piran
Means ‘sea’ suggesting cleverness in journeying through life.
120. Qin
This strong name relates to cleverness through historical context.
121. Rivaan
This modern name gives a sense of cleverness in hope.
122. Serge
A name meaning ‘protector’, which implies clever strategy in safeguarding.
123. Tavish
This Scottish name means ‘twin’ suggesting clever connections in relationships.
124. Uzochi
This unique name means ‘God’s way’, linking to clever decisions.
125. Vann
This charming name implies cleverness through its simplicity.
126. Waylon
This name connotes cleverness through its musical association and strong character.
127. Xavian
This strong name combines uniqueness with intelligent appeal.
128. Yolan
A name meaning ‘violet flower’, indicating cleverness in nature.
129. Zinedine
This name signifies ‘beautiful’, often hints at clever charm.
130. Ashwin
The name means ‘light’, suggesting keen insight and cunning thinking.
131. Breccan
This Irish name means ‘freckled’, but implies cunning mystery.
132. Corin
Corin means ‘spear’, which symbolizes cleverness in strategy.
133. Declan
A popular Irish name translated as ‘full of goodness’, suggests cleverness in choices.
134. Elian
This name implies ‘God is my light’, inferring of intelligence.
135. Finley
Means ‘fair warrior’, indicating cunning strength.
136. Gidon
This Hebrew name means ‘great warrior’, reflecting intelligence and cunning.
137. Hikaru
This Japanese name means ‘light’, denoting intelligence in its brilliance.
138. Jarek
Meaning ‘to rule’, symbolizes clever leadership.
139. Kenji
This name means ‘strong and vigorous’, inciting clever battles.
140. Luken
A modern name that suggests brightness and cleverness in its sound.
141. Maisen
This modern twist offers clever undertones of nurturing.
142. Niel
Meaning ‘champion’, inferring of cleverness in overcoming challenges.
143. Oisin
Meaning ‘little deer’, which often signifies cleverness and agility.
144. Paxon
A modern lively name indicating clever movement in life.
145. Quinlan
This Irish name means ‘descendant of Caoinlean’, symbolizing cunning through ancestry.
146. Rolan
This name means ‘famous throughout the land’, suggesting cleverness in reputation.
147. Sharif
This name signifies ‘noble’, implying cleverness through virtue.
148. Tobiah
Tobiah means ‘the Lord is good’ but hints at clever moral victories.
149. Urijah
This name means ‘my light is Yahweh’, signifying a clever individual.
150. Vester
Meaning ‘from the west’, suggests navigational cleverness.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name that means cunning can give your child a sense of identity tied to intelligence and quick wit. Many of these names show clever connections to nature, literature, or historical figures. From unique to classic choices, each name embodies an intricate balance of cleverness and charm, perfect for any boy as he grows.
As you explore these names, consider what qualities you wish to instill in your child. You may also want to look into other names that mean trickster, as they might provide even more inspiration.
Names carry powerful meanings, and picking one that signifies cunning can be a wonderful choice. Explore more about names with meanings that may connect with your vision for your child through the links provided.