If you're looking for boy names that start with "Je", this list of 12 options offers a mix of biblical, historical, and modern choices. These names combine strong meanings, cultural roots, and timeless appeal. From classic picks like Jeremiah and Jesse to trendier options like Jet and Jensen, there's something for every parent's preference. Here's a quick overview:
- Jefferson: English origin, meaning "son of Jeffrey", with ties to Thomas Jefferson.
- Jedidiah: Hebrew for "Beloved of God", rich in biblical significance.
- Jemuel: Rare Hebrew name meaning "Day of God."
- Jericho: Biblical name meaning "city of the moon", with a modern edge.
- Jensen: Scandinavian origin, meaning "son of Jens."
- Jeremiah: Hebrew for "appointed by God", tied to the Old Testament prophet.
- Jeremy: English form of Jeremiah, with a conversational tone.
- Jerome: Greek origin, meaning "sacred name", linked to Saint Jerome.
- Jesse: Hebrew for "God exists", tied to King David's lineage.
- Jet: Short, modern name inspired by a black gemstone and jet engines.
- Joel: Hebrew for "Yahweh is God", with biblical roots.
- Jett: A bold variation of Jet, with a sleek and stylish vibe.
These names range from deeply meaningful to effortlessly modern, offering diverse options for parents seeking "Je" names. Whether you're drawn to faith-based names like Jedidiah or minimalist choices like Jet, this list has you covered.
12 Boy Names Starting with Je: Origins, Meanings, and Popularity Rankings
1. Jefferson
Jefferson is an English surname that translates to "son of Jeffrey." Its roots trace back to Old English and German, where it carries the meaning "pledge of peace".
Many parents select this name as a tribute to Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826), the third U.S. President and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. This connection gives the name a sense of patriotism and historical significance, appealing to families who value tradition and legacy.
In 2024, Jefferson ranked #711 among boy names in the United States. Emily McNamara, Senior Content Writer at The Bump, highlights its enduring appeal:
This stately surname has been used as a first name centuries before today's surname trend.
The name is pronounced jeff-ur-sin and is easy to spell, making it practical for everyday use. For a more relaxed vibe, many parents opt for the nickname Jeff. Variants of the name include Jéferson, which is especially popular in Brazil, and Jeffersen.
2. Jedidiah
Jedidiah is a Hebrew name that translates to "Beloved of God" or "Beloved of the Lord". It originates from the biblical name Yedidyah and was given as a divine blessing by the prophet Nathan after King David's repentance. In the Old Testament, this name was bestowed upon King Solomon, making it a meaningful choice for families who cherish religious traditions and biblical connections.
The pronunciation is "jed-ih-DYE-ah", with the emphasis on the third syllable. It has four syllables in total. Variations in spelling include Jedediah, and common nicknames like Jed, Jeddy, and Dia make it versatile for everyday use.
In 2024, Jedidiah ranked #808 in the U.S., with 207 babies given the name in 2023. The name previously peaked at #689 in 2017. Clare Green observes that Jedidiah fits well with the growing trend of reviving Old Testament names ending in "-iah". Its uncommon use makes it attractive to parents seeking a name that feels both distinctive and enduring.
3. Jemuel
Jemuel is a Hebrew name that translates to "Day of God" or "God's Day". It originates from the Old Testament, where Jemuel is mentioned as the first-born son of Simeon. The name combines the Hebrew words for "day" and "God", giving it a strong biblical foundation and spiritual meaning. This connection to faith has made Jemuel appealing to parents who value its religious significance and historical depth.
The name is pronounced /ˈdʒɛmjuel/ and is straightforward to say. It also lends itself to several modern nicknames, such as Jem, Jemmy, Juel, and Muel. Among these, "Jem" stands out as particularly easy and approachable.
Despite its rich heritage, Jemuel is quite rare in the United States. According to data from the U.S. Social Security Administration, the name reached its peak popularity in 2023, when it was given to 9 in every million babies, placing it at #8,514. While it doesn’t appear in UK baby name rankings, it has a modest presence globally, with approximately 678 Facebook profiles featuring the name as of 2019.
For parents looking for a distinctive biblical name with deep spiritual roots, Jemuel offers a unique alternative to more common choices like James or Jeremy. Its rarity and meaningful history make it a standout option.
4. Jericho
Jericho is a name with deep biblical roots and a rich history. Of Hebrew origin - potentially influenced by Arabic - it means "city of the moon", derived from either yareaḥ (moon) or reyaḥ (fragrance). In the Bible, Jericho was a significant city in Canaan, famously known for the story where its walls fell after the Israelites marched around them and blew their trumpets.
The name exudes a sense of strength and energy, often described as having a "trumpeting verve". Over the years, Jericho has found a new audience thanks to modern pop culture, with figures like WWE’s Chris Jericho, the 2006 TV series, and appearances in comics and video games giving it a fresh, contemporary edge.
Pronounced JARE-a-koh, this name is easy to spell and has been gaining popularity in the U.S. It entered the Top 1,000 in 2013, ranked #903 in 2024, and is projected to climb to #695 by 2028. This mix of ancient heritage and modern relevance makes Jericho a standout choice.
For parents looking for a name that blends historical depth with modern appeal, Jericho offers a perfect balance. Its ease of pronunciation and growing recognition make it a strong contender as either a first or middle name.
5. Jensen
Jensen brings a modern flair to a name with traditional roots. This Scandinavian name, originating from Denmark, translates to "son of Jens." Since Jens is the Danish version of John, Jensen ultimately ties back to the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means "God is gracious." While it began as a surname - still the most common in Denmark - it has become a favored first name in the U.S..
With just six letters and two syllables, Jensen is simple yet appealing. Pronounced JEHN-sen, it’s easy to say and spell, adding to its charm.
In 2023, Jensen ranked #301 for boys in the U.S., climbing steadily from #1,015 in 2000 to a high of #288 in 2019, before settling at #327 in 2024. Its rise in popularity has been helped by public figures like actor Jensen Ackles (famous for Supernatural) and NVIDIA co-founder and CEO Jensen Huang.
Jensen also reflects the growing trend of using surnames as first names. It has seen regional success, ranking #119 in West Virginia, #122 in Oklahoma, and #133 in Iowa. While primarily a boys' name, it also made the charts for girls, ranking #989 in 2023.
6. Jeremiah
Jeremiah carries a rich biblical heritage. This Hebrew name, rooted in Yirmeyahu, translates to "appointed by God", "Yah will exalt", or "Yah loosens" [39, 40]. It honors the prominent Old Testament prophet who authored the Book of Jeremiah, making it a meaningful choice within Abrahamic traditions [39, 40].
With eight letters and four syllables, Jeremiah is pronounced j(e)-re-miah. The name is both recognizable and easy to pronounce. Common nicknames like Jerry, Jere, Miah, and Jemmy add a touch of versatility [39, 40]. While the standard spelling is straightforward, variations such as Jerimiah or Jeremias occasionally appear [40, 41].
In 2024, Jeremiah ranked #93 among boys' names in the United States [39, 40]. Its popularity reflects the broader appeal of biblical names ending in "iah", like Josiah and Isaiah. Unlike the more dated Jeremy, Jeremiah has retained a timeless charm, quietly replacing older names like Gerard and Gerald.
Jeremiah's influence extends into literature and pop culture. Charles Dickens included it in works like Little Dorrit and A Tale of Two Cities. More recently, characters such as Jeremiah Fisher from The Summer I Turned Pretty and Jeremiah Danvers from Supergirl have kept the name relevant. Music enthusiasts might also recall the famous line from Three Dog Night's "Joy to the World": "Jeremiah was a bullfrog". This mix of historical roots and cultural references makes Jeremiah a compelling choice for parents exploring "Je" names with NameHatch.
7. Jeremy
Jeremy strikes a balance between timeless charm and a modern edge. This name is the English form of the Hebrew name Jeremiah, which translates to "Exalted by the Lord", "God will raise up", or "God will set free". It emerged in medieval times as a more conversational take on Jeremiah and found further recognition through its inclusion in some English translations of the New Testament.
One of Jeremy's strengths lies in its ease of pronunciation and spelling, which has helped maintain its popularity. In American English, it’s typically pronounced as /ˈd͡ʒɛɹ.mi/ (two syllables), though some regions prefer a three-syllable version, /ˈd͡ʒɛɹ.ə.miː/. Common nicknames include Jerry, Jem, and Jere, while in Britain, you might hear variants like Jez or Jezza. The nickname Jem gained particular prominence through Jeremy Atticus "Jem" Finch, a beloved character in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Jeremy saw its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, ranking highly on baby name charts. As of 2024, it holds the #266 spot in the U.S., with a fresh wave of interest in 2026, thanks to the "Y2K Nostalgia" trend.
The name remains relevant today, bolstered by notable figures like actors Jeremy Renner and Jeremy Allen White, as well as fictional characters in popular series such as Harry Potter, The Vampire Diaries, and Five Nights at Freddy's. Jeremy’s rich history and connections to both classic and modern pop culture make it a solid choice for parents seeking a name that feels both strong and enduring.
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8. Jerome
Jerome, rooted in the Greek name Hierōnymos (Ἱερώνυμος), translates to "sacred name", giving it a sense of timeless reverence.
The name's most prominent figure is Saint Jerome (c. 347–420), a priest and theologian renowned for creating the Vulgate, the Latin translation of the Bible. As the patron saint of students, librarians, and archaeologists, Saint Jerome's influence has cemented the name’s association with scholarship and intellectual depth. This historical weight has allowed Jerome to maintain its classic appeal, even as it transitions into a vintage revival.
Jerome enjoyed popularity in the early 20th century but saw a decline in usage over time. However, it’s making a comeback, particularly in "Geek Chic" circles, where retro names are gaining new life.
Pronounced /d͡ʒə.ˈɹoʊm/, Jerome is known for its simplicity and versatility. Notable bearers include J.D. Salinger, Jerry Seinfeld, Jerry Garcia, and Jerome Powell. The name also has international variations, such as the French Jérôme, Italian Geronimo, and Dutch Jeroen, which highlight its global adaptability.
9. Jesse
Jesse is a Hebrew name that means "God exists" or "God's gift." In the Old Testament, Jesse was a sheep farmer from Bethlehem and the father of King David, making this name deeply tied to one of the Bible's most important family lines. The phrase "root of Jesse" continues to symbolize David's royal lineage, adding a layer of historical and spiritual depth to the name.
Its straightforward pronunciation ("jess-ee") and easy spelling contribute to its timeless charm. Currently ranked #187 for boys in the United States, Jesse has remained a steady favorite, even though its peak popularity was during the 1980s and 1990s.
Jesse fits perfectly into the 2026 "A-OK Boomer" trend, which sees a revival of unisex names popular with baby boomers. Sophie Kihm, Editor-in-Chief of Nameberry, highlights this trend:
The most fashionable boy names of 2026 embrace softness alongside masculinity.
This blend of modern sensibility and historical significance makes Jesse a soulful and subtly spiritual choice.
Famous individuals named Jesse include Olympic runner Jesse Owens, civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, actor Jesse Eisenberg, and singer Jesse McCartney. The name also gained pop culture recognition through Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad. Common nicknames like Jess, Jay, and J.J. add versatility, and it pairs beautifully with classic middle names like James, William, or Alexander.
10. Jet
Jet is a sleek, modern name with a strong presence in the U.S., carrying several notable meanings. It refers to a pure black gemstone (a type of lignite prized in jewelry for centuries), a high-speed airplane (powered by jet propulsion), and the concept of rapid movement. The phrase "jet black" adds to its bold and striking image, giving the name a dynamic and polished feel.
With just three letters and one syllable, Jet is incredibly easy to spell and pronounce (/JET/). Its simplicity makes it a practical choice for parents who want a short, memorable name that's straightforward in both written and spoken form.
As of early 2026, Jet holds the #1,646 spot in the U.S., though it dropped 98 spots from 2025, and ranks #2,134 on Nameberry. It’s often seen as a streamlined alternative to the more popular spelling "Jett", which currently sits around #304.
Famous Jets include martial artist Jet Li and chef Jet Tila. The name has also made its mark in pop culture, appearing in songs like "Bennie and the Jets" by Elton John and "Jet" by Paul McCartney and Wings. In 2023, dancer Witney Carson and Carson McAllister named their son Jet Carson McAllister.
Jet aligns with the growing trend of nature-inspired, mineral, and bold word names for boys. Parents drawn to Jet often consider similar names like Stone, Ace, Rocket, Steel, and Blaze. It works equally well as a standalone name or as a modern nickname for longer names such as Jethro or Jefferson. Combining modern simplicity with rich symbolism, Jet is a striking choice for parents seeking a name with energy and depth.
11. Joel
Joel is a name with deep roots and a powerful meaning. Of Hebrew origin, it translates to "Yahweh is God", combining yo (Yahweh) and el (God). Its spiritual significance is tied to the Old Testament, where Joel was one of the twelve minor prophets and the author of the Book of Joel. The name gained traction during the 16th century when Puritans embraced it, and it became more widespread in England after the Protestant Reformation.
This four-letter, two-syllable name is not only easy to spell and pronounce - commonly /JOH-uhl/ or the simpler /JOHL/ - but it also stands out as an isogram, meaning no letters repeat. Its simplicity and elegance make it a practical and appealing choice for a child.
As of early 2026, Joel holds the #226 spot in U.S. name rankings, according to BabyCenter, and was ranked #219 for boys born in 2024. Though its popularity peaked in the 1970s with a 3.6% adoption rate, Joel has maintained a steady presence in the U.S. Top 1000. Globally, it has a strong foothold, ranking #24 in Finland, #73 in Spain, #79 in Portugal, #87 in Germany, and #95 in Sweden.
The name’s prominence is bolstered by well-known figures such as musician Billy Joel, filmmaker Joel Coen, singer Joel Madden, and actor Joel McHale. More recently, the character Joel Miller from the video game and HBO series The Last of Us has reignited interest in the name. Parents drawn to Joel often consider other enduring biblical names like Noah, James, Levi, Ezra, and Joshua. It pairs seamlessly with middle names like Braxton, Calvin, or Gerald, offering a balance of tradition and modern style. Joel’s timeless charm sets the stage for other distinctive names, such as Jett, which is next on the list.
12. Jett
Let’s take a closer look at "Jett", a modern twist on the classic "Jet" that carries its own flair.
Jett is a short, bold name of English origin that packs a punch with just four letters. It conjures up the sleek brilliance of a black gemstone while also bringing to mind the speed and sophistication of jet engines. This blend of natural beauty and high-tech imagery makes it a standout choice for many parents.
The name is pronounced as a single syllable, j(e)-tt, with the extra "T" giving it a polished, distinctive feel. Grace Royal aptly describes Jett as "short, sharp, and cool", perfectly capturing its dual nod to gemstones and aviation.
Jett is currently ranked #161 on U.S. baby name charts. It gained momentum in part due to its association with celebrity families, like John Travolta’s, and was one of the fastest-rising names back in 2009. While it’s primarily a boy’s name, Jett occasionally appears for girls too, where it sits at #3,905.
The Bump Baby Names Content Team paints Jett as "the guy in a leather jacket who's cool, composed and confident". Its edgy, rock 'n' roll vibe resonates with parents looking for trendy names. If you like Jett, you might also consider similar names like Ace, Cash, Dash, Knox, or Rhett.
How NameHatch Helps You Find Je-Starting Names
NameHatch makes finding the perfect "Je" name simple and fun. With its Baby Name Shuffle, you can swipe through options effortlessly. Whether you’re drawn to timeless names like Jedidiah or trendier choices like Jett, the app learns your preferences as you go.
You can refine your search by filtering names based on origin (like Hebrew, Arabic, or Sanskrit), theme (such as Biblical, Nature-inspired, or Strong/Powerful), or even popularity. This means you can explore everything from familiar names like Jeremiah to less common ones like Jemuel.
For couples, the Partner Mode is a game-changer. It allows each person to swipe independently and then compare matches in real time, making the decision process smoother and more collaborative. Plus, it works seamlessly on both mobile and desktop, so you can search together no matter where you are.
The app offers a free plan with 30 swipes and basic filters to get started. For those who want more, the Premium plan unlocks unlimited swipes, favorites, and advanced filters (like Global, Nature-Inspired, or Mythical names) for $7/month or $29 for six months - saving you 30%. Best of all, the ad-free experience ensures you can focus entirely on finding the perfect name.
Conclusion
Choosing from these 12 "Je" names gives you plenty of options - from timeless choices like Jedidiah and Jeremiah to more modern favorites like Jett and Jensen. Each name carries its own story, whether rooted in tradition, faith, or contemporary trends. With such varied origins and meanings, there’s something here to suit every family’s unique journey.
Although "Je-" names now make up only about 1.1% of baby names, your pick will stand out. Think about what’s most important to you. If faith holds significance, names like Joel ("Jehovah is God") or Jesse ("God exists") might resonate. For a more classic vibe, Jefferson or Jerome bring a sense of formality. Prefer something short and bold? Jet is a high-energy choice packed into just three letters.
It’s also worth testing how the name pairs with your last name and considering possible nicknames - like Jed for Jedidiah or Jerry for Jeremy. These little details can shape how the name feels in everyday life.
With tools like NameHatch, narrowing down the perfect "Je" name can be a simple and enjoyable process. The right name will feel like it belongs the moment you say it aloud.
FAQs
What cultural or historical significance do boy names starting with 'Je' have?
Boy names that begin with "Je" often come with a rich history and meaningful connections. Many of these names trace back to Hebrew origins, like Jeremiah, which means "Yahweh will exalt", or Jesse, meaning "gift." These names carry strong ties to biblical and spiritual traditions.
In European contexts, names such as Jean and Jean-Baptiste hold a special place, especially in French-speaking areas. These names, often interpreted as "God is gracious", are linked to saints, religious figures, and even notable historical leaders. Other options, like Jaron, offer spiritual undertones with meanings like "to sing or shout", highlighting expressive and joyful qualities. Opting for a "Je" name can provide a timeless connection to heritage and tradition.
How popular are boy names starting with 'Je' in different regions?
The appeal of boy names starting with 'Je' varies significantly across different parts of the world. In the United States, names such as Jeff, Jeremiah, and Jensen have seen their moments of popularity. Some, like Jeff, carry a more classic vibe but are less common today. Meanwhile, modern picks like Jett and Jensen are becoming more fashionable, aligning with current trends.
In other parts of the world, names rooted in tradition hold strong. For example, Jahangir (of Persian origin) and Jedidiah (with biblical roots) continue to resonate with families who value their historical and cultural significance. On a global scale, there’s a noticeable shift toward names that blend uniqueness with modern sensibilities, often reflecting a mix of heritage and contemporary tastes. This makes 'Je' names a mix of enduring classics and stylish, fresh options.
What should parents think about when picking a boy's name that starts with 'Je'?
When picking a boy's name that starts with "Je", there are a few factors to keep in mind to find one that feels special and fits your family. Cultural background and origin can play a big role - names like Jeremiah or Jesse carry biblical or historical ties that might align with your family's values or traditions.
Pronunciation and spelling matter, too. Choosing a name that's easy to say and spell can save your child from a lifetime of correcting others. It's also worth thinking about how the name flows with your last name and whether it naturally shortens into a nickname you like.
Another thing to consider is the name's popularity and distinctiveness. Some parents gravitate toward classic names like James or John, while others might prefer something less common, such as Jett or Jensen. In the end, the right name is one that feels meaningful and suits your child perfectly.
