Everyone jokes about cringey couple nicknames until they’re head over heels and “Sweetie Pie” slips out. Sound familiar? Don’t worry, embrace the adorable side! Love is fun, and sometimes using a formal name with someone you’re super close to just feels…weird. A pet name for your guy can be a special little inside joke, strengthening your bond and adding a touch of lightness to your relationship. Even during disagreements, a silly nickname can diffuse tension and bring a smile.
Think of nicknames as your relationship’s secret language. And while this list is geared towards nicknames for guys, remember, relationship rules are yours to make. Many of these can be gender-neutral, perfect for partners of all kinds! So, get ready to explore over 150 of the best nickname options for your boyfriend, partner, fiancé, or anyone special in between.
Classic & Cute Pet Names for Guys
These are your go-to, universally adorable nicknames. They’re sweet, simple, and always a hit.
- Baby
- Babe
- Boo
- Bubba
- Buddy
- Hun
- Honey
- Love
- Sweetheart
- Darling
- Dear
- Sugar
- Sweetie
- Cutie
- Pookie
- Snookums
- Angel
- Dove
- Precious
- Prince
- Champ
- Captain
- Chief
- Boo Bear
- Honey Bear
Romantic & Affectionate Nicknames
For when you want to dial up the romance and let him know just how much he means to you.
- My Love
- Love of My Life
- My Everything
- My Heart
- My Soulmate
- My One and Only
- Heart’s Desire
- My Beloved
- Dream Boat
- My King
- My Knight
- My Hero
- My Rock
- Sunshine
- Starlight
- Moonbeam
- My Treasure
- My Gift
- My World
- My Universe
- Amor (Spanish for Love)
- Cariño (Spanish for Darling)
- Mi Corazon (Spanish for My Heart)
- Mon Amour (French for My Love)
- Tesoro (Italian for Treasure)
Funny & Playful Pet Names
Keep things light and fun with these quirky and humorous nicknames. Perfect for couples who love to laugh together.
- Goofball
- Silly Goose
- Noodle
- Dumpling
- Muffin
- Peanut
- Bug
- Love Bug
- Honey Bun
- Cookie
- Squish
- Wiggle Worm
- Rascal
- Trouble
- Grumpy
- Sunshine (even if he’s not always sunny!)
- Buttercup
- Snugglepuff
- Teddy Bear
- Pooh Bear
- Big Mac
- Tater Tot
- Nugget
- Hot Sauce
- Cherry Bomb
Pop Culture Inspired Nicknames
Borrow from your favorite movies, shows, and books for these trendy and recognizable nicknames.
- McDreamy (from Grey’s Anatomy)
- McSteamy (from Grey’s Anatomy)
- Romeo (from Romeo and Juliet)
- Mr. Darcy (from Pride and Prejudice)
- Prince Charming (from fairy tales)
- Hercules (from Greek mythology)
- Superman (from DC Comics)
- Batman (from DC Comics)
- Iron Man (from Marvel Comics)
- Captain America (from Marvel Comics)
- Thor (from Marvel Comics)
- Ken (from Barbie)
- Maverick (from Top Gun)
- Goose (from Top Gun)
- Snoopy (from Peanuts)
Unique & Creative Nicknames
For a nickname that’s as special and individual as he is. These are all about personalizing it!
- Combine his name with a sweet word (e.g., “Tay-bear” for Taylor)
- Use a word from your shared inside joke
- Translate a classic nickname into another language
- Shorten his last name and make it cute
- Use a nickname based on his hobby or passion (e.g., “Code Whiz” if he loves coding)
- Create a nickname based on a funny habit he has
- Refer to him as your favorite animal (e.g., “My Fox,” “My Bear”)
- Use a term of endearment from another culture
- Invent a completely new word that only you two understand
- Use a nickname based on his best quality (e.g., “Braveheart,” “Smarty Pants”)
Relationship Stage Nicknames
Sometimes, the perfect nickname evolves with your relationship.
For the New Guy:
- Cutie
- Lover Boy
- His First Initial (e.g., “J” for John)
- Shortened version of his name (e.g., “Chris” for Christopher)
- His Middle Name
- Pal
- Dude
- Guy
- Hot Stuff
- Mr. Fix It
For the Boyfriend:
- Handsome
- Good-Looking
- My Man
- My Guy
- Baby Boy
- Sweet Thing
- Sweet Stuff
- Tiger
- Stallion
- My Better Half
For the Fiancé/Husband:
- Hubby
- Husband
- Mister
- Old Man (affectionately!)
- Fella
- Partner
- My Rock
- My Anchor
- My Forever
- King
For the Father of Your Child:
- Baby Daddy (playful)
- Big Daddy
- Big Papa
- Papi
- Pops
- Papa Bear
- Partner
- Dad
- Daddy Bear
- My Children’s Father
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Pet Name
- Consider his personality: Is he playful, romantic, or more reserved? Choose a nickname that aligns with who he is.
- Think about your relationship: Is it new and casual, or long-term and serious? The nickname should fit the level of intimacy.
- Test it out: Try a few nicknames and see how he reacts. His comfort is key!
- Make it meaningful: The best nicknames often have a personal story or inside joke behind them.
- Don’t force it: If it doesn’t feel natural, don’t worry! The right nickname will come organically.
- Communicate: Talk to him about nicknames! He might have preferences or even secret pet names for you!
Finding the perfect pet name for your guy is a fun way to express your affection and strengthen your connection. Whether you go classic, funny, or create something totally unique, the most important thing is that it comes from the heart and makes both of you smile. So go ahead, pick a nickname and start spreading the love!
