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Hugh

The name Hugh is derived from the Old High German name 'Hugo,' meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit.' It was introduced to England by the Normans and has since remained popular, largely thanks to its appealing classic simplicity. In various cultures, it symbolizes intelligence and a noble spirit.

IPA: /hjuː/ · Simplified: hyoo

Male
Old High German
Norman
Western Europe
classic
intelligent
noble
dignified

40/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2018

Peak Year

Meaning of Hugh

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Hugh is derived from the Old High German name 'Hugo,' meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit.' It was introduced to England by the Normans and has since remained popular, largely thanks to its appealing classic simplicity. In various cultures, it symbolizes intelligence and a noble spirit.

Does Hugh flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Hugh

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /hjuː/ · Simplified: hyoo

Nicknames for Hugh

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Hughie
Hughey
Hue
Hughster

Hugh name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

50

United Kingdom

45

Ireland

35

United States

32

Australia

30

New Zealand

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Hugo

Hugues

Ugo

Huge

Names like Hugh

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Hugh

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals named Hugh are often perceived as intelligent and introspective. They tend to have a dignified aura, complemented by a sharp wit. Hugh is a name associated with a thoughtful and gentle demeanor but also carries an undercurrent of quiet strength.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Hugh

Well-known figures who share this name.

H

Hugh Grant

British actor known for roles in romantic comedies; born 1960.

H

Hugh Jackman

Australian actor famous for his role as Wolverine; born 1968.

H

Hugh Laurie

English actor and musician, notable for starring in the TV series 'House'; born 1959.

Frequently asked questions about Hugh

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Hugh mean?
Here is the meaning behind Hugh: The name Hugh is derived from the Old High German name 'Hugo,' meaning 'heart,' 'mind,' or 'spirit.' It was introduced to England by the Normans and has since remained popular, largely thanks to its appealing classic simplicity. In various cultures, it symbolizes intelligence and a noble spirit.
Is Hugh a boy or girl name?
Hugh is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Hugh?
Hugh scores 40/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2018.
What are good nicknames for Hugh?
Popular nicknames for Hugh: Hughie, Hughey, Hue, Hughster.
What names are similar to Hugh?
Names similar to Hugh: Hugo, Miles, Ewan, Owen — close in sound, origin, or style.

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