Hugo
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Hugo
Hugo, which has 4 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of German origin.
Meaning of Hugo
From the name hugh
Hugo is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Germanic elements hug meaning "mind" and heim meaning "home". It can also be interpreted to mean "spirit" or "intelligence".
| Meaning | From the name hugh |
| Origin | German |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #405 in 2024 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Uncommon (Top 500) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Hugo
The name Hugo is a male given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old High German name 'Hugi', which means "mind", "spirit", or "thought". This name has been popular in various European countries, particularly in Germany, France, and the Spanish-speaking world. Hugo has a rich historical background, with notable figures bearing this name throughout the centuries.
In terms of literature, one of the most renowned Hugos is Hugo Grotius, a 17th-century Dutch philosopher and jurist. He is often considered the father of modern international law, and his work on natural law and just war theory has greatly influenced the field. Another famous Hugo in the realm of literature is Victor Hugo, a prominent French writer known for his novels such as "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame". Victor Hugo's works are celebrated for their social and political commentary, as well as their exploration of the human condition.
Moreover, the name Hugo has also gained popularity in the realm of film and entertainment. Hugo Weaving, an Australian actor, has achieved international fame for his diverse roles in movies like "The Matrix" trilogy, "The Lord of the Rings" series, and "V for Vendetta". Another Hugo making waves in the film industry is Mexican director and producer Guillermo del Toro, who won the Academy Award for Best Director in 2018 for his film "The Shape of Water".
Overall, the name Hugo has a storied past and has been associated with brilliant minds in various fields throughout history. It continues to be a widely chosen name for boys today, with its distinctive sound and meaningful origins contributing to its enduring appeal.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Hugo over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Hugo.
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