Names Ending in U for Boys

  1. Arnou
    • Description:

      Arnou is an uncommon masculine name with possible Germanic or French origins. It likely represents a variant spelling of Arnau, Arnaud, or Arno, names deriving from Germanic elements meaning 'eagle' and 'power' or 'rule.' This distinctive spelling gives the traditional name a fresh appearance while maintaining its historical roots. Arnou remains extremely rare in English-speaking countries, offering significant distinctiveness for parents seeking an unusual name with historical depth. The name has a sophisticated European quality and projects strength through its connection to eagle symbolism. While uncommon enough to be unique, its pronunciation follows intuitive patterns, making it accessible despite its rarity. Arnou combines ancient meaning with contemporary styling in its variant spelling.

  2. Emeru
    • Origin:

      Ethiopian, Amharic
    • Description:

      Emeru is an intriguing boy name used in Ethiopia, also sometimes spelled Emmeru. If you love the "Em" sound but Emmett, Emerson, and Emery aren't quite exciting enough, this is a great alternative.
  3. Tangou
    • Description:

      Tangou is a rare masculine name with potential West African origins, particularly from countries like Cameroon or Senegal. It may derive from local languages where it could relate to concepts of strength, leadership, or natural elements. The name might also be connected to the tango dance or music, giving it a rhythmic association in some cultural contexts. As a given name, Tangou remains extremely uncommon in Western countries, making it a very distinctive choice. The name has a melodious quality with its balanced syllables and strong ending. For those seeking a name with African heritage or looking for something truly unique with a musical resonance, Tangou offers both cultural richness and individuality. Its rarity means most bearers of this name would rarely meet others who share it.

  4. Noburu
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "extend, expand"
    • Description:

      Rare Japanese name featured in several anime series.
  5. Haiku
    • Origin:

      Japanese poetic form
    • Description:

      Short and sweet, just like the form of poetry - this name has serious potential as an interesting and plucky international choice.
  6. Gedalyahu
    • Description:

      Gedalyahu is a masculine name of Hebrew origin with deep biblical roots. It is the full formal version of the more commonly known name Gedaliah, meaning 'God is great' or 'God has become great.' In the Hebrew Bible, Gedalyahu was a governor of Judah appointed by King Nebuchadnezzar after the destruction of the First Temple. The name carries significant religious importance, particularly in Jewish communities where it continues to be used. Gedalyahu follows traditional Hebrew naming patterns with the '-yahu' suffix that refers to God (YHWH). While relatively uncommon outside of observant Jewish communities, the name has consistent usage within these groups, especially among those who prefer traditional biblical names in their original Hebrew form. The name carries connotations of faith, leadership, and divine greatness.
  7. Carolu
    • Description:

      Carolu is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant of Carolus, the Latin form of Charles. The name ultimately derives from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'strong man.' Carolu has a melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds and distinctive ending. While rarely used in most Western countries, it carries the distinguished history of its root name Charles, which has been borne by numerous kings and notable figures throughout European history. The unique spelling gives this classic name a fresh, international feel while maintaining connections to its noble heritage.
  8. Aranyu
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "forest"
    • Description:

      Aranyu is an Indian name rarely used in the US, though the meaning gives it a fashionable woodsy appeal.
  9. Platyahu
    • Description:

      Platyahu is an uncommon masculine name that appears to blend Greek and Hebrew elements. The prefix "platy-" comes from Greek, meaning "broad" or "flat," while the suffix "-yahu" is a theophoric element in Hebrew referring to Yahweh (God). This unusual combination suggests it might be a modern constructed name rather than one with ancient historical usage. The name has extremely limited popularity and would be considered very rare globally. Parents might choose this distinctive name seeking uniqueness or perhaps to create a meaningful combination of cultural elements. The unconventional nature of Platyahu would likely make it a conversation starter, as most people would be encountering it for the first time.

  10. Jatau
    • Origin:

      Hausa
    • Meaning:

      "light, fair"
  11. Thaddeau
    • Description:

      Thaddeau is a rare masculine variation of Thaddeus, which derives from the Aramaic name Thaddai, meaning 'heart' or 'courageous'. This uncommon spelling adds a French-inspired flair to the traditional name. The original Thaddeus appears in the New Testament as one of Jesus's twelve apostles, giving the name religious significance. While Thaddeus has maintained modest popularity throughout Western history, the Thaddeau variant remains exceptionally uncommon, offering a distinctive option for parents seeking originality while maintaining historical roots. Its elegant ending creates a sophisticated sound while preserving the strong, virtuous meaning associated with its origin.

  12. Shelemyahu
    • Description:

      Shelemyahu is a rare masculine name of Hebrew origin. It represents an extended or archaic form of the biblical name Shelemiah, which appears in the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible. The name combines 'shelem' (peace, completion) with 'yahu,' a theophoric element referring to God (YHWH or Yahweh). Thus, Shelemyahu means 'peace of Yahweh' or 'Yahweh has completed/repaid.' This name maintains strong religious significance in Jewish traditions but remains very uncommon in contemporary use. The formal, complete version with the theophoric ending '-yahu' (rather than the shortened '-iah' ending) reflects a more traditional or orthodox approach to biblical names. Parents choosing this name typically do so for its deep religious significance and connection to ancient Hebrew heritage.

  13. Uriyahu
    • Description:

      Uriyahu is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, representing an expanded form of the biblical name Uriah. The suffix '-yahu' explicitly incorporates a reference to YHWH, the Hebrew name for God, making the name mean 'flame of God' or 'light of Jehovah.' This ancient name appears in the Hebrew Bible, though the longer form Uriyahu is less common than Uriah. While rare in modern usage outside of observant Jewish communities, it carries deep spiritual significance and historical resonance. The name conveys strength, divine connection, and cultural heritage. In contemporary settings, Uriyahu might be chosen by families seeking a name with authentic Hebrew origins and strong religious meaning, though its pronunciation may present challenges in non-Hebrew speaking communities.
  14. Ellihu
    • Description:

      Ellihu appears to be a variant spelling of Elihu, a masculine name of Hebrew origin meaning 'He is my God.' Found in the Old Testament, Elihu was a young man who spoke to Job and his friends in the Book of Job. This uncommon variation maintains the biblical connection while offering a distinctive spelling. Ellihu shares roots with other theophoric Hebrew names like Elijah and Elisha. The name has remained quite rare throughout recorded naming history, though the standard spelling Elihu saw some usage among Puritan communities and continues to appear occasionally, particularly in religious families. Ellihu carries associations of wisdom, faith, and theological discourse through its biblical connection.

  15. Maazyahu
    • Description:

      Maazyahu is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, likely connected to biblical naming traditions. The '-yahu' suffix is a theophoric element referring to YHWH (Yahweh), the Hebrew name for God, making it similar in structure to biblical names like Eliyahu (Elijah) or Netanyahu. The first part 'Maaz' may relate to Hebrew roots meaning 'strength' or 'refuge'. This traditional Hebrew name would be extremely rare outside of Jewish communities with strong ties to traditional naming practices. Maazyahu carries deep religious significance for those who value biblical Hebrew naming traditions. While uncommon even in Israel, it represents a connection to ancient Israelite naming conventions and would be chosen by families with strong religious or cultural ties to traditional Hebrew names.

  16. Avihu
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "he is my father"
    • Description:

      The name of a son of Aaron in the Old Testament. Abihu is a variant form.
  17. Blau
    • Origin:

      German and Catalan
    • Meaning:

      "blue"
  18. Elishu
    • Description:

      Elishu is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, likely a variant of Elisha, which means 'God is my salvation' or 'God is salvation.' The biblical Elisha was a prophet and the successor to Elijah in the Old Testament. Elishu represents a less common spelling variation that maintains the name's spiritual significance while offering a unique twist. The name carries connotations of divine protection and spiritual guidance. Though rare in most Western countries, Elishu might appeal to parents seeking a name with religious significance and distinctive character. Its pronunciation typically follows the pattern of Elisha (eh-LIE-shoo or eh-LEE-shoo).
  19. Thadeaou
    • Description:

      Thadeaou is an extremely rare masculine name that appears to be a unique variant of Thaddeus or Tadeo. The traditional name Thaddeus derives from Aramaic origins meaning 'gift of God' or 'heart.' This particular spelling likely represents a creative adaptation that incorporates elements of French or Creole phonetics. Thadeaou maintains the melodic quality of its root name while adding distinctive flair through its unusual letter combination. The name remains exceptionally uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a truly distinctive choice. Parents drawn to this spelling likely value originality and may have cultural connections influencing their preference for this unique variation.
  20. Mouhamadou
    • Description:

      Mouhamadou is a masculine name of Arabic origin, representing a variant of Muhammad, which means 'praiseworthy' or 'the praised one.' This name honors the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, making it deeply significant in Muslim communities. Mouhamadou is particularly common in West African countries, especially in Senegal, Mali, and other regions with strong Islamic influences. The spelling variation reflects regional pronunciation and French colonial linguistic influence in West Africa. The name carries profound religious and cultural significance for Muslim families, symbolizing respect for prophetic tradition. While maintaining its religious importance, the name also reflects the rich cultural interchange between Arabic naming traditions and West African cultural practices.