LOU  

Gender: F
Origin: Short form of LOUISE
Meaning: "renowned warrior"

In English-speaking countries, when Lou is used for girls at all, it's usually a short form of Louise, Louisa, or Lucy. But in France and Germany, it's a fashionable choice all on its own, sure to gain even more widespread style credibility since Heidi Klum and Seal chose it for their newborn daughter. Another option: Lulu.

Lou is being discussed in our message boards:

• A thought
• Cheaper By the Dozen
• nicknames
• Fashion Name List!
• Opinions Please! 3rd Girl Challenge

Read Nameberry blog posts about Lou:

• L NAMES TO LOVE
• HELLO DOLLY: Names from the Doll World
• MINI-NAMES
• GIRLY NAMES WITH TOMBOY NICKNAMES
• FRENCH BABY NAMES: Prune, Anyone?