Names Ending in U for Girls
- Danu
Origin:
Celtic, goddess of fruitfulnessDescription:
This sprightly Irish mythology name would make an attention-grabbing choice.
- Nanou
Description:
Nanou is a delicate feminine name with French origins, often used as a nickname for names like Anne, Nanette, or Éleanor in French-speaking regions. This charming diminutive has taken on life as a given name in its own right, offering a sweet, modern sound with an international feel. The name has a melodic, sing-song quality that gives it a playful yet sophisticated character. Nanou remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice. Its brevity and easy pronunciation make it appealing to parents seeking something short yet complete. The name carries a certain joie de vivre and elegance associated with French culture.
- Anu
Origin:
Finnish and Estonian diminutive of Anna, Sanskrit diminutive of Anuradha, Yoruba, CelticMeaning:
"grace; causing success; mercy"Description:
A multicultural mini name with roots in three continents.
- Gugu
Origin:
Zulu, Xhosa, NdebeleMeaning:
"treasure"Description:
Gugu is derived from the word igugu, meaning "treasure." It's commonly used as a nickname for Gugulethu.
- Tiiu
Origin:
Estonian variation of Tiia, FinnishMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Tiiu is the cute Estonian form of Tiia, a Finnish diminutive of Dorothy and Dorothea.
- Fatou
Origin:
West African variation of Fatima, ArabicMeaning:
"captivating, a woman who abstains"Description:
Fatou and its long form Fatoumata are variations of the popular Muslim name Fatima, who was one of four perfect women cited by the Quran.
- Blu
Origin:
Variation of Blue, color nameDescription:
Blu is a new (nu?) spin on an increasingly popular color name, also spelled Blue and Bleu by celebrity parents. Blu is the spelling used for one of the (male) Waldrop quintuplets, but the name is gender neutral.
- Marylou
Origin:
English, combination of Mary and LouMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved + famous battle"Description:
Truncated form of Marylouise.
- Malibu
Origin:
Ventureño Chumash, Native AmericanMeaning:
"the surf sounds loudly"Description:
Malibu, the name of a California beach city, evokes sunshine, surfing, and glamour. With its fashionable "oo" sound — as seen in names like Luna and Ruby — Malibu is an unexplored place name worth considering.
- Liu
Origin:
ChineseMeaning:
"willow tree"Description:
Commonly associated with Chinese supermodel Liu Wen.
- Malu
Origin:
HawaiianMeaning:
"peace"Description:
Malu is a charming Hawaiian name chosen by ex-Talking Head David Byrne for his daughter. Malu might also be an abbreviated form of Malou, which is an abbreviated form of Mary Louise. Malu or Malou might be a retro-chic nickname for a child given the family names of Mary and/or Louise.
- Indu
Origin:
HindiMeaning:
"moon"Description:
Indu is truly unusual, but shares sounds with more popular choices like Indie and Indigo. Other moon names to consider: Luna, Serena, Io.
- Olwethu
Origin:
Zulu, XhosaMeaning:
"ours"Description:
The literal meaning of Olwethu is "ours," which is in reference to the love of the child.
- Eriu
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"Ireland, land of abundance"Description:
The Old Irish name for Ireland, now Éire, which is the source of Erin (via its genitive form Éireann "of Ireland"). In Irish mythology, Ériu is the mother goddess of Ireland, whose name may derive from a Proto-Celtic word meaning "full, abundant" – i.e. "land of abundance".
- Zazu
Description:
Zazu is a feminine name that gained recognition through the character of King Mufasa's hornbill advisor in Disney's 'The Lion King.' With African origins, the name carries connotations of movement and liveliness. Though uncommon in traditional naming registers, Zazu has appeal for parents seeking distinctive names with pop culture connections. The name suggests loyalty, wisdom, and a vibrant personality. While never ranking in popular name charts, Zazu has maintained a steady presence as a unique choice that offers both exoticism and recognizability, appealing to parents drawn to names that stand out while having a familiar reference point.
- Rikku
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"land, continent"Description:
The Japanese Rikku is familiar in the west as the name of one of the lead characters of the "Final Fantasy" video game series. Voted "hottest character," the fictional Rikku is a thief with a good sense of humor.
- Naru
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"to become"Description:
Featured in several anime series.
- Gugulethu
Origin:
Zulu, Xhosa, NdebeleMeaning:
"our treasure"Description:
This South African name is often shortened to the spunky nickname Gugu.
- Cadeau
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"gift"Description:
Cadeau puts a decidedly French-ified twist on the word name trend, but don't be surprised if you encounter ponies and poodles with the same moniker.
- Rainbeau
Description:
Rainbeau is a modern, creative feminine name inspired by the English word 'rainbow.' The French-influenced spelling (substituting 'bow' with 'beau,' meaning 'beautiful' in French) adds a distinctive, artistic quality to the name. Emerging primarily in the late 20th century, Rainbeau embodies the natural naming trend while incorporating whimsical elements. The name evokes imagery of color, hope, and natural beauty, symbolizing the promise that comes after storms. While always remaining rare, Rainbeau has attracted some interest among parents seeking unique, nature-inspired names with positive associations. The name has particular appeal in artistic and creative communities. Despite its uncommon status, Rainbeau's phonetic spelling makes its pronunciation relatively intuitive, though its distinctive spelling ensures it stands out on paper as well as in person.