Names Ending in U for Boys

  1. Osamu
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "discipline; logic; reign"
    • Description:

      Historically common Japanese name associated with animator Osamu Tezuka, considered "The Godfather of Manga."
  2. Laurentiu
    • Origin:

      Romanian form of Laurence, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from Laurentium; bay laurel"
    • Description:

      Typically spelled as Laurențiu, this is the Romanian form of the classic Laurence, popular in its native Romania and in Moldova. A notable bearer is footballer manager Laurențiu Reghecampf.
  3. Natsu
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "born in the summer"
    • Description:

      Used for summer-born babies in Japan.
  4. Joshau
    • Description:

      Joshau appears to be an uncommon spelling variation of the classic name Joshua, which comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'Yahweh is salvation.' This alternate spelling might have emerged from typographical errors that eventually became adopted intentionally, or from parents seeking a unique twist on the traditional name. While the standard Joshua has been consistently popular in English-speaking countries for decades, Joshau remains extremely rare. The name carries the same biblical significance as Joshua, who was Moses' successor in the Old Testament. Parents might choose this spelling to differentiate their child while maintaining the familiar pronunciation and cultural significance of Joshua. However, the unusual spelling may lead to frequent corrections throughout life.

  5. Gedaliahu
    • Description:

      Gedaliahu is a traditional Hebrew masculine name derived from the biblical name Gedaliah, which means 'God is great' or 'God is my greatness.' This longer form preserves more of the original Hebrew pronunciation and spelling than the shortened Gedaliah. In the Bible, Gedaliah was appointed governor of Judah by King Nebuchadnezzar after the Babylonian conquest. The name carries strong religious significance in Jewish tradition, embodying devotion to God and recognition of divine greatness. Gedaliahu remains relatively uncommon outside of observant Jewish communities, where it might be chosen to honor religious heritage or family traditions. The name's distinctive sound and spelling reflect its ancient origins while its powerful meaning continues to resonate with those who value its spiritual significance and historical connections.
  6. Hotaru
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "firefly"
  7. 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.

  8. Jatau
    • Origin:

      Hausa
    • Meaning:

      "light, fair"
  9. Abeeku
    • Origin:

      Ghanan
    • Meaning:

      "born on Wednesday"
    • Description:

      Classic African day name, with rhythm and energy.
  10. Titou
    • Origin:

      French (Gascon)
    • Description:

      Gascon diminutive of Antoine
  11. 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.

  12. Markku
    • Description:

      Markku is a Finnish masculine name that serves as the Finnish equivalent of Mark or Marcus. These names ultimately derive from the Latin 'Marcus,' which was possibly connected to Mars, the Roman god of war. Markku has been consistently popular in Finland for generations and represents a distinctive example of how classical names have been adapted into Finnish linguistic patterns. The double 'k' is characteristic of Finnish phonology and spelling conventions. While very common in Finland, Markku remains rare outside Nordic countries and Finnish communities abroad. The name has a strong, straightforward quality with its distinct Finnish character. Notable bearers include Finnish athletes and artists, contributing to the name's cultural significance within Finland.

  13. 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.

  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. 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).
  17. Éowyn
    • Origin:

      Literature
    • Meaning:

      "horse lover"
    • Description:

      A literary name created by J. R. R. Tolkien for a Lord of the Rings noblewoman of Rohan. It would make an interesting choice for literature lovers or fans of names like Elowen and Evelyn.
  18. 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.
  19. 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.

  20. 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.