Boy Name · Germanic Origin
Hugh
Last reviewed: June 2026
Hugh — a boy name from the Germanic tradition — is distinctive but not obscure. Its meaning, "Heart, mind, spirit", anchors the name in something deeper than sound alone. If Hugo is on your shortlist, Hugh belongs in the same conversation.
Names like Hugh
Frequently asked about Hugh
What does the name Hugh mean?
Hugh means "Heart, mind, spirit" and is of Germanic origin.
What is the origin of Hugh?
Hugh originates in Germanic naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Hugh?
Hugh has 4 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Hugh a boy's or girl's name?
Hugh is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Hugh in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Hugh sits in the Top 1000 tier — distinctive but not obscure.
What names are similar to Hugh?
Names that share Hugh's sound and style include Hugo, Hughie, Hughey, Hoke, Haig.