Published on
updated on
Reading 2 min.
Marie Lanen
Head of parenting sections (baby, pregnancy, family), psychology and beauty
Girls’ names starting with the letter “L” are still popular with parents in 2024. Discover this very short name that continues to appeal.
In 2024, the name Lou continues to appeal to young parents looking for a name that is short, modern, and carries deep meanings. Although this name appeared discreetly in birth records at the beginning of the 20th century, it has gradually established itself as a must-have among current female names. What are the reasons for its success? What does this name mean and how is it perceived today? Doctissimo immerses you in the world of Lou, a name with many facets.
A diminutive of Louise
Lou is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the name Louise. It means “illustrious in battle” or “glorious fighter”, in reference to the etymological roots of the Germanic term “hlod”, which means “glory”, and “wig”, which translates to “battle”. Lou can also be seen as a diminutive of names such as Louise, Lucie, or even Eloise. However, it is now often chosen as a name in its own right, independent of its longer forms.
This short and dynamic first name is appreciated for its simplicity and its soft sound, while being loaded with symbolic force. It embodies a form of sober and timeless elegance, but also a modernity in line with current values.
A mixed first name but mainly feminine
Although Lou is historically a mixed name, it is now mainly given to girls. This evolution is part of a broader trend of short and neutral names that transcend gender, such as Léon, Alex or Charlie. However, the soft sound of Lou makes it a particularly popular name for little girls, with an image of delicate but assertive femininity.
Lou: growing popularity
Lou’s success is not waning. Since the 2000s, this first name has experienced a meteoric rise in the rankings of the most popular first names in France and elsewhere in Europe. In 2024, it is among the most popular first names, with a prominent place in the charts of girls’ first names.
Several factors explain this craze. Lou responds to a strong trend for short names, easy to pronounce and write, but also international. Its simplicity and universality make it an ideal name for parents looking to reconcile tradition and modernity. It is also very appreciated for its versatility, matching many surnames and being able to be used in both a formal and more familiar context.
The name Lou has been popularized by several media and artistic figures. One of the most famous is undoubtedly the singer Lou Doillon, daughter of Jane Birkin and Jacques Doillon, who has managed to impose her unique style in the world of fashion and music. The name Lou has also been worn by several fictional characters, reinforcing its modern and chic image.
Lou in 2024: a first name carrying modern values
In 2024, Lou perfectly embodies the values of today’s society. A short and sweet name, it evokes simplicity and authenticity, qualities highly sought after by contemporary parents. In addition, its warlike and combative connotation echoes the aspiration of new generations for independence and emancipation. Lou is the name of a little girl who will grow up being encouraged to assert her personality, to be free to make her own choices, and to fight for her convictions.
Slideshow: The best short names for girls: our list