Louis Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationLOO-ee / luː.iFrench; Latin
Meaning
Famous warrior (Latin); Renowned fighter (French)
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Louis has its roots in the Germanic name "Chlodovech," which is composed of the elements "hlud" meaning "famous" and "wig" meaning "warrior." This name evolved into the Old High German form "Ludwig" before being adapted into Latin as "Ludovicus." The transition into French occurred during the medieval period, where it became "Louis," a name that gained prominence in the Frankish kingdom. The name was introduced into English through the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, becoming more widely recognized in the English-speaking world thereafter.
Historically, the name Louis is notably associated with several French kings, including Louis IX, who reigned in the 13th century and was canonized as a saint in 1297. His reign is marked by significant developments in French law and governance, and he is often remembered for his piety and dedication to justice. The name also appears in various historical texts, including the works of medieval chroniclers who documented the lives of these monarchs. The use of Louis in royal contexts helped solidify its status as a name of nobility and leadership.
Culturally, the name Louis has been embraced in various European traditions, symbolizing strength and nobility. It has been borne by numerous notable figures, including artists, writers, and musicians, contributing to its enduring legacy. The diminutive form "Lou" has also emerged, reflecting a more informal and affectionate usage. The name's historical significance and associations with leadership and valor have ensured its continued resonance in various cultures, making it a name of lasting importance.
Trend Summary
The name Louis has seen a steady presence in the U.S. popularity charts, often ranking within the top 100 names.
Similar Names
Variants
- Lou
- Louisette
International Variants
- Luís (Portuguese)
- Luca (Italian)
- Ludwig (German)
- Loui (Finnish)
- Loui (Greek)
Famous people named Louis
Louis Armstrong is a musician best known for What a Wonderful World, Hello, Dolly!, and West End Blues.
Louis Pasteur is a scientist best known for developing the germ theory of disease, pasteurization, and vaccines for rabies and anthrax.
Louis Vuitton is a fashion designer best known for founding the luxury brand Louis Vuitton and creating iconic travel trunks.
Louis C.K. is a comedian and filmmaker best known for his television series Louie, Horace and Pete, and his stand-up specials.
Louis Farrakhan is a religious leader best known for leading the Nation of Islam and organizing the Million Man March.
Louis Moinet is an inventor best known for creating the first chronograph and contributions to watchmaking.
Louis de Funès is an actor best known for his roles in the films La Grande Vadrouille, Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob, and Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez.
Louis Riel is a historical figure best known for leading the Red River and North-West Rebellions in Canada.
Louis Althusser is a philosopher best known for his work in Marxist theory and the concept of ideological state apparatuses.
Louis Braille is an inventor best known for creating the Braille system for reading and writing for the visually impaired.
Fictional characters named Louis
Louis is a fictional character from the novel and film Interview with the Vampire. He is a vampire who struggles with his identity and morality after being turned by Lestat.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Louis was first seen in the United States in 1880. Louis has ranked as high as #63 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, California, Illinois, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Louis has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Louis (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 146 | |
TX | 111 | |
NY | 106 | |
MN | 78 | |
PA | 76 | |
MI | 74 | |
OH | 72 | |
IL | 65 | |
FL | 53 | |
MO | 51 | |
MA | 43 | |
WI | 41 | |
IN | 38 | |
WA | 37 | |
GA | 33 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 828 |
1881 | 746 |
1882 | 852 |
1883 | 796 |
1884 | 886 |
1885 | 809 |
1886 | 846 |
1887 | 791 |
1888 | 884 |
1889 | 837 |
1890 | 860 |
1891 | 786 |
1892 | 865 |
1893 | 816 |
1894 | 869 |
1895 | 913 |
1896 | 871 |
1897 | 831 |
1898 | 861 |
1899 | 770 |
1900 | 1,097 |
1901 | 797 |
1902 | 912 |
1903 | 889 |
1904 | 936 |
1905 | 981 |
1906 | 1,101 |
1907 | 1,111 |
1908 | 1,317 |
1909 | 1,231 |
1910 | 1,569 |
1911 | 1,838 |
1912 | 3,591 |
1913 | 4,258 |
1914 | 5,495 |
1915 | 6,518 |
1916 | 6,817 |
1917 | 6,771 |
1918 | 7,082 |
1919 | 6,661 |
1920 | 6,966 |
1921 | 7,247 |
1922 | 7,095 |
1923 | 7,075 |
1924 | 7,042 |
1925 | 6,798 |
1926 | 6,513 |
1927 | 6,665 |
1928 | 6,297 |
1929 | 5,995 |
1930 | 5,810 |
1931 | 5,424 |
1932 | 5,133 |
1933 | 4,695 |
1934 | 4,682 |
1935 | 4,622 |
1936 | 4,419 |
1937 | 4,355 |
1938 | 4,390 |
1939 | 4,224 |
1940 | 4,324 |
1941 | 4,446 |
1942 | 5,151 |
1943 | 5,033 |
1944 | 4,678 |
1945 | 4,480 |
1946 | 4,918 |
1947 | 5,778 |
1948 | 5,386 |
1949 | 5,235 |
1950 | 4,947 |
1951 | 5,089 |
1952 | 4,922 |
1953 | 4,986 |
1954 | 4,848 |
1955 | 4,777 |
1956 | 4,911 |
1957 | 4,695 |
1958 | 4,443 |
1959 | 4,313 |
1960 | 4,125 |
1961 | 3,963 |
1962 | 3,595 |
1963 | 3,620 |
1964 | 3,587 |
1965 | 3,269 |
1966 | 2,992 |
1967 | 2,895 |
1968 | 2,709 |
1969 | 2,623 |
1970 | 2,642 |
1971 | 2,513 |
1972 | 2,102 |
1973 | 1,906 |
1974 | 1,933 |
1975 | 1,812 |
1976 | 1,782 |
1977 | 1,865 |
1978 | 1,753 |
1979 | 1,839 |
1980 | 1,787 |
1981 | 1,805 |
1982 | 1,694 |
1983 | 1,763 |
1984 | 1,711 |
1985 | 1,685 |
1986 | 1,686 |
1987 | 1,683 |
1988 | 1,707 |
1989 | 1,834 |
1990 | 1,820 |
1991 | 1,725 |
1992 | 1,619 |
1993 | 1,582 |
1994 | 1,411 |
1995 | 1,360 |
1996 | 1,283 |
1997 | 1,311 |
1998 | 1,181 |
1999 | 1,143 |
2000 | 1,135 |
2001 | 1,096 |
2002 | 1,143 |
2003 | 1,103 |
2004 | 1,050 |
2005 | 1,002 |
2006 | 1,001 |
2007 | 937 |
2008 | 909 |
2009 | 885 |
2010 | 921 |
2011 | 921 |
2012 | 1,056 |
2013 | 1,070 |
2014 | 1,229 |
2015 | 1,210 |
2016 | 1,242 |
2017 | 1,302 |
2018 | 1,387 |
2019 | 1,475 |
2020 | 1,334 |
2021 | 1,418 |
2022 | 1,442 |
2023 | 1,477 |
2024 | 1,503 |