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Louis Boy

Popularity: #225 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationLOO-ee / luː.i

French; 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)

StateBirthsShare
CA 146
10%
TX 111
8%
NY 106
8%
MN 78
6%
PA 76
5%
MI 74
5%
OH 72
5%
IL 65
5%
FL 53
4%
MO 51
4%
MA 43
3%
WI 41
3%
IN 38
3%
WA 37
3%
GA 33
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880828
1881746
1882852
1883796
1884886
1885809
1886846
1887791
1888884
1889837
1890860
1891786
1892865
1893816
1894869
1895913
1896871
1897831
1898861
1899770
19001,097
1901797
1902912
1903889
1904936
1905981
19061,101
19071,111
19081,317
19091,231
19101,569
19111,838
19123,591
19134,258
19145,495
19156,518
19166,817
19176,771
19187,082
19196,661
19206,966
19217,247
19227,095
19237,075
19247,042
19256,798
19266,513
19276,665
19286,297
19295,995
19305,810
19315,424
19325,133
19334,695
19344,682
19354,622
19364,419
19374,355
19384,390
19394,224
19404,324
19414,446
19425,151
19435,033
19444,678
19454,480
19464,918
19475,778
19485,386
19495,235
19504,947
19515,089
19524,922
19534,986
19544,848
19554,777
19564,911
19574,695
19584,443
19594,313
19604,125
19613,963
19623,595
19633,620
19643,587
19653,269
19662,992
19672,895
19682,709
19692,623
19702,642
19712,513
19722,102
19731,906
19741,933
19751,812
19761,782
19771,865
19781,753
19791,839
19801,787
19811,805
19821,694
19831,763
19841,711
19851,685
19861,686
19871,683
19881,707
19891,834
19901,820
19911,725
19921,619
19931,582
19941,411
19951,360
19961,283
19971,311
19981,181
19991,143
20001,135
20011,096
20021,143
20031,103
20041,050
20051,002
20061,001
2007937
2008909
2009885
2010921
2011921
20121,056
20131,070
20141,229
20151,210
20161,242
20171,302
20181,387
20191,475
20201,334
20211,418
20221,442
20231,477
20241,503