Hannu

Hannu is a Finnish masculine given name. It is widely used in Finland and among Finnish-speaking communities. The name is commonly considered a diminutive or affectionate form of Johannes or Hannes, but it is also used as an independent given name in its own right.

Etymology and meaning: Hannu derives from the name Johannes, which in turn comes from the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "God is gracious." In Finnish naming practice, Hannu has been a traditional choice across generations and remains in use, though it is less common for newborns today than in earlier decades.

Usage and distribution: The name gained popularity in Finland during the mid-20th century and has since become part of the classic Finnish name set. While not as prevalent among newborns in recent years, Hannu remains recognizable and commonly encountered among older generations and in historical contexts.

Notable people: Notable individuals named Hannu include Hannu Mikkola, a Finnish rally driver, and Hannu Rajaniemi, a Finnish science fiction writer. Their international recognition reflects the name’s presence across diverse fields in Finnish culture.

Variations and related names: Related forms include Hannes and Johannes, as well as other culturally equivalent versions in different languages. See also: Johannes, Hannes.

See also: In Finnish onomastics, Hannu is often discussed alongside other traditional names that reflect the country’s naming traditions and linguistic heritage.