Lou

Lou is a given name commonly used as a short form of Louis or Louise/Louisa, though it can also be a standalone name. It derives from the Germanic name Ludwig, via the French Louis, with roots in Proto-Germanic elements meaning "fame" and "war," giving the meaning “famous warrior.” In English-speaking countries, Lou is used for both men and women, though it is often masculine when derived from Louis.

Notable people named Lou include Lou Reed, the American musician and songwriter known for the Velvet Underground; Lou Gehrig, the Hall of Fame baseball player; Lou Ferrigno, actor and former bodybuilder; and Lou Diamond Phillips, actor. The name is used by many others across sports, arts, and public life.

In fiction, Lou Grant is a well-known character from The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spin-off series Lou Grant, portrayed by Ed Asner. Other fictional Lous appear in various books and films, reflecting the name’s enduring presence in popular culture.

Spelling variants and related names include Louis and Louise, from which Lou is often derived, as well as Louie as another common nickname form. The name Lou remains in use across diverse cultures and generations.