Louis

What does the baby name Louis mean? Learn about what Louis means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Louis - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Louis
L-O-U-I-S, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Louis
'LOO-iss' or 'LOO-ee.' Louis Armstrong
trumpeter
singer. Louis Prima
singer. Prince Louis Arthur Charles of England
son of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
LOO-is
LOO ee
LOO iss
Meaning of Louis
Famous warrior, famed warrior, well-known fighter, renowned warrior.
Origin of Louis
The name 'Louis' has its roots in the Germanic language and can be traced back to the Frankish name Chlodovech. Chlodovech was composed of the elements 'hlud', meaning 'famous', and 'wig', meaning 'warrior'. Over time, Chlodovech evolved into the name 'Louis' and gained popularity across various European countries.

Earliest Known Use and Name Popularity

The earliest known use of the name 'Louis' can be traced back to the Merovingian dynasty in the 5th century. Clovis I, the first king of the Franks, had a son named Chlodovech, who later became known as 'Louis'. This historical figure played a significant role in the spread and popularity of the name.

Throughout history, the name 'Louis' has experienced periods of both high and low popularity. In the Middle Ages, it was a common name among the French nobility. During the Renaissance, it gained popularity in England and Scotland, thanks to the influence of the French royal family. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became a popular name among European monarchs, with several kings and emperors bearing the name 'Louis'.
American Names
Belgian Names
Classic Names
English Names
French Names
German Names
Germanic Names
Royal Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Louis
Alois
Aloisio
Aloisius
Aloysius
Clovis
Elois
Lash
Lasho
Lew
Lewes
Lewis
Lodovico
Lou
Louie
Lucho
Ludovic
Ludovicus
Ludvig
ludvik
Ludwig
Luigi
Luis
Popularity of Louis
Louis currently has 3929 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Brian is slightly more popular than Louis.

Etymology of Louis

The etymology of the name 'Louis' is rooted in the Germanic language, as mentioned earlier. The combination of 'hlud' and 'wig' reflects the qualities associated with a famous warrior. This etymology highlights the strength and valor that the name 'Louis' conveys.

Cultural Significance of Louis

The name 'Louis' holds significant cultural value in various contexts. In France, it is closely associated with the French monarchy, particularly with King 'Louis' XIV, also known as the Sun King. King 'Louis' XIV's reign was characterized by opulence, grandeur, and the flourishing of arts and culture. As a result, the name 'Louis' became synonymous with elegance and sophistication in French society.

In addition to its association with French royalty, the name 'Louis' also holds cultural significance in the African American community. It gained popularity during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, as a tribute to 'Louis' Armstrong, the renowned jazz musician and civil rights activist. 'Louis' Armstrong's contributions to music and his advocacy for racial equality made the name 'Louis' a symbol of resilience and cultural pride.