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Hugo

Boy name · 731 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Hugo: 731 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 48 births in 2022.

Of Germanic origin, Hugo derives from the Old Frankish *hug*, meaning “heart,” “mind,” or “spirit,” and was popularised across Europe by the Norman French. It shares roots with the Scottish name Hugh, which has been a staple in Scotland for centuries. Famous bearers include the French novelist Victor Hugo, author of *Les Misérables*; the 17th-century Dutch jurist Hugo Grotius, a pioneer of international law; and Saint Hugo of Lincoln, a 12th-century bishop known for his compassion. The name’s most notable place connection is the city of San Hugo in Chile, named after a religious figure. A popular modern variant is Huw, the Welsh form, while the Italian Ugo offers a stylish alternative.