Ludo

Flemish, "famous"

A rare Flemish relative of Lewis, Louis, Ludwig, and Luigi, Ludo is a favorite among the poshest of British parents. Appearing disproportionately in Telegraph Birth Announcements, Ludo may well be a brother for Cosima, Hector, Allegra, Clementine, and Percy.

Derived ultimately from the Germanic Hludwig (“famous in battle”) or from Ludolf (“famous wolf”), Ludo does have elements of popular names right now. With its -o ending and its simple but substantial feel, it could appeal as a rare alternative to the likes of Luca, Nico, Sacha, Luna, Arlo, and Hugo. The traditional Flemish pronunciation is more like LUY-do (LUY to rhyme with the French rue), though English speakers may well pronounce it as LOO-do.

Despite its similarity to top ranking choices, a recent year saw Ludo given to just 19 babies in England and Wales, while less than five were registered in the US. So why isn’t Ludo more popular? It could be its association with the classic board game (now-turned-app) that puts parents off, but more likely, it’s because it’s too reminiscent of the word “lewd” to catch on.

Still, Luna overcame the “looney” association to become a big hit and the “kill” sound of Killian and Cillian hasn’t stopped them rising up the charts, so perhaps Ludo might be one to look out for.

Thank you to Nameberry Editor-in-Chief Sophie Kihm for suggesting Ludo!