Hew
“son of Hugh”
Old English origin · Boy name
#1819US 2023
10Births / yr
→Stable
Top 1.3%Percentile
What does Hew mean and where does it come from?
Hew is derived from the Old English name 'Hugh', which means 'heart, mind, spirit'.
Cultural significance
Hew has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries, often as a diminutive of Hugh.
Peak popularity
Reached #1819 in 2015 — currently #1819 in the US.
How else can you spell Hew?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Hew?
Hew works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hew Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Hew John
One syllable · timeless choice
Hew Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Hew Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Hew Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Hew Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Hew right now?
Holding steady — currently #1819 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
Hew is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.
What are good nicknames for Hew?
Common
HewieHewy
Famous people named Hew
HS
Hew Strachan
A prominent British military historian and author.
HM
Hew McLeod
A notable New Zealand historian known for his work on Maori history.
What names sound and feel like Hew?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hew also consider these
Common questions about the name Hew
What does the name Hew mean?
Hew means "son of Hugh" — a name rooted in Old English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hew?
Hew is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hew?
Hew originates from Old English tradition. Old English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Hew sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Hew flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Hew ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Hew more of a girl or boy name?
Hew is primarily used as a boy name, giving it a clear, timeless character while remaining accessible to modern families.
Parents who viewed Hew also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside Hew