What does Ho mean and where does it come from?
The name Ho is prevalent in both Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. In Vietnam, it is not only a surname but can also signify peace. In Chinese, Ho serves as a surname and connects to various meanings depending on the character used. Notably, it can also reference Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese revolutio
Cultural significance
Ho has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Vietnam-speaking communities, where it reflects values of peace, river or lake.
Peak popularity
Reached #4053 in 1983 — currently #1937 in the US.
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Related Reading
Vietnam-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ho?
Ho works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ho Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ho Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ho Claire
French influence · crisp
Ho Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ho right now?
Holding steady — currently #1937 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1937 | 263 | ▲ up 5 · +8% births |
| 2022 | #1942 | 243 | ▲ up 5 · +14% births |
| 2021 | #1947 | 213 | ▲ up 4163 · +2563% births |
| 1990 | #6110 | 8 | ▼ down 81 · +60% births |
| 1975 | #6029 | 5 | — |
The story of Ho
Ho is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1971. With 129 total births recorded, Ho remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6029 in 1975 to #1937 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Ho in 1983:
💎Ho has only 129 total recorded births since 1971 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What names sound and feel like Ho?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ho also consider these
Common questions about the name Ho
What does the name Ho mean?
Ho means "Peace, river or lake" — a name rooted in Vietnam 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 Ho?
Ho is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ho?
Ho originates from Vietnam tradition. Vietnam names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Ho?
Ho is a one-syllable name pronounced HH OW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Ho sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Ho flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Ho ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.