Rising since 1998, #2,884 for boys today.
Popularity of Blu since 1970
Babies named Blu per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 58 |
| 1980s | 0 | 13 |
| 1990s | 0 | 5 |
| 2000s | 53 | 48 |
| 2010s | 86 | 144 |
| 2020s | 184 | 237 |
Meaning & origin
Blu is a modern color name that first appeared on the U.S. naming charts in 1970, but its popularity has steadily climbed since the late 1990s. The name reached its peak rank of 2,884 in 2023, with an estimated 1 in 39,723 newborns receiving the name in 2025. Its rising trajectory reflects a broader trend toward creative spellings and nature-inspired names. Blu has been particularly popular in Oklahoma, Florida, and Texas. The name's simplicity and strong visual association make it a fresh, gender-neutral choice that appeals to parents seeking a name with a contemporary feel and a serene, natural imagery.
Blu is a modern respelling of the English word 'blue,' adopted as a given name in the late 20th century. It emerged as part of a trend of color names (like Jade and Scarlett) and has gained particular popularity in the United States since the 1990s. The respelling with a 'u' instead of 'ue' aligns with a preference for concise, distinctive spellings in contemporary naming.
Where Blu is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Blue
Sibling names for Blu
Names that share Blu's style, for a brother or sister.
