Rising since 2004, #8,860 for girls today.
Popularity of Malu since 1995
Babies named Malu per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 10 |
| 2000s | 25 |
| 2010s | 103 |
| 2020s | 120 |
Meaning & origin
Malu is a rare but appealing name in the United States, first recorded in 1995. As of 2025, it holds rank 8860 with a 1-in-146115 incidence, indicating its distinctive nature. The name has been steadily rising in popularity since 2004, and reached its peak rank in 2024, suggesting growing interest. While no top states have emerged yet, its melodic sound and positive meaning make it an attractive choice. The name's dual Hawaiian and Portuguese heritage offers depth: in Hawaiian it evokes peace and tranquility, while in Portuguese it carries a familiar, affectionate feel as a diminutive of Maria Luísa. For parents seeking a short, meaningful name with cross-cultural appeal, Malu presents a unique option that is both gentle and modern.
Malu has multiple possible origins. In Hawaiian, 'malu' means 'peace', 'sheltered', or 'shade', and is used as a given name. It may also be a short form of names like Malulani (Hawaiian for 'peace of the heavens'). Alternatively, in Portuguese, Malu is a common nickname for Maria Luísa, akin to 'Malu' as a standalone name in Brazil. The name gained modern usage in the United States beginning in the mid-1990s, possibly influenced by Brazilian culture.
“Malu” around the world
Where Malu lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Malú
Sibling names for Malu
Names that share Malu's style, for a brother or sister.
