Pau

Meaning & origin

Pau is an uncommon name in the United States, where it has been recorded since 1989. It reached its highest rank of 6,143rd in 2025, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 122,005 newborns. The name peaked in popularity in 2018 and has seen a gradual decline since. Pau is most likely a regional variant of Paul, with roots in Catalan, Galician, and Occitan cultures. Its brief history in American naming patterns suggests it has not been adopted widely outside Hispanic or Catalan communities, as evidenced by no top states for usage. The name's distinctiveness and cross-cultural appeal keep it from fading entirely, but its trajectory indicates it remains a niche choice.

Pau is a given name found in Catalan, Galician, and Occitan regions, typically considered a short form or variant of Paul, which derives from the Latin 'Paulus' meaning 'small' or 'humble'. It has been in occasional use in Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Catalonia and Galicia, where it stands as an independent name. The name gained modest popularity in the United States beginning in the late 20th century, likely influenced by immigrant communities or cultural figures. Its usage remains rare overall.