Boy name · French
Beau
“handsome, beautiful”
Vibes
Common nicknames
Short-forms and diminutives parents often use for Beau.
Explore Beau further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Beau — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Beau is French — "handsome, beautiful" — an adjective that the American South adopted as a given name and honorific (the beau of the ball) until it simply became one.
Beau has climbed into the American top 100-150 range, its single syllable of charm outlasting every trend cycle it has passed through.
The name is a tipped hat. It needs no nickname and offers none. It pairs beautifully with longer middles (Beau Alexander, Beau Nathaniel) that give it a full signature. On our vibe map it is Heirloom Southern with Soft & Dreamy manners — good-looking by definition.
More French names
Beau sits in our French set — these share its roots.
All French names →Beau — common questions
Is Beau a boy or girl name?
Beau is traditionally a boy name of French origin. It ranked #60 among US boys' names in 2025.
What does the name Beau mean?
Beau means “handsome, beautiful” of French origin. Beau is French — "handsome, beautiful" — an adjective that the American South adopted as a given name and honorific (the beau of the ball) until it simply became one.
Where does the name Beau come from?
Beau is French in origin. Beau has climbed into the American top 100-150 range, its single syllable of charm outlasting every trend cycle it has passed through.
What are common nicknames for Beau?
Bo — the short-forms parents most often use for Beau.
How popular is Beau?
Beau ranked #60 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which puts it solidly in everyday use.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Beau you might want for the nursery.