Shehu
Meaningelder or sheikh · Hausa
Shehu is an African boy name meaning “elder or sheikh”, with Hausa roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds soft and friendly, it's easy to spell and quick to call across a playground, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length.
Fewer than 5 US babies a year get this name, so SSA doesn't list it. That makes it truly rare.
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Shehu
Shehu is a boy name of African origin meaning “elder or sheikh”. Its two syllables give it an easy rhythm, and the open vowel at the end makes it sound soft and warm. It's a rare choice in the US, so your child is unlikely to meet another Shehu at school.
Origin:African names
More African boy names
- Unisex name: Cairo · the victorious
- Unisex name: Asa · healer
- Unisex name: Zaire · river
- Boy name: Omari · long-lived
- Boy name: Ermias · form of Jeremiah
- Boy name: Jabari · brave, fearless
- Boy name: Paulo · small
- Unisex name: Amani · peace
Questions about the name Shehu
What does the name Shehu mean?
Shehu means “elder or sheikh” and comes from Hausa.
What is the origin of the name Shehu?
Shehu is African in origin, and its meaning traces back to Hausa. Other African names to consider are Cairo (“the victorious”), Asa (“healer”), Zaire (“river”) and Omari (“long-lived”).
Is Shehu a boy or girl name?
Shehu is a boy name.
What should I know before naming my baby Shehu?
Shehu is an African boy name meaning “elder or sheikh”, with Hausa roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds soft and friendly, it's easy to spell and quick to call across a playground, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.