Ever found yourself staring at your hippo plush, wondering what to call it? You’re not alone.

Naming a hippo buddy isn’t just about picking any random word. The right name brings personality to your chunky friend, making those cuddle sessions even more special.

From cute nicknames to quirky titles, the perfect hippo name waits just around the corner. This guide walks you through fun options that’ll make both you and your hippo smile.

Ready to find that just-right name? Let’s properly introduce your hippo friend to the world!

Your hippo deserves a name as special as they are in your life. After all, a good name sticks around for all the adventures you’ll share.

So grab a snack, get comfy with your hippo pal, and let’s find that perfect name that’ll make everyone smile.

What Makes a Hippo an Adorable Companion?

Hippos may seem intimidating, but they possess numerous endearing qualities that make them lovable companions. From their round bodies to their quirky behaviors, here’s what makes them so adorable:

Physical Features:

Round bodies: Their plump, round shape gives them a soft, cuddly appearance.
Big eyes: Their large, expressive eyes add to their cuteness and charm.
Big mouths: Their wide, toothy smiles can be surprisingly endearing.
Wrinkled skin: Their skin gives them a unique, lovable look, especially when they make funny facial expressions.

Personality Traits:

Playful nature: Hippos frequently exhibit playful behaviors, such as splashing in the water and engaging with one another.
Curious: They are curious creatures, often seen investigating their surroundings with great interest.
Affectionate: Despite their size, hippos have been observed forming close bonds with companions and showing affection.

How to Choose the Perfect Hippo Name

Choosing the perfect name for your hippo is a fun way to reflect their unique personality. Whether you want something playful or meaningful, the right name can make your hippo even more special.

Observe their behavior: Match the name with your hippo’s personality traits like playful, calm, or curious.
Consider their energy: choose a lively name for energetic hippos or a soothing one for those that are relaxed.
Explore mythology: Look to mythological figures like “Hera” or “Anubis” for a unique touch.
Draw inspiration from nature: Names like “River” or “Willow” reflect your hippo’s natural environment.
Prioritize originality: Select a name that stands out to make your hippo’s name special and unique.

Mythological & Legendary Names

Hippos, with their majestic presence and ancient allure, have inspired various mythologies and legends across cultures. From Egyptian gods to Greek sea monsters, these names reflect the powerful and mysterious nature of these iconic creatures.

1. Apep

Meaning: Ancient Egyptian god of chaos and destruction
Origin: Egyptian mythology
Pronunciation: Ah-pep

2. Amphitrite

Meaning: Greek goddess of the sea and wife of Poseidon
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Am-fi-tree-teh

3. Ra

Meaning: Sun god and creator in Egyptian mythology
Origin: Egyptian mythology
Pronunciation: Rah

4. Sobek

Meaning: Egyptian god of the Nile, crocodiles, and military prowess
Origin: Egyptian mythology
Pronunciation: Soh-bek

5. Tiamat

Meaning: Mesopotamian goddess of the salt sea, chaos, and creation
Origin: Babylonian mythology
Pronunciation: Tee-ah-mat

6. Hades

Meaning: Greek god of the underworld
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Hay-deez

7. Nemean

Meaning: Referring to the Nemean lion, a legendary creature in Greek myth
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Ne-mee-an

8. Mami Wata

Meaning: African water spirit, often depicted as a mermaid
Origin: African folklore
Pronunciation: Mah-mee Wah-tah

9. Cetus

Meaning: A sea monster in Greek mythology
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: See-tus

10. Kraken

Meaning: Legendary sea creature from Scandinavian folklore
Origin: Scandinavian folklore
Pronunciation: Krah-ken

11. Charybdis

Meaning: A sea monster in Greek mythology, known for creating whirlpools
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Kah-rib-dis

12. Bunyip

Meaning: A mythical creature from Aboriginal Australian folklore, often associated with water
Origin: Aboriginal Australian folklore
Pronunciation: Boo-nee-ip

13. Nereus

Meaning: Greek god of the sea, often referred to as the “Old Man of the Sea”
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Neh-ree-us

14. Leviathan

Meaning: A massive sea serpent or sea creature in Abrahamic religions
Origin: Biblical mythology
Pronunciation: Leh-vye-ah-than

15. Eurybia

Meaning: Greek goddess of the seas and the power of the waves
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Yoo-ree-bee-ah

16. Posidon

Meaning: Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Poh-sye-don

17. Ganga

Meaning: Goddess of the Ganges river in Hindu mythology
Origin: Hindu mythology
Pronunciation: Gah-ngah

18. Chiron

Meaning: A wise and kind centaur in Greek mythology, known for his healing abilities
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Ky-ron

19. Uktena

Meaning: A horned serpent from Cherokee mythology
Origin: Cherokee mythology
Pronunciation: Ook-teh-nah

20. Scylla

Meaning: A sea monster in Greek mythology with six heads
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Si-lah

21. Hydrus

Meaning: A water snake constellation in Greek mythology
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Hi-drus

22. Ammit

Meaning: Egyptian goddess who devours the souls of the unworthy
Origin: Egyptian mythology
Pronunciation: Am-it

23. Nereid

Meaning: A sea nymph in Greek mythology, daughters of Nereus
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Neh-ree-id

24. Naiad

Meaning: Water nymphs in Greek mythology who lived in rivers, streams, and other freshwater
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Nye-ad

25. Ahuizotl

Meaning: A mythical aquatic creature from Aztec mythology
Origin: Aztec mythology
Pronunciation: Ah-wee-zoh-tl

26. Tsunami

Meaning: A giant sea wave caused by underwater earthquakes, often depicted as a monstrous force
Origin: Japanese folklore
Pronunciation: Tsoo-nah-mee

27. Ceto

Meaning: Greek primordial sea goddess
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: See-toh

28. Kraken

Meaning: A giant sea creature from Scandinavian folklore
Origin: Scandinavian mythology
Pronunciation: Krah-ken

29. Yamata-no-Orochi

Meaning: A giant eight-headed and eight-tailed serpent from Japanese mythology
Origin: Japanese mythology
Pronunciation: Yah-mah-tah noh oh-roh-chee

30. Selkie

Meaning: A mythical creature in Scottish and Irish mythology that is a seal in the water but a human on land
Origin: Scottish and Irish folklore
Pronunciation: Sell-kee

31. Manannán mac Lir

Meaning: Irish sea god associated with the weather and the sea
Origin: Irish mythology
Pronunciation: Man-ah-nan mac Le-er

32. Jörmungandr

Meaning: A sea serpent from Norse mythology, also called the Midgard Serpent
Origin: Norse mythology
Pronunciation: Yor-mung-an-der

33. Níðhöggr

Meaning: A dragon in Norse mythology that gnaws at the roots of Yggdrasil
Origin: Norse mythology
Pronunciation: Neeth-hoggr

34. Humpback

Meaning: A legendary creature of the seas, often depicted as a gentle giant
Origin: Folk mythology
Pronunciation: Hump-back

35. Nguvumali

Meaning: A mythical river god from African folklore
Origin: African folklore
Pronunciation: Ngoo-goo-mah-lee

36. Lernaean Hydra

Meaning: A multi-headed serpent in Greek mythology, where heads regrow when cut off
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Lur-nay-an Hy-drah

37. Ahuizotl

Meaning: A dangerous water beast from Aztec mythology
Origin: Aztec mythology
Pronunciation: Ah-we-zoh-tl

38. Atargatis

Meaning: Syrian goddess of fertility, love, and water
Origin: Syrian mythology
Pronunciation: Ah-tar-ga-tees

39. Tsukuyomi

Meaning: The Japanese moon god, associated with waters as well
Origin: Japanese mythology
Pronunciation: Tsoo-koo-yoh-mee

40. Pele

Meaning: Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, often associated with water in myths
Origin: Hawaiian mythology
Pronunciation: Peh-lay

41. Tlaloc

Meaning: Aztec god of rain and water
Origin: Aztec mythology
Pronunciation: Tlah-lock

42. Nergal

Meaning: Mesopotamian god of war, plague, and the underworld, with associations to water
Origin: Mesopotamian mythology
Pronunciation: Ner-gal

43. Arion

Meaning: A mythical Greek poet and musician, saved by a dolphin
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Ah-ree-on

44. Sirena

Meaning: A mermaid or siren in Latin American mythology
Origin: Latin American folklore
Pronunciation: See-ray-nah

45. Triton

Meaning: Greek god of the sea, often depicted as half-human and half-fish
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Try-ton

46. Laki

Meaning: A giantess in Icelandic folklore, associated with lakes and rivers
Origin: Icelandic folklore
Pronunciation: Lah-kee

47. Jörmungandr

Meaning: The Midgard serpent, a legendary Norse creature that encircles the Earth
Origin: Norse mythology
Pronunciation: Yor-mung-an-der

48. Behemoth

Meaning: A massive and powerful creature from Biblical mythology, associated with chaos
Origin: Biblical mythology
Pronunciation: Bee-hee-moth

49. Alcyone

Meaning: The daughter of Aeolus in Greek mythology, turned into a kingfisher bird
Origin: Greek mythology
Pronunciation: Al-see-oh-nee

50. Cuchulainn

Meaning: A legendary Irish hero, often associated with mythical waters and rivers
Origin: Irish mythology
Pronunciation: Koo-hoo-lan

Nature-Inspired Names

Nature offers a wealth of inspiration when it comes to naming animals, especially a majestic creature like the hippo. These nature-inspired names evoke the beauty and power of the world around us, from tranquil rivers to towering trees.

51. Riverstone

Meaning: Inspired by the riverbed rocks that form in flowing waters.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: River-stone

52. Marsh

Meaning: Named after wetland areas, symbolizing nature’s softness and richness.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Marsh

53. Willow

Meaning: A tree known for its graceful branches, symbolizing adaptability.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: WIL-oh

54. Lagoon

Meaning: A shallow body of water, often found near coastal areas, symbolizing calmness.
Origin: Italian
Pronunciation: Luh-GOON

55. Delta

Meaning: The mouth of a river, where fresh and saltwater meet, symbolizing harmony.
Origin: Greek
Pronunciation: DEL-tuh

56. Flint

Meaning: A type of hard stone used historically for tools, representing strength.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: FLINT

57. Cedar

Meaning: A tree with strong, durable wood, representing endurance.
Origin: Latin
Pronunciation: SEE-dar

58. Brook

Meaning: A small stream of water, symbolizing tranquility and flow.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: BROOK

59. Moss

Meaning: A small, soft plant that grows in damp environments, symbolizing growth in small places.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: MOSS

60. Dune

Meaning: A mound of sand formed by wind, representing nature’s shaping forces.
Origin: Old French
Pronunciation: DOON

61. Boulder

Meaning: A large, natural rock, symbolizing strength and stability.
Origin: Middle English
Pronunciation: BOHL-der

62. Oasis

Meaning: A fertile spot in a desert, representing peace and refreshment.
Origin: Greek
Pronunciation: OH-ay-sis

63. Fern

Meaning: A type of plant that grows in damp, shady places, symbolizing resilience.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: FURN

64. Driftwood

Meaning: Wood that floats on water, representing a journey or the power of nature’s forces.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: DRIFT-wood

65. Pebble

Meaning: A small, smooth stone found along shores, symbolizing simplicity.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: PEB-ul

66. Cloud

Meaning: A visible mass of condensed water vapor, symbolizing softness and movement.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: KLOUD

67. Riverbend

Meaning: A curved part of a river, symbolizing peacefulness and patience.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: RIV-er-bend

68. Sequoia

Meaning: A type of tree known for its massive size, symbolizing longevity.
Origin: Native American
Pronunciation: se-KWOY-ah

69. Sunset

Meaning: The time when the sun goes below the horizon, symbolizing beauty and serenity.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: SUN-set

70. Thorn

Meaning: A sharp projection on a plant, symbolizing protection.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: THORN

71. Glacier

Meaning: A large, slow-moving mass of ice, symbolizing endurance.
Origin: Latin
Pronunciation: GLAY-sheer

72. Canyon

Meaning: A deep valley, often with a river running through it, symbolizing depth and mystery.
Origin: Spanish
Pronunciation: KAN-yun

73. Cove

Meaning: A small bay or coastal inlet, symbolizing safety and refuge.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: KOHV

74. Ember

Meaning: A small, glowing piece of coal or wood from a fire, symbolizing warmth and persistence.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: EM-bur

75. Acorn

Meaning: The nut of an oak tree, symbolizing growth and potential.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: AY-korn

76. Redwood

Meaning: A species of large tree, symbolizing strength and ancient wisdom.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: RED-wood

77. Leaf

Meaning: The green part of a plant, symbolizing life and vitality.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: LEEF

78. Ripple

Meaning: A small wave or movement, symbolizing subtle changes and influences.
Origin: Middle English
Pronunciation: RIP-ul

79. Stone

Meaning: A hard, solid, nonmetallic mineral matter, symbolizing foundation and permanence.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: STOHN

80. Rain

Meaning: Precipitation that falls from the sky, symbolizing renewal and nourishment.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: RAYN

81. Oak

Meaning: A strong and sturdy tree, symbolizing strength and endurance.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: OHK

82. Saffron

Meaning: A yellow spice derived from a flower, symbolizing rarity and beauty.
Origin: Arabic
Pronunciation: SAF-ron

83. Ivy

Meaning: A climbing plant, symbolizing loyalty and eternity.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: EYE-vee

84. Birch

Meaning: A tree known for its smooth bark, symbolizing resilience and renewal.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: BURCH

85. Swamp

Meaning: A wetland area with standing water, symbolizing mystery and hidden beauty.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: SWOMP

86. Wolf

Meaning: A wild animal, symbolizing freedom and courage.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: WULF

87. Cedarwood

Meaning: A type of durable wood from the cedar tree, symbolizing strength.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: SEE-der-wood

88. Sunset

Meaning: The sun’s descent, symbolizing calmness and reflection.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: SUN-set

89. Cloudberry

Meaning: A fruit-bearing plant, symbolizing rarity and sweetness.
Origin: Scandinavian
Pronunciation: KLOWD-beh-ree

90. Thunder

Meaning: The sound caused by lightning, symbolizing power and force.
Origin: Old English
Pronunciation: THUHN-der

91. Sky

Meaning: The expanse above the Earth, symbolizing openness and freedom.
Origin: Old Norse
Pronunciation: SKY

92. Fernleaf

Meaning: A combination of fern and leaf, symbolizing nature and rebirth.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: FURN-LEEF

93. Marshmallow

Meaning: A sweet treat made from marshes’ plants, symbolizing sweetness and comfort.
Origin: Old French
Pronunciation: MARSH-mel-oh

94. Storm

Meaning: A strong weather disturbance, symbolizing energy and change.
Origin: Old Norse
Pronunciation: STORM

95. Skylar

Meaning: Derived from “sky,” symbolizing open spaces and freedom.
Origin: Dutch
Pronunciation: SKYE-lar

96. Riverstone

Meaning: A smooth stone found in riverbeds, symbolizing resilience.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: River-stone

97. Canyon

Meaning: A deep ravine, symbolizing exploration and the beauty of the Earth.
Origin: Spanish
Pronunciation: KAN-yun

98. Coral

Meaning: A marine organism, symbolizing the beauty of the sea.
Origin: Latin
Pronunciation: KOR-al

99. Mossy

Meaning: Covered in moss, symbolizing lushness and tranquility.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: MAW-see

100. Drift

Meaning: The movement of water or air, symbolizing change and transition.
Origin: Old Norse
Pronunciation: DRIFT

Funny & Quirky Names

Looking for a funny and quirky name for your hippo? Check out these creative and playful options, which are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!

101. Hipster

Meaning: A trendy or cool name for a hippo with a laid-back vibe.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Hip-ster

102. Wobbles

Meaning: A playful name inspired by how hippos waddle when they move.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Wob-bles

103. Pudding

Meaning: A cute, sweet name reflecting the hippo’s round, soft appearance.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Pud-ding

104. Nibbles

Meaning: Referring to the hippo’s food-driven personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Nib-bles

105. Snickers

Meaning: A funny name based on the hippo’s mischievous nature.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Sni-ckers

106. Buttercup

Meaning: A sweet, soft name for a lovable hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: But-ter-cup

107. Chomper

Meaning: Inspired by the hippo’s large teeth and love for chomping food.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Chomp-er

108. Doodles

Meaning: A quirky, fun name perfect for a playful hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Dood-les

109. Blubber

Meaning: A humorous nod to the hippo’s thick skin and bulk.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Blub-ber

110. Marshmallow

Meaning: A fluffy, soft name for a gentle and cuddly hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Marsh-mel-low

111. Guffaw

Meaning: A silly, loud laugh – perfect for a funny hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Guf-faw

112. Tater Tot

Meaning: A cute, spunky name inspired by a small, round shape.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Tay-ter Tot

113. Jamboree

Meaning: A lively, fun name for an upbeat hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Jam-bo-ree

114. Giggles

Meaning: A name reflecting the hippo’s funny and lighthearted nature.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Gig-gles

115. Pickles

Meaning: A quirky name based on a hippo’s love of water and quirky behavior.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Pick-les

116. Bubbles

Meaning: A light and bubbly name, perfect for a playful hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Bub-bles

117. Slinky

Meaning: A playful, slithery name for a hippo who moves unexpectedly fast.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Slin-kee

118. Pudding Pop

Meaning: A cute name based on a hippo’s round, soft shape.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Pud-ding Pop

119. Zippy

Meaning: A fast and fun name for an unexpectedly speedy hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Zip-ee

120. Lumpy

Meaning: A funny name inspired by the hippo’s bumpy, round body.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Lump-y

121. Jolly

Meaning: A cheerful, merry name for a happy-go-lucky hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Jol-lee

122. Jellybean

Meaning: A small, sweet name for a lovable and cute hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Jel-lee-bean

123. Whiskers

Meaning: A fun name reflecting the hippo’s facial features.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Whis-kers

124. Ducky

Meaning: A cute, quirky name for a hippo who waddles like a duck.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Duck-ee

125. Munchkin

Meaning: A cute and playful name for a small, yet hefty hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Munch-kin

126. Squishy

Meaning: A soft, fun name inspired by the hippo’s chubby appearance.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Squish-ee

127. Puffball

Meaning: A fluffy and light name for a hippo with a soft personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Puff-ball

128. Fuzzball

Meaning: A fuzzy and cute name for a hippo with a quirky personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Fuzz-ball

129. Plop

Meaning: A funny name inspired by the hippo’s big splash when it enters the water.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Plop

130. Wiggles

Meaning: A name that reflects the hippo’s energetic movements.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Wig-gles

131. Chubby

Meaning: A playful and affectionate name for a round and cuddly hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Chub-by

132. Noodle

Meaning: A fun and quirky name for a bendy, wobbly hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Nood-le

133. Blip

Meaning: A short, snappy name for a small but funny hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Blip

134. Pogo

Meaning: A fun name for a hippo that bounces with energy.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Puh-go

135. Bumble

Meaning: A playful name inspired by a bouncy, clumsy movement.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Bum-ble

136. Cookie

Meaning: A sweet, delightful name for a lovable hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Cook-ie

137. Mellow

Meaning: A relaxed, easygoing name for a laid-back hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Mel-low

138. Snuggle

Meaning: A soft and cozy name for a cuddly hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Snug-gle

139. Pipsqueak

Meaning: A playful name for a hippo with a small, adorable voice.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Pip-squeak

140. Spunky

Meaning: A lively, spirited name for a fun-loving hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Spunk-ee

141. Zoodle

Meaning: A quirky name for a bendy, wobbly hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Zoo-dle

142. Squeaky

Meaning: A fun name inspired by the hippo’s quirky movements and sounds.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Squeak-y

143. Spud

Meaning: A funny, playful name inspired by the round shape of a hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Spud

144. Frodo

Meaning: A quirky, fun name inspired by a famous hobbit character.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Fro-do

145. Tumble

Meaning: A cute name for a clumsy hippo with an endearing personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Tum-ble

146. Wobbleton

Meaning: A playful name reflecting a hippo’s wobbling gait.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Wob-ble-ton

147. Bloop

Meaning: A funny, silly name for a hippo with a bubbly personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Bloop

148. Jello

Meaning: A fun, soft name for a jiggly, lovable hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Jel-lo

149. Fizz

Meaning: A bubbly, energetic name for a lively hippo.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Fizz

150. Pompom

Meaning: A cute, bouncy name reflecting a hippo’s personality.
Origin: English
Pronunciation: Pom-pom

Unique African-Inspired Names

Explore a collection of meaningful and easy-to-pronounce African names for your beloved hippopotamus, each with its origin and charm.

151. Nia

Meaning: Purpose
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: NEE-ah

152. Kofi

Meaning: Born on Friday
Origin: Akan (Ghana)
Pronunciation: KOH-fee

153. Amina

Meaning: Trustworthy, faithful
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: AH-mee-nah

154. Kwame

Meaning: Born on Saturday
Origin: Akan (Ghana)
Pronunciation: KWAH-meh

155. Zuri

Meaning: Beautiful
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: ZOO-ree

156. Dalia

Meaning: Gentle, calm
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: DAH-lee-ah

157. Jabari

Meaning: Brave
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: jah-BAH-ree

158. Kazi

Meaning: Work, labor
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: KAH-zee

159. Zara

Meaning: Princess, flower
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: ZAH-rah

160. Tamba

Meaning: To praise
Origin: African
Pronunciation: TAM-bah

161. Penda

Meaning: Love
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: PEN-dah

162. Binti

Meaning: Daughter
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: BIN-tee

163. Nuru

Meaning: Light
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: NOO-roo

164. Rafiki

Meaning: Friend
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: rah-FEE-kee

165. Akua

Meaning: Born on Wednesday
Origin: Akan (Ghana)
Pronunciation: AH-koo-ah

166. Chipo

Meaning: Gift
Origin: Shona (Zimbabwe)
Pronunciation: CHEE-poh

167. Laila

Meaning: Dark, night
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: LYE-lah

168. Mosi

Meaning: First born
Origin: African
Pronunciation: MOH-see

169. Sefu

Meaning: Sword
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: SEH-foo

170. Teboho

Meaning: Gratitude
Origin: Sotho (Southern Africa)
Pronunciation: TEH-boh-ho

171. Eshe

Meaning: Life
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: EH-sheh

172. Thabo

Meaning: Happiness
Origin: Sotho (Southern Africa)
Pronunciation: TAH-boh

173. Juma

Meaning: Born on Friday
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: JOO-mah

174. Kito

Meaning: Jewel
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: KEE-toh

175. Ayo

Meaning: Joy
Origin: Yoruba (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: AH-yo

176. Khamisi

Meaning: Born on Thursday
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: kah-MEE-see

177. Femi

Meaning: Love
Origin: Yoruba (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: FEH-mee

178. Ndidi

Meaning: Patience
Origin: Igbo (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: NDEE-dee

179. Amara

Meaning: Grace
Origin: Igbo (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: AH-mah-rah

180. Kalu

Meaning: Strong
Origin: Igbo (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: KAH-loo

181. Zawadi

Meaning: Gift
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: zah-WAH-dee

182. Tinashe

Meaning: God is with us
Origin: Shona (Zimbabwe)
Pronunciation: TEE-nah-sheh

183. Mirembe

Meaning: Peace
Origin: Luganda (Uganda)
Pronunciation: mee-REHM-bay

184. Lindiwe

Meaning: Awaiting, expectation
Origin: Zulu (South Africa)
Pronunciation: LIN-dee-weh

185. Kelechi

Meaning: Thank God
Origin: Igbo (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: keh-LEH-chee

186. Tembo

Meaning: Elephant
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: TEM-boh

187. Adisa

Meaning: One who is clear
Origin: Yoruba (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: AH-dee-sah

188. Zanele

Meaning: God is with us
Origin: Zulu (South Africa)
Pronunciation: ZAH-neh-leh

189. Nkosi

Meaning: King
Origin: Zulu (South Africa)
Pronunciation: N-KOH-see

190. Abeni

Meaning: We asked for her, and behold, we got her
Origin: Yoruba (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: AH-beh-nee

191. Zola

Meaning: Quiet, tranquil
Origin: Zulu (South Africa)
Pronunciation: ZOH-lah

192. Titi

Meaning: Crown
Origin: Yoruba (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: TEE-tee

193. Leila

Meaning: Night
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: LAY-lah

194. Badu

Meaning: Born on Tuesday
Origin: Akan (Ghana)
Pronunciation: BAH-doo

195. Taji

Meaning: Crown
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: TAH-jee

196. Chiamaka

Meaning: God is beautiful
Origin: Igbo (Nigeria)
Pronunciation: CHEE-ah-mah-kah

197. Dudu

Meaning: Sweet
Origin: Zulu (South Africa)
Pronunciation: DOO-doo

198. Alika

Meaning: Most beautiful
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: AH-lee-kah

199. Shani

Meaning: Wonderful
Origin: Swahili
Pronunciation: SHAH-nee

200. Farai

Meaning: Rejoice
Origin: Shona (Zimbabwe)
Pronunciation: fah-RYE

How to Choose Between All the Amazing Options?

Choosing the perfect name for your hippo is a fun and personal process—here’s how to find the one that suits them best!

Trust Your Instincts: Choose a name that feels right for your hippo’s personality and character. Trust your gut feeling about which name suits them best.
Consider the Hippo’s Behavior: Pay attention to your hippo’s actions, whether they’re playful, calm, or energetic. A name should resonate with their nature.
Try It Out: Test the name for a few days to see how it works. See how it feels when you call the hippo by that name and observe its response.
Evaluate the Connection: Notice if the name creates a connection for both you and the hippo. It should feel natural and like a good fit.
Refine If Necessary: If the name doesn’t seem to fit after a trial period, feel free to try another. Don’t hesitate to adjust until you find the perfect match!

Wrapping It Up

Naming a hippo buddy isn’t just fun—it’s a chance to show off their special personality. From classics like “Bubbles” to unique picks like “Pebble,” the right name makes your connection even stronger.

A good hippo name brings smiles and starts conversations. It becomes an integral part of who they are and how others perceive them.

Remember, the best name feels right when you say it. Trust your gut—you’ll know when you’ve found “the one.”

What hippo names caught your eye? Please share your favorites in the comments below, or tell us what you ended up choosing for your water-loving friend!