Lou

Lou is a short form of English and French names beginning with Lou-, most commonly Louise, Louis, or Louisa, which derive from the Old High German name Hluodwig, composed of the elements hlud, meaning famous or renowned, and wig, meaning warrior. It has been used as both a feminine and masculine given name in its own right, particularly in American and British English. Notable bearers include Lou Gehrig, the American baseball legend, and Lou Reed, the influential rock musician. Related forms include Lewis, Luigi, Ludwig, Luís, and Alois.