Hugh is an English given name derived from the Germanic element 'Huig', which means 'heart'. It was popular among the Normans and was brought to England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Hugh was a common name among the nobility during the Middle Ages, with several kings of France and Germany named Hugh. Today, it is still used as a given name but has become less common than it once was.
"The name Hugh experienced significant popularity between 1917 and 1920, peaking with 18 births in 1920. After this period, its usage fluctuated but remained relatively consistent until the 1930s, after which it gradually declined. Interestingly, there were several years (1950, 1953, 1958, 1959) with only 5 births each, suggesting a brief resurgence in popularity during the mid-20th century. Overall, Hugh was chosen for 354 newborns between 1911 and 1968."