The name Chau is of Vietnamese origin and has a significant meaning behind it. It is derived from the Vietnamese word "cháu," which means "nephew" or "niece." In Vietnam, it is common to address nephews and nieces as "cháu," regardless of their actual age.
Historically, the name Chau has been used by many families in Vietnam for generations. It was often given to children born into large families where many cousins lived together under one roof. This practice reflected the close-knit nature of Vietnamese society and the importance placed on family bonds.
Today, the name Chau continues to be popular among Vietnamese families both within Vietnam and in the global Vietnamese diaspora. While it is still used primarily as a term of endearment for nephews and nieces, some people choose it as their personal given name, carrying with them the warmth and familial significance of this traditional moniker.
The name Chau experienced fluctuations in popularity over time, with a peak of 22 births in both 1980 and 1985. However, it has seen a decline since the late 1980s, with most years recording fewer than 15 births.