Radu is a Romanian male given name of Slavic origin. It is derived from the Slavic element "rad" which means "happiness" or "joy". The name Radu is therefore associated with positivity and good fortune.
The name Radu has a long history in Romania, dating back to the 14th century when it was borne by several members of the House of Basarab, one of the most important ruling dynasties in Wallachia. One of the most famous Radus from this period is Radu III the Beautiful, who ruled Wallachia from 1473 to 1474 and was known for his good looks and charm.
Today, Radu remains a popular choice among Romanian parents, with variations such as Radi and Raduţ being used as well. While it may not be as widely known internationally, the name Radu has a rich history and cultural significance in Romania and is often associated with pride and heritage.
"The name Radu experienced a consistent popularity with five births recorded each year between 1976 and 2022, resulting in a total of thirty births over this period."