Meaning, origin, history
Fatou is a beautiful name of West African origin, specifically from the Wolof ethnic group in Senegal and The Gambia. It is typically given to girls.
The meaning of Fatou is believed to be "happiness" or "joy". This positive connotation makes it a popular choice among parents who wish to bestow good fortune upon their daughters.
Historically, the name Fatou has been passed down through generations in West African families. It was traditionally given to girls born during happy times or events, such as weddings or harvest seasons. Over time, it gained popularity beyond its ethnic origins and is now used globally.
In literature, one notable appearance of the name Fatou is in French author André Gide's 1928 novel "The Immoralist". The character Fatoumata plays a significant role in the story, further contributing to the spread of this captivating name.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Fatou since 1880
Total births
1,111
Total since 1880
Peak year
2003
53 births
in 2023
44
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+25%
↗
vs previous 5 years