Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Manu

      Origin

      Indian

      Meaning

      Wise

      Variations

      Manus, Manuel, Manuela
      The name Manu traces its origins back to ancient India and holds deep cultural significance. Derived from the Sanskrit word for wise, Manu refers to a legendary figure in Hindu mythology who is regarded as the first man and the progenitor of humanity. In Hindu scriptures such as the Manusmriti, Manu is believed to have received divine wisdom, giving birth to the term Manava Dharma, meaning the laws and principles by which humans should govern themselves. This association with wisdom has contributed to the popularity of the name Manu among Indian parents for generations.

      In addition to its historical roots, the name Manu continues to be widely used in modern-day India. It remains a common choice for boys names, reflecting the enduring admiration for wisdom and intellectual prowess. The name has transcended religious and cultural boundaries and is embraced by individuals of various faiths and communities. Manu has also gained recognition beyond India, particularly in regions with a significant Indian diaspora, as a symbol of heritage and a link to ancestral traditions. Furthermore, with increasing globalization and intercultural exchange, the name Manu has made its way into the lexicon of popular culture, with references in literature, music, and even sports, further solidifying its place as a cherished and timeless name.

      Based on our records...

      Patel

      Patel

      This is the most common surname associated with Manu.
      Hali

      Hali

      This is the most common name of those married to a Manu.
      Maria

      Maria

      This is the most common name for a child of a Manu.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1873 is when there were the most people born with the first name Manu.

      Explore the origins of another name.