Harlow: Baby Name Meaning, Nicknames and Numerology

What does the baby name “Harlow” mean?

Harlow is a vintage Old English name meaning "army hill" or "grey rock mound," a place name turned surname turned first name that has surged in appeal as a glamorous unisex baby name with old Hollywood echoes.

Origin of the baby name Harlow

The name derives from Old English elements: "hær" (grey or rock) or "here" (army) combined with "hlæw," meaning a mound or burial hill. It was the name of several English towns, most notably in Essex, and moved from place name to surname to given name through the natural English naming process over centuries.

Baby Harlow: The Explorer →

History of the baby name “Harlow”

Harlow was primarily known as a place name and surname in English records for centuries. It took on a glamorous personal name association through the fame of 1930s Hollywood actress Jean Harlow, whose iconic image gave the name a dazzling cultural identity. In recent decades it has become increasingly popular as a first name for both girls and boys.

Why parents choose the baby name “Harlow”

Harlow has the irresistible combination of old-soul gravitas and genuine star power. Parents are drawn to its vintage Hollywood glamour, its strong two-syllable sound, and the way it sits at the intersection of edgy and elegant. It works equally well for girls and boys, which adds considerably to its growing appeal.

Nicknames for the Baby Name “Harlow”

Harl, Harly, Harlin, Harlkin, Harlster, Harlerino, Harlinator

Nicknames from Around the World for the Baby Name “Harlow”

Terms of endearment for a baby name work differently around the world. Some cultures clip the name short, while others add an affectionate ending that can make it longer instead. Here is how the baby name Harlow might sound as a nickname in a few other languages and dialects.

Australian:

Harlo, Hazza

British:

Harls

German:

Harlowchen

Irish:

Harleen

Italian:

Harlowetto

Spanish:

Harlowito

Variations on the baby name “Harlow”

Harlo is an occasionally used simplified spelling. The name is closely related in structure to Hartley, Harley, and other Old English "har-" names that share similar place-name origins. As a place name, Harlow appears most prominently in Essex, which was developed as a major planned town in the mid-20th century.