450+ Unique Hippo Names: Cute, Funny, and Famous Options

Hippos are fascinating and playful creatures, making them a favorite for pet names and fictional characters. Whether you’re naming a real hippo, a stuffed animal, or a game character, picking the right name matters.

From funny to famous, there are endless creative hippo name ideas. This guide explores unique options that suit different personalities, ensuring you find the perfect fit.

Fun Facts About Hippos

Hippos are fascinating creatures with unique traits and behaviors. Here are some fun facts about these giant river dwellers!

• Hippos can’t swim – Despite living in water, they actually walk along the riverbed.
• They produce their own sunscreen – Their skin secretes a red, oily substance that protects them from the sun.
• Hippos are extremely fast – On land, they can run up to 30 mph in short bursts.
• Their mouths are huge – A hippo’s jaw can open up to 150 degrees, revealing massive teeth.
• They are more dangerous than sharks – Hippos are responsible for more human deaths in Africa than any other large animal.

Popular Hippo Names

Hippos are majestic and playful animals, deserving names that capture their charm. These popular names are commonly chosen for pet hippos, plush toys, or even fictional characters.

• Gloria – Famous from Madagascar, a strong and sassy name.
• Bubba – A cute and chubby name for a friendly hippo.
• Tank – Perfect for a strong and sturdy hippo.
• Lola – A sweet and playful name.
• Otis – A classic name with a fun vibe.
• Rosie – A charming name for a gentle hippo.
• Zeus – Inspired by the king of gods, great for a powerful hippo.
• Max – Short and strong, ideal for a dominant hippo.
• Maggie – A cute and soft name.
• Goliath – Perfect for a massive hippo.
• Rocky – Ideal for a tough and resilient hippo.
• Shadow – Mysterious and cool, great for a quiet hippo.
• Bubbles – Fun and playful, ideal for a water-loving hippo.
• Peanut – Cute for a smaller hippo.
• Duke – A noble name that suits a strong hippo.
• Fiona – A magical and regal name.
• Titan – Represents immense strength.
• Milo – A friendly and energetic name.
• Toby – Perfect for a gentle giant.
• Hank – A strong and reliable name.
• Jasper – A unique and stylish name.
• Leo – Meaning “lion,” great for a brave hippo.
• Rusty – Ideal for a reddish-brown hippo.
• Poppy – Bright and cheerful.
• Snickers – Fun and sweet, like the candy.
• Gizmo – Perfect for a curious hippo.
• Wally – Friendly and lovable.
• Twinkie – Cute and golden, like the snack.
• Ollie – A fun and happy-go-lucky name.

Cute Hippo Names

If your hippo is adorable and full of charm, these names will suit them perfectly. Cute hippo names should be fun, light, and heartwarming.

• Cuddles – Ideal for a snuggly hippo.
• Marshmallow – Soft and sweet, just like the treat.
• Cupcake – Perfect for a lovable hippo.
• Muffin – Sweet and delightful.
• Sprout – Great for a baby hippo.
• Doodle – A fun and quirky name.
• Peaches – A fruity and cute name.
• S’mores – Great for a cuddly hippo.
• Binky – Perfect for a playful baby hippo.
• Tater Tot – A small and round name.
• Pudding – Soft and comforting.
• Snuggles – Ideal for a hippo that loves to cuddle.
• Chickpea – A cute and tiny name.
• Pip – Short and sweet.
• Nibbles – Perfect for a curious little hippo.
• Frodo – Great for an adventurous hippo.
• Wiggles – A fun and playful name.
• Twinkle – Ideal for a baby hippo full of energy.
• Giggles – For a cheerful and happy hippo.
• Tootsie – A cute and fun name.
• Pipkin – A unique and playful name.
• Jellybean – Colorful and fun.
• Sprinkles – Sweet and vibrant.
• Poppy – Cheerful and bright.
• Daisy – Fresh and full of life.
• Holly – Festive and happy.
• Maple – A nature-inspired, warm name.
• Sunny – Radiates happiness and warmth.
• Fluffy – Perfect for a soft and huggable hippo.

Funny Hippo Names

Looking for a name that adds a bit of humor? These funny hippo names bring a smile to anyone’s face.

• Chomp – Because hippos love to munch!
• Sir Hipps-a-Lot – A royal and funny twist.
• Biggie – Because hippos are large and in charge.
• Hippo-crite – A clever pun name.
• Blubber – A hilarious nod to their size.
• Squish – Because they are big and squishy!
• Snappy – A play on their powerful jaws.
• Hufflepuff – Perfect for a Potter fan!
• Waffles – A silly and fun name.
• Boogie – For a dancing hippo.
• Hipponator – Like the Terminator, but cuter.
• Jabba – Inspired by Jabba the Hutt.
• Goofy – Because hippos can be funny!
• Zippy – Ironic for a slow hippo.
• Hooey – Just a fun and quirky name.
• Waddle – Since they walk adorably.
• Dumbo – A nod to the famous Disney elephant.
• Moody – Because they can be unpredictable.
• Bashful – Cute and shy.
• Fumble – Perfect for a clumsy hippo.
• Tubby – A funny and cute name.
• Yoda – For a wise and calm hippo.
• Bouncer – Hippos love water splashes!
• Macho – Ironic yet funny.
• Bloop – A silly, sound-inspired name.
• Plumpy – For a big, round hippo.
• Doodles – A playful and carefree name.
• Tinker – Fun and creative.
• Gizmo – Quirky and lovable.

Famous Hippo Names

Hippos have appeared in movies, cartoons, and folklore, making them beloved characters. These names are inspired by well-known hippos in pop culture.

• Gloria – The sassy hippo from Madagascar.
• Bubba – A friendly hippo from The Wild.
• Maggie – The adorable baby hippo in Happy Feet.
• Lola – A charming hippo from The Lion Guard.
• Otto – A hippo in Zoboomafoo.
• Nina – Featured in The Lion King 2.
• Perry – A hippo from The Lion Guard.
• Sunny – A joyful hippo in Sunny Side Up.
• Sammy – From The Secret Life of Pets.
• Rico – A fun-loving hippo in The Adventures of Paddington.
• Roscoe – A hippo in Cinderella.
• Ollie – From Paw Patrol.
• Koko – From Koko’s Adventures.
• Fifi – A hippo in Happy Feet.
• Dottie – A hippo in Animal Friends.
• Mona – Featured in The Amazing World of Gumball.
• Chomp – A hippo from Animal Quest.
• Twinkie – From Animal Planet.
• Maxine – A hippo in The Lion Guard.
• Polly – A hippo in A Hippo’s Life.
• Zippy – A speedy hippo in The Hippo Family.
• Blossom – From The Happy Hippos.
• Gertie – A wise hippo in Wild Kingdom.
• Yoko – From Hippo Fun.
• Daisy – A playful hippo in Pingu.
• Tootsie – A funny hippo in Madagascar.
• Jellybean – From Dinosaur Train.
• Hooey – A hippo in Amazing Adventures of Hippos.
• Gumbo – A hippo from Southern Tails.
• Sassy – A confident hippo in Animal Tales.

Male Hippo Names

These strong and bold names are perfect for a powerful male hippo.

• Hank – A solid and strong name.
• Rocky – Represents resilience and toughness.
• Max – A dominant and bold name.
• Leo – Meaning “lion,” for a brave hippo.
• Bruno – A tough and rugged choice.
• Zeke – A trendy and cool name.
• Finn – Suggests speed and agility.
• Brock – A name for a durable hippo.
• Rex – Meaning “king,” fit for a leader.
• Jasper – A unique and charming name.
• Toby – A friendly and gentle giant.
• Milo – Playful and energetic.
• Duke – Reflects nobility and power.
• Rusty – Ideal for a reddish-brown hippo.
• Shadow – For a mysterious hippo.
• Nemo – Evokes adventure and curiosity.
• Atlas – Meaning “bearer of the heavens.”
• Bolt – Suggests speed and quickness.
• Goliath – Ideal for a giant hippo.
• Chester – A unique and friendly name.
• Gunner – A tough and resilient name.
• Ziggy – A fun and quirky name.
• Chief – For a natural leader.
• Maverick – A hippo that stands out.
• Copper – Suggests a shiny, coppery hue.
• Zeus – A powerful and majestic name.
• Smokey – Ideal for a dark-colored hippo.
• Tank – A strong and tough hippo name.
• Ace – A confident and bold hippo name.
• Titan – A name fit for a mighty hippo.

Female Hippo Names

Looking for a name that celebrates beauty and charm? Here are some perfect picks!

• Luna – Meaning “moon,” serene and beautiful.
• Bella – Meaning “beautiful.”
• Daisy – A cheerful and bright name.
• Rosie – Sweet and gentle.
• Nala – Inspired by The Lion King.
• Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, symbolizing strength.
• Misty – For a mysterious hippo.
• Jasmine – A fragrant and lovely name.
• Pippa – A fun and cheerful name.
• Chloe – Meaning “blooming.”
• Ginger – A warm and friendly choice.
• Willow – Graceful and flexible.
• Sophie – Meaning “wisdom.”
• Trixie – Playful and lively.
• Fiona – Meaning “fair and beautiful.”
• Sienna – Inspired by earthy tones.
• Coco – Sweet and simple.
• Holly – Perfect for a gentle soul.
• Mocha – Ideal for a coffee-colored hippo.
• Zara – Meaning “princess.”
• Flora – Meaning “flower.”
• Peaches – A fruity and sweet name.
• Poppy – Bright and cheerful.
• Cinnamon – For a brown-hued hippo.
• Dolly – A sweet and lovable name.
• Maple – Inspired by nature.
• Sunny – A happy and warm name.
• Roxy – Cool and edgy.
• Mabel – Meaning “lovable.”
• Tansy – A floral-inspired name.

Baby Hippo Names

Naming a baby hippo? These adorable names are perfect!

• Nibbles – For a playful little hippo.
• Sprout – A name for a young, growing hippo.
• Pebbles – A sweet, tiny name.
• Binky – Playful and cute.
• Tiny – Perfect for a small hippo.
• Snickers – For a bubbly personality.
• Bubbles – A hippo that loves water.
• Flick – Lively and energetic.
• Gizmo – A curious and adventurous hippo.
• Chickpea – A cute and unique choice.
• Frodo – Small yet adventurous.
• Pip – Short and sweet.
• Doodle – Creative and fun.
• S’mores – Soft and sweet.
• Tater Tot – A round and tiny hippo.
• Cuddlebug – Loves snuggles.
• Pudding – Gentle and soft.
• Wiggles – Lively and energetic.
• Twinkie – Cute and round.
• Peanut – Small and adorable.
• Marshmallow – Soft and sweet.
• Daisy – Charming and lovely.
• Snuggles – Perfect for a cuddly hippo.
• Muffin – Sweet and lovable.
• Pipkin – A tiny and playful name.
• Giggles – A happy baby hippo.
• Coco Puff – Fluffy and cute.
• Sprinkles – Sweet and colorful.
• Twinkle – Sparkling with energy.

Read More:500+ Unique and Charming Donkey Names for Every Personality

Cartoon Hippo Names

Cartoons have given us some of the most lovable hippo characters. These names are inspired by animated hippos from popular shows and movies.

• Gloria – The confident hippo from Madagascar.
• Tilly – A fun-loving hippo from Tilly’s Adventures.
• Chomper – A snack-loving hippo from Snack Time Hippo.
• Munch – A hippo who loves fruits in Munch Time.
• Holly – The wise hippo from Holly’s World.
• Nibbler – A hippo with a big appetite in Nibbler’s Quest.
• Bingo – A playful hippo who loves games in Bingo’s Adventures.
• Splash – A water-loving hippo from Splash Zone.
• Boomer – A big, energetic hippo from Boomer’s Wild Ride.
• Snappy – A photo-snapping hippo from Snappy’s Photo Safari.
• Jolly – A cheerful hippo from Jolly’s Fun Land.
• Bouncy – Loves jumping in Bouncy Hippo.
• Wanda – A wise hippo from Wanda’s Wisdom.
• Dizzy – A clumsy yet adorable hippo in Dizzy’s Adventures.
• Chill – A laid-back hippo in Chillax with Chill.
• Rolly – A hippo who loves rolling in Rolly’s World.
• Jumpy – An energetic hippo from Jumpy’s Fun.
• Fluffy – The cuddly hippo in Fluffy’s Cozy Corner.
• Puff – A bubble-blowing hippo from Puff’s Bubble Time.
• Twirl – A dancing hippo in Twirl’s Dance Party.
• Sunny – The optimistic hippo in Sunny’s Happy Place.
• Wiggles – The wiggly hippo from Wiggles and Friends.
• Squishy – Loves hugs in Squishy’s Hugs.
• Pebbles – Collects stones in Pebbles’ Treasure Hunt.
• Flicker – An adventurous hippo from Flicker’s Journey.
• Bashful – The shy but sweet hippo from Bashful’s Story.
• Doodle – The artistic hippo from Doodle’s Art Studio.
• Zigzag – The quirky hippo in Zigzag Adventures.
• Cheerio – A happy hippo from Cheerio’s Friendship.

African Hippo Names

Hippos are native to Africa, and many names reflect their origins and cultural significance. Here are some great African-inspired hippo names.

• Zuberi – Means “strong” in Swahili.
• Jengo – Means “building” or “strength” in Swahili.
• Kazi – Means “hardworking” in Swahili.
• Tano – Means “five” in Swahili, great for a hippo born in May.
• Simba – Means “lion” in Swahili, symbolizing power.
• Mosi – Means “firstborn” in Swahili.
• Nyota – Means “star” in Swahili.
• Kwame – A Ghanaian name for those born on Saturday.
• Bahati – Means “luck” in Swahili.
• Jabari – Means “brave” in Swahili.
• Zuri – Means “beautiful” in Swahili.
• Pendo – Means “love” in Swahili.
• Nia – Means “purpose” in Swahili.
• Malaika – Means “angel” in Swahili.
• Sefu – Means “sword” in Swahili.
• Dakarai – Means “happiness” in Shona.
• Chiku – Means “talkative” in Swahili.
• Tumi – A common African name meaning “gift”.
• Lebo – Short for “Lebohang,” meaning “be thankful.”
• Azizi – Means “precious” in Swahili.
• Juma – Means “born on Friday” in Swahili.
• Kifaru – Means “rhino” in Swahili, a strong name.
• Zahara – Means “flower” in Swahili.
• Nuru – Means “light” in Swahili.
• Tumelo – A Sesotho name meaning “faith.”
• Hekima – Means “wisdom” in Swahili.
• Shaka – Inspired by the Zulu king, Shaka Zulu.
• Amari – Means “eternal” in Swahili.
• Lulu – Means “pearl” in Swahili.

Mythological Hippo Names

If you want a legendary name for your hippo, mythology is a great source of inspiration.

• Zeus – King of the Greek gods.
• Poseidon – Greek god of the sea, fitting for a water-loving hippo.
• Hercules – A name symbolizing strength.
• Thor – Norse god of thunder, great for a mighty hippo.
• Odin – The wise all-father from Norse mythology.
• Anubis – Egyptian god of the afterlife.
• Ra – Egyptian sun god.
• Osiris – God of rebirth in Egyptian mythology.
• Horus – The falcon-headed Egyptian god.
• Hermes – Messenger god known for speed.
• Apollo – Greek god of light and healing.
• Ares – Greek god of war.
• Athena – Goddess of wisdom and battle strategy.
• Artemis – Goddess of the hunt.
• Freya – Norse goddess of love and war.
• Loki – The Norse trickster god.
• Chiron – A wise centaur from Greek myths.
• Typhon – A giant serpentine creature from Greek mythology.
• Bastet – Egyptian goddess of home and fertility.
• Sekhmet – Warrior goddess in Egyptian mythology.
• Persephone – Queen of the underworld.
• Eros – Greek god of love.
• Nike – Greek goddess of victory.
• Atlas – A Titan known for holding up the sky.
• Hades – The ruler of the underworld.
• Icarus – Flew too close to the sun in Greek myth.
• Nemesis – Goddess of retribution.
• Medusa – A Gorgon with snake hair.
• Achilles – A legendary Greek warrior.
• Orpheus – A musician who charmed the underworld.

Unique Hippo Names

Every hippo deserves a special name! If you want something rare and different, this list has creative options.

• Ziggy – A fun and quirky name.
• Pebbles – Perfect for a small hippo.
• Coconut – A fun tropical name.
• Mochi – Inspired by the soft Japanese treat.
• Bubbles – Ideal for a playful hippo.
• Snickers – A cute and sweet name.
• Chomp – For a hippo that loves to eat!
• Muffin – A soft and sweet name.
• Fudge – A deliciously unique choice.
• Twix – Perfect for a hippo with a sweet tooth.
• Blinky – A name for a curious hippo.
• Waffles – A warm and cozy name.
• Gizmo – A techy and fun name.
• Toffee – A delightful and tasty-sounding name.
• Noodle – A silly and lovable name.
• Doodle – Great for an artsy hippo.
• Bingo – A lucky and fun choice.
• Sprout – Ideal for a growing baby hippo.
• Tater – A funny and cute option.
• Tinker – For a hippo that loves to explore.
• Squishy – Perfect for a cuddly hippo.
• Choco – Inspired by chocolate lovers.
• Boop – A simple and adorable name.
• Quirk – For a hippo with a unique personality.
• Zoomer – A speedy and energetic name.
• Pogo – Great for a bouncy hippo.
• Jolly – Ideal for a cheerful hippo.
• Tizzy – A name full of excitement.
• Rascal – For a mischievous hippo.
• Blinky – A great name for a blinking, curious hippo.

Hippo Names from Movies

Many movies feature iconic hippo characters or names that suit a hippo’s personality. Here are some cinematic choices!

• Gloria – The famous hippo from Madagascar.
• Moto Moto – The charming hippo from Madagascar 2.
• Hyacinth – From Fantasia, a dancing hippo.
• Otis – A fun character from Barnyard.
• Benny – Inspired by a character in The Wild.
• Gus – A strong name inspired by Cinderella.
• Dumbo – A playful name from Dumbo.
• Ferdinand – A gentle giant from Ferdinand.
• Hugo – Inspired by The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
• Pumbaa – The lovable warthog from The Lion King.
• Baloo – Inspired by The Jungle Book.
• Django – From the movie Django Unchained.
• Manny – The woolly mammoth from Ice Age.
• Bruce – The friendly shark from Finding Nemo.
• Buzz – From Toy Story, a fun and adventurous name.
• Rex – The nervous dinosaur from Toy Story.
• Shrek – The famous green ogre, fitting for a big hippo.
• Marlin – The loving dad from Finding Nemo.
• Dory – Inspired by the forgetful fish in Finding Nemo.
• Remy – The talented rat chef from Ratatouille.
• Slinky – The playful dog from Toy Story.
• Woody – Inspired by the cowboy doll in Toy Story.
• Nemo – A great name for a water-loving hippo.
• Simba – The brave lion from The Lion King.
• Timon – The wisecracking meerkat from The Lion King.
• Yogi – Inspired by Yogi Bear.
• Jumbo – A name inspired by Dumbo.
• Felix – From The Odd Couple.
• Zazu – Inspired by The Lion King.
• Mufasa – A regal name from The Lion King.

Hippo Names Inspired by Nature

Nature provides endless inspiration for hippo names. Here are some options related to water, plants, and animals.

• River – Hippos love water!
• Brook – A small, gentle stream.
• Storm – Strong and powerful like a hippo.
• Breeze – A light and calming name.
• Cloud – Soft and peaceful.
• Rain – Refreshing and cool.
• Lake – A calm, water-themed name.
• Forest – A strong, earthy name.
• Rocky – Inspired by nature’s rugged landscapes.
• Leaf – A simple and fresh name.
• Flora – Inspired by plants and flowers.
• Sunny – A bright and cheerful name.
• Moon – A mystical and serene choice.
• Dew – A soft, morning name.
• Willow – Inspired by the graceful tree.
• Canyon – A bold and strong name.
• Echo – A cool and mysterious name.
• Ocean – A big, powerful name.
• Pebble – A small and cute option.
• Shadow – A mysterious and cool name.
• Dusk – Inspired by twilight colors.
• Fern – A natural and earthy name.
• Quartz – Inspired by sparkling gemstones.
• Drizzle – A gentle and fun name.
• Zephyr – A name meaning a soft breeze.
• Gale – A strong and mighty name.
• Orchid – A delicate and pretty name.
• Meadow – Inspired by open grasslands.
• Blossom – A fresh and floral name.

Hippo Names Based on Personality

Every hippo has its own personality. These names reflect their character!

• Bashful – Perfect for a shy hippo.
• Jolly – A happy and cheerful hippo.
• Sassy – Full of attitude and charm.
• Chill – A relaxed and easy-going hippo.
• Lively – Always full of energy.
• Zippy – A fast-moving hippo.
• Bouncy – Perfect for an active hippo.
• Goofy – A fun and silly hippo.
• Curious – Loves exploring.
• Brave – A courageous hippo.
• Lazy – For a laid-back, relaxed hippo.
• Napper – Loves sleeping all day.
• Snuggles – Loves cuddles.
• Hyper – Always energetic.
• Toughie – A strong, fearless hippo.
• Rascal – A mischievous hippo.
• Smarty – Perfect for a clever hippo.
• Witty – Full of fun and jokes.
• Grumpy – A moody but lovable hippo.
• Snoozer – Loves long naps.
• Snicker – Always giggling.
• Giggly – A fun and happy hippo.
• Zany – Full of wild energy.
• Perky – Always excited.
• Wacky – A unique and funny hippo.
• Tricky – A little prankster.
• Sleepy – A hippo that loves resting.
• Mellow – A calm and peaceful hippo.
• Bubbly – Full of life and joy.

Hippo Names from Literature

Literary names can give your hippo a touch of wisdom, adventure, or charm. Here are 30 names inspired by famous books and characters.

• Gulliver – A traveler.
• Sherlock – Super smart.
• Huckleberry – Wild and free.
• Gatsby – Fancy and stylish.
• Atticus – Wise and kind.
• Bilbo – Small but brave.
• Winnie – Sweet and lovable.
• Moby – Big and strong.
• Dorian – Handsome and mysterious.
• Oliver – Playful and charming.
• Beowulf – A true warrior.
• Lancelot – Noble and heroic.
• Robin – A clever trickster.
• Frodo – Loyal and brave.
• Dracula – Dark and mysterious.
• Don Quixote – A dreamer.
• Pip – Hopeful and kind.
• Hobbes – Fun and playful.
• Odysseus – A true explorer.
• Merlin – Full of wisdom.
• Jekyll – Two-sided personality.
• Tom – Mischievous and fun.
• Scarlett – Bold and fiery.
• Hector – Strong and fearless.
• Ebenezer – Grumpy but lovable.
• Dobby – Loyal and kind.
• Aslan – Powerful and wise.
• Shakespeare – Dramatic and poetic.
• Hamlet – Thoughtful and deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good name for a hippo?

A good hippo name should be fun, memorable, and unique. Popular choices include funny, cute, and famous names inspired by movies, literature, and mythology.

What are some famous hippo names?

Famous hippos include Gloria (Madagascar), Moto Moto (Madagascar 2), and others from cartoons and movies.

Are there African-inspired hippo names?

Yes! Many hippo names come from African languages and mythology, representing the animal’s native habitat.

Can I name my pet hippo something funny?

Absolutely! Funny names like Chubby, Waddles, or Blubber add personality and charm to a hippo’s identity.

What are some unique hippo names?

Unique names can be inspired by nature, personality, or fictional stories. Think of creative names like Nimbus, Quill, or Tundra.

Conclusion

Hippo names can be cute, funny, or inspired by history and pop culture. Whether you need a name for a plush toy, a character, or a real hippo, there are plenty of unique options. Pick a name that suits their personality, and have fun with it!