Hippo Names The Ultimate List for Your Favorite River Giant

Naming a hippo isn’t just about picking a random name—it should capture their charm, size, and love for water! Whether you want something cute, funny, legendary, or unique, we’ve got the best Hippo Names with meanings to match their big personality. 

Let’s dive in!

How to Choose the Perfect Hippo Name: Expert Tips!

Naming a hippo (whether real, stuffed, or imaginary) is serious business—because once you pick a name, it sticks! Here are some expert tips to help you find the best hippo name:

1. Consider Their Personality 🦛✨

Every hippo has a vibe—whether it’s playful, chill, or downright majestic. Choose a name that matches their attitude!

• Playful hippo? Try Bubbles, Skippy, or Wiggles.
• Mysterious hippo? Go for Shadow, Midnight, or Phantom.
• Gentle giant? Think Snuggles, Teddy, or Marshmallow.

2. Think About Their Size 📏💪

Hippos are big, so their name should reflect their massive presence (or humorously contrast it!).

• Strong, mighty names? Try Goliath, Titan, or Hercules.
• Funny names for a big hippo? Go with Tiny, Tater Tot, or Dumpling.

3. Get Inspired by Water 🌊💦

Hippos love water, so why not choose a name inspired by rivers, oceans, or mythical water beings?

• Aquatic names: Neptune, Splash, or Ripple.
• non-native water names: Lagoon, Naiad, or Poseidon.

4. Use Wordplay & Puns

Puns make everything better! If you want a name that sparks a laugh, play with hippo-related words.

• Hippo Puns: Hippopotato, Hippo-crite, or Hipponaut.
• Funny twists: Blubberbutt, Waddleton, or Sir Chomps-a-Lot.

5. Look at Famous Hippos 🎬📚

Pop culture is full of iconic hippos—steal their names or put your own spin on them!

• From cartoons/movies? Gloria (Madagascar), Moto Moto, or Hyppo (from Pogo comics).
• From history? Huberta (a real wandering hippo), or Jessica (the famous pet hippo).

6. Use African-Inspired Names 🌍🐘

Hippos originate from Africa, so an African name can be a cool & meaningful choice!

• Zulu (South African language) – Meaning “heaven.”
• Kiboko (Swahili) – Literally means “hippo.”
• Nyoka (Bantu) – Meaning “water spirit.”

7. Match It to Their Color 🎨🖤

Hippos are a mix of gray, brown, and pinkish hues—so color-based names can be a fun pick!

• Gray names? Ash, Stormy, or Pebbles.
• Pinkish names? Rosy, Blush, or Flamingo.

Bonus Tip: Test It Out! 🗣️🎤

Try saying the name out loud a few times. If it feels awkward or weird, switch it up! A good name should roll off the tongue effortlessly.

Let’s dive in!

1. Best Hippo Names

These are the ultimate, top-tier Hippo Names that highlight their majestic and lovable nature.

• Tank – Because your hippo is basically a walking tank of muscle.
• Chubby – A playful nod to their round, adorable shape.
• Bubbles – Perfect for a water-loving hippo that splashes around.
• Hercules – A strong and mighty name for a powerful hippo.
• River King – Because hippos rule the rivers like royalty.
• Hippo Potter – A magical pun for any Potterhead hippo lover.
• Wally – Inspired by “walrus,” but hippo-fied!
• Biggie Smalls – For a hippo with a big presence but a cool vibe.

2. Cute Hippo Names

If your hippo is a total sweetheart, these Cute Hippo Names will melt hearts.

• Snuggles – Because they look soft and huggable!
• Pudding – As sweet and jiggly as your hippo.
• Cuddles – A perfect name for a friendly, affectionate hippo.
• Lilo – Inspired by “Lilo & Stitch,” a cute name for a fun hippo.
• Gumdrop – Small, sweet, and full of charm.
• Pebbles – Inspired by the little Flintstones character, but also great for a baby hippo.
• Tater Tot – Because hippos, like tots, are small and chubby when they’re young!
• Muffin – A soft and sweet name for your lovable hippo.

3. Funny Hippo Names

For those who love humor, these Funny Hippo Names will have you grinning.

• Hippo-crite – For a hippo that changes its mind a lot!
• Blubbers – A hilarious take on their squishy, wobbly body.
• Hippity Hop – For a hippo that’s surprisingly bouncy!
• Chonkasaurus – A mix of “chonk” and “dinosaur” because hippos are BIG!
• Mudslide – If your hippo loves rolling around in the mud.
• Watermelon – A funny, round-shaped name for a chubby hippo.
• Splash Gordon – Inspired by “Flash Gordon,” but wetter.
• Sir Hipps-a-Lot – Because this hippo is all about the hip-swagger!

4. Unique Hippo Names

Want something truly different? These Unique Hippo Names will stand out!

• Zephyr – A rare name meaning “gentle breeze,” ironic for a heavy hippo.
• Nimbus – A name inspired by fluffy clouds (and the Nimbus 2000 broomstick).
• Marble – For a hippo with a smooth, grayish appearance.
• Juno – A powerful, goddess-like name for a female hippo.
• Quagmire – A fun, swampy name fitting for a hippo.
• Sirocco – A name inspired by warm desert winds, perfect for an African hippo.
• Glacier – A cool name, especially for a slow-moving but strong hippo.
• Dune – Inspired by the sandy landscapes where hippos sometimes roam.

5. Popular Hippo Names

These Popular Hippo Names have been used for famous hippos worldwide.

• Fiona – The world-famous hippo from the Cincinnati Zoo.
• Gloria – The sassy hippo from Madagascar.
• Moto Moto – From Madagascar 2, meaning “hot hot” in Swahili.
• Hyacinth – Inspired by the “hyacinth hippo” from Fantasia.
• Benny – A simple but beloved name for many hippos.
• Roxy – A bold and popular name for a spunky hippo.
• Lulu – Cute, short, and widely used.
• Rosie – A classic name that never goes out of style.

6. Creative Hippo Names

For those who love thinking outside the box, these Creative Hippo Names will make your hippo stand out!

• Mudpuppy – A fun mix of “mud” (where hippos love to be) and “puppy” (because they’re cute!).
• Puddlejumper – Perfect for a hippo that loves splashing.
• Boulder – Because your hippo is big, solid, and unmovable!
• AquaMoose – A funny blend of “aqua” (water) and “moose” (another large animal).
• Marshmallow – A sweet, squishy name that fits a hippo’s shape.
• Loch Nessie – A play on the Loch Ness monster!
• River Dumpling – Because hippos look like giant dumplings in water.
• Hipponardo da Vinci – For the artistic or genius hippo.

7. Cool Hippo Names

These Cool Hippo Names give off strong, confident vibes.

• Titan – A name that screams power and strength.
• Onyx – A sleek, dark, and mysterious name.
• Jagger – Inspired by the legendary Mick Jagger.
• Zane – A trendy and modern-sounding name.
• Shadow – A cool name for a hippo that moves silently in the water.
• Storm – A powerful name, like a force of nature.
• Axel – A tough-sounding name with attitude.
• Blaze – Fiery and fierce, even for a water-loving hippo!

8. Adorable Hippo Names

These Adorable Hippo Names are irresistibly cute!

• Binky – A playful, silly name for a lovable hippo.
• Nibbles – For a hippo that always seems to be munching.
• Doodle – A fun and artsy name.
• Sprout – A tiny, cute name for a baby hippo.
• Waffles – Who doesn’t love waffles? Just like your hippo!
• Tootsie – A sugary-sweet name for a lovable pet.
• Jellybean – Small, round, and adorable.
• Bobo – Short, fun, and full of personality.

9. Male Hippo Names

Need a name for a male hippo? These names are strong yet fun!

• Brutus – Because hippos are big and strong like Roman warriors.
• Maximus – Meaning “greatest” in Latin—perfect for a mighty hippo!
• Duke – A regal and dignified name.
• Hugo – Short, strong, and classic.
• Moose – Because moose and hippos are both giant and majestic.
• Rocky – Tough and resilient, like your hippo.
• Thor – Inspired by the Norse god of thunder.
• Diesel – A powerful name for a strong hippo.

10. Female Hippo Names

For a female hippo, these names are both elegant and fun.

• Daisy – Sweet and cheerful.
• Ruby – A precious gem, just like your hippo.
• Luna – Meaning “moon,” for a serene and graceful hippo.
• Misty – A soft and dreamy name.
• Willow – Inspired by the elegant, flowing tree.
• Rosie – Classic, pretty, and timeless.
• Tinkerbell – A magical name for a playful hippo.
• Zelda – Strong, mystical, and legendary.

11. Baby Hippo Names

A baby hippo needs a name that’s as adorable as they are!

• Tiny – Because baby hippos start out small (but not for long!).
• Pip – A cute, short name for a little one.
• Bubbles – Because baby hippos love playing in water.
• Mochi – A sweet, soft, and round name.
• Squish – Because they’re extra squishable as babies!
• Tadpole – A funny name for a baby hippo that loves the water.
• Coconut – Small, round, and tropical—just like your baby hippo.
• Dobby – Inspired by the adorable Harry Potter house-elf.

12. Famous Hippo Names

If you want your hippo to be a star, these Famous Hippo Names are perfect.

• Fiona – The beloved Cincinnati Zoo hippo.
• Gloria – The sassy hippo from Madagascar.
• Moto Moto – Meaning “hot hot” in Swahili, from Madagascar 2.
• Hyacinth – The dancing hippo from Fantasia.
• Happy Hippo – From the famous Kinder chocolate snack.
• George – Inspired by George and Martha, the classic hippo book series.
• Hubert – The famous animated hippo from Animal Crackers.
• Jessica – The real-life friendly hippo from South Africa.

13. African Hippo Names

Since hippos originate in Africa, why not go for an authentic African name?

• Zambezi – Named after the famous African river.
• Shaka – Inspired by the legendary Zulu warrior king.
• Tamu – Swahili for “sweet,” perfect for a lovable hippo.
• Jabari – Swahili for “brave one.”
• Bahari – Meaning “ocean” or “large water body.”
• Sefu – Swahili for “sword,” a strong and fierce name.
• Ndoto – Meaning “dream” in Swahili.
• Kiboko – Swahili for “hippopotamus”!

14. Cartoon Hippo Names

For fans of animated characters, these Cartoon Hippo Names are a great choice!

• Benny – From Dora the Explorer.
• Peter Potamus – The time-traveling hippo from Hanna-Barbera.
• Tuff – From Jungle Beat, a tough little hippo.
• Patricia – From Maggie and the Ferocious Beast.
• Ollie – The friendly hippo from PB&J Otter.
• Hanna Hippo – A classic character from Sesame Street.
• Happy Hippo – From the Kinder Surprise commercials.
• Bubbles – The hippo from Zambezia.

15. Classic Hippo Names

Timeless, elegant, and always a great choice.

• Henry – A regal, classic name.
• Walter – Sturdy and strong.
• Eleanor – A sophisticated name.
• Gertrude – Vintage, yet charming.
• Winston – Like Winston Churchill, a powerful name.
• Matilda – A name with literary charm.
• Freddie – Fun and friendly.
• Bernard – A dignified name with character.

16. Quirky Hippo Names

For a hippo with a personality as unique as its name!

• Blubberbutt – Because hippos have a lot of blubber!
• Sir Chomps-a-Lot – For a hippo that’s always munching.
• Mudpocalypse – A hippo that turns every puddle into chaos.
• Gumbo – A fun, Southern-inspired name.
• Splish Splash – Because hippos love making waves.
• Dumpling – A round, lovable name.
• Hipponaut – For a space-loving hippo.
• Mr. Waddles – Because hippos have a funny, waddly walk.

17. Playful Hippo Names

For a hippo that’s full of energy and joy.

• Boing Boing – Because your hippo is bouncy and playful.
• Skippy – A fun name for an active hippo.
• Tater Tot – Small and adorable (until it grows up!).
• Zippy – Always moving and full of life.
• Pogo – Like a pogo stick—always bouncing!
• Giggly – Because hippos always look like they’re smiling.
• Bubbles – A name that just screams fun!
• Wiggles – Perfect for a wiggly, happy hippo.

18. Mythological Hippo Names

For a hippo with a legendary presence.

• Poseidon – Greek god of the sea (perfect for a water-loving hippo!).
• Anubis – Egyptian god of the afterlife, a strong and mystical name.
• Hercules – A strong, mighty name for a big hippo.
• Juno – Roman goddess of protection and strength.
• Atlas – A hippo strong enough to carry the world!
• Osiris – An Egyptian god with a powerful aura.
• Zephyr – Greek for a gentle breeze (a funny contrast for a heavy hippo).
• Kraken – A legendary sea monster (perfect for a hippo that loves the water!).

19. Iconic Hippo Names

Inspired by history, movies, and famous figures.

• Elvis – A hippo with star power!
• Sherlock – A clever and mysterious name.
• Cleopatra – The queen of the Nile, just like your hippo!
• Einstein – A genius-level name for a smart hippo.
• Houdini – If your hippo loves escaping from enclosures!
• Gandalf – A wise, magical name for a mystical hippo.
• Napoleon – For a small (but powerful) hippo.
• Draco – Inspired by dragons and powerful creatures.

20. Legendary Hippo Names

For a hippo that deserves a name with a grand legacy.

• Goliath – A giant, just like your hippo.
• Achilles – A warrior’s name, bold and strong.
• Beowulf – From the famous epic hero.
• Thor – The Norse god of thunder, perfect for a powerful hippo.
• Xerxes – A name fit for a king.
• Medusa – A fierce name, with a hint of danger.
• Odysseus – A clever and adventurous hippo.
• Titanus – A name that means “gigantic”—ideal for a hippo.

21. Gentle Giant Hippo Names

Because hippos may be huge, but they can be sweet too!

• Snuggles – Because your hippo is one big cuddle!
• Cuddlesaurus – A funny name for a lovable giant.
• Pillow – Soft, squishy, and huggable.
• Muffin – A sweet, chubby name.
• Teddy – Like a big, soft teddy bear.
• Hugzilla – A mix of hugs and Godzilla!
• Plumpkin – A mix of “plump” and “pumpkin.”
• Chubbs – Because hippos are delightfully chubby.

22. Water-Loving Animal Hippo Names

Hippos are obsessed with water, so why not choose a name that reflects that?

• Naiad – Greek for water nymph.
• Coral – Like the coral reefs.
• Aqua – Latin for “water.”
• Splashy – Because hippos love splashing.
• Lagoon – A mysterious water name.
• Misty – Inspired by the mist over rivers and lakes.
• Neptune – The Roman god of water.
• Ripple – A gentle, wavy name.

23. Hippopotamus Names

For those who want a name that plays on the word “hippopotamus.”

• Hipster – Because your hippo is trendy.
• Hippopocalypse – A name that sounds grand and powerful.
• Hippity Hoppity – A playful and fun name.
• Potamus Maximus – A dramatic, ancient-sounding name.
• Hippo-crite – If your hippo is sneaky!
• Potamuffin – A cute twist on “hippopotamus.”
• Hippolicious – A name full of attitude.
• Potato-mas – A mix of “potato” and “hippopotamus”!

24. Fun Hippo Name Ideas

Just for fun, these hippo names bring a smile!

• Marshmallow Monster – Big, soft, and sweet!
• Bubblegum – Playful and colorful.
• Wobble – Because hippos waddle and wobble!
• Munchkin – A small, cute name for a big hippo.
• Chonky – The internet’s favorite word for a big, lovable animal.
• Mudpuff – A mix of “mud” and “puff,” for a hippo that loves rolling in the mud.
• Floofzilla – A mix of “floofy” and “Godzilla.”
• Nom Nom – Because hippos love to eat!

25. Great Names for Hippos

If you’re still not sure, these great hippo names are simple, fun, and timeless!

• Lulu – A cute and easy-to-remember name.
• Tank – Because hippos are built like armored vehicles.
• Bubba – A fun, friendly name.
• Scooter – A silly and cute name for a hippo.
• Hank – Short, simple, and strong.
• Gus – A classic name that just fits.
• Mojo – Full of personality.
• Oreo – A black-and-white name for a hippo with personality.

Final Words

Naming a hippo should be fun, creative, and full of personality—just like the mighty creature itself! Whether you go for a classic, quirky, or pun-filled name, make sure it’s something that makes you smile every time you say it.

Remember, your hippo’s name tells a story—so pick one that suits their vibe, size, or favorite mud puddle. Now go forth and name your hippo with confidence!