Hippopotamus Names That Suit Any Hippo’s Personality

Ever met a hippo that didn’t have a big personality? Neither have we! Whether you’re naming a pet, a plush toy, or a hippo character, choosing the best hippopotamus names can be a blast. 

From hilarious and clever to adorable and legendary, we’ve got a name for every water-loving giant. Dive in and find the perfect fit!

Top 15 Nicknames for Your Hippopotamus: Cute Short Forms!

Looking for an adorable and catchy nickname for your hippopotamus? Whether it’s for a real hippo or just a fun pet name, here are 15 cute short forms that capture their charm, size, and playful nature!

1️⃣ Hippo – The classic and obvious choice! Short, simple, and straight to the point.

2️⃣ Hippy – A fun, groovy nickname for a laid-back hippo.

3️⃣ Poto – Inspired by “potamus” from the full name. Sounds playful and unique!

4️⃣ Momo – Short, cute, and easy to say. Perfect for a lovable hippo!

5️⃣ Chubs – Because hippos are delightfully chunky and full of personality.

6️⃣ Bubba – A warm and friendly nickname that suits a big-hearted hippo.

7️⃣ Tubs – If your hippo loves to splash around in water, this name is a perfect fit!

8️⃣ Lolo – A cute, easy-to-remember name with a fun sound.

9️⃣ Tato – Short for “potato,” because let’s be honest, hippos are round and adorable.

🔟 Nibbs – Inspired by their big teeth and love for nibbling on grass!

1️⃣1️⃣ Pudge – A sweet and cuddly name that embraces their plump nature.

1️⃣2️⃣ Wally – Short for “Wallow,” since hippos love lounging in the water.

1️⃣3️⃣ BoBo – A fun, bouncy name for a playful hippo!

1️⃣4️⃣ Splash – Perfect for a water-loving hippo that makes big waves.

1️⃣5️⃣ Pips – A tiny, adorable name that adds a touch of cuteness!

🔹 Fun Fact: Despite their size, hippos are great swimmers and can hold their breath for up to 5 minutes underwater!

🔹 Tip: The best hippo nicknames are short, sweet, and fun

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Naming a Hippopotamus

Naming a hippopotamus should be fun, but avoid these common mistakes!

❌ Mistake	⚠️ Why to Avoid It
📏 Too long	“Hippopotamus the Great” is too much! Short names are easier.
🎭 Ignoring personality	A playful hippo suits “Bubbles,” not “Grumpy.”
🗣 Hard to say	Complicated names make calling them a hassle.
🐶 Sounds like a command	“No” or “Stay” may confuse them.
🔁 Too common	“Hippo” or “Big Guy” lack uniqueness.
🌵 Wrong habitat	Hippos love water—avoid names like “Desert King.”
👶 Doesn’t age well	“Tiny” won’t suit a 3,000-pound hippo!

💡 Tip: Keep it short, fun, and fitting for your hippo’s vibe!

1️⃣ Best Hippopotamus Names – Classic and Timeless Picks

These names have stood the test of time and remain hippo favorites!

• Hugo – A strong and timeless name, fitting for a gentle giant.
• Tank – Because, let’s be real, hippos are built like one.
• Moby – Inspired by Moby Dick, but with less blubber and more attitude.
• Bubbles – A fun, water-loving name for a playful hippo.
• Chompers – Perfect for a hippo known for its mighty jaws!
• Titus – A regal name that suits a dignified and wise hippo.
• Jumbo – Because sometimes, the obvious choice is the best choice.
• Wally – Short for “water lover” because hippos live for a good soak.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos may look chill, but they can outrun a human over short distances!

🔹 Tip: When naming a hippo, think of words related to water, size, or their playful nature.

2️⃣ Unique Hippopotamus Names – One-of-a-Kind Monikers

Want a name as special as your hippo? Try these!

• Zephyr – A cool, breezy name for a free-spirited hippo.
• Nimbus – Inspired by fluffy rain clouds, just like a floating hippo.
• Tsunami – A name that packs a powerful punch, just like a charging hippo.
• Echo – Perfect for a hippo with a booming personality.
• Quirk – Because every hippo has its own unique charm.
• Drizzle – A lighthearted name for a water-loving cutie.
• Lumos – For the hippo that brings light to your life!
• Hickory – A nature-inspired name for a strong yet gentle giant.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can hold their breath underwater for up to five minutes!

🔹 Tip: Get creative by blending words related to water, nature, and strength.

3️⃣ Cute Hippopotamus Names – Adorable and Endearing

Because even the biggest creatures deserve a sweet name!

• Puddles – Hippos and puddles? A perfect match.
• Cuddles – Hippos aren’t huggers, but we can dream!
• Squishy – Because, well… just look at them!
• Nibbles – Ideal for a hippo with a playful bite.
• Waffles – A name as warm and delightful as breakfast.
• Tootsie – Perfect for a little (or massive) cutie.
• Blinky – For a hippo who loves to rest those big eyes.
• Doodle – A name as fun as a hippo’s personality.

🔹 Fun Fact: Baby hippos weigh around 100 pounds at birth—adorable, but still huge!

🔹 Tip: Pick a name that makes you smile every time you say it.

4️⃣ Funny Hippopotamus Names – Hilarious and Witty

Got a hippo with a sense of humor? These names will crack you up!

• Sir Chomps-a-Lot – The knight of the swamp, always ready to munch.
• Hippo-crite – Because hippos love pretending they’re slow and peaceful.
• Chunk Norris – A heavyweight champion in the water world.
• Mudslide – Because hippos + mud = pure joy.
• Thickums – If your hippo embraces its curvy figure.
• Moo Moo – A little cow-like, a lot hippo-like.
• Waddleton – Because those stubby legs have a unique charm.
• Huff & Puff – Perfect for a hippo with a dramatic personality.

🔹 Fun Fact: Despite their size, hippos can run up to 19 mph on land!

🔹 Tip: Wordplay and puns make the best funny hippo names.

5️⃣ Creative Hippopotamus Names – Inspired and Original Picks

If you love out-of-the-box names, these creative choices are for you!

• Marshmallow – Soft, squishy, and impossible to resist.
• Poseidon – The ruler of water, just like your hippo.
• Pebbles – Because sometimes, irony is fun!
• Basil – A sophisticated yet playful name for a classy hippo.
• Sploosh – The sound a hippo makes when belly-flopping into the water.
• Fathom – Deep and mysterious, like the river’s depths.
• Vortex – A powerful name for a hippo who makes a splash.
• Ramble – For a hippo who loves to explore (or just looks like they might).

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos secrete a pinkish “sunscreen” that protects their skin from the sun.

🔹 Tip: Mix words related to water, motion, or nature for a unique hippo name.

6️⃣ Clever Hippopotamus Names – Smart and Punny Choices

For hippo lovers who appreciate wit and wordplay!

• Hipponardo – A genius-level name for a wise hippo.
• Sir Float-a-Lot – Because hippos are experts in buoyancy.
• Swamp Sinatra – If your hippo has star power.
• Thiccolas Cage – A legendary name for a thick-skinned buddy.
• Chonkasaurus – If your hippo gives off prehistoric vibes.
• Blubberella – A sassy, confident name with a little extra.
• Mudonna – For a diva hippo who loves the spotlight.
• River Phoenix – Because hippos thrive in rivers, and this name is legendary.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos don’t actually swim—they walk along the riverbed and push off to move!

🔹 Tip: Clever names often use puns, famous references, or fun twists on words.

7️⃣ Cool Hippopotamus Names – Trendy and Stylish Choices

Hippos deserve a name that makes them stand out!

• Diesel – Strong, powerful, and unstoppable.
• Axel – A name with serious edge.
• Maverick – Perfect for a rebellious and free-spirited hippo.
• Storm – A name full of power and mystery.
• Shadow – Because hippos are surprisingly stealthy.
• Zen – A smooth, calming name for a laid-back hippo.
• Blaze – For a hippo with fiery energy.
• Steel – A tough, no-nonsense name for a strong hippo.

🔹 Fun Fact: Despite their bulk, hippos can turn quickly in water, making them surprisingly agile.

🔹 Tip: Cool names are often short, strong, and effortlessly stylish.

8️⃣ Popular Hippopotamus Names – Crowd-Favorite Picks

These hippo names are loved by many for good reason!

• Gloria – Inspired by Madagascar’s famous hippo.
• Fiona – The beloved hippo from the Cincinnati Zoo.
• Harold – A classic, well-loved name with charm.
• Hank – Simple, friendly, and perfect for a lovable hippo.
• Manny – A big-hearted name that fits a gentle giant.
• Lola – A playful and spunky hippo name.
• George – A name that suits any charismatic hippo.
• Rosie – Sweet and timeless, just like your hippo.

🔹 Fun Fact: Fiona, the hippo from Cincinnati Zoo, was born premature and became a viral sensation!

🔹 Tip: Popular names often come from famous hippos, movies, or beloved classics.

9️⃣ Stylish Hippopotamus Names – Chic and Sophisticated Picks

For the hippo with a flair for elegance!

• Chanel – Fashionable, timeless, and effortlessly cool.
• Bordeaux – A classy name for a refined hippo.
• Aston – As in Aston Martin, because luxury suits hippos.
• Valentina – Beautiful, regal, and a little mysterious.
• Gatsby – Perfect for a hippo with a larger-than-life personality.
• Monet – Inspired by art, for a truly picturesque hippo.
• Esquire – A name that demands respect.
• Dolce – Sweet, stylish, and oh-so-fancy.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos may seem chill, but they are one of the most territorial animals!

🔹 Tip: Elegant names often take inspiration from fashion, luxury, or history.

🔟 Famous Hippopotamus Names – Inspired by Pop Culture

These names are iconic, thanks to movies, books, and history!

• Moto Moto – The flirtatious hippo from Madagascar 2.
• Peter Potamus – A classic cartoon hippo from Hanna-Barbera.
• Bertha – The beloved UK hippo from a classic children’s show.
• Flavio – One of the rich, eccentric hippos from Animaniacs.
• Hyppo – From the classic 1930s Hyppo and Thomas comic strip.
• Jessica – The famous pet hippo from South Africa.
• Hubert – A name inspired by zoo hippos worldwide.
• Tasha – The pink hippo from The Backyardigans.

🔹 Fun Fact: Moto Moto’s name means “hot hot” in Swahili—because he’s that confident.

🔹 Tip: Famous names are a great choice if you want an instantly recognizable hippo moniker.

1️⃣1️⃣ Adorable Hippopotamus Names – Sweet and Endearing Picks

These names capture the cute and cuddly side of hippos!

• Bubbles – Perfect for a happy, playful hippo.
• Pudding – Soft, sweet, and irresistibly huggable.
• Sprout – A tiny name for a big personality.
• Waffles – Because everyone loves waffles (and hippos!).
• Teddy – As cuddly as a plush toy.
• Snickers – Sweet with a hint of mischief.
• Binky – A precious name for a lovable hippo.
• Coconut – Fun, tropical, and full of charm.

🔹 Fun Fact: Baby hippos are born underwater but quickly swim to the surface for their first breath!

🔹 Tip: Adorable names often come from food, soft textures, or childhood nostalgia.

1️⃣2️⃣ Quirky Hippopotamus Names – Offbeat and Unconventional Choices

For hippo lovers who enjoy the unexpected!

• Toots – Because hippos make a variety of funny noises.
• Doodle – A playful, artsy name for a creative hippo.
• Zigzag – For a hippo that never walks in a straight line.
• Muffin Top – A chubby, lovable name.
• Slinky – Ironic, because hippos are not exactly flexible.
• Pickles – A name as funny as it is cute.
• Boing – Perfect for a bouncy, energetic hippo.
• Gobble – Inspired by a hippo’s impressive appetite.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can open their mouths up to four feet wide!

🔹 Tip: Quirky names are often unexpected, ironic, or based on funny characteristics.

1️⃣3️⃣ Elegant Hippopotamus Names – Sophisticated and Classy Picks

For hippos that exude grace and charm!

• Aristotle – A wise and refined choice.
• Celeste – A celestial, dreamy name for a majestic hippo.
• Isadora – Sophisticated and artistic.
• Reginald – Because your hippo deserves a royal name.
• Genevieve – A name fit for a queen.
• Bartholomew – Fancy, distinguished, and delightfully old-school.
• Victoria – Inspired by queens and elegance.
• Maximilian – A name with grandeur and strength.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos were once associated with the Egyptian goddess Taweret, protector of pregnancy and childbirth.

🔹 Tip: Elegant names are often inspired by history, royalty, or high society.

1️⃣4️⃣ Wild Hippopotamus Names – Nature-Inspired and Untamed Choices

For hippos that embody the spirit of the wild!

• Savanna – A nod to the African landscapes hippos call home.
• Torrent – Strong, unstoppable, and fast-moving.
• Ember – A fiery, passionate name.
• Zephyr – Gentle like a breeze, yet powerful like nature.
• Canyon – Deep and awe-inspiring.
• Onyx – A strong, dark, and mysterious name.
• Tundra – An ironic name for a warm-weather animal.
• Jungle – Because hippos thrive in the heart of nature.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater!

🔹 Tip: Wild names often reflect landscapes, natural forces, or untamed beauty.

1️⃣5️⃣ Strong Hippopotamus Names – Powerful and Mighty Picks

For hippos that radiate strength and dominance!

• Titan – A name worthy of a giant.
• Goliath – Perfect for an impressively big hippo.
• Hercules – Strong, legendary, and heroic.
• Brutus – A tough, no-nonsense name.
• Colossus – Because hippos are absolute units!
• Atlas – A name that carries weight—literally.
• Thunder – Loud, powerful, and impossible to ignore.
• Brawler – For a hippo that takes no nonsense.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos are one of the most dangerous animals in Africa, despite their cute appearance.

🔹 Tip: Strong names often come from mythology, power, or sheer size.

1️⃣6️⃣ Legendary Hippopotamus Names – Timeless and Heroic Choices

For hippos that deserve a name as grand as their presence!

• Achilles – A warrior’s name for a fearless hippo.
• Beowulf – Inspired by the legendary hero of old tales.
• Zeus – The king of the gods, just like your hippo rules the water.
• Thor – Thunderous and mighty, just like a charging hippo.
• Odin – A wise and powerful name.
• Poseidon – The god of the sea, perfect for a water-loving giant.
• Hercules – Strength and heroism combined.
• Lancelot – A knightly name for a noble hippo.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos were once considered sacred in ancient Egypt!

🔹 Tip: Legendary names often come from mythology, history, and epic tales.

1️⃣7️⃣ Fancy Hippopotamus Names – Stylish and Luxurious Picks

For hippos with an air of extravagance!

• Chardonnay – Classy, elegant, and a little indulgent.
• Fitzgerald – A name dripping with 1920s sophistication.
• Versace – Fashionable and bold.
• Belladonna – A name as beautiful as it is fancy.
• Valentino – Chic, timeless, and elegant.
• Countess – A title fit for a royal hippo.
• Duchess – Because some hippos deserve a noble name.
• Sinclair – A name that sounds effortlessly high-class.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos secrete a red, oily substance that acts like sunscreen—nature’s built-in spa treatment!

🔹 Tip: Fancy names often come from luxury brands, high society, or aristocratic titles.

1️⃣8️⃣ Iconic Hippopotamus Names – Unforgettable and Well-Known Choices

For hippos destined for fame!

• Gloria – The beloved hippo from Madagascar.
• Moto Moto – The flirty, deep-voiced hippo from Madagascar 2.
• Fiona – The world-famous baby hippo from the Cincinnati Zoo.
• Bertha – Inspired by the largest hippo on record.
• Jessica – The hippo celebrity from South Africa.
• Hubert – A famous traveling hippo in history.
• Harry – A simple but timeless choice.
• Rosie – Sweet and memorable.

🔹 Fun Fact: Fiona the hippo was born six weeks premature but grew into a strong, beloved icon!

🔹 Tip: Iconic names are often linked to famous characters, real-life animals, or history.

1️⃣9️⃣ Playful Hippopotamus Names – Fun and Energetic Choices

For hippos that are always up to some mischief!

• Boogie – Because hippos love to wiggle in the water.
• Bouncer – For a hippo that’s always on the move.
• Zippy – Fast in water, despite their size!
• Jolly – A name full of happiness.
• Wiggles – Because hippos have a fun way of moving.
• Squish – A soft, silly, and adorable name.
• Goofy – Inspired by the lovable, clumsy character.
• Tater Tot – Small but packed with personality!

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can’t actually swim—they push off the bottom of the water to move!

🔹 Tip: Playful names often come from movement, energy, and personality.

2️⃣0️⃣ Sassy Hippopotamus Names – Bold and Full of Attitude

For hippos that know they’re the boss!

• Diva – Because your hippo demands attention.
• Sassafras – Sassy, classy, and a little smart-mouthed.
• Queenie – A name fit for a hippo with a regal presence.
• Fiesta – Always ready to party!
• Spicy – Full of flavor and attitude.
• Fierce – A hippo that knows its strength.
• Zaza – Chic, unique, and confident.
• Vixen – Because this hippo doesn’t play around.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos may look lazy, but they can run up to 19 mph on land!

🔹 Tip: Sassy names often come from confidence, boldness, and personality.

2️⃣1️⃣ Best Hippo Names – Top Picks for Every Personality

For those who want a name that just fits right!

• Tank – Because hippos are built like one.
• Bubbles – A fun name for a water-loving giant.
• Chubbs – A cute and cuddly name.
• Momo – Short, sweet, and lovable.
• Luna – Perfect for a hippo with a calm, dreamy vibe.
• Rocky – Tough and strong, just like a hippo.
• Marshmallow – Big, soft, and huggable.
• Blu – Inspired by the color of water.

🔹 Fun Fact: Despite their size, hippos are closely related to whales and dolphins!

🔹 Tip: The best names are simple yet meaningful—go with what feels right!

2️⃣2️⃣ Unique Hippo Names – One-of-a-Kind Choices

For hippos that stand out from the herd!

• Pebbles – Cute and unexpected.
• Nimbus – Like a floating raincloud.
• Tundra – A cool name for a big beast.
• Sprocket – Funky and fun!
• Gumbo – A flavorful, Southern-inspired name.
• Nova – Bright and bold, just like a star.
• Echo – Mysterious and full of depth.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos communicate with grunts, bellows, and even underwater calls!

🔹 Tip: Unique names often come from nature, rare words, and fun sounds!

2️⃣3️⃣ Cute Hippo Names – Sweet and Adorable Picks

For hippos that melt your heart!

• Tootsie – As sweet as candy.
• Muffin – Soft and lovable.
• Cuddles – Because hippos are huggable (from a safe distance!).
• Snickers – A little sweet, a little sassy.
• Dolly – As cute as a doll.
• Sprout – For a young or small hippo.
• Cupcake – A delightful and charming name.
• Waffles – Because who doesn’t love waffles?

🔹 Fun Fact: Baby hippos are called calves and weigh about 100 pounds at birth!

🔹 Tip: Cute names often come from food, softness, and small things!

2️⃣4️⃣ Funny Hippo Names – Hilarious and Witty Picks

For hippos that bring laughter wherever they go!

• Hippo Potamus – A pun that never gets old.
• Sir Chomps-a-Lot – Because hippos have huge teeth!
• Blubberbutt – No explanation needed.
• Mooscles – A beefy name for a hefty hippo.
• Wallow Wilson – Inspired by their love for water.
• Chonky Kong – A fun twist on a classic name.
• Splish Splash – Perfect for a water-loving hippo.
• Mudpie – A name that embraces their muddy lifestyle.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can open their mouths 150 degrees wide—that’s a serious yawn!

🔹 Tip: Funny names often come from wordplay, puns, and exaggerated traits!

2️⃣5️⃣ African Animal Names – Inspired by Hippos’ Native Land

For names with deep African roots!

• Zuba – Swahili for “sun.”
• Nala – “Gift” in Swahili.
• Jabari – Means “brave.”
• Tamu – Swahili for “sweet.”
• Binti – “Daughter” in Swahili.
• Kibo – Named after a peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Sefu – Means “sword” in Swahili.
• Zahara – “Flower” in Swahili.

🔹 Fun Fact: The word “hippopotamus” comes from Greek, meaning “river horse,” but hippos are native to Africa!

🔹 Tip: African names often have beautiful meanings—look for words that match your hippo’s personality!

2️⃣6️⃣ Water-Loving Animal Names – Perfect for Aquatic Hippos

For hippos who thrive in the water!

• Splash – A name as fun as a belly flop.
• Drizzle – A gentle, soothing name.
• H2O – A science-inspired pick.
• Lagoon – A name that screams water.
• Aqua – Latin for “water.”
• Neptune – The Roman god of the sea.
• Brook – Calm and peaceful, like a stream.
• Hydro – Because water is their life!

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos spend 16 hours a day in the water to stay cool!

🔹 Tip: Water-themed names can be inspired by oceans, rivers, or even weather!

2️⃣7️⃣ Heavy Animal Names – Big and Bold Choices

For names that embrace their massive size!

• Tonka – Like a big, tough truck.
• Chunk – Because, well… they’re chunky.
• Boulder – Solid and unmovable.
• Mammoth – Enormous and mighty.
• Titan – A name that means strength.
• Goliath – As grand as the biblical giant.
• Bear – A big, cuddly, but powerful name.
• Juggernaut – A force that cannot be stopped.

🔹 Fun Fact: Hippos can weigh up to 9,000 pounds!

🔹 Tip: Heavy names often come from large objects, animals, and mythical figures!

2️⃣8️⃣ Zoo Animal Names – Inspired by Famous Captive Hippos

For hippos that belong in the spotlight!

• Fiona – The Cincinnati Zoo superstar.
• Louie – Named after St. Louis Zoo’s hippo.
• Henry – Fiona’s beloved late father.
• Otis – A common zoo hippo name.
• Benny – Sounds fun and friendly.
• Daisy – A popular zoo name for a female hippo.
• Toby – Cute, simple, and well-loved.
• Minnie – A tiny name for a big animal!

🔹 Fun Fact: Many zoos around the world have hippos as their most popular attraction!

🔹 Tip: Zoo names are often short, playful, and easy to say!

FAQs About Hippopotamus Names

📌 What if I can’t think of a good hippopotamus name?

✅ Try names based on their size, personality, or favorite activities! Think of fun, easy-to-say names like Bubbles, Chubs, or Wally.

📌 Should I choose a funny or serious name for my hippo?

✅ It depends on the hippo’s vibe! If they’re playful, go for “Momo” or “Splash.” If they seem majestic, “Titan” or “Zeus” work well.

📌 Can I name my hippo after a famous one?

✅ Absolutely! You can choose names like “Gloria” (from Madagascar) or “Fiona” (the viral Cincinnati Zoo hippo).

📌 What if the name I pick is too long?

✅ Shorten it! Instead of “Hippopotamus the Mighty,” try “Hippo” or “Mighty.” Simple names are easier to remember.

📌 How do I pick a unique hippopotamus name?

✅ Avoid overused names like “Hippo” and get creative! Mix words like “AquaTusk” or “Mudster” to make something one-of-a-kind.

Final Words

Picking the perfect hippopotamus name is all about personality! Whether you want something cute, funny, strong, or stylish, this list has got you covered. From legendary names to quirky and elegant picks, your hippo will have a name as unforgettable as they are.