An uncommon Vietnamese pick — distinctive and rare.
A surname.
Chau is a girl's and boy's baby name of Vietnamese origin, from the Vietnamese meaning 'pearl,' 'jade,' or 'precious.' Chau is a common Vietnamese given name for both girls and boys, evoking the beauty and value of precious gems.
In the United States, Chau appears primarily among Vietnamese American families, maintaining a direct linguistic connection to Vietnamese culture. Its one-syllable simplicity and gem-like meaning give it a quiet, lasting beauty.
Chau has 39+ years of history in the U.S., first appearing in 1975.
| Decade | Births | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 12 | ▼ |
| 2010s | 33 | ▼ |
| 2000s | 65 | ▼ |
| 1990s | 91 | ▼ |
| 1980s | 158 | ▲ |
| 1970s | 30 | — |
| Year | Births | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 7 | #12511 |
| 2021 | 5 | #15733 |
| 2017 | 6 | #14515 |
| 2015 | 6 | #14891 |
| 2013 | 6 | #15014 |
| 2012 | 10 | #10601 |
| 2010 | 5 | #17577 |
| 2009 | 11 | #10120 |
| 2008 | 6 | #15799 |
| 2006 | 5 | #17684 |
| 2005 | 7 | #13305 |
| 2004 | 5 | #16636 |
| 2003 | 5 | #16267 |
| 2002 | 8 | #11342 |
| 2001 | 5 | #15834 |
| 2000 | 13 | #7667 |
| 1998 | 7 | #11364 |
| 1997 | 10 | #8479 |
| 1996 | 14 | #6465 |
| 1995 | 11 | #7611 |
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration. Showing years with 5+ recorded births.
Though more common for girls, Chau has a notable history as a boy's name too, with 107 births since 1976.
Last updated May 2026 · Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (1975–2022) · Methodology