Astou

Meaning of Astou

Astou (ah-STOO) is a spirited Wolof treasure whose roots wind through the sun-kissed streets of Senegal and Gambia; it’s widely viewed as the friendly short form of Aïssatou, the West African take on the Arabic name Aisha, meaning “life” or “she who lives.” With that life-affirming meaning in its back pocket, Astou arrives on English-speaking shores like a bright drumbeat—fresh, easy to say, and delightfully uncommon. In recent U.S. records she’s been quietly yet steadily fluttering up the charts—just a handful of little Astous each year, enough to land her in the 900s and give parents bragging rights to a name that’s rare but not bewildering. The two-syllable punch, ending in the friendly “oo” sound, feels playful beside favorites like Lulu or Juno, while her global pedigree adds instant cultural sparkle. For families hunting a name that whispers wanderlust, celebrates vitality, and still fits snugly on a kindergarten cubby, Astou checks every charming box.

Pronunciation

Wolof

• Pronunced as ah-STOO (/aˈstu/)

• Astella
• Asti