Nhung

Nhung is a Vietnamese given name, predominantly feminine in usage, though it may also be used for males (as seen in some notable bearers). The name originates from the Sino-Vietnamese word 絨 (nhung), meaning "velvet". This reflects a common trend in Vietnamese naming where words with aesthetic or aspirational qualities (like precious materials or beautiful imagery) are used. Velvet, known for its softness and luxury, evokes elegance and gentleness.

Nhung has been borne by many notable individuals, particularly women, across various fields. In sports, it appears among footballers such as Bùi Thị Nhung (b. 1983), a Vietnamese high jumper, Trần Thị Hồng Nhung (b. 1992) and Vũ Thị Nhung (b. 1992), both Vietnamese footballers, Lê Ngọc Nguyên Nhung (b. 1984), a badminton player, and Âu Hồng Nhung (b. 1993), a volleyball player. In the arts, the name is associated with Hồng Nhung (b. 1970), a renowned Vietnamese singer, and Phi Nhung (1970–2021), a beloved Vietnamese-American singer and humanitarian. Other noteworthy figures include Nguyễn Văn Nhung (1919–1964), a male officer in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, and Trần Văn Nhung (1933–2020), a footballer for the South Vietnam national team. The name also appears in female chess (Khương Thị Hồng Nhung, Woman International Master) and male administration (Nguyễn Văn Nhung). Additionally, the diminutive "Hồng Nhung" (with "Hồng" meaning "rose" or "pink") is a common compound name, akin to "rose velvet".

Geographically, Nhung is also used in place names, such as Pú Nhung, a commune in Điện Biên Province, Vietnam. The name has even inspired cultural works, like the 2010 Vietnamese film Nhung Nu Hon Ruc Ro (Burning Kisses). The name's popularity today reflects both traditional values and modern elegance.

• Meaning: Velvet
• Origin: Sino-Vietnamese
• Type: Given name (typically feminine)
• Usage regions: Vietnam