ནོར་བུ

Norbu

unisexTibetanBuddhist

Norbu is a Buddhist unisex name of Tibetan origin, meaning “Jewel, precious gem”.

MeaningJewel, precious gem
GenderUnisex
OriginTibetan
Written asནོར་བུ
PronunciationNOR-boo
TraditionBuddhist
Used inBhutan, Nepal, India, China

Meaning and origin of Norbu

Norbu is the Tibetan word for a jewel, and it translates the Sanskrit mani, as in the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. In Tibetan Buddhism the wish-fulfilling jewel, yizhin norbu, is a symbol of the Buddha's teaching and of compassion that answers every need. The name is common in Tibet, Bhutan and the Himalayan regions of Nepal and India and is used for both boys and girls.

Is Norbu a Buddhist name?

Norbu is a Buddhist name evoking the precious jewel of the Dharma. Tibetan names are often given by a lama, and Norbu is a frequent element in them.

How popular is Norbu?

Very common in Tibetan and Bhutanese communities.

Gifts with the name Norbu

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Spellings and variants of Norbu

NorbhuYeshe Norbu

Names similar to Norbu

More Buddhist unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Norbu mean?

Norbu means 'Jewel, precious gem'. It is of Tibetan origin.

Is Norbu a Buddhist name?

Norbu is a Buddhist name evoking the precious jewel of the Dharma. Tibetan names are often given by a lama, and Norbu is a frequent element in them.

How do you pronounce Norbu?

Norbu is pronounced NOR-boo.

Is Norbu a boy or girl name?

Norbu is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.