MallowbyNames

Anish

ah-NEESH · Supreme, highest, or without a ruler

2025 rank (boys)
#6,446
Babies named in 2025
13
Peak popularity
2010
2025 frequency
1 in 131,390 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2010

Declining since 2010, #6,446 for boys today.

Popularity of Anish since 1970

Babies named Anish per year in U.S. Social Security records.

61123184198020002020Most births 2010Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s76
1980s192
1990s332
2000s1,347
2010s997
2020s165

Meaning & origin

Anish has been recorded in the United States since 1970, though its earliest appearances were rare. The name saw its peak usage in 2010, when it ranked 1,849, before entering a steady decline. As of 2025, the name ranks 6,446, with an estimated 1 in every 131,390 newborn boys receiving the name. This trajectory reflects a broader trend where traditional Sanskrit names like Anish are gradually being passed over for other choices among Indian-American families, though it remains a recognizable and respected choice within the community.

Anish derives from the Sanskrit word anīśa, meaning 'having no lord' or 'supreme,' often interpreted as 'ruler' or 'lord.' In Hindu philosophy, it is associated with concepts of autonomy and authority. The name has been used in India and among the Indian diaspora for several generations.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Ani, Nish

Variants: Aneesh, Anish

Sibling names for Anish

Names that share Anish's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

A is for Anish, our favorite little boy.

A is for Anish…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Anish's letter becomes Anish's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Anish's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Anish mean?
Anish means 'supreme' or 'having no lord,' originating from the Sanskrit word anīśa.
Is Anish a popular name?
Based on U.S. Social Security data, Anish ranked 6,446 in 2025, with about 1 in 131,390 newborn boys given the name that year. Its peak popularity was in 2010.
Is Anish a boy or girl name?
Anish is almost exclusively used as a boy's name.