Holding steady.
Popularity of Ankush since 1986
Babies named Ankush per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 16 |
| 1990s | 70 |
| 2000s | 54 |
| 2010s | 23 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Ankush is a masculine name of Sanskrit origin, first recorded in the United States in 1986. While it has never entered the top 1000 nationally, its usage peaked in 2003 and has remained relatively stable, reflecting a niche but steady presence among Indian-American families. The name's etymological connection to an elephant goad places it within a long tradition of names drawn from Hindu iconography, where the ankush represents the ability to overcome obstacles. Though not among the most popular names in any state, Ankush appeals to parents seeking a name that is both culturally resonant and unique.
Ankush derives from Sanskrit 'aṅkuśa' (अङ्कुश), meaning an elephant goad or hook. In Hindu mythology, several deities including Ganesha and Durga are depicted holding an ankush as a symbol of control over obstacles. The name has been borne in India for centuries, though its use as a given name is a more modern adoption, primarily among families seeking a distinctive but meaningful name rooted in classical Indian tradition.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Anku, Kush
Variants: Ankusha, Ankushan
Sibling names for Ankush
Names that share Ankush's style, for a brother or sister.
