Rising since 2022, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Gaurav since 1975
Babies named Gaurav per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 16 |
| 1980s | 142 |
| 1990s | 174 |
| 2000s | 252 |
| 2010s | 114 |
| 2020s | 16 |
Meaning & origin
Gaurav is a Sanskrit name meaning 'respect' or 'honor,' reflecting a virtue that parents wish to instill in their child. First recorded in U.S. data in 1975, it saw its peak in 2003, which aligns with increasing Indian diaspora visibility. After a period of decline, the name has been rising again since 2022, reaching rank 12,008 by 2025. While not widely used across American states, it remains a meaningful choice within Indian communities for its cultural resonance and aspirational quality. Its modest but steady trajectory suggests a name that balances heritage with distinctiveness.
Derived from the Sanskrit word 'gaurava' meaning 'respect, honor, or dignity.' The name has been common in India, particularly among Hindu families, and is often given to boys as a virtue name expressing the hope that the child will be respected.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Gau, Gavi, Ravi
Variants: Gourava
Sibling names for Gaurav
Names that share Gaurav's style, for a brother or sister.

